Accessory subunit of the mitochondrial membrane respiratory chain NADH dehydrogenase (Complex I), that is believed not to be involved in catalysis . Complex I functions in the transfer of electrons from NADH to the respiratory chain. The immediate electron acceptor for the enzyme is believed to be ubiquinone . Involved in the interferon/all-trans-retinoic acid (IFN/RA) induced cell death. This apoptotic activity is inhibited by interaction with viral IRF1. Prevents the transactivation of STAT3 target genes. May play a role in CARD15-mediated innate mucosal responses and serve to regulate intestinal epithelial cell responses to microbes .
Subcellular locations: Mitochondrion inner membrane, Nucleus
Localizes mainly in the mitochondrion . May be translocated into the nucleus upon IFN/RA treatment.
Widely expressed, with highest expression in heart, skeletal muscle, liver, kidney and placenta. In intestinal mucosa, down-regulated in areas involved in Crohn disease and ulcerative colitis.