hnRNP D/AUF1 binds with high affinity to RNA molecules that contain AU-rich elements (AREs) found within the 3' untranslated regions of many protooncogenes and cytokine mRNAs. It also binds to double and single stranded DNA sequences in a specific manner and functions a transcription factor. Each of the RNA-binding domains specifically can bind solely to a single stranded nonmonotonous 5'-UUAG-3' sequence and also weaker to the single-stranded 5'-TTAGGG-3' telomeric DNA repeat. It may be involved in translationally coupled mRNA turnover (referenced from swissprot).