This gene encodes a member of the major facilitator superfamily of transporter proteins. The encoded protein is a heme transporter that may play a critical role in erythropoiesis by protecting developing erythroid cells from heme toxicity. This gene may play a role in posterior column ataxia with retinitis pigmentosa and the hematological disorder Diamond-Blackfan syndrome. [provided by RefSeq, Jan 2011] see less This gene encodes a member of the major facilitator superfamily of transporter proteins. The encoded protein is a heme transporter that may play a critical role in erythropoiesis by protecting developing erythroid cells from heme toxicity. This gene may play a role in posterior column ataxia with retinitis pigmentosa and the hematological disorder Diamond-Blackfan syndrome. [provided by RefSeq,... see more