pab-1 encodes a polyadenylate-binding protein (i.e., poly(A)-binding protein, or PAB); pab-1 is essential for germline proliferation, regulation of adult lifespan, and normal body size; PAB-1 forms a complex with ATX-2, the C. elegans ataxin 2 ortholog, which is also required for germline development; PAB-1 has been successfully used as an epitope-tagged transgenic reagent for tissue-specific isolation of mRNAs.
Enables mRNA binding activity. Involved in several processes, including gamete generation; positive regulation of reproductive process; and regulation of cell cycle. Located in P granule and P-body. Part of polysome. Expressed in intestine. Is an ortholog of several human genes including PABPC1 (poly(A) binding protein cytoplasmic 1); PABPC3 (poly(A) binding protein cytoplasmic 3); and PABPC4 (poly(A) binding protein cytoplasmic 4).