The function of HEBP1 (heme binding protein 1, ENSG00000013583) is as follows. May bind free porphyrinogens that may be present in the cell and thus facilitate removal of these potentially toxic compound. Binds with a high affinity to one molecule of heme or porphyrins. It binds metalloporphyrins, free porphyrins and N-methylprotoporphyrin with similar affinities. .