Final answer:
Two things that can affect the variability in the stability of mRNA are the length of the poly-A tail and the binding of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) to the untranslated regions (UTRs) of the mRNA.
Step-by-step explanation:
The stability of mRNA can be affected by several factors. Two things that can affect the variability in the stability of mRNA are the length of the poly-A tail and the binding of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) to the untranslated regions (UTRs) of the mRNA.
1. Poly-A tail length: The length of the poly-A tail at the 3' end of the mRNA can influence its stability. A longer poly-A tail provides protection against degradation, resulting in increased stability.
2. Binding of RBPs to UTRs: RNA-binding proteins can bind to the 5' and 3' UTRs of the mRNA and either increase or decrease its stability. Depending on the specific RBP that binds, it can enhance or inhibit degradation of the mRNA.