Required for the formation of cilia. Essential for differentiation and survival of sensory neurons. May also have pro-apoptotic function. Fishes show ciliary defects. In retina, cilia are generated but not maintained, producing the absence of photoreceptor outer segments. A loss of cilia also occurs in auditory hair cells and olfactory sensory neurons. In all 3 sense organs, cilia defects are followed by degeneration of sensory cells. Belongs to the IFT57 family.