mRNA is the "hermes" of gene expression as it carries the information of a protein-coding gene to the ribosome. Already during its synthesis, the mRNA is bound by mRNA-binding proteins that package the mRNA into a messenger ribonucleoprotein particle (mRNP). This mRNP assembly is important for mRNA stability and nuclear mRNA export. It also often regulates later steps in the mRNA lifetime such as translation and mRNA degradation in the cytoplasm. Thus, mRNP composition and accordingly the assembly of nuclear mRNA-binding proteins onto the mRNA are of crucial importance for correct gene expression. Here, we review our current knowledge of the mechanism of co-transcriptional mRNP assembly and nuclear mRNA export. We introduce the proteins involved and elaborate on what is known about their functions so far. In addition, we discuss the importance of regulated mRNP assembly in changing environmental conditions, especially during stress. Furthermore, we examine how defects in mRNP assembly cause diseases and how viruses exploit the host's nuclear mRNA export pathway. Finally, we summarize the questions that need to be answered in the future.
Keywords: Nuclear mRNA export; RBP; RNA-binding protein; mRNA; mRNA assembly; mRNP.