Encodes CTF7, a homolog of the yeast CTF protein required for the formation of sister chromatid cohesion. Arabidopsis CTF7 is similar to Saccharomyces cerevisiae CTF7 in that it lacks an N-terminal extension, exhibits acetyltransferase activity, and can complement a yeast ctf7 temperature-sensitive mutation. Arabidopsis CTF7 is critical for female gametophyte and embryo development, but not for the establishment of mitotic cohesion during microgametogenesis or during endosperm development. Inactivation of CTF7 results in severe defects in reproduction and vegetative growth.