# Function of 3' UTRs

> **NIH NIH R01** · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · 2020 · $546,265

## Abstract

Project Summary /Abstract
DNA makes RNA makes protein. The second step of that pathway —
the critical function of RNA in genetic information transfer — is exquisitely
regulated. mRNA activity, stability and location are controlled by factors that
recognize specific RNA sequences. The PUF proteins are a widespread family of
mRNA regulatory proteins that control key steps in early development and are
required for establishing memory. They must find and recognize specific mRNAs,
and then execute that mRNA's fate – activation, repression, destruction, or
movement. We elucidate the way in which these proteins form networks of
control – recognizing and controlling a substantial proportion of the mRNAs in
human cells. They act through collaborations with protein partners – interactions
that are conserved from yeast to humans. PUF proteins and their partners have
important roles in development, hoemostasis, cellular senescence, and human
fertility. The networks of RNAs they control are vital in these processes.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9873036
- **Project number:** 5R01GM050942-24
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON
- **Principal Investigator:** Marvin P. Wickens
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $546,265
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 1994-04-01 → 2022-02-28

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9873036

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9873036, Function of 3' UTRs (5R01GM050942-24). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-22 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9873036. Licensed CC0.

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