Post-transcriptional coordination of immunological responses by RNA-binding proteins

Abstract

Immunological reactions are propelled by ever-changing signals that alter the translational ability of the RNA in the cells involved. Such alterations are considered to be consequential modifications in the transcriptomic decoding of the genetic blueprint. The identification of RNA-binding protein (RBP) assemblies engaged in the coordinative regulation of state-specific RNAs indicates alternative and exclusive means for determining the activation, plasticity and tolerance of cells of the immune system. Here we review current knowledge about RBP-regulated post-transcriptional events involved in the reactivity of cells of the immune system and the importance of their alteration during chronic inflammatory pathology and autoimmunity.