This gene encodes a protein that localizes to mitochondria and contains a predicted phytoene synthase domain. The encoded protein plays an important role in the assembly of complex I (NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase) of the mitochondrial respiratory chain through regulation of subunit ND1 biogenesis. Mutations in this gene are associated with complex I enzymatic deficiency. [provided by RefSeq, Nov 2011].