This gene encodes a highly abundant bone protein secreted by osteoblasts that regulates bone remodeling and energy metabolism. The encoded protein contains a Gla (gamma carboxyglutamate) domain, which functions in binding to calcium and hydroxyapatite, the mineral component of bone. Serum osteocalcin levels may be negatively correlated with metabolic syndrome. Read-through transcription exists between this gene and the neighboring upstream gene, PMF1 (polyamine-modulated factor 1), but the encoded protein only shows sequence identity with the upstream gene product.