RNA Binding Proteins

RNA binding proteins are an exciting area of research in gene regulation. A multitude of RNA-protein interactions are used to regulate gene expression including pre-mRNA splicing, polyadenylation, editing, transport, cytoplasmic targeting, translation and mRNA turnover. In addition to these post-transcriptional processes, RNA-protein interactions play a key role in transcription as illustrated by the life cycle of retroviruses. Unlike DNA, the structure of RNA is highly variable and conformationally flexible, thus creating a number of unique binding sites and the potential for complex regulation by RNA binding proteins.
Although there is a wide range of topics included in this volume, general themes have been repeated, highlighting the overall integrative nature of RNA binding proteins. The chapters have been separated into three different sections: Translational Control; mRNA Metabolism; and Hormonal and Homeostatic Regulation. The chapters of this volume were written with the seasoned investigator and student in mind. Summaries of key concepts are reviewed within each chapter as well as guiding questions that can be used to stimulate class discussions. The Editors of this volume hope that this compendium educates, enthralls, and stimulates the readers to look to the future possibilities in this rapidly evolving field.

RNA binding proteins are an exciting area of research in gene regulation. Unlike DNA, the structure of RNA is highly variable and conformationally flexible, thus creating a number of unique binding sites and the potential for complex regulation by RNA binding proteins.

Section I: Translational Control.- 1. The role of RNA-binding proteins in IRES-dependent translation.- 2. Translational regulation of masked maternal mRNAs in early development.- 3. Poly-C binding proteins: Cellular regulators of mRNA fate and function.- 4. Autoregulation of protein synthesis by translation.- 5. Translational initiation of ornithine decarboxylase mRNA.- Section II: mRNA Metabolism.- 6. Regulation of mRNA stability by AUF 1.- 7. RNA binding by members of the 70-kDa family of molecular chaperones.- 8. Post-transcriptional control of type-1 plasminogen activator inhibitor mRNA.- 9. Post-transcriptional control of the GAP-43 mRNA by the ELAV-like protein HuD.- Section III: Hormonal and Homeostatic Regulation.- 10. RNA-dependent protein kinases.- 11. Regulation of messenger RNA-binding proteins by protein kinases A and C.- 12. Post-transcriptional regulation of iron metabolism.- 13. Cytochrome P450 RNA-protein interactions.- 14. Site-specific cleavage of insulin-like growth factor II mRNAs.- 15. Hormonal regulation of the EGF/receptor system.- 16. The role of RNA binding proteins in tumorigenesis.- 17. Regulation of G-protein coupled receptor cytosolic mRNA binding proteins.- Index..