The function of CHIA (chitinase acidic, Ensembl gene identifier ENSG00000134216) is as follows. Degrades chitin and chitotriose. May participate in the defense against nematodes, fungi and other pathogens. Plays a role in T-helper cell type 2 (Th2) immune response. Contributes to the response to IL-13 and inflammation in response to IL-13. Stimulates chemokine production by pulmonary epithelial cells. Protects lung epithelial cells against apoptosis and promotes phosphorylation of AKT1. Its function in the inflammatory response and in protecting cells against apoptosis is inhibited by allosamidin, suggesting that the function of this protein depends on carbohydrate binding. {ECO:0000269|PubMed:11085997, ECO:0000269|PubMed:18824549, ECO:0000269|PubMed:19342690, ECO:0000269|PubMed:19435888}.