This gene encodes a serum glycoprotein that forms a membrane attack complex together with complement components C5b, C6, C8, and C9 as part of the terminal complement pathway of the innate immune system. Its primary task is to bind the C5bC6 complex together. This junction alters the configuration of the protein molecules, exposing a hydrophobic site on C7 that allows the C7 to insert into the phospholipid bilayer of the pathogen. The protein encoded by this gene contains a cholesterol-dependent cytolysin/membrane attack complex/perforin-like (CDC/MACPF) domain and belongs to a large family of structurally related molecules that form pores involved in host immunity and bacterial pathogenesis. This protein initiates membrane attack complex formation by binding the C5b-C6 subcomplex and inserts into the phospholipid bilayer, serving as a membrane anchor. Mutations in this gene are associated with a rare disorder called C7 deficiency.