The function of ENSG00000189167 (ZAR1L, zygote arrest 1 like) is as follows. mRNA-binding protein required for maternal mRNA storage, translation and degradation during oocyte maturation (By similarity). Probably promotes formation of some phase-separated membraneless compartment that stores maternal mRNAs in oocytes: acts by undergoing liquid-liquid phase separation upon binding to maternal mRNAs (By similarity). Binds to the 3'-UTR of maternal mRNAs, inhibiting their translation (By similarity). {ECO:0000250|UniProtKB:C3VD30, ECO:0000250|UniProtKB:Q80SU3}.