RNA-binding protein that binds to AU-rich element (ARE) sequences of target mRNAs. May also bind poly-A tracts via RRM 3. May be involved in neuronal differentiation and maintenance (By similarity). Expression is neural-specific in both embryos and adults. Expressed from neurula stage onwards in primary motor-, inter- and sensory-neurons. Expressed in the closing neural tube and motor neurons of stage 18 embryos, and primarily in the ventricular zone and dorsal region of the tailbud and adult brain. Expressed from stage 26 onwards in the differentiating ganglion cell layer of the retina, extending to the inner nuclear layer at later stages. Expressed by late gastrula stage (stage 11). By bHLH transcription factors atoh7/ath5 and neurod1/neuroD. RRM 1 and RRM 2 bind cooperatively to AU-rich sequences in target mRNAs. RRM 3 binds to poly-A mRNA sequences (By similarity). Belongs to the RRM elav family.