This gene encodes a member of the globin superfamily and is predominantly expressed in skeletal and cardiac muscles. The encoded protein forms a monomeric globular haemoprotein that is primarily responsible for the storage and facilitated transfer of oxygen from the cell membrane to the mitochondria. This protein also plays a role in regulating physiological levels of nitric oxide. Multiple transcript variants encoding distinct isoforms exist for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, May 2020] see less This gene encodes a member of the globin superfamily and is predominantly expressed in skeletal and cardiac muscles. The encoded protein forms a monomeric globular haemoprotein that is primarily responsible for the storage and facilitated transfer of oxygen from the cell membrane to the mitochondria. This protein also plays a role in regulating physiological levels of nitric oxide. Multiple tra... see more