The protein encoded by this gene is a putative protein kinase that is induced by the transcription factor NF-kappaB. The encoded protein is a negative regulator of NF-kappaB and can also sensitize cells to TNF- and TRAIL-induced apoptosis. In addition, this protein can negatively regulate the cell survival serine-threonine kinase AKT1. Differential promoter usage and alternate splicing result in multiple transcript variants. Highest expression in liver, pancreas, peripheral blood leukocytes and bone marrow. Also highly expressed in a number of primary lung, colon and breast tumors. Expressed in spleen, thymus, and prostate and is undetectable in other examined tissues, including testis, ovary, small intestine, colon, leukocyte, heart, brain, placenta, lung, skeletal muscle, and kidney.