RNA-binding proteins in cell adhesion at a glance

Adhesion to the extracellular environment is fundamental for cell survival, differentiation, proliferation and migration as well as for overall tissue organization. Although RNA-binding and RNA regulatory proteins have often been observed in the context of cell adhesion, they have only recently emerged as significant factors coordinating various aspects of this process. RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) can directly interact with adhesion components organizing signaling complexes at adhesion sites. They can additionally deliver mRNAs and control the local synthesis of proteins that modulate various cell edge behaviors. Beyond local roles at the cell periphery, RBPs can mediate broader regulatory control through transcriptional modulation and alternative splicing of adhesion-related genes. RBPs are thus centrally positioned to integrate and coordinate cellular responses to adhesive cues. This Cell Science at a Glance article synthesizes recent evidence on the various ways in which RBPs and local RNA regulation orchestrate adhesion-dependent processes, and the physiological effect of their dysregulation. Through highlighting emerging molecular mechanisms at the intersection of gene expression and cell adhesion, we aim to bring attention to an RBP-mediated layer of regulation impacting how cells interact with their environment.