Abstract: The identification and evaluation of mRNA and protein targets associated with mRNP complexes and implicated in the expression of proteins involved in common physiological pathways is described. Effective targets are useful for treating a disease, condition or disorder associated with the physiological pathway.

Abstract: Cellular mRNA-protein (mRNP) complexes are partitioned in vivo by contacting a biological sample with at least one ligand that specifically binds at least one component of a mRNP complex. Suitable biological samples comprise at least one mRNA-protein (mRNP) complex and include cell cultures, cell extracts, and whole tissue, including tumor tissue. Ligands include antibodies that specifically bind RNA-binding or RNA-associated proteins present in the mRNP complex. The mRNP complex is separated by binding the ligand with a binding molecule specific for the ligand, where the binding molecule is attached to a solid support. The mRNP complex is collected by removing the mRNP complex from the solid support. After collecting the mRNP complex, the mRNA bound within the complex may be characterized and identified. Subsets of the total mRNA population of a cell may accordingly be characterized, and a gene expression profile of the cell obtained.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for identifying and/or modulating RNA transcripts and/or genes involved in fragile X syndrome and other associated disorders are provided. In particular, RNA targets for fragile X mental retardation protein (FMRP) have been identified by a novel monoclonal antibody to FMRP and a consensus sequence for the RNA binding region has been identified. Arrays for identifying compounds, proteins, nucleotides, and the like that modulate the RNA targets or associated genes are provided. Additionally, methods for modulating RNA targets are provided.