Question

Do ARE-binding proteins (AUBPs) stabilize or destabilize mRNAs? AUBPs interact with mRNA through RNA-binding domains (RBDs).

A) Stabilize
B) Destabilize
C) Degrade
D) Polyadenylate

Answer 1

ARE-binding proteins (AUBPs) can either stabilize or destabilize mRNAs by binding to untranslated regions (UTRs) near the protein-coding region, with the outcome depending on the specific RBP.

Step-by-step explanation:

ARE-binding proteins (AUBPs) interact with mRNA through RNA-binding domains (RBDs) and can stabilize or destabilize mRNAs. These proteins are considered RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) that bind to untranslated regions (UTRs) of the mRNA which are not introns but are important for mRNA localization, stability, and protein translation. Specifically, the regions just upstream (5' UTR) and downstream (3' UTR) of the protein-coding region are key areas where RBPs can bind. Depending on the specific RBP, the stability of the mRNA molecule can either increase or decrease, thus affecting the gene expression levels. Additionally, these proteins can compete with or impede the action of microRNAs (miRNAs) that otherwise lead to mRNA degradation.