title: Why cells move messages: the biological functions of mRNA localization.
abstract: RNA localization is a widespread mechanism that allows cells to spatially control protein function by determining their sites of synthesis. In embryos, localized mRNAs are involved in morphogen gradient formation or the asymmetric distribution of cell fate determinants. In somatic cell types, mRNA localization contributes to local assembly of protein complexes or facilitates protein targeting to organelles. Long-distance transport of specific mRNAs in plants allows coordination of developmental processes between different plant organs. In this review, we will discuss the biological significance of different patterns of mRNA localization.
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Feodor-Lynen-Str. 25, D-81377 Munich, Germany.
authors.forename: Tung-Gia
authors.initials: TG
authors.lastname: Du
authors.forename: Maria
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Schmid
authors.forename: Ralf-Peter
authors.initials: RP
authors.lastname: Jansen
mesh_terms: D000199:Actins / Q000378:metabolism; D000818:Animals; D001692:Biological Transport; D002455:Cell Division; D005544:Forecasting; D008954:Models, Biological; D010944:Plants; D014176:Protein Biosynthesis; D034443:RNA Transport; D012333:RNA, Messenger / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000502:physiology*; D018749:RNA, Plant / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D000199:Actins; D012333:RNA, Messenger; D018749:RNA, Plant