Iron Regulatory Protein (IRP) is a crucial protein that helps maintain iron homeostasis in cells. It regulates the expression of genes involved in iron metabolism by binding to specific RNA sequences called iron-responsive elements (IREs). This binding can either stabilize or degrade the mRNA, influencing the production of proteins that transport, store, or utilize iron. When iron levels are low, IRP binds to IREs to enhance the production of proteins that import iron and reduce the synthesis of proteins that store it. Conversely, when iron levels are sufficient, IRP's activity decreases, allowing for proper regulation of iron levels in the body.