The importance of CELF control: molecular and biological roles of the CUG-BP, Elav-like family of RNA-binding proteins

RNA processing is important for generating protein diversity and modulating levels of protein expression. The CUG-BP, Elav-like family (CELF) of RNA-binding proteins regulate several steps of RNA processing in the nucleus and cytoplasm, including pre-mRNA alternative splicing, C to U RNA editing, deadenylation, mRNA decay, and translation. In vivo, CELF proteins have been shown to play roles in gametogenesis and early embryonic development, heart and skeletal muscle function, and neurosynaptic transmission. Dysregulation of CELF-mediated programs has been implicated in the pathogenesis of human diseases affecting the heart, skeletal muscles, and nervous system. (C) 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.