Messenger ribonucleic acid, or mRNA, is generated in the cellular nucleus by transcribing genetic information from DNA and is then transported into the cytoplasm where it is translated into functional proteins. Asymmetric distribution of mRNA within the cytoplasm can be widely observed across cell types and species, and we recently described it for the specialized epithelial cells of the digestive system. This mRNA asymmetry appears to parallel the characteristic apical/basal polarization seen in epithelial cells, which encompasses cytoskeletal components, proteins, and phospholipids. However, the functional significance of mRNA localization in physiology and cancer, as well as the molecular regulation of this process remains unclear. We aim to unravel the intricate mechanisms behind this phenomenon and understand its implications for cellular functions, particularly in the liver and intestinal tract. These organs are especially of interest as they are key players in metabolism, play crucial roles in our overall health, and frequently become sites of tumorigenesis. To achieve this, we employ cutting-edge bioengineering and imaging techniques, creating an extensive spatial map that details the subcellular location of both mRNA and proteins within digestive epithelia. These maps will provide insights into how the distribution of these molecules relates to organ function and the development of cancer. A key objective is understanding how mRNA molecules are transported within cells and how their specific locations are maintained. This process typically involves RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), which bind to specific mRNA transcripts and guide them to their designated positions. However, many details about this process, such as which RBPs bind to which transcripts and why, remain poorly understood. Our research delves into both mRNA localization and the functions of RBPs. We are particularly interested in a protein called Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC), known to be frequently mutated in colorectal cancer and likely serving as an RBP. We are investigating APC's role in mRNA binding and localization and its potential connection to colorectal cancer development. By leveraging advanced techniques and interdisciplinary approaches, we seek to contribute to our understanding of cellular dynamics and disease mechanisms.
