This gene encodes an essential structural component of the synaptonemal complex. This complex is involved in synapsis, recombination and segregation of meiotic chromosomes. Mutations in this gene are associated with azoospermia in males and susceptibility to pregnancy loss in females. Alternate splicing results in multiple transcript variants that encode the same protein. Component of the synaptonemal complexes (SCS), formed between homologous chromosomes during meiotic prophase. Required for centromere pairing during meiosis in male germ cells (By similarity). Required for normal meiosis during spermatogenesis and male fertility 1. Plays a lesser role in female fertility. Required for efficient phosphorylation of HORMAD1 and HORMAD2.