Matrin3: connecting gene expression with the nuclear matrix

As indicated by its name, Matrin3 was discovered as a component of the nuclear matrix, an insoluble fibrogranular network that structurally organizes the nucleus. Matrin3 possesses both DNA ‐ and RNA ‐binding domains and, consistent with this, has been shown to function at a number of stages in the life cycle of messenger RNAs . These numerous activities indicate that Matrin3, and indeed the nuclear matrix, do not just provide a structural framework for nuclear activities but also play direct functional roles in these activities. Here, we review the structure, functions, and molecular interactions of Matrin3 and of Matrin3‐related proteins, and the pathologies that can arise upon mutation of Matrin3. WIREs RNA 2016, 7:303–315. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1336 This article is categorized under: RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein–RNA Interactions: Functional Implications RNA Processing > Splicing Regulation/Alternative Splicing RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease