This gene encodes a LIN-28 family RNA-binding protein that acts as a posttranscriptional regulator of genes involved in developmental timing and self-renewal in embryonic stem cells. The encoded protein functions through direct interaction with target mRNAs and by disrupting the maturation of certain miRNAs involved in embryonic development. This protein prevents the terminal processing of the LET7 family of microRNAs which are major regulators of cellular growth and differentiation. Aberrant expression of this gene is associated with cancer progression in multiple tissues.