The protein encoded by this gene catalyzes the first step in the catabolism of trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline, an amino acid derivative obtained through food intake and collagen turnover. One of the downstream products of this catabolism is glyoxylate, which in people with disorders of glyoxalate metabolism can lead to an increase in oxalate levels and the formation of calcium-oxalate kidney stones. Therefore, this gene may serve as a therapeutic target against primary hyperoxalurias (PH). This gene is similar to proline dehydrogenase (oxidase) 1, a mitochondrial enzyme that catalyzes the first step in proline catabolism.