The gene encoding C20orf24 maps to human chromosome 20, which houses over 600 genes, some of which are associated with Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spinal muscular atrophy, ring chromosome 20 epilepsy syndrome and Alagille syndrome. Additionally, chromosome 20 contains a region with numerous genes which are thought important for seminal production and may be potential targets for male contraception. The PRNP gene encoding the prion protein associated with spongiform encephalopathies, like Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, is found on chromosome 20. The C20orf24 gene product, also desginated Rab5-interacting protein (RIP5), may be involved in the induction of both caspase-dependent apoptosis and caspase-independent cell death.