A new model for translational regulation of specific mRNAs

Recently, RNA helicase A (RHA) has been shown to facilitate translation of specific mRNAs by recognizing and binding to a complex structure at their 5′ end known as the post-transcriptional control element. This implicates RHA, a member of the DEXD/H-box protein superfamily, in linking transcription and translation of a specific class of retroviral and cellular mRNAs. This exciting finding suggests a new mechanism for the regulation of the translation of specific transcripts.