This gene encodes a member of the PIWI subfamily of Argonaute family proteins. This subfamily of proteins contains a PAZ domain, found in proteins involved in RNA-mediated gene silencing, and a C-terminal Piwi domain. The encoded protein is thought to function in maintenance of germline cells. Multiple transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, Dec 2011] see less This gene encodes a member of the PIWI subfamily of Argonaute family proteins. This subfamily of proteins contains a PAZ domain, found in proteins involved in RNA-mediated gene silencing, and a C-terminal Piwi domain. The encoded protein is thought to function in maintenance of germline cells. Multiple transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been found for this gene. [provided by R... see more