We previously identified a conserved A + U-rich element (ARE) in the 3′-untranslated region of bcl-2mRNA. We have also recently demonstrated that the bcl-2ARE interacts with a number of ARE-binding proteins (AUBPs) whose pattern changes during apoptosis in association with bcl-2mRNA half-life reduction. Here we show that the AUBP AUF1 bindsin vitro to bcl-2 mRNA. The results obtained in a yeast RNA three-hybrid system have demonstrated that the 1–257-amino acid portion of p37 AUF1 (conserved in all isoforms), containing the two RNA recognition motifs, also binds to thebcl-2 ARE in vivo. UVC irradiation-induced apoptosis results in an increase of AUF1. Inhibition of apoptosis by a general caspase inhibitor reduces this increase by 2–3-fold. These results indicate involvement of AUF1 in the ARE/AUBP-mediated modulation of bcl-2 mRNA decay during apoptosis.

Antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic activity of melatonin analogues on melanoma and breast cancer cells Antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic activity of melatonin analogues on melanoma and breast cancer cells