Enables cytokine activity and stem cell factor receptor binding activity. Acts upstream of or within several processes, including positive regulation of cell differentiation; positive regulation of cell population proliferation; and positive regulation of protein phosphorylation. Located in extracellular space and plasma membrane. Is integral component of membrane. Is expressed in several structures, including alimentary system; central nervous system; genitourinary system; integumental system; and sensory organ. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in autosomal dominant nonsyndromic deafness 69 and familial progressive hyperpigmentation with or without hypopigmentation. Orthologous to human KITLG (KIT ligand). [provided by Alliance of Genome Resources, Apr 2022]