KTRNs

KTRNs stands for Kinase-Associated RNA-binding Proteins. These are a class of proteins that play a crucial role in regulating gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. As their name suggests, KTRNs possess both kinase activity, meaning they can phosphorylate other molecules, and RNA-binding domains, enabling them to interact with RNA molecules. This dual functionality allows them to integrate signaling pathways with RNA processing and regulation.

The kinase activity of KTRNs can influence the function of RNA-binding proteins, including their own RNA-binding affinity or the activity of downstream RNA targets. Conversely, their interaction with RNA can modulate their kinase activity or recruit them to specific cellular locations. This intricate interplay is vital for various cellular processes such as messenger RNA (mRNA) splicing, stability, translation, and degradation.

Dysregulation of KTRN function has been implicated in a number of diseases, including cancer and neurological disorders. Understanding the specific roles of different KTRNs and their interaction networks is an active area of research, with the goal of identifying potential therapeutic targets for these conditions. The precise mechanisms by which KTRNs exert their regulatory control are complex and continue to be elucidated.