Mediates calcium-independent ATP release, suggesting activity as a hemichannel. Does not form functional gap junctions. A connexon is composed of a hexamer of connexins. Not detected in lens or retina. Belongs to the connexin family. Beta-type (group I) subfamily. Could be the product of a pseudogene. There is no mRNA or EST support for this sequence, and GJE1 is a pseudogene in most other primate species.