The protein encoded by this gene is localized to the cytoplasm and may play pivotal roles in the malate-aspartate shuttle that operates in the metabolic coordination between cytosol and mitochondria.

Alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding distinct isoforms have been found for this gene.

Arginine methylation of MDH1 represses mitochondria respiration and inhibits glutamine utilization.

CARM1-mediated MDH1 methylation reduces cellular NADPH level and sensitizes cells to oxidative stress.

[§ 1] This article incorporates text from the United States National Library of Medicine, which is in the public domain.