Biological function
HuR is a ubiquitously expressed RNA-binding protein that stabilizes many AU-rich mRNAs, especially those encoding cytokines, growth factors, and proto-oncogenes. It plays key roles in inflammation, stress responses, and cancer progression by extending mRNA half-life.
 
Binding property
HuR preferentially binds U-rich / AU-rich elements (AREs) in 3′UTRs, often in single-stranded regions that contain repeated U- and AU-containing motifs. Binding typically promotes mRNA stabilization and affects translation.
 
Assay notes
The kit uses a biotin-labeled AU-rich RNA probe optimized for HuR recognition. Competition with unlabeled probe and supershift with HuR antibody can be used to confirm specificity. Ideal for measuring global ARE-binding activity in lysates.