This gene encodes the enzyme which is involved in the early steps of L-serine synthesis in animal cells. L-serine is required for D-serine and other amino acid synthesis. The enzyme requires NAD/NADH as a cofactor and forms homotetramers for activity. Mutations in this gene have been found in a family with congenital microcephaly, psychomotor retardation and other symptoms. Multiple alternatively spliced transcript variants have been found, however the full-length nature of most are not known. [provided by RefSeq, Aug 2011].