Plays a role in the initiation of autophagy. In the retina, might be involved in the process of photoreceptor cells renewal and recycling to preserve visual function. Induces apoptotic cell death when coexpressed with DRAM1. Localized to photoreceptor inner segments and to the apical surface of retinal pigment epithelial cells. Expressed in the retina. Belongs to the DRAM/TMEM150 family.