GW182 proteins are key components of microRNA silencing complexes in animals, although
their precise molecular function has been poorly understood. Recent findings indicate that
they promote gene silencing by interfering with cytoplasmic poly(A)-binding protein 1 (PABPC1)
function during translation and mRNA stabilization — a mode of action similar to that of
PABP-interacting protein 2 (PAIP2).