The hnRNP proteins bind to pre-mRNA concomitant with transcription and form
ribonucleoprotein complex essential for post-transcriptional events. More
than 20 different groups of hnRNP proteins are known in humans. The number
seems to be similar in other organisms too. The hnRNP proteins possess diff
erent types of RNA binding domains which directly interact with RNA, most l
ikely in a sequence specific manner. The functions of hnRNP proteins range
from mRNA packaging and transport, to mRNA splicing and silencing. Further,
indirectly, their role has also been implicated in oogenesis. Hence, hnRNP
proteins play diversified roles both in nucleus and cytoplasm, and regulat
e the gene expression at various levels.