Cooperates with ASF1A to promote replication-independent chromatin assembly. Required for the periodic repression of histone gene transcription during the cell cycle. Required for the formation of senescence-associated heterochromatin foci (SAHF) and efficient senescence-associated cell cycle exit.
Subcellular locations: Nucleus, Nucleus, PML body
Primarily, though not exclusively, localized to the nucleus. Localizes to PML bodies immediately prior to onset of senescence.
Expressed at high levels in kidney, pancreas and skeletal muscle and at lower levels in brain, heart, liver, lung, and placenta.