ELAV-like protein 1

ELAV-like protein 1 (also known as HuR or Hu antigen R) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the ELAVL1 gene. It is a member of the ELAV family of RNA-binding proteins which contain three RNA recognition motifs (RRMs) and bind AU-rich elements (AREs) in mRNA.

Function[edit | edit source]

ELAV-like protein 1 is involved in the regulation of RNA stability and translation, playing a crucial role in post-transcriptional gene regulation. It binds to and stabilizes mRNAs such as those containing AREs found in the 3' untranslated regions of many proto-oncogenes and cytokine genes. The protein is also involved in the regulation of cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and cell death.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Alterations in the function of ELAV-like protein 1 have been associated with various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and autoimmune diseases. In cancer, overexpression of the protein has been observed and is associated with increased tumor growth and progression. In neurodegenerative diseases, the protein is thought to play a role in the selective vulnerability of neurons.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The ELAVL1 gene is located on the short (p) arm of chromosome 19 at position 13.2. The protein encoded by this gene is approximately 36 kDa in size and contains three RRMs.