This is a paternally expressed imprinted gene that encodes transcripts containing two overlapping open reading frames (ORFs), RF1 and RF1/RF2, as well as retroviral-like slippage and pseudoknot elements, which can induce a -1 nucleotide frame-shift. ORF1 encodes a shorter isoform with a CCHC-type zinc finger motif containing a sequence characteristic of gag proteins of most retroviruses and some retrotransposons. The longer isoform is the result of -1 translational frame-shifting leading to translation of a gag/pol-like protein combining RF1 and RF2. It contains the active-site consensus sequence of the protease domain of pol proteins. Additional isoforms resulting from alternatively spliced transcript variants, as well as from use of upstream non-AUG (CUG) start codon, have been reported for this gene. Increased expression of this gene is associated with hepatocellular carcinomas.
Intended for research use only. Not for use in human, therapeutic, or diagnostic applications.