Protein maelstrom homolog (MAEL)

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

Its association with piP- bodies indicates a participation in the secondary piRNAs metabolic procedure. Required for the localization of germ-cell facets to the meiotic nuage (By similarity).