RNA-binding protein involved in deadenylation-dependent decapping of mRNAs, leading to the degradation of mRNAs. Acts as a scaffold protein that connects deadenylation and decapping machinery. Required for cytoplasmic mRNA processing body (P-body) assembly (By similarity). When tethered to a reporter mRNA, able to repress translation (PubMed:20826699). Interacts with ribonucleoprotein complex components. Predominantly cytoplasmic. Shuttles between the nucleus and the cytoplasm in a CRM1-dependent manner. Enriched in splicing speckles. Localization to nuclear foci and speckles requires active transcription. Excluded from the nucleolus. Only starts to be expressed in late oogenesis (stage IV) and is relatively abundant in eggs and embryos, peaking at embryonic stages 12-20, corresponding to gastrula and neural fold stages. At stage 42, which corresponds to the tadpole-like stage, present in neuron-rich tissues such as eye and brain (at protein level). Belongs to the PAT1 family. Extended N-terminus. Extended N-terminus. Extended N-terminus.