Function: Induces apoptosis. Isoform BimL is more potent than isoform BimEL. Isoform Bim-alpha1, isoform Bim-alpha2 and isoform Bim-alpha3 induce apoptosis, although less potent than the isoforms BimEL, BimL and BimS. Isoform Bim-gamma induces apoptosis.
Subunit structure: Forms heterodimers with a number of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins including MCL1, BCL2, BCL2L1 isoform Bcl-X(L), BCL2A1/BFL-1, and BHRF1. Does not heterodimerize with proapoptotic proteins such as BAD, BOK, BAX or BAK By similarity.
Subcellular location: Endomembrane system; Peripheral membrane protein By similarity. Note: Associated with intracytoplasmic membranes By similarity.
Isoform BimEL: Mitochondrion
Isoform BimL: Mitochondrion
Isoform BimS: Mitochondrion
Isoform Bim-alpha1: Mitochondrion
Tissue specificity: Isoform BimEL, isoform BimL and isoform BimS are the predominant isoforms and are ubiquitously expressed with a tissue-specific variation. Isoform Bim-gamma is most abundantly expressed in small intestine and colon, and in lower levels in spleen, prostate, testis, heart, liver and kidney. Ref.3
Domain: The BH3 motif is required for Bcl-2 binding and cytotoxicity.
Sequence similarities: Belongs to the Bcl-2 family.