This gene is a member of the BCL2/adenovirus E1B 19 kd-interacting protein (BNIP) family. It interacts with the E1B 19 kDa protein, which protects cells from virally-induced cell death. The encoded protein also interacts with E1B 19 kDa-like sequences of BCL2, another apoptotic protector. In addition, this protein is involved in vesicle transport into the endoplasmic reticulum. Alternative splicing of this gene results in four protein products with identical N- and C-termini.