RNA-binding protein involved in the regulation of smooth muscle cell differentiation and proliferation in the gastrointestinal system (PubMed:22683258, PubMed:25064856). Binds NOG mRNA, the major inhibitor of the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) pathway (PubMed:25064856). Mediates an increase of NOG mRNA levels, thereby contributing to the negative regulation of BMP signaling pathway and promoting reversible dedifferentiation and proliferation of smooth muscle cells (PubMed:25064856). Homodimer. Expressed in developing heart. Highly expressed in embryonic stomach, midgut and colon during the period of visceral smooth muscle cell differentiation; levels decrease rapidly thereafter (PubMed:22683258). mRNA already detected at stage 7-8 in the cardiogenic mesoderm, and become almost undetectable in the outer curvature of the ventricular region whereas remaining high in the developing atrial regions (PubMed:10096065).