Double-stranded RNA-binding protein Staufen homolog 1 (STAU1)

Double-stranded RNA-binding protein Staufen homolog 1 (STAU1) is an RNA-binding protein encoded by the STAU1 gene and characterized by multiple double-stranded RNA-binding domains, a microtubule-binding domain, and motifs supporting protein-protein interactions[1][3]. It is involved in a wide spectrum of RNA metabolic processes including splicing, localization, stability, translation, and decay—especially through the Staufen-mediated mRNA decay pathway[1][3][7]. STAU1 has major regulatory roles in cell differentiation, proliferation, migration, and apoptosis, impacting neuronal development as well as cancer progression and metastasis[1][5]. STAU1 is expressed in various tissues, including high levels in neuronal cells, and its dysregulation is linked to malignancy (e.g., prostate, lung, gastric cancers) and neurodegenerative disorders (e.g., SCA2)[4][5]. While STAU1's centrality to mRNA regulation makes it a theoretically attractive therapeutic target, its ubiquitous and pleiotropic functions present challenges to selective modulation without toxicity[1][5][7]. No direct drugs or chemical modulators of STAU1 are currently approved or well-characterized in the literature.

Other names

Staufen double-stranded RNA binding protein 1STAUPPP1R150protein phosphatase 1 regulatory subunit 150staufen, RNA binding protein homolog 1

Modulation of mRNA decay via Staufen-mediated mRNA decay (SMD); Regulation of translation, localization, and alternative splicing of mRNAs; Indirect effects on pathways such as mTOR and focal adhesion kinase signaling in cancer.