This gene encodes a protein that is a component of the BLOC1 multi-subunit protein complex. This complex is necessary for the biogenesis of specialized organelles of the endosomal-lysosomal system, including platelet dense granules and melanosomes. Mutations in this gene cause Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome 8, a disease characterized by lysosomal storage defects, bleeding due to platelet storage pool deficiency, and oculocutaneous albinism.