MEX-3 proteins: recent insights on novel post-transcriptional regulators

Authors and affiliations:
Bruno Pereira (1), Mailys Le Borgne (2), Nicolas T. Chartier (2), Marc Billaud (2), and Raquel Almeida (1,3)

(1) IPATIMUP – Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal;

(2) INSERM-UJF U823, BP 170, 38042 Grenoble Cedex 9, France;

(3) FMUP – Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal

Abstract:
RNA-binding proteins of the evolutionarily-conserved MEX-3 family are mediators of post-transcriptional regulation in different organisms. Recent studies highlight their involvement in diverse physiological settings, including the maintenance of a balance between stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. Here, we draw attention to their putative role in tissue homeostasis and disease, particularly cancer.

Journal:
Trends in Biochemical Sciences

Link:
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0968000413001357