Insights into the regulation of mRNA translation by scaffolding proteins

Regionalisation of molecular mechanisms allows cells to fine-tune their responses to dynamic environments. In this context, scaffolds are well-known mediators of localised protein activity. These phenomenal proteins act as docking sites where pathway components are brought together to ensure efficient and reliable flow of information within the cell. Although scaffolds are mostly understood as hubs for signalling communication, some have also been studied as regulators of mRNA translation. Here, we provide a brief overview of the work unravelling how scaffolding proteins facilitate the cross-talk between the two processes. Firstly, we examine the activity of AKAP1 and AKAP12, two signalling proteins that not only have the capacity to anchor mRNAs to membranes but can also regulate protein synthesis. Next, we review the studies that uncovered how the ribosome-associated protein RACK1 orchestrates translation initiation. We also discuss the evidence pointing to the scaffolds Ezrin and LASP1 as regulators of early translation stages. In the end, we conclude with some open questions and propose future directions that will bring new insights into the regulation of mRNA translation by scaffolding proteins.