Poly(A)-binding protein (PABP)

Poly(A)-binding proteins (PABPs) are highly conserved, multifunctional RNA-binding proteins in eukaryotic cells that bind specifically to the poly(A) tail at the 3’ end of most cytoplasmic mRNAs. They play key roles in almost every step of mRNA metabolism, including polyadenylation, mRNA export, translation initiation (by interacting with the eukaryotic initiation factor 4G and other proteins), mRNA surveillance, stability, and decay. Cytoplasmic PABPs (e.g., PABPC1) collaborate with translation initiation complexes to regulate protein synthesis, while nuclear PABPs (e.g., PABPN1) assist in mRNA processing and export in the nucleus. Their proper function is essential for normal cell viability and development, and although they can be involved in disease states (such as responses to viral infection and some cancers), they are not conventional therapeutic targets. The term "Poly-binding protein" is vague and should be clarified to specific Poly(A)-binding protein family members for accurate context.

Other names

PABPPoly(A) binding proteinPoly(A) RNA-binding proteinPABPC1 (cytoplasmic poly(A)-binding protein 1)PABPN1 (poly(A)-binding protein nuclear 1)ePABP (embryonic poly(A)-binding protein)