Molecular Recognition of RNA by La-related Proteins
The La-related protein (LARP) superfamily is a recently discovered group of RNA-binding proteins involved in controlling a large variety of cell functions. Particularly, cytoplasmic LARPs play a pivotal role in post-transcriptional gene control by regulating the delicate balance between active translation, degradation, and storage of mRNAs. Hence, many LARPs are intimately implicated in various diseases such as cancers and fibroproliferative diseases, rendering them an important class of druggable targets. Our lab actively investigates the molecular recognition of RNA by various members of the LARP superfamily in an effort to connect RNA recognition and function/dysfunction.