This gene belongs to the caveolin family whose members encode the major protein components of caveolae, which are invaginations of plasma membrane. The encoded protein is muscle-specific and forms homooligomers in muscle cells. The protein binds and regulates phosphofructokinase M and neuronal nitric oxide synthase. It also associates with dystrophin in muscle cells. Mutations in this gene are associated with muscular dystrophy. [provided by RefSeq, Apr 2013]