This gene encodes a member of the WD repeat protein family. WD repeats are minimally conserved regions of approximately 40 amino acids typically bracketed by Gly-His and Trp-Asp (GH-WD), which may facilitate formation of heterotrimeric or multiprotein complexes. Members of this family are involved in a variety of cellular processes, including cell cycle progression, signal transduction, apoptosis, and gene regulation. A similar protein in mouse is thought to be a negative regulator of the pancreatic beta cell proliferation. Mice lacking this gene exhibit increased pancreatic islet mass and higher serum insulin levels, and are mildly obese.