The YWHAE gene provides instructions for making the 14-3-3 epsilon protein, which is part of the large 14-3-3 protein family. Proteins in this family attach (bind) to other proteins that are involved in cell signaling. Proteins in the 14-3-3 family either turn on (activate) or turn off (inactivate) these other proteins. The 14-3-3 proteins are also involved in processes such as the self-destruction of cells when they are no longer needed (apoptosis), the production of energy within cells, and the movement (transport) of proteins within cells. ~The 14-3-3 epsilon protein is active in tissues throughout the body, although research has focused on its role in the brain. In the brain, this protein helps direct the movement of nerve cells (neuronal migration) by binding to other proteins. It is thought that the 14-3-3 epsilon protein is critical for proper neuronal migration and normal brain development.