The synthesis of many mammalian proteins associated with the translational
apparatus is selectively regulated by mitogenic and nutritional stimuli, at
the translational level. The apparent advantages of the regulation of gene
expression at the translational level are the speed and the readily revers
ible nature of the response to altering physiological conditions. These two
features enable cells to rapidly repress the biosynthesis of the translati
onal machinery upon shortage of amino acids or growth arrest, thus rapidly
blocking unnecessary energy wastage. Likewise, when amino acids are repleni
shed or mitogenic stimulation is applied, then cells can rapidly respond in
resuming the costly biosynthesis of the translational apparatus. A structu
ral hallmark, common to mRNAs encoding many components of the translational
machinery, is the presence of a 5' terminal oligopyrimidine tract (5'TOP),
referred to as TOP mRNAs. This structural motif comprises the core of the
translational cis-regulatory element of these mRNAs. The present review foc
uses on the mechanism underlying the translational control of TOP mRNAs upo
n growth and nutritional stimuli. A special emphasis is put on the pivotal
role played by ribosomal protein S6 kinase (S6K) in this mode of regulation
, and the upstream regulatory pathways, which might be engaged in transduci
ng external signals into activation of S6K. Finally, the possible involveme
nt of pyrimidine-binding proteins in the translational control of TOP mRNAs
is discussed.