ExUTR: A novel pipeline for large-scale prediction of 3′-UTR sequences from NGS data

The three prime untranslated region (3′-UTR) is known to play a pivotal role in modulating gene expression by determining the fate of mRNA. Many crucial developmental events, such as mammalian spermatogenesis, tissue patterning, sex determination and neurogenesis, rely heavily on post-transcriptional regulation by the 3′-UTR. However, 3′-UTR biology seems to be a relatively untapped field, with only limited tools and 3′-UTR resources available. To elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of the 3′-UTR on gene expression, firstly the 3′-UTR sequences must be identified.