HuR ablation destabilizes <i>Foxp3</i> mRNA and impairs regulatory T cell function, contributing to an autoimmune phenotype.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The RNA-binding protein HuR (Elavl1), a key post-transcriptional regulator, plays a critical role in T cell activation and function by stabilizing target mRNAs. To investigate the role of HuR in regulatory T cell (Treg) function, we generated the Foxp3YFP/Cre HuRfl/fl mouse model.

Methods

In this model, homozygous females and hemizygous males for Foxp3 developed a scurfy-like phenotype displaying autoimmune features, including failure to thrive, splenomegaly, hair loss, tail stippling, and widespread multi-organ immune cell infiltration. Molecular analysis included direct interaction studies between HuR and Foxp3 mRNA to assess mRNA stability, RNA sequencing of YFP⁺ Tregs, Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) analysis, qPCR, and Treg functional assays.

Results</

SUBMITTER: Fattahi F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12511036 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature