May insert into membranes and form chloride ion channels. May play a critical role in water-secreting cells, possibly through the regulation of chloride ion transport (By similarity). Interacts with dopamine receptors DRD2, DRD3 and DRD4. Predominantly cytoplasmic. Upon chloride ion efflux from the cell, it is translocated to the plasma membrane (By similarity). Expressed in brain, placenta, pancreas and liver. Members of this family may change from a globular, soluble state to a state where the N-terminal domain is inserted into the membrane and functions as chloride channel. A conformation change of the N-terminal domain is thought to expose hydrophobic surfaces that trigger membrane insertion (By similarity). Phosphorylated. Belongs to the chloride channel CLIC family.