STAU1
Description
The STAU1 (staufen double-stranded RNA binding protein 1) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 20.
STAU1 is a protein encoded by the STAU1 gene. It belongs to the family of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-binding proteins that play a role in transporting and localizing mRNAs to different cellular compartments. STAU1 has multiple dsRNA-binding domains that bind RNAs with double-stranded secondary structures. In addition to these domains, STAU1 contains a microtubule-binding domain similar to that of microtubule-associated protein 1B, allowing it to bind tubulin. STAU1 is found in the cytoplasm, associated with the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER), suggesting its involvement in transporting mRNA through the microtubule network to the RER, where translation occurs. The STAU gene produces five transcript variants through alternative splicing, resulting in three isoforms. Three of these variants encode the same isoform but differ in their 5'UTR. STAU1 is associated with stress granules. Two orthologues of Staufen, Staufen1 (STAU1) and Staufen2 (STAU2) have distinct cellular functions. STAU1 is expressed in many cell types and tissues, while STAU2 is primarily expressed in the brain and heart. The expression of STAU1 has been linked to the disruption of cellular functions and the development of neurodegenerative and neuromuscular disorders, as well as cancer.
STAU1 binds to double-stranded RNA and tubulin, potentially contributing to the precise localization of messenger RNA (mRNA) molecules within the cell. It achieves this by linking the cytoskeleton (cellular framework) to RNA components, possibly facilitating the translation of mRNA at specific locations.
STAU1 is also known as PPP1R150, STAU.
