Regulation and deregulation of mRNA translation during myeloid maturation

Gene expression in the eukaryotic cell is regulated at a number of levels, including transcription of genomic DNA into messenger RNA (mRNA), nucleocytoplasmic export of mRNA, and translation of the exported mRNA into proteins in the cytoplasm by ribosomes. The role played by epigenetics and transcription factors associated with the control of gene expression in the developing neutrophil has been well documented and appreciated over the years. A wealth of information on the role played by transcription factors in myeloid biology has contributed to our understanding of both normal and abnormal neutrophil development. However, regulation of mRNA translation in myeloid cell maturation is much less well-studied. A better understanding of the translational control of myeloid gene expression may provide important insights into both normal and abnormal myeloid maturation. This review summarizes our current understanding of the regulation of myeloid gene expression at the mRNA translational level.