Argonaute proteins (AGOs) are key players in the regulation of gene expression in most Eukaryotes. AGO proteins bind small RNAs and direct gene silencing by targeting complementary mRNAs for degradation and alter gene transcription. These silencing mechanisms are essential to preserve developmental transitions as well as to maintain genome integrity. Both plants and animals have a discrete class of AGOs that are important to maintain the integrity of the germline- from meiosis to gametogenesis. It has been recently found that these AGOs are critical to maintain plant fertility in response to stress, likely by regulating the activity of transposable elements (TEs). Within the scope of this thesis, we first aim to dissect the maize MEIOSISASSOCIATED ARGONAUTE (MAGO) proteins function through a biochemical approach. Secondly, we focus on understanding the role of MAGO proteins in the regulation of male and female sexual development in Zea mays by collecting methylome and transcriptome data. The biochemical analysis shows that mutations in a specific residue of MAGO2 does not influence miRNA binding. Moreover, the RISC complex formation might be needed to study the phosphorylation of MAGO2 initiated by the kinase, Casein Kinase I6 (CKI6). Lastly, our data on immature ears and anthers during pre-meiotic stage indicate the presence of a complex protective mechanism. This mechanism might be regulated by MAGO2 and DRM through changes in DNA methylation, gene expression and chromatin accessibility to prevent the reactivation of transposable elements in plant male and female gametophytes.