RNA Binding Protein Human Antigen R Is Translocated in Astrocytes following Spinal Cord Injury and Promotes the Inflammatory Response

Inflammation is a key process after spinal cord injuries, driven by substances like TNF-α and IL-1β produced by brain cells called astrocytes and microglia. These substances are controlled by RNA binding proteins (RBPs), including human antigen R (HuR). This study found that after spinal cord injury in mice, HuR moves into the cytoplasm of astrocytes, suggesting it becomes active. Blocking HuR reduced the production of inflammatory substances by astrocytes and reduced their ability to attract other immune cells. Therefore, HuR could be a target for therapies to reduce inflammation and secondary tissue damage following CNS injuries.

• 1
  HuR translocates to the cytoplasm of astrocytes at the site of spinal cord injury, indicating its activation in response to the trauma.
• 2
  Knockdown or chemical inhibition of HuR in astrocytes attenuates the induction of key inflammatory mediators, suggesting a role for HuR in promoting inflammation.
• 3
  Inhibition of HuR impairs the ability of astrocytes to attract other immune cells, such as neutrophils and microglia, potentially reducing secondary tissue injury.