ELAV-like RNA binding protein 1 (HuR)

ELAV-like RNA binding protein 1 (HuR) is a ubiquitously expressed RNA-binding protein with three RNA recognition motifs, belonging to the ELAV family of proteins. HuR is mainly localized in the nucleus but shuttles to the cytoplasm during cellular activation or stress. By binding AU-rich elements in the 3'-UTR of target mRNAs, HuR stabilizes and/or promotes translation of transcripts involved in cell cycle regulation, proliferation, apoptosis, inflammatory response, adipogenesis, and stress signaling. HuR’s dysregulation is associated with cancer progression (by stabilizing oncogenic mRNAs), metabolic diseases, and inflammation. It is considered a promising RNA-targeted therapeutic intervention point, but its essential roles in normal tissue viability pose notable safety concerns for systemic inhibition.

Other names

Human antigen RELAV-like protein 1ELAVL1Hu antigen REmbryonic lethal abnormal vision-like 1

Drugs and chemical probes typically act by interfering with HuR’s RNA binding domain, modulating its cytoplasmic localization, or reducing mRNA stabilization activity