RNA-binding protein that binds to the 3'-UTR region of mRNAs and increases their stability ( ). Involved in embryonic stem cell (ESC) differentiation: preferentially binds mRNAs that are not methylated by N6-methyladenosine (m6A), stabilizing them, promoting ESC differentiation (By similarity). Has also been shown to be capable of binding to m6A-containing mRNAs and contributes to MYC stability by binding to m6A-containing MYC mRNAs . Binds to poly-U elements and AU-rich elements (AREs) in the 3'-UTR of target mRNAs (  ). Binds avidly to the AU-rich element in FOS and IL3/interleukin-3 mRNAs. In the case of the FOS AU-rich element, binds to a core element of 27 nucleotides that contain AUUUA, AUUUUA, and AUUUUUA motifs. Binds preferentially to the 5'-UUUU[AG]UUU-3' motif in vitro . With ZNF385A, binds the 3'-UTR of p53/TP53 mRNA to control their nuclear export induced by CDKN2A. Hence, may regulate p53/TP53 expression and mediate in part the CDKN2A anti-proliferative activity. May also bind with ZNF385A the CCNB1 mRNA (By similarity). Increases the stability of the leptin mRNA harboring an AU-rich element (ARE) in its 3' UTR .
Subcellular locations: Cytoplasm, Nucleus, Cytoplasm, Stress granule, Cytoplasm, P-body
Translocates into the cytoplasm following phosphorylation by MAPKAPK2 . Likewise, phosphorylation by PRKCD promotes translocation from the nucleus into the cytoplasm, where it is associated with free and cytoskeleton-bound polysomes .Localizes to the stress granules in the presence of PLEKHN1 (By similarity).
Ubiquitous. Detected in brain, liver, thymus and muscle.