Multiple roles for AU-rich RNA binding proteins in the development of haematologic malignancies and their resistance to chemotherapy

Abstract

Post-transcriptional regulation by RNA binding proteins can determine gene expression levels and drive changes in cancer cell proteomes. Identifying mechanisms of protein-RNA binding, including preferred sequence motifs bound in vivo , provides insights into protein-RNA networks and how they impact mRNA structure, function, and stability. In this review, we will focus on proteins that bind to AU-rich elements (AREs) in nascent or mature mRNA where they play roles in response to stresses encountered by cancer cells. ARE-binding proteins (ARE-BPs) specifically impact alternative splicing, stability, decay and translation, and formation of RNA-rich biomolecular condensates like cytoplasmic stress granules (SGs). For example, recent findings highlight the role of ARE-BPs – like TIAR and HUR – in chemotherapy resistance and in translational regulation of mRNAs encoding pro-inflammatory cytokines. We will discuss emerging evidence that different modes of ARE-BP activity impact leukaemia and lymphoma development, progression, adaptation to microenvironment and chemotherapy resistance.