Final answer:
Co-regulation of mRNA stability and translation involves the protein aconitase and iron. Aconitase can bind to specific mRNA molecules to inhibit their translation in iron-deficient conditions and stabilize other mRNA molecules to promote their translation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Co-regulation of mRNA stability and translation is a critical process in gene expression. One example involves the protein aconitase and iron. Aconitase is an iron-sulfur cluster enzyme that has a dual function in regulating mRNA stability and translation. When there is a deficiency of iron, aconitase binds to specific mRNA molecules, such as ferritin mRNA, to prevent their translation. This helps conserve iron for other essential cellular processes. Additionally, aconitase can also stabilize certain mRNA molecules, preventing their degradation and promoting their translation.