Maintains stem cell potency (PubMed:24707047). Involved in endocytic pathways that mediate signaling during hematopoiesis (PubMed:24707047, PubMed:22110713). Interacts with STAT3 and ARF1 (PubMed:24707047). Expressed in all cells of the primary lymph gland lobe. Marker for all hemocyte lineages during development. 'Asrij' stands for 'blood' in Sanskrit as this protein is strongly expressed in blood vessels. Belongs to the OCIAD1 family.