Automated description from the Alliance of Genome Resources (Release 7.1.0)
Enables RNA endonuclease activity; mRNA binding activity; and miRNA binding activity. Involved in positive regulation of mRNA catabolic process and pre-miRNA processing. Acts upstream of or within RNA metabolic process; positive regulation of gene expression; and post-embryonic development. Located in several cellular components, including P-body; cytosol; and dendrite. Part of RISC complex and RISC-loading complex. Is expressed in several structures, including central nervous system; early embryo; lung; sensory organ; and tooth. Human ortholog(s) of this gene implicated in alcohol dependence and glaucoma. Orthologous to human AGO2 (argonaute RISC catalytic component 2).