Binds and protects the poly(A) tail of mRNA with or without an AU-rich element (ARE) and prevents mRNA deadenylation. Stimulates the translation of mRNAs to which it is bound during early development. Interacts with dazl in an RNA-independent manner. The C-terminus can self-associate and also interact with the C-terminus of pabpc1, independently of RNA. RRM 1 and RRM 2 interact with both eif4g1 and paip1, and the C-terminus also interacts with paip1. Prior to oocyte maturation, found in a complex with dazl and pum2 proteins and spdy1 mRNA; pum2 dissociates from the complex during maturation. Interacts with the translation termination factor sup35/erf3. Associated with polysomes. Expressed in adult testis, but at a reduced level compared to oocytes. Predominant from the stage VI oocyte through to the neurula stage (30 hours embryo), with levels decreasing at the onset of zygotic transcription. Belongs to the polyadenylate-binding protein type-1 family.