Structure and dynamics of a multiprotein-mRNA complex in the regulation of gene expression

RNA/Protein interactions are now recognised as a major control point in the regulation of gene-expression. Proteins such as HuR and poly(C) - binding proteins (PCBPs) act to stabilise and transport specific messenger (m)RNAs, and thus determine their translation levels. In contrast to such an important function very little is known about these protein/mRNA interactions at an atomic level. The current study will investigate the structural and biophysical properties of a recently discovered HuR/PCBP/mRNA complex implicated in the regulation of androgen receptor expression. This information has the potential to assist in the development of drugs to reduce AR expression in prostate cancer..