This gene encodes a member of the ZIP family of metal ion transporters. The encoded protein functions as a zinc transporter. Mutations in this gene may be associated with susceptibility to carotid artery disease. Multiple transcript variants have been described. [provided by RefSeq, Mar 2010] see less This gene encodes a member of the ZIP family of metal ion transporters. The encoded protein functions as a zinc transporter. Mutations in this gene may be associated with susceptibility to carotid artery disease. Multiple transcript variants have been described. [provided by RefSeq, Mar 2010]