Ankyrin repeat, SAM and basic leucine zipper domain-containing protein 1 (Asz1)

Plays a central role during spermatogenesis by repressing transposable elements and preventing their mobilization, which is vital for the germline integrity. Acts via the piRNA metabolic process, which mediates the repression of transposable elements during meiosis by forming complexes composed of piRNAs and Piwi proteins and modulates the methylation and subsequent repression of transposons.

Its association with pi- bodies indicates a participation in the primary piRNAs metabolic procedure. Required before the pachytene stage to facilitate the production of multiple types of piRNAs, including those associated with repeats involved in regulation of retrotransposons.