Plays a role in neurofilament network integrity. May be involved in modulating axonal architecture during development and in the adult. In vitro, increases the susceptibility of neurofilament-H to calcium-dependent proteases (By similarity). May also function in modulating the keratin network in skin. Activates the MAPK and Elk-1 signal transduction pathway. May be a centrosome-associated protein. Interacts with MYOC; affects its secretion and its aggregation (By similarity). Associated with centrosomes in several interphase cells. In mitotic cells, localized to the poles of the spindle. Predominantly expressed in retina (predominantly in outer nuclear layer, also in inner segment of photoreceptor cells, some individual cells located in the inner nuclear layer, inner plexiform layer and in nerve fiber layer). Also found in brain and heart. Phosphorylated by BARK1 and GRK5. Belongs to the synuclein family. Was originally (PubMed:10192768) thought to correspond to a new class of synuclein. In fact, it is ortholog of the human gamma-synuclein.