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We report the first example of a coordinated dual action of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in stimulating the nuclear--cytoplasmic export and translation of a select messenger RNA (mRNA). The effect of EGF is mediated by the RNA-binding protein Grb7 (growth factor receptor-bound protein 7), which serves as an adaptor for a specific mRNA--protein export complex and a translational regulator. Using the [kappa]--opioid receptor (OR [KOR]) as a model, we demonstrate that EGF activates nuclear SHP-2 (Src homology region 2--containing tyrosine phosphatase), which dephosphorylates Grb7 in the nucleus. Hypophosphorylated Grb7 binds to the KOR mRNA and recruits the Hu antigen R--exportin-1 (CRM1) complex to form a nuclear--cytoplasmic export complex that exports KOR mRNA. EGF also activates focal adhesion kinase in the cytoplasm to rephosphorylate Grb7, releasing KOR mRNA for active translation. In summary, this study uncovers a coordinated, dual activity of EGF in facilitating nuclear export of a specific mRNA--protein complex as well as translational activation of the exported mRNA. doi/10.1083/jcb.200910083