Plays a central role in chromosome cohesion during meiosis I by preventing premature dissociation of cohesin complex from centromeres after prophase, when most of cohesin complex dissociates from chromosomes arms. Required for the timely assembly and maintenance of synaptonemal complex (SC) during early prophase I. Required for maintenance of centromeric cohesion before prophase II and correct segregation of chromatids during meiosis II. Has apparently no function in mitosis. Transfers from nucleoli onto centromeric regions at the onset of prophase in both mitosis and meiosis. AM1 is required for centromeric localization. Highly expressed in roots. Expressed in panicles. Expressed at low levels in leaves. Complete sterility, due to shrunken and inviable pollen grains. Premature separation of sister chromatids before metaphase II causes defective meiosis of the male meiocyte. Belongs to the shugoshin family.