Poly(A) binding proteins

Poly(A) binding proteins (PABPs) are molecules that attach to the poly(A) tail—a string of adenine nucleotides—found at the end of messenger RNA (mRNA) in cells. Their main role is to stabilize the mRNA, protect it from degradation, and assist in the regulation of its translation into proteins. By binding to the poly(A) tail, PABPs help facilitate the circularization of mRNA molecules, making the process of protein synthesis more efficient. Essentially, PABPs act as caretakers and coordinators, ensuring mRNA molecules are stable and effectively used to produce proteins within the cell.