May be a signaling adapter molecule involved in p75NTR-mediated apoptosis induced by NGF. Plays a role in zinc-triggered neuronal death. Self-associates. Binds to the DEATH domain of p75NTR/NGFR. Interacts with 14-3-3 epsilon (YWHAE). Interacts with DIABLO/SMAC. Shuttles between the cytoplasm and the nucleus. Associates with replicating mitochondria (By similarity). In cochlea, it is expressed in pillar cells from postnatal day 2 to adulthood. In neurons degenerating after kainate-induced seizures, likely in a zinc-dependent manner. The nuclear export signal is required for export from the nucleus and the interactions with itself and p75NTR/NGFR. Ubiquitinated (Probable). Degraded by the proteasome. Binds transition metals. Belongs to the BEX family.