Poly(A)-binding proteins (PABPs) are central to the regulation of messenger RNA (mRNA) translation and stability; however, the roles and contributions of different PABP family members in controlling gene expression are not yet fully understood. In this paper, the current state of knowledge of the different cytoplasmic PABP proteins and their function in animal cells will be summarised, with particular reference to their roles in development. Possible regulatory mechanisms and potential new roles for these proteins in the control of specific mRNAs are also highlighted.