This gene encodes an enzyme which catalyzes a key step in the biosynthesis of the coenzyme NAD. The encoded protein is one of several nicotinamide nucleotide adenylyltransferases. Studies in Drosophila and mammalian neurons have shown the encoded protein can confer protection to damaged neurons. This protection requires enzymatic activity which increases NAD levels and activates a nuclear deacetylase which is the protective molecule. Pseudogenes of this gene are located on chromosomes 1, 3, 4, 14 and 15. [provided by RefSeq, Dec 2011]