Plays a role in the regulation of alternative splicing, by interacting with AGO2 and CHD7. Seems to be required for stabilizing protein-protein interactions at the chromatin-spliceosome interface (PubMed:29311329). May have hydrolase activity (PubMed:29311329). Interacts with AGO2 (PubMed:29311329). Found in a complex, composed of AGO2, CHD7 and FAM172A (PubMed:29311329). Widely expressed during development. Homozygotes deficient mice die before postnatal day 25. Mice display retinal coloboma, cleft palate, and hypoplastic semicircular canals, retarded growth, genital anomalies and malformation of the heart and cranial nerves. Mice display a complex phenotype mimicking both the major and minor features of CHARGE syndrome (CHARGES). Belongs to the FAM172 family.