The protein encoded by this gene is a heat stable, nuclear protein and functions as a molecular chaperone. It is thought to regulate dimerization, DNA binding, and transcriptional activity of basic region-leucine zipper (bZIP) proteins. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]

The product of this gene functions in the NF-kappaB signal transduction pathway. The encoded protein, and the similar and functionally redundant protein MAP3K7IP2/TAB2, forms a ternary complex with the protein kinase MAP3K7/TAK1 and either TRAF2 or TRAF6 in response to stimulation with the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF or IL-1. Subsequent MAP3K7/TAK1 kinase activity triggers a signaling cascade leading to activation of the NF-kappaB transcription factor. The human genome contains a related

Regulator of sister chromatid cohesion in mitosis which negatively regulates cohesin association with chromatin. Involved in both sister chromatid cohesion during interphase and sister-chromatid resolution during early stages of mitosis. Couples DNA replication to sister chromatid cohesion. Cohesion ensures that chromosome partitioning is accurate in both meiotic and mitotic cells and plays an important role in DNA repair.$nTissue specificity: Isoform 1 is highly expressed in uterine cervix

The protein encoded by this gene is a kinase required for progression through the metaphase portion of mitosis. Inhibition of the encoded protein can lead to apoptosis. This protein also can enhance tumorigenesis by suppressing tumor cell senescence. Several transcript variants encoding a few different isoforms have been found for this gene.

Tissue specificity: Highly expressed in lung, muscle, testis, brain, heart, liver, leukocyte and spleen. Lower expression in ovary, prostate and kidney.