This gene encodes a member of the homeodomain interacting protein kinase (HIPK) family of proteins. While other members of this family are found throughout vertebrates, this member is present only in mammals. Compared to other members of this family, the encoded protein lacks a nuclear localization signal and a C-terminal autoinhibitory domain. The encoded protein exhibits kinase activity and may phosphorylate the tumor suppressor protein p53. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2016].