The protein encoded by this gene belongs to the family of Na+/K+ and H+/K+ ATPases beta chain proteins; and to the subfamily of Na+/K+ -ATPases. Na+/K+ -ATPase is an integral membrane protein responsible for establishing and maintaining the electrochemical gradients of Na and K ions across the plasma membrane. These gradients are essential for osmoregulation; for sodium-coupled transport of a variety of organic and inorganic molecules; and for electrical excitability of nerve and muscle. This enzyme is composed of two subunits; a large catalytic subunit (alpha) and a smaller glycoprotein subunit (beta). The beta subunit regulates; through assembly of alpha/beta heterodimers; the number of sodium pumps transported to the plasma membrane. The glycoprotein subunit of Na+/K+ -ATPase is encoded by multiple genes. This gene encodes a beta 2 subunit. Two transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene.