This E2 enzyme encodes for the human homolog of the yeast DNA repair gene RAD6, which is induced by DNA damaging agents. UBE2B can conjugate ubiquitin to histone H2A in an E3- independent manner in vitro, and is essential for the multi-ubiquitination and degradation of N-end rule substrates. Additionally, UBE2B may have a role in sepsis-induced muscle protein proteolysis and cancer-induced cachexia.