The GRSF1 gene encodes a protein that binds to RNAs containing a 14-base-long G-rich element. By interacting with RNA, the GRSF1 protein plays a role in nuclear post-transcriptional events, particularly in mRNA polyadenylation and tRNA processing. While GRSF1 is yet to be fully characterized, studies of its orthologue gene have identified a role in the regulation of mitochondrial gene expression. Knockdown studies have also suggested its role in embryonic brain development, the morphogenesis of embryonic epithelium and anterior/posterior pattern specification.