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Review
. 2025 Sep;43(9):e70119.
doi: 10.1002/cbf.70119.

mRNA Fate in Human Cells; Degradation and Subcellular Localisation

Forogh Jafari  1 , Kamalpreet Kaur  1 , Jawairia Umar Khan  1   2 , Farah Al Hlow  1 , Mohammad Sadraeian  1 , Milad Mohkam  3 , Yuen Yee Cheng  1
Affiliations
Review

mRNA Fate in Human Cells; Degradation and Subcellular Localisation

Forogh Jafari et al. Cell Biochem Funct. 2025 Sep.

Abstract

The fate of mRNA in human cells is a critical aspect of gene regulation, encompassing both post-translation degradation and subcellular localization. This review explores the critical role of mRNA fate in human cells, focusing on post-translation degradation and subcellular localization. mRNA degradation, including mechanisms like nonsense-mediated decay, ensures the elimination of defective and unnecessary transcripts, thereby preventing harmful protein accumulation. Simultaneously, subcellular localization directs mRNA to specific organelles, such as the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria, facilitating localized protein synthesis essential for cellular function. We highlight the importance of these processes in maintaining cellular homeostasis, particularly in neurons and cancer cells, where dysregulation can lead to disease. By understanding these processes, new therapeutic strategies can be developed to target diseases associated with mRNA dysregulation.

Keywords: mRNA decay; mitochondrial mRNA; ribonucleoproteins (RNP); sub‐cellular localized translation.

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