AU-rich elements (AREs) are specific sequences of nucleotides found in the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of mRNA that play a critical role in regulating gene expression by influencing mRNA stability and degradation. These elements often contain multiple copies of the sequence 'AUUUA' and are recognized by various RNA-binding proteins, which can either stabilize or destabilize the mRNA molecule. Their presence is crucial in controlling the levels of specific proteins in response to cellular signals, thereby linking them to important biological processes such as inflammation, cell proliferation, and differentiation.
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