mRNA nuclear export

The export of mRNA from the nucleus to the cytoplasm is an essential step in the expression of genetic information in eukaryotes. It is an energy-dependent process and involves transport across the nuclear pores. It requires both cis-acting ribonucleoprotein particle signals and specific trans-acting factors. Although much remains to be learned, recent information has begun to define this pathway at both the cellular and biochemical levels and indicates that it is used as a key regulatory step by several viruses.