RNA-binding proteins as versatile metabolic regulators

Metabolic shifts are a hallmark of numerous biological processes, including the differentiation of stem cells along a specific lineage and the activation of diverse cell types, such as immune cells. This review examines the intricate energy metabolic alterations that occur in diverse biological settings, from embryonic development to adult tissue homoeostasis and disease states. In particular, we emphasise the regulatory function of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) in coordinating these metabolic shifts and examine how they modulate key pathways, such as glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation, to meet the dynamic cellular energy demands. This review highlights the various mechanisms by which RBPs regulate these changes, ranging from active involvement in the post-transcriptional regulation of metabolically relevant genes to alteration of an RBP’s function by specific RNAs, metabolites or growth factors. Finally, we consider how ageing and disease affect the function of RBPs and how RBPs can disrupt the delicate balance of metabolic regulation. Taken together, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the critical interplay between RBPs and metabolism and offers insights into potential therapeutic targets for regenerative medicine and age-related diseases.