ALYREF - Aly/REF export factor | Elisa - Clia - Antibody - Protein

Background:

ALYREF, also known as Aly/REF export factor, is a protein involved in the process of mRNA export from the nucleus to the cytoplasm in eukaryotic cells. mRNA (messenger RNA) carries genetic information from the DNA in the cell nucleus to the cytoplasm, where it serves as a template for protein synthesis. ALYREF is a member of the Aly/REF family of proteins and is essential for the export of mature mRNA molecules from the nucleus. It functions by interacting with other proteins and RNA molecules to facilitate the assembly of messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) complexes, which are then transported through nuclear pores to the cytoplasm.The role of ALYREF in mRNA export is particularly important for the regulation of gene expression and the proper functioning of cells. Dysregulation of mRNA export can lead to various cellular abnormalities and diseases, including cancer and developmental disorders. ALYREF interacts with other proteins involved in mRNA export, such as the TREX (TRanscription-EXport) complex, which helps recruit ALYREF to mRNA molecules and facilitates their export. Additionally, ALYREF interacts with specific RNA sequences and structures, such as the mRNA export element (REF) found in certain viral RNAs, to promote their export from the nucleus.

Protein Structure:

• RNA Recognition Motif (RRM): ALYREF contains an RRM domain that facilitates binding to RNA.
• Nuclear Export Signal (NES): This motif allows ALYREF to interact with export receptors and shuttle between the nucleus and cytoplasm.
• Nuclear Localization Signal (NLS): Enables the re-entry of ALYREF into the nucleus after export.

Classification and Subtypes:

ALYREF is a member of the REF (RNA and Export Factor Binding) protein family, which also includes several other proteins involved in mRNA export. However, ALYREF itself does not have major subtypes.

Function and Biological Significance:

• mRNA Export: ALYREF binds to mRNA in the nucleus and recruits export receptors such as NXF1/TAP, facilitating the transport of mRNA from the nucleus to the cytoplasm.
• mRNA Processing: It is involved in various steps of mRNA processing, including splicing and 3' end processing.
• Gene Expression Regulation: By controlling the export of mRNA, ALYREF indirectly influences protein synthesis and gene expression.

Interactions:

• TREX Complex: ALYREF interacts with other components of the TREX complex, such as UAP56 and THO complex subunits.
• NXF1/TAP: Directly interacts with NXF1, the main export receptor for mRNA.
• mRNA: Binds to mRNA transcripts, particularly at regions that have been processed and are ready for export.

Clinical Issues:

• Cancer: Altered expression of ALYREF has been implicated in several cancers, where it may affect the stability and export of mRNAs that regulate cell proliferation and survival.
• Viral Infections: Some viruses exploit the mRNA export pathway involving ALYREF to enhance the export of viral RNAs, aiding in viral replication.
• Genetic Disorders: Although specific genetic disorders linked to mutations in ALYREF are not well-documented, its essential role in mRNA export suggests that such mutations could have severe cellular consequences.

Summary:

ALYREF (Aly/REF export factor) is a vital component of the mRNA export machinery, ensuring the proper transport of mRNA from the nucleus to the cytoplasm. It plays a critical role in gene expression regulation by interacting with mRNA and other components of the TREX complex. Dysregulation of ALYREF function can contribute to cancer progression and viral replication, highlighting its importance in both normal cellular processes and disease states. Understanding the precise mechanisms and interactions of ALYREF can provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for related conditions.