Interplay netween RNA binding proteins and microRNAs. (Cell 2007)
We found it interesting to observe that the 3’UTR regions surrounding functional miRNA target sites are frequently highly conserved throughout evolution, suggesting functional importance. We hypothesized and later on demonstrated that this conserved 3’UTR regions serve as docking platforms for RNA binding proteins (RBPs) that regulate miRNA function by either inhibiting miRNA accessibility, or by enhancing miRNA interaction through the enforcement of a structural change in mRNA. This regulation, we showed, is important for various differentiation, cell cycle and stress responses. Thus, interplay between RBPs and miRNAs exists that regulates miRNA activity.