Functions in the development of neural tissues, particularly the postnatal maturation of the cerebellar cortex. May play a role in neurotransmission through regulation of glutaminase/GLS, an enzyme responsible for the production in neurons of the glutamate neurotransmitter. Alternatively, may regulate the localization of mitochondria within axons and dendrites. Interacts with KLC1; may link mitochondria to KLC1 and regulate mitochondria localization into neuron projections. Interacts with GLS; the interaction is direct and may control GLS localization, negatively regulating its activity. Interacts with PIN1 (via WW domain); upon NGF stimulation (By similarity). The interaction with PIN1 and GLS is competitive (By similarity). Neuronal tissues specific. Strongly expressed in brain. Expressed in virtually all parts of the adult brain, including cortex, cerebellum and olfactory bulbs. Enriched in hippocampus, cerebellar cortex, deep cerebellar nuclei, and pontine nuclei (at protein level). Expressed in embryo, where it is also completely restricted to neuronal tissues, including brain, dorsal root ganglia and enteric nervous system. MRNA and protein expressions are not correlated during development. The CRAL-TRIO domain is known to bind small hydrophobic molecules. Cleaved by CASP3 and CASP7. The potential C-terminal product released by CASP3 cleavage may inhibit the ERK signaling pathway through MAP2K2. May be ubiquitinated by STUB1. Defects in Atcay are the cause of jittery phenotype, which is characterized by severe truncal and limb ataxia and death due to starvation and dehydration by 3-4 weeks of age.