RNA-binding protein that is required for primordial germ cell (PGC) differentiation and indirectly necessary for the migration of PGCs through the endoderm. May promote meiotic cell division during spermatogenesis. Shows a preference for G- and U-rich RNAs and probably binds the 3'-UTR of target mRNAs. Stimulates the initiation of translation of mRNAs through the recruitment of poly(A)-binding proteins (PABPs). Interacts with the C-terminus of pabp1 and with epabp. Prior to oocyte maturation, found in a complex with epabp and pum2 proteins and spdy1 mRNA; pum2 dissociates from the complex during maturation. Germ-line specific. Oocyte mRNA expression is first restricted to the granulo-fibrillar material (GFM) of the mitochondrial cloud and then to the oocyte germ plasm at the vegetal cortex. Remains an mRNA component of the germ plasm until the neurula stage. In 2-8 cell embryos, expressed in the germ plasm matrix between germinal granules and mitochondria. Expressed in primordial germ cells (PGCs) later in embryogenesis. In addition to the ovaries of adult females, expressed in the testis of adult and juvenile males in spermatogonia and spermatocytes. The protein is restricted to the embryonic germ plasm and primordial germ cells. Expressed both maternally and zygotically. Transcripts are first detected in the gonads of postmetamorphic froglets, being present in the embryo at the time when germ plasm moves to its perinuclear location (stage 10) and then decreasing in stages immediately following. Protein is expressed in embryos from the blastula to the early tailbud stage. Belongs to the RRM DAZ family.