This gene encodes a member of the microtubule affinity-regulating kinase family. These protein kinases phosphorylate microtubule-associated proteins and regulate the transition between stable and dynamic microtubules. The encoded protein is associated with the centrosome throughout mitosis and may be involved in cell cycle control. Expression of this gene is a potential marker for cancer, and the encoded protein may also play a role in Alzheimer's disease. Pseudogenes of this gene are located on both the short and long arm of chromosome 3. Alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding multiple isoforms have been observed for this gene.