mRNA decay activator protein ZFP36L1 (ZFP36L1)

ZFP36L1 (mRNA decay activator protein ZFP36L1) is an RNA-binding protein belonging to the ZFP36 (TTP/TIS11) family, characterized by two CCCH-type zinc finger motifs. It regulates gene expression post-transcriptionally by binding AU-rich elements (AREs) in the 3′ untranslated region of target mRNAs, recruiting cellular decay enzymes (CCR4-NOT deadenylase, decapping enzymes DCP1/DCP2, exoribonucleases XRN1, and the exosome) for mRNA destabilization and degradation. ZFP36L1 serves roles in inflammation, antiviral defense (notably against influenza A, JEV, and DENV), angiogenesis, cancer suppression, B cell and thymic development, and muscle differentiation. Its antiviral activity is mechanistically linked to binding and destabilizing viral RNAs, and translational repression of select viral proteins. Dysregulation or mutation of ZFP36L1 can contribute to pathogenesis in numerous diseases.

Other names

TIS11BBRF1ERF1BERG36RNF162BZFP36-like 1cMG1Butyrate response factor 1EGF-response factor 1TPA-induced sequence 11bZinc finger protein 36, C3H type-like 1Early response factor Berg36

Drugs or gene interventions targeting ZFP36L1 would be expected to modulate gene expression via: - Enhancement or inhibition of ARE-mediated mRNA decay - Translational repression of target mRNAs - Modulation of antiviral activity by affecting ZFP36L1's RNA-binding function