mRNA 3'-UTR AU-rich region binding

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Binding to a region containing frequent adenine and uridine bases within the 3' untranslated region of a mRNA molecule or in pre-mRNA intron. The ARE-binding element consensus is UUAUUUAUU. ARE-binding proteins control the stability and/or translation of mRNAs. [GOC:vw, PMID:31511872, PMID:7892223, PMID:8578590]

The 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of messenger RNA (mRNA) often contains AU-rich elements (AREs) that play a crucial role in regulating mRNA stability and translation. These AREs are recognized by specific RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), which can either enhance or repress mRNA decay and translation.

The molecular function of ARE-binding proteins is multifaceted and highly context-dependent:

**1. mRNA Destabilization:**
- Certain RBPs, such as tristetraprolin (TTP) and AUF1, bind to AREs and promote mRNA degradation through recruitment of the deadenylase complex and exonucleases.
- Deadenylation, the removal of the poly(A) tail, initiates the degradation process, followed by 5' to 3' exonucleolytic decay.

**2. mRNA Stabilization:**
- Some RBPs, including HuR and ELAVL1, bind to AREs and protect mRNA from degradation.
- These proteins can stabilize the poly(A) tail, prevent deadenylation, and potentially shield the mRNA from the degradation machinery.

**3. Translation Regulation:**
- ARE-binding proteins can influence translation initiation or elongation.
- Some RBPs enhance translation, while others can suppress it.
- The specific effect on translation depends on the specific RBP, its binding site, and the cellular context.

**4. MicroRNA (miRNA) Targeting:**
- AREs can also serve as binding sites for miRNAs.
- miRNAs can regulate mRNA stability and translation through interactions with AREs.

**5. Stress Response:**
- The 3'-UTR and AREs are critical for mediating mRNA responses to cellular stress conditions such as inflammation, hypoxia, and oxidative stress.
- Stress-induced changes in ARE-binding protein expression or activity can influence the stability and translation of specific mRNAs, contributing to the cellular response.

In summary, the molecular function of mRNA 3'-UTR AU-rich region binding is a complex and dynamic process that involves the interaction of various RBPs with AREs. This interaction plays a critical role in regulating mRNA stability, translation, and overall gene expression, and it is intimately linked to cellular responses to diverse stimuli and stress conditions.'
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Proteins (3)

Compounds (11)