This gene encodes a protein that shares sequence similarity with ribosomal protein L3. The protein belongs to the L3P family of ribosomal proteins. Unlike the ubiquitous expression of ribosomal protein genes, this gene has a tissue-specific pattern of expression, with the highest levels of expression in skeletal muscle and heart. It is not currently known whether the encoded protein is a functional ribosomal protein or whether it has evolved a function that is independent of the ribosome.van Raay T.J., Genomics 37:172-176(1996).Daniels R.J., Hum. Mol. Genet. 10:339-352(2001).The MGC Project Team; Genome Res. 14:2121-2127(2004).