1
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Clarke JP, Thibault PA, Salapa HE, Levin MC. A Comprehensive Analysis of the Role of hnRNP A1 Function and Dysfunction in the Pathogenesis of Neurodegenerative Disease. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:659610. [PMID: 33912591 PMCID: PMC8072284 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.659610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1 (hnRNP A1) is a member of the hnRNP family of conserved proteins that is involved in RNA transcription, pre-mRNA splicing, mRNA transport, protein translation, microRNA processing, telomere maintenance and the regulation of transcription factor activity. HnRNP A1 is ubiquitously, yet differentially, expressed in many cell types, and due to post-translational modifications, can vary in its molecular function. While a plethora of knowledge is known about the function and dysfunction of hnRNP A1 in diseases other than neurodegenerative disease (e.g., cancer), numerous studies in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, frontotemporal lobar degeneration, multiple sclerosis, spinal muscular atrophy, Alzheimer’s disease, and Huntington’s disease have found that the dysregulation of hnRNP A1 may contribute to disease pathogenesis. How hnRNP A1 mechanistically contributes to these diseases, and whether mutations and/or altered post-translational modifications contribute to pathogenesis, however, is currently under investigation. The aim of this comprehensive review is to first describe the background of hnRNP A1, including its structure, biological functions in RNA metabolism and the post-translational modifications known to modify its function. With this knowledge, the review then describes the influence of hnRNP A1 in neurodegenerative disease, and how its dysfunction may contribute the pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph P Clarke
- Department of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.,Office of the Saskatchewan Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Research Chair, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Patricia A Thibault
- Office of the Saskatchewan Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Research Chair, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.,Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Hannah E Salapa
- Office of the Saskatchewan Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Research Chair, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.,Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Michael C Levin
- Department of Health Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.,Office of the Saskatchewan Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Research Chair, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.,Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada.,Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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2
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Ghosh M, Singh M. RGG-box in hnRNPA1 specifically recognizes the telomere G-quadruplex DNA and enhances the G-quadruplex unfolding ability of UP1 domain. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 46:10246-10261. [PMID: 30247678 PMCID: PMC6212785 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gky854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
hnRNPA1 is a member of heteronuclear ribonucleoproteins that has been shown to promote telomere elongation apart from its roles in RNA transport and alternative splicing. It is a modular protein with an N-terminal domain called UP1 that consists of two RNA Recognition Motifs (RRM1 and RRM2 domains) and a C-terminal region that harbors functional motifs such as RGG-box, a prion-like domain, and a nuclear shuttling sequence. UP1 has been reported to bind and destabilize telomeric DNA G-quadruplexes and thereby participate in DNA telomere remodeling. An RGG-box motif that consists of four RGG repeats (containing arginine and glycine residues) is located C-terminal to the UP1 domain and constitutes an additional nucleic acid and protein-binding domain. However, the precise role of the RGG-box of hnRNPA1 in telomere DNA recognition and G-quadruplex DNA unfolding remains unexplored. Here, we show that the isolated RGG-box interacts specifically with the structured telomere G-quadruplex DNA but not with the single-stranded DNA. Further the interaction of the RGG-box with the G-quadruplex DNA is dependent on the loop nucleotides of the G-quadruplex. Finally, we show that the RGG-box enhances the G-quadruplex unfolding activity of the adjacent UP1 domain. We propose that UP1 and RGG-box act synergistically to achieve complete telomere G-quadruplex DNA unfolding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meenakshi Ghosh
- Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, India
| | - Mahavir Singh
- Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, India.,NMR Research Centre, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru 560012, India
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3
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Levengood JD, Tolbert BS. Idiosyncrasies of hnRNP A1-RNA recognition: Can binding mode influence function. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2019; 86:150-161. [PMID: 29625167 PMCID: PMC6177329 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2018.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Revised: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs) are a diverse family of RNA binding proteins that function in most stages of RNA metabolism. The prototypical member, hnRNP A1, is composed of three major domains; tandem N-terminal RNA Recognition Motifs (RRMs) and a C-terminal mostly intrinsically disordered region. HnRNP A1 is broadly implicated in basic cellular RNA processing events such as splicing, stability, nuclear export and translation. Due to its ubiquity and abundance, hnRNP A1 is also frequently usurped to control viral gene expression. Deregulation of the RNA metabolism functions of hnRNP A1 in neuronal cells contributes to several neurodegenerative disorders. Because of these roles in human pathologies, the study of hnRNP A1 provides opportunities for the development of novel therapeutics, with disruption of its RNA binding capabilities being the most promising target. The functional diversity of hnRNP A1 is reflected in the complex nature by which it interacts with various RNA targets. Indeed, hnRNP A1 binds both structured and unstructured RNAs with binding affinities that span several magnitudes. Available structures of hnRNP A1-RNA complexes also suggest a degree of plasticity in molecular recognition. Given the reinvigoration in hnRNP A1, the goal of this review is to use the available structural biochemical developments as a framework to interpret its wide-range of RNA functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey D Levengood
- Department of Chemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Blanton S Tolbert
- Department of Chemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States.
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4
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Wang IX, Grunseich C, Fox J, Burdick J, Zhu Z, Ravazian N, Hafner M, Cheung VG. Human proteins that interact with RNA/DNA hybrids. Genome Res 2018; 28:1405-1414. [PMID: 30108179 PMCID: PMC6120628 DOI: 10.1101/gr.237362.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
RNA/DNA hybrids form when RNA hybridizes with its template DNA generating a three-stranded structure known as the R-loop. Knowledge of how they form and resolve, as well as their functional roles, is limited. Here, by pull-down assays followed by mass spectrometry, we identified 803 proteins that bind to RNA/DNA hybrids. Because these proteins were identified using in vitro assays, we confirmed that they bind to R-loops in vivo. They include proteins that are involved in a variety of functions, including most steps of RNA processing. The proteins are enriched for K homology (KH) and helicase domains. Among them, more than 300 proteins preferred binding to hybrids than double-stranded DNA. These proteins serve as starting points for mechanistic studies to elucidate what RNA/DNA hybrids regulate and how they are regulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel X Wang
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815, USA.,Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Christopher Grunseich
- Neurogenetics Branch, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Jennifer Fox
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815, USA.,Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Joshua Burdick
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815, USA.,Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Zhengwei Zhu
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Niema Ravazian
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815, USA
| | - Markus Hafner
- Laboratory of Muscle Stem Cells and Gene Regulation, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Vivian G Cheung
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815, USA.,Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
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5
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Roca X, Krainer AR, Eperon IC. Pick one, but be quick: 5' splice sites and the problems of too many choices. Genes Dev 2013; 27:129-44. [PMID: 23348838 DOI: 10.1101/gad.209759.112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Splice site selection is fundamental to pre-mRNA splicing and the expansion of genomic coding potential. 5' Splice sites (5'ss) are the critical elements at the 5' end of introns and are extremely diverse, as thousands of different sequences act as bona fide 5'ss in the human transcriptome. Most 5'ss are recognized by base-pairing with the 5' end of the U1 small nuclear RNA (snRNA). Here we review the history of research on 5'ss selection, highlighting the difficulties of establishing how base-pairing strength determines splicing outcomes. We also discuss recent work demonstrating that U1 snRNA:5'ss helices can accommodate noncanonical registers such as bulged duplexes. In addition, we describe the mechanisms by which other snRNAs, regulatory proteins, splicing enhancers, and the relative positions of alternative 5'ss contribute to selection. Moreover, we discuss mechanisms by which the recognition of numerous candidate 5'ss might lead to selection of a single 5'ss and propose that protein complexes propagate along the exon, thereby changing its physical behavior so as to affect 5'ss selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Roca
- School of Biological Sciences, Division of Molecular Genetics and Cell Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
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6
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Bekenstein U, Soreq H. Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1 in health and neurodegenerative disease: from structural insights to post-transcriptional regulatory roles. Mol Cell Neurosci 2012; 56:436-46. [PMID: 23247072 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2012.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2012] [Revised: 12/02/2012] [Accepted: 12/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs) are a family of conserved nuclear proteins that associate with nascent RNA polymerase II transcripts to yield hnRNP particles, playing key roles in mRNA metabolism, DNA-related functions and microRNA biogenesis. HnRNPs accompany transcripts from stages of transcriptional regulation through splicing and post-transcriptional regulation, and are believed to affect the majority of expressed genes in mammals. Most hnRNP mRNA transcripts undergo alternative splicing and post-translational modifications, to yield a remarkable diversity of proteins with numerous functional elements that work in concert in their multiple functions. Therefore, mis-regulation of hnRNPs leads to different maladies. Here, we focus on the role of one of the best-known members of this protein family, hnRNP A1 in RNA metabolism, and address recent works that note its multileveled involvement in several neurodegenerative disorders. Initially discovered as a DNA binding protein, hnRNP A1 includes two RNA recognition motifs, and post-translational modifications of these and other regions in this multifunctional protein alter both its nuclear pore shuttling properties and its RNA interactions and affect transcription, mRNA splicing and microRNA biogenesis. HnRNP A1 plays several key roles in neuronal functioning and its depletion, either due to debilitated cholinergic neurotransmission or under autoimmune reactions causes drastic changes in RNA metabolism. Consequently, hnRNP A1 decline contributes to the severity of symptoms in several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), fronto-temporal lobar degeneration (FTLD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), hereditary spastic paraparesis (HSP) and HTLV-I associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP). At the translational level, these properties of hnRNP A1 led to massive research efforts aimed at developing RNA-targeted therapeutic tools such as splicing-modulating oligonucleotides with promising pharmaceutical potential. HnRNP A1 thus presents an intriguing example for the complexity and importance of heteronuclear ribonucleoproteins in health and disease. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'RNA and splicing regulation in neurodegeneration'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uriya Bekenstein
- Dept of Biological Chemistry, The Life Sciences Institute and The Edmond and Lily Safra Center of Brain Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 91904, Israel
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7
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Telomere- and telomerase-interacting protein that unfolds telomere G-quadruplex and promotes telomere extension in mammalian cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2012. [PMID: 23184978 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1200232109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomere extension by telomerase is essential for chromosome stability and cell vitality. Here, we report the identification of a splice variant of mammalian heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A2 (hnRNP A2), hnRNP A2*, which binds telomeric DNA and telomerase in vitro. hnRNP A2* colocalizes with telomerase in Cajal bodies and at telomeres. In vitro assays show that hnRNP A2* actively unfolds telomeric G-quadruplex DNA, exposes 5 nt of the 3' telomere tail and substantially enhances the catalytic activity and processivity of telomerase. The expression level of hnRNP A2* in tissues positively correlates with telomerase activity, and overexpression of hnRNP A2* leads to telomere elongation in vivo. Thus, hnRNP A2* plays a positive role in unfolding telomere G-quadruplexes and in enhancing telomere extension by telomerase.
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8
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Wang M, Law M, Duhamel J, Chen P. Interaction of a self-assembling peptide with oligonucleotides: complexation and aggregation. Biophys J 2007; 93:2477-90. [PMID: 17545233 PMCID: PMC1965454 DOI: 10.1529/biophysj.106.102624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2006] [Accepted: 05/17/2007] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Molecular interaction of a self-assembling peptide, EAK16-II, to single- and double-stranded oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) was investigated under various solution conditions. The molecular events leading to EAK-ODN complexation and further aggregation were elucidated using a series of spectroscopic and microscopic methods. Despite the ability to self-assemble, EAK molecules bind to ODN molecules first upon mixing, resulting in EAK-ODN complexes. The complexes further associate to form EAK-ODN aggregates. A method based on UV-Vis absorption and centrifugation was developed to quantify the fraction of ODNs in the aggregates. The results were used to construct binding isotherms via a binding density function analysis. To compare the effects of different pH values and nucleotide types, the modified noncooperative McGhee and von Hippel model was used to extract binding parameters from the binding isotherms. The binding constant of EAK to ODNs was higher at pH 4 than at pH 7, and no binding was observed at pH 11, indicating that the interaction involved is primarily electrostatic in nature. EAK bound more strongly to single-stranded ODNs. The EAK-ODN aggregates were further visualized using atomic force microscopy; their size distribution as a function of EAK concentration was monitored by dynamic light scattering. The timescale for the EAK-ODN aggregation was on the order of minutes by fluorescence anisotropy and steady-state light scattering experiments. Fluorescence quenching experiments demonstrated that the ODNs in the aggregates were less accessible to the solvent, demonstrating a potential of oligonucleotide encapsulation by the self-assembling peptide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Wang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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9
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Hallay H, Locker N, Ayadi L, Ropers D, Guittet E, Branlant C. Biochemical and NMR Study on the Competition between Proteins SC35, SRp40, and Heterogeneous Nuclear Ribonucleoprotein A1 at the HIV-1 Tat Exon 2 Splicing Site. J Biol Chem 2006; 281:37159-74. [PMID: 16990281 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m603864200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The human immunodeficiency virus, type 1, Tat protein plays a key role in virus multiplication. Because of its apoptotic property, its production is highly controlled. It depends upon the A3 splicing site utilization. A key control of site A3 activity is the ESS2 splicing silencer, which is located within the long stem-loop structure 3 (SLS3), far downstream from site A3. Here, by enzymatic footprints, we demonstrate the presence of several heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) A1-binding sites on SLS3 and show the importance of the C-terminal Gly domain of hnRNP A1 in the formation of stable complexes containing several hnRNP A1 molecules bound on SLS3. Mutations in each of the UAG triplets in ESS2 strongly reduce the overall hnRNP A1 binding, showing the central role of ESS2 in hnRNP A1 assembly on SLS2-SLS3. Using NMR spectroscopy, we demonstrate the direct interaction of ESS2 with the RNA recognition motifs domains of hnRNP A1. This interaction has limited effect on the RNA two-dimensional structure. The SR proteins SC35 and SRp40 were found previously to be strong activators of site A3 utilization. By enzymatic and chemical footprints, we delineate their respective binding sites on SLS2 and SLS3 and find a strong similarity between the hnRNP A1-, SC35-, and SRp40-binding sites. The strongest SC35-binding site only has a modest contribution to site A3 activation. Hence, the main role of SR proteins at site A3 is to counteract hnRNP A1 binding on ESS2 and ESE2. Indeed, we found that ESE2 has inhibitory properties because of its ability to bind hnRNP A1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Houda Hallay
- UMR 7567 CNRS-Université Henri Poincaré-Nancy I, Boulevard des Aiguillettes, BP239, 54506 Vandoeuvre-lès-Nancy Cedex and Laboratoire de Chimie et Biologie Structurales, ICSN-CNRS, 1 Avenue de la Terrasse, 91198 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
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10
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Ayala YM, Pantano S, D'Ambrogio A, Buratti E, Brindisi A, Marchetti C, Romano M, Baralle FE. Human, Drosophila, and C.elegans TDP43: Nucleic Acid Binding Properties and Splicing Regulatory Function. J Mol Biol 2005; 348:575-88. [PMID: 15826655 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2005.02.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 268] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2004] [Revised: 02/17/2005] [Accepted: 02/20/2005] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
TAR DNA binding protein (TDP43), a highly conserved heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein, was found to down-regulate splicing of the exon 9 cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) through specific binding to a UG-rich polymorphic region upstream of the 3' splice site. Despite the emergence of new information regarding the protein's nuclear localization and splicing regulatory activity, TDP43's role in cells remains elusive. To investigate the function of human TDP43 and its homologues, we cloned and characterized the proteins from Drosophila melanogaster and Caenorhabditis elegans. The proteins from human, fly, and worm show striking similarities in their nucleic acid binding specificity. We found that residues at two different positions, which show a strong conservation among TDP43 family members, are linked to the tight recognition of the target sequence. Our three-dimensional model of TDP43 in complex with a (UG)(m) sequence predicts that these residues make amino acid side-chain to base contacts. Moreover, our results suggest that Drosophila TDP43 is comparable to human TDP43 in regulating exon splicing. On the other hand, C.elegans TDP43 has no effect on exon recognition. TDP43 from C.elegans lacks the glycine-rich domain found at the carboxy terminus of the other two homologues. Mutants of human and fly TDP43 devoid of the C-terminal domain are likewise unable to affect splicing. Our studies suggest that the glycine-rich domain is essential for splicing regulation by human and fly TDP43.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youhna M Ayala
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) 34012 Trieste, Italy
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11
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Shi ST, Yu GY, Lai MMC. Multiple type A/B heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs) can replace hnRNP A1 in mouse hepatitis virus RNA synthesis. J Virol 2003; 77:10584-93. [PMID: 12970443 PMCID: PMC228381 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.77.19.10584-10593.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) A1 has previously been shown to bind mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) RNA at the 3' end of both plus and minus strands and modulate MHV RNA synthesis. However, a mouse erythroleukemia cell line, CB3, does not express hnRNP A1 but still supports MHV replication, suggesting that alternative proteins can replace hnRNP A1 in cellular functions and viral infection. In this study, we set out to identify these proteins. UV cross-linking experiments revealed that several CB3 cellular proteins similar in size to hnRNP A1 interacted with the MHV RNA. These proteins were purified by RNA affinity column with biotinylated negative-strand MHV leader RNA and identified by mass spectrometry to be hnRNP A2/B1, hnRNP A/B, and hnRNP A3, all of which belong to the type A/B hnRNPs. All of these proteins contain amino acid sequences with strong similarity to the RNA-binding domains of hnRNP A1. Some of these hnRNPs have previously been shown to replace hnRNP A1 in regulating RNA splicing. These proteins displayed MHV RNA-binding affinity and specificity similar to those of hnRNP A1. hnRNP A2/B1, which is predominantly localized to the nucleus and shuttles between the nucleus and the cytoplasm, was shown to relocalize to the cytoplasm in MHV-infected CB3 cells. Furthermore, overexpression of hnRNP A/B in cells enhanced MHV RNA synthesis. Our findings demonstrate that the functions of hnRNP A1 in MHV RNA synthesis can be replaced by other closely related hnRNPs, further supporting the roles of cellular proteins in MHV RNA synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie T Shi
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA
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12
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Kühn U, Nemeth A, Meyer S, Wahle E. The RNA binding domains of the nuclear poly(A)-binding protein. J Biol Chem 2003; 278:16916-25. [PMID: 12637556 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m209886200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The nuclear poly(A)-binding protein (PABPN1) is involved in the synthesis of the mRNA poly(A) tails in most eukaryotes. We report that the protein contains two RNA binding domains, a ribonucleoprotein-type RNA binding domain (RNP domain) located approximately in the middle of the protein sequence and an arginine-rich C-terminal domain. The C-terminal domain also promotes self-association of PABPN1 and moderately cooperative binding to RNA. Whereas the isolated RNP domain binds specifically to poly(A), the isolated C-terminal domain binds non-specifically to RNA and other polyanions. Despite this nonspecific RNA binding by the C-terminal domain, selection experiments show that adenosine residues throughout the entire minimal binding site of approximately 11 nucleotides are recognized specifically. UV-induced cross-links with oligo(A) carrying photoactivatable nucleotides at different positions all map to the RNP domain, suggesting that most or all of the base-specific contacts are made by the RNP domain, whereas the C-terminal domain may contribute nonspecific contacts, conceivably to the same nucleotides. Asymmetric dimethylation of 13 arginine residues in the C-terminal domain has no detectable influence on the interaction of the protein with RNA. The N-terminal domain of PABPN1 is not required for RNA binding but is essential for the stimulation of poly(A) polymerase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uwe Kühn
- Institut für Biochemie, Martin-Luther-Universität Halle, 06099 Halle, Germany
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13
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Gagné JP, Hunter JM, Labrecque B, Chabot B, Poirier GG. A proteomic approach to the identification of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins as a new family of poly(ADP-ribose)-binding proteins. Biochem J 2003; 371:331-40. [PMID: 12517304 PMCID: PMC1223283 DOI: 10.1042/bj20021675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2002] [Revised: 12/17/2002] [Accepted: 01/08/2003] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A new class of poly(ADP-ribose) (pADPr)-binding proteins, heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs), has been identified by a proteomic approach using matrix-assisted laser-desorption-ionization time-of-flight ('MALDI-TOF') MS. Liquid-phase isoelectric focusing with a Rotofor cell (Bio-Rad) allowed pre-fractionation of proteins extracted from HeLa cells. Rotofor protein fractions were further separated by SDS/PAGE and then transferred to a PVDF membrane. pADPr-binding proteins were analysed by autoradiography of the protein blot after incubation with (32)P-labelled automodified pADPr polymerase-1 (PARP-1). Peptide mass fingerprinting of selected bands identified the most abundant pADPr-binding proteins as hnRNPs, a family of proteins that bind pre-mRNA into functional complexes involved in mRNA maturation and transport to the cytoplasm. Sequence homology database searching against a previously reported pADPr-binding sequence motif revealed that the hnRNPs contain a putative pADPr-binding sequence pattern [Pleschke, Kleczkowska, Strohm and Althaus (2000) J. Biol. Chem. 275, 40974-40980]. pADPr-binding assays performed with synthetic peptides by the dot-blot technique and with nitrocellulose-transferred recombinant hnRNPs confirmed the pADPr-binding protein identification and the specificity of the interaction. These results could establish a link between increased levels of pADPr in DNA damaged cells and the modified protein expression pattern resulting from altered mRNA trafficking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Philippe Gagné
- Health and Environment Unit, Laval University Medical Research Center, Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec (CHUQ), Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, 2705, Boulevard Laurier, Ste-Foy, Québec, Canada G1V 4G2
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14
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Cristofari G, Darlix JL. The ubiquitous nature of RNA chaperone proteins. PROGRESS IN NUCLEIC ACID RESEARCH AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2002; 72:223-68. [PMID: 12206453 DOI: 10.1016/s0079-6603(02)72071-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
RNA chaperones are ubiquitous and abundant proteins found in all living organisms and viruses, where they interact with various classes of RNA. These highly diverse families of nucleic acid-binding proteins possess activities enabling rapid and faithful RNA-RNA annealing, strand transfer, and exchange and RNA ribozyme-mediated cleavage under physiological conditions. RNA chaperones appear to be critical to functions as important as maintenance of chromosome ends, DNA transcription, preRNA export, splicing and modifications, and mRNA translation and degradation. Here we review some of the properties of RNA chaperones in RNA-RNA interactions that take place during cellular processes and retrovirus replication. Examples of cellular and viral proteins are dicussed vis à vis the relationships between RNA chaperone activities in vitro and functions. In this new "genomic era" we discuss the possible use of small RNA chaperones to improve the synthesis of cDNA libraries for use in large screening reactions using DNA chips.
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15
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Donev RM, Doneva TA, Bowen WR, Sheer D. HnRNP-A1 binds directly to double-stranded DNA in vitro within a 36 bp sequence. Mol Cell Biochem 2002; 233:181-5. [PMID: 12083374 DOI: 10.1023/a:1015504318726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1 (hnRNP-A1) is known as an RNA- and single-stranded DNA-binding protein involved in alternative splicing of mRNA, RNA transport and maintenance of chromosome telomere length. In this study we tested whether this protein could bind directly to double-stranded DNA (dsDNA). Using PCR amplification of target DNA-sequences from human chromosome 11q13 followed by their incubation with hnRNP-A1 and atomic force microscopy (AFM) of the DNA/protein complexes, we found that this protein bound to DNA within a 36 bp sequence. These results were confirmed by electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). This sequence was found widely dispersed throughout the genome. There is no overlap between the 36 bp sequence and known target sequences in RNA for binding binRNP-A1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossen M Donev
- Human Cytogenetics Laboratory, Cancer Research UK London Research Institute, UK
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16
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Waidner LA, Flynn EK, Wu M, Li X, Karpel RL. Domain effects on the DNA-interactive properties of bacteriophage T4 gene 32 protein. J Biol Chem 2001; 276:2509-16. [PMID: 11053417 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m007778200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteriophage T4 gene 32 protein, a model for single-strand specific nucleic acid-binding proteins, consists of three structurally and functionally distinct domains. We have studied the effects of the N and C domains on the protein structure and its nucleic acid-interactive properties. Although the presence of the C domain decreases the proteolytic susceptibility of the core (central) domain, quenching of the core tryptophan fluorescence by iodide is unaltered by the presence of the terminal domains. These results suggest that the overall conformation of the core domain remains largely independent of the flanking domains. Removal of the N or the C terminus does not abolish the DNA renaturation activity of the protein. However, intact protein and its three truncated forms differ in DNA helix-destabilizing activity. The C domain alone is responsible for the kinetic barrier to natural DNA helix destabilization seen with intact protein. Intact protein and core domain potentiate the DNA helix-destabilizing activity of truncated protein lacking only the C domain (*I), enhancing the observed hyperchromicity while increasing the melting temperature. Proteolysis experiments suggest that the affinity of core domain for single-stranded DNA is increased in the presence of *I. We propose that *I can "mingle" with intact protein or core domain while bound to single-stranded DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- L A Waidner
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore 21250, USA
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17
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Shan J, Moran-Jones K, Munro TP, Kidd GJ, Winzor DJ, Hoek KS, Smith R. Binding of an RNA trafficking response element to heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins A1 and A2. J Biol Chem 2000; 275:38286-95. [PMID: 11024030 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m007642200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) A2 binds a 21-nucleotide myelin basic protein mRNA response element, the A2RE, and A2RE-like sequences in other localized mRNAs, and is a trans-acting factor in oligodendrocyte cytoplasmic RNA trafficking. Recombinant human hnRNPs A1 and A2 were used in a biosensor to explore interactions with A2RE and the cognate oligodeoxyribonucleotide. Both proteins have a single site that bound oligonucleotides with markedly different sequences but did not bind in the presence of heparin. Both also possess a second, specific site that bound only A2RE and was unaffected by heparin. hnRNP A2 bound A2RE in the latter site with a K(d) near 50 nm, whereas the K(d) for hnRNP A1 was above 10 microm. UV cross-linking assays led to a similar conclusion. Mutant A2RE sequences, that in earlier qualitative studies appeared not to bind hnRNP A2 or support RNA trafficking in oligodendrocytes, had dissociation constants above 5 microm for this protein. The two concatenated RNA recognition motifs (RRMs), but not the individual RRMs, mimicked the binding behavior of hnRNP A2. These data highlight the specificity of the interaction of A2RE with these hnRNPs and suggest that the sequence-specific A2RE-binding site on hnRNP A2 is formed by both RRMs acting in cis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Shan
- Biochemistry Department, The University of Queensland, Queensland 4072, Australia
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18
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Eperon IC, Makarova OV, Mayeda A, Munroe SH, Cáceres JF, Hayward DG, Krainer AR. Selection of alternative 5' splice sites: role of U1 snRNP and models for the antagonistic effects of SF2/ASF and hnRNP A1. Mol Cell Biol 2000; 20:8303-18. [PMID: 11046128 PMCID: PMC102138 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.20.22.8303-8318.2000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The first component known to recognize and discriminate among potential 5' splice sites (5'SSs) in pre-mRNA is the U1 snRNP. However, the relative levels of U1 snRNP binding to alternative 5'SSs do not necessarily determine the splicing outcome. Strikingly, SF2/ASF, one of the essential SR protein-splicing factors, causes a dose-dependent shift in splicing to a downstream (intron-proximal) site, and yet it increases U1 snRNP binding at upstream and downstream sites simultaneously. We show here that hnRNP A1, which shifts splicing towards an upstream 5'SS, causes reduced U1 snRNP binding at both sites. Nonetheless, the importance of U1 snRNP binding is shown by proportionality between the level of U1 snRNP binding to the downstream site and its use in splicing. With purified components, hnRNP A1 reduces U1 snRNP binding to 5'SSs by binding cooperatively and indiscriminately to the pre-mRNA. Mutations in hnRNP A1 and SF2/ASF show that the opposite effects of the proteins on 5'SS choice are correlated with their effects on U1 snRNP binding. Cross-linking experiments show that SF2/ASF and hnRNP A1 compete to bind pre-mRNA, and we conclude that this competition is the basis of their functional antagonism; SF2/ASF enhances U1 snRNP binding at all 5'SSs, the rise in simultaneous occupancy causing a shift in splicing towards the downstream site, whereas hnRNP A1 interferes with U1 snRNP binding such that 5'SS occupancy is lower and the affinities of U1 snRNP for the individual sites determine the site of splicing.
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Affiliation(s)
- I C Eperon
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, United Kingdom.
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19
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Matsui M, Horiguchi H, Kamma H, Fujiwara M, Ohtsubo R, Ogata T. Testis- and developmental stage-specific expression of hnRNP A2/B1 splicing isoforms, B0a/b. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2000; 1493:33-40. [PMID: 10978504 DOI: 10.1016/s0167-4781(00)00154-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs) A2 and B1 are abundant nuclear proteins that bind to nascent RNAs synthesized by RNA polymerase II. Previously we had found that the splicing isoforms hnRNP B0a/b, from which the ninth exon of the A2/B1 gene is excluded, are abundantly expressed in testis. We postulated that B0a/b are testis-specific isoforms, and investigated the expression of A2/B1 and B0a/b in rat tissues and in postnatal development of rat testes using RNase protection assay, immunoblotting, and immunohistochemistry. We found that hnRNP B0a/b mRNAs are expressed in several tissues but that the testis alone expresses B0a/b proteins. A sequential study using neonatal rat testes demonstrated that B0a/b mRNAs are produced after 17 days of age, but not translated until 4 weeks of age when round spermatids appear in addition to spermatogonia and spermatocytes. Immunohistochemically, hnRNP A2/B1 isoforms are expressed during spermatogenesis from spermatogonia through round spermatids, whereas the expression of A1 is restricted to spermatogonia. This expression pattern in the rat testis is maintained from birth through adulthood. These results suggest that the expression of the hnRNP A2/B1 gene is partly regulated by a testis-specific post-transcriptional mechanism, and that the products of the A2/B1 gene, especially hnRNP B0a/b, are involved in spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Matsui
- Center for Medical Sciences, Ibaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Ibraki 300-0394, Japan
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20
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Plomaritoglou A, Choli-Papadopoulou T, Guialis A. Molecular characterization of a murine, major A/B type hnRNP protein: mBx. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2000; 1490:54-62. [PMID: 10786617 DOI: 10.1016/s0167-4781(99)00054-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
We have previously identified a discrete hnRNP polypeptide of the A/B type, named mBx, as an abundant protein species in murine cells. The molecular characterization of this protein is now accomplished. From all evidence provided, mBx polypeptide represents a new gene product, distinct from the known members of the A/B family A1 and A2/B1. It is, instead, mostly related to a still hypothetical human protein of A/B type, as well as to the Xenopus hnRNPA3 protein species.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Plomaritoglou
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Research and Biotechnology, The National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens, Greece
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21
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Ding J, Hayashi MK, Zhang Y, Manche L, Krainer AR, Xu RM. Crystal structure of the two-RRM domain of hnRNP A1 (UP1) complexed with single-stranded telomeric DNA. Genes Dev 1999; 13:1102-15. [PMID: 10323862 PMCID: PMC316951 DOI: 10.1101/gad.13.9.1102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 269] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Human hnRNP A1 is a versatile single-stranded nucleic acid-binding protein that functions in various aspects of mRNA maturation and in telomere length regulation. The crystal structure of UP1, the amino-terminal domain of human hnRNP A1 containing two RNA-recognition motifs (RRMs), bound to a 12-nucleotide single-stranded telomeric DNA has been determined at 2.1 A resolution. The structure of the complex reveals the basis for sequence-specific recognition of the single-stranded overhangs of human telomeres by hnRNP A1. It also provides insights into the basis for high-affinity binding of hnRNP A1 to certain RNA sequences, and for nucleic acid binding and functional synergy between the RRMs. In the crystal structure, a UP1 dimer binds to two strands of DNA, and each strand contacts RRM1 of one monomer and RRM2 of the other. The two DNA strands are antiparallel, and regions of the protein flanking each RRM make important contacts with DNA. The extensive protein-protein interface seen in the crystal structure of the protein-DNA complex and the evolutionary conservation of the interface residues suggest the importance of specific protein-protein interactions for the sequence-specific recognition of single-stranded nucleic acids. Models for regular packaging of telomere 3' overhangs and for juxtaposition of alternative 5' splice sites are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Ding
- W.M. Keck Structural Biology Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York 11724, USA
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22
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Blanchette M, Chabot B. Modulation of exon skipping by high-affinity hnRNP A1-binding sites and by intron elements that repress splice site utilization. EMBO J 1999; 18:1939-52. [PMID: 10202157 PMCID: PMC1171279 DOI: 10.1093/emboj/18.7.1939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The RNA-binding protein hnRNP A1 is a splicing regulator produced by exclusion of alternative exon 7B from the A1 pre-mRNA. Each intron flanking exon 7B contains a high-affinity A1-binding site. The A1-binding elements promote exon skipping in vivo, activate distal 5' splice site selection in vitro and improve the responsiveness of pre-mRNAs to increases in the concentration of A1. Whereas the glycine-rich C-terminal domain of A1 is not required for binding, it is essential to activate the distal 5' splice site. Because A1 complexes can interact simultaneously with two A1-binding sites, we propose that an interaction between bound A1 proteins facilitates the pairing of distant splice sites. Based on the distribution of putative A1-binding sites in various pre-mRNAs, an A1-mediated change in pre-mRNA conformation may help define the borders of mammalian introns. We also identify an intron element which represses the 3' splice site of exon 7B. The activity of this element is mediated by a factor distinct from A1. Our results suggest that exon 7B skipping results from the concerted action of several intron elements that modulate splice site recognition and pairing.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Blanchette
- Département de Microbiologie et d'Infectiologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada J1H 5N4
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23
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Johnston SD, Lew JE, Berman J. Gbp1p, a protein with RNA recognition motifs, binds single-stranded telomeric DNA and changes its binding specificity upon dimerization. Mol Cell Biol 1999; 19:923-33. [PMID: 9858616 PMCID: PMC83950 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.19.1.923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/1998] [Accepted: 10/20/1998] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Gbp1p is a putative telomere-binding protein from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii that contains two RNA recognition motifs (RRMs) which are commonly found in heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs). Previously we demonstrated that Gbp1p binds single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) containing the Chlamydomonas telomeric sequence but not the RNA containing the cognate sequence. Here we show that at lower protein concentrations Gbp1 can also bind an RNA containing the cognate sequence. We found that mutation of the two RRM motifs of Gbp1p to match the highly conserved region of hnRNP RRMs did not alter the affinity of Gbp1p for either RNA or DNA. The ability of Gbp1p to associate with either of these two nucleic acids is governed by the dimerization state of the protein. Monomeric Gbp1p associates with either ssDNA or RNA, showing a small binding preference for RNA. Dimeric Gbp1p has a strong preference for binding ssDNA and shows little affinity for RNA. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first example of a protein that qualitatively shifts its nucleic acid binding preference upon dimerization. The biological implications of a telomere-binding protein that is regulated by dimerization are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- S D Johnston
- Department of Plant Biology, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota 55108, USA
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24
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Xu RM, Jokhan L, Cheng X, Mayeda A, Krainer AR. Crystal structure of human UP1, the domain of hnRNP A1 that contains two RNA-recognition motifs. Structure 1997; 5:559-70. [PMID: 9115444 DOI: 10.1016/s0969-2126(97)00211-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) A1 is one of the most abundant core proteins of hnRNP complexes in metazoan nuclei. It behaves as a global regulator of alternative pre-mRNA splicing by antagonizing the activities of several serine/arginine-rich splicing factors (SR proteins), resulting in the activation of distal alternative 5' splice sites and skipping of optional exons. Purified hnRNP A1 has nucleic acid annealing activity. The protein also shuttles continuously between the nucleus and the cytoplasm, a process mediated by signals within its C-terminal glycine-rich domain. The N-terminal region of human hnRNP A1, termed unwinding protein 1 (UP1), contains two RNA-recognition motifs (RRMs), RRM1 and RRM2. Understanding the structural elements by which hnRNP A1 interacts with RNA will have broad implications for studies of RNA processing. RESULTS The crystal structure of UP1 has been determined to 1.9 A resolution. Each RRM independently adopts the characteristic RRM fold, consisting of a four-stranded antiparallel beta-pleated sheet and two alpha helices packed on one side of the beta sheet. The two RRMs are antiparallel and held in close contact, mainly by two Arg-Asp ion pairs. As a result, the two four-stranded beta sheets are brought together to form an extended RNA-binding surface. A segment of the linker connecting the two RRMs is flexible in the absence of bound RNA, but the general location of the linker suggests that it can make direct contacts with RNA. Comparison with other RRM structures indicates that a short 310 helix, found immediately N-terminal to the first beta strand in RRM1, may interact with RNA directly. CONCLUSIONS The RRM is one of the most common and best characterized RNA-binding motifs. In certain cases, one RRM is sufficient for sequence-specific and high affinity RNA binding; but in other cases, synergy between several RRMs within a single protein is required. This study shows how two RRMs are organized in a single polypeptide. The two independently folded RRMs in UP1 are held together in a fixed geometry, enabling the two RRMs to function as a single entity in binding RNA, and so explaining the synergy between the RRMs. The UP1 structure also suggests that residues which lie outside of the RRMs can make potentially important interactions with RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M Xu
- WM Keck Structural Biology Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, P.O. Box 100, Cold Spring Harbor, New York, 11724, USA.
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25
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Chabot B, Blanchette M, Lapierre I, La Branche H. An intron element modulating 5' splice site selection in the hnRNP A1 pre-mRNA interacts with hnRNP A1. Mol Cell Biol 1997; 17:1776-86. [PMID: 9121425 PMCID: PMC232024 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.17.4.1776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The hnRNP A1 pre-mRNA is alternatively spliced to yield the A1 and A1b mRNAs, which encode proteins differing in their ability to modulate 5' splice site selection. Sequencing a genomic portion of the murine A1 gene revealed that the intron separating exon 7 and the alternative exon 7B is highly conserved between mouse and human. In vitro splicing assays indicate that a conserved element (CE1) from the central portion of the intron shifts selection toward the distal donor site when positioned in between the 5' splice sites of exon 7 and 7B. In vivo, the CE1 element promotes exon 7B skipping. A 17-nucleotide sequence within CE1 (CE1a) is sufficient to activate the distal 5' splice site. RNase T1 protection/immunoprecipitation assays indicate that hnRNP A1 binds to CE1a, which contains the sequence UAGAGU, a close match to the reported optimal A1 binding site, UAGGGU. Replacing CE1a by different oligonucleotides carrying the sequence UAGAGU or UAGGGU maintains the preference for the distal 5' splice site. In contrast, mutations in the AUGAGU sequence activate the proximal 5' splice site. In support of a direct role of the A1-CE1 interaction in 5'-splice-site selection, we observed that the amplitude of the shift correlates with the efficiency of A1 binding. Whereas addition of SR proteins abrogates the effect of CE1, the presence of CE1 does not modify U1 snRNP binding to competing 5' splice sites, as judged by oligonucleotide-targeted RNase H protection assays. Our results suggest that hnRNP A1 modulates splice site selection on its own pre-mRNA without changing the binding of U1 snRNP to competing 5' splice sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Chabot
- Département de Microbiologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada.
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26
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Mahé D, Mähl P, Gattoni R, Fischer N, Mattei MG, Stévenin J, Fuchs JP. Cloning of human 2H9 heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins. Relation with splicing and early heat shock-induced splicing arrest. J Biol Chem 1997; 272:1827-36. [PMID: 8999868 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.272.3.1827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Using antibody 2H9 from our heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (anti-hnRNP) monoclonal antibody library, we previously showed in HeLa cells that a 35-37-kDa protein doublet switches from the hnRNP complexes to the nuclear matrix following a 10-min heat shock at 45 degrees C (1 Lutz, Y., Jacob, M., and Fuchs, J. P. (1988) Exp. Cell Res. 175, 109-124). cDNA cloning and sequencing revealed an hnRNP protein (2H9) which is a new member of the hnRNP F, H/H' family. Protein 2H9 displays two consensus sequence-type RNA binding domains (CS-RBD) showing 80-90% homology with two of the three CS-RBDs of hnRNP F and H/H'. Another common feature is the presence of two glycine/tyrosine-rich auxiliary domains located at the C terminus and between the two CS-RBDs. At the functional level we show that specific anti-2H9 peptide antibodies can directly inhibit an in vitro splicing system. Moreover, the 2H9 protein doublet is no more present in nuclear extracts from such briefly stressed cells, which interestingly correlates with the inability of these extracts to catalyze in vitro splicing reactions. Taken together, our data suggest that these proteins are involved in the splicing process and also participate in early heat shock-induced splicing arrest by transiently leaving the hnRNP complexes. These 2H9 proteins, which are encoded by a single gene located on human chromosome 10, were also found to be associated with nuclear bodies in situ.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Mahé
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, CNRS/INSERM/ULP, BP 163, 67404 Illkirch Cedex, C.U. de Strasbourg, France
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27
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Lima WF, Brown-Driver V, Fox M, Hanecak R, Bruice TW. Combinatorial Screening and Rational Optimization for Hybridization to Folded Hepatitis C Virus RNA of Oligonucleotides with Biological Antisense Activity. J Biol Chem 1997. [DOI: 10.1074/jbc.272.1.626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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28
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Craig AW, Svitkin YV, Lee HS, Belsham GJ, Sonenberg N. The La autoantigen contains a dimerization domain that is essential for enhancing translation. Mol Cell Biol 1997; 17:163-9. [PMID: 8972196 PMCID: PMC231740 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.17.1.163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The La autoantigen is an RNA-binding protein that is involved in initiation and termination of RNA polymerase III transcription. It also binds several viral RNAs, including those of poliovirus and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Binding of the La protein to these RNAs enhances their translation in vitro (K. Meerovitch, Y.V. Svitkin, H.S. Lee, F. Lejbkowicz, D.J. Kenan, E.K.L. Chan, V.L. Agol, J.D. Keene, and N. Sonenberg, J. Virol. 67:3798-3807, 1993, and Y.V. Svitkin, A. Pause, and N. Sonenberg, J. Virol. 68:7001-7007, 1994). Here, a functional domain in the carboxy-terminal half of La that is distinct from the RNA-binding domain is described. Deletion of this domain abrogated the ability of La protein to enhance translation of poliovirus RNA and a hybrid HIV trans-activation-response element-chloramphenicol acetyltransferase mRNA. Far-Western assays indicated that the La protein homodimerized in vitro, and the C-terminal deletions that caused a loss of activity in translation also abrogated the dimerization signal. Gel filtration chromatography of recombinant La protein confirmed that La protein exists as a dimer under native conditions. Addition of the purified dimerization domain resulted in a loss of translation stimulatory activity of La protein in cell-free-translation reactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A W Craig
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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29
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Abstract
Prion diseases are transmissible, neurodegenerative disorders associated with as yet incompletely defined isoforms of a cellular protein termed prion protein (PrP). We have now identified in PrP structural information compatible with nucleotide- and nucleic acid-binding. As such, PrP contains a putative nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH)-binding site. Moreover, the PrP octarepeats reveal homology to the nucleic acid-binding and strand-annealing octarepeats of mammalian heterogeneous ribonucleoprotein (RNP) A1. Therefore, PrP may have NADH-dependent oxidoreductase activity as well as A1-like functions such as nucleic acid annealing and splicing. Moreover, we propose that infectious prions are propagated through a dynamic molecular symbiosis between a ribozyme-like nucleic acid and a conformational isomer of the RNP-like prion protein. Thus, our model has important implications for the understanding and treatment of prion diseases.
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30
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Kajita Y, Nakayama J, Aizawa M, Ishikawa F. The UUAG-specific RNA binding protein, heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein D0. Common modular structure and binding properties of the 2xRBD-Gly family. J Biol Chem 1995; 270:22167-75. [PMID: 7673195 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.270.38.22167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Human cDNA clones encoding the UUAG-binding heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) D0 protein have been isolated and expressed. The protein has two RNA-binding domains (RBDs) in the middle part of the protein and an RGG box, a region rich in glycine and arginine residues, in the C-terminal part ("2xRBD-Gly" structure). The hnRNP A1, A2/B1, and D0 proteins, all possess common features of the 2xRBD-Gly structure and binding specificity toward RNA. Together, they form a subfamily of RBD class RNA binding proteins (the 2xRBD-Gly family). One of the structural characteristics shared by these proteins is the presence of several isoforms presumably resulting from alternative splicing. Filter binding assays, using the recombinant hnRNP D0 proteins that have one of the two RBDs, indicated that one RBD specifically binds to the UUAG sequence. However, two isoforms with or without a 19-amino acid insertion at the N-terminal RBD showed different preference toward mutant RNA substrates. The 19-amino acid insertion is located in the N-terminal end of the first RBD. This result establishes the participation of the N terminus of RBD in determining the sequence specificity of binding. A similar insertion was also reported with the hnRNP A2/B1 proteins. Thus, it might be possible that this type of insertion with the 2xRBD-Gly type RNA binding proteins plays a role in "fine tuning" the specificity of RNA binding. RBD is supposed to bind with RNA in general and sequence-specific manners. These two discernible binding modes are proposed to be performed by different regions of the RBD. A structural model of these two binding sites is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Kajita
- Department of Life Science, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Yokohama, Japan
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31
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Yang X, Bani MR, Lu SJ, Rowan S, Ben-David Y, Chabot B. The A1 and A1B proteins of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoparticles modulate 5' splice site selection in vivo. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 1994; 91:6924-8. [PMID: 8041722 PMCID: PMC44310 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.91.15.6924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent in vitro results suggest that the heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoparticle (hnRNP) A1 protein modulates alternative splicing by favoring distal 5' splice site (5'SS) selection and exon skipping. We used a mouse erythroleukemia (MEL) cell line (CB3C7) deficient in the expression of hnRNP A1 to test whether variations in hnRNP A1 and AlB protein levels affected alternative splicing in vivo. In contrast to A1-expressing MEL cell lines, CB3C7 cells preferentially selected the proximal 13S and 12S 5'SS on the adenovirus E1A pre-mRNA. Transiently expressing the A1 or A1B cDNA in CB3C7 cells shifted 5'SS selection toward the more distal 9S donor site. A1 protein synthesis was required for this effect since the expression of a mutated A1 cDNA did not affect 5'SS selection. These results demonstrate that in vivo variations in hnRNP A1 protein levels can influence 5'SS selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Yang
- Département de Microbiologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Sherbrooke, PQ Canada
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Biamonti G, Ruggiu M, Saccone S, Della Valle G, Riva S. Two homologous genes, originated by duplication, encode the human hnRNP proteins A2 and A1. Nucleic Acids Res 1994; 22:1996-2002. [PMID: 8029005 PMCID: PMC308112 DOI: 10.1093/nar/22.11.1996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) A2 belongs, with A1, B1 and B2, to the basic protein subset of the hnRNP complex in mammalian cells. All these proteins share a modular structure consisting of two conserved RNA binding domains linked to less conserved Gly-rich domains (2xRBD-Gly). In the framework of our studies on the genetic basis of hnRNP proteins structure and diversity we have isolated and sequenced the A2 gene and compared it to the previously described A1 gene. The A2 gene, which exists in a single copy on Ch. 7 band p15, is split in 12 exons including an alternatively spliced 36 nt mini exon specific for the human hnRNP protein B1. In this work we show that the intron/exon organisation of the A2 gene is identical to that of the A1 gene over the entire length, indicating a common origin by gene duplication. Moreover the comparison of corresponding exons evidences significant conservation also in the apparently divergent Gly-rich domains that could define previously unenvisaged structural and/or functional motifs. The A2 gene promoter is also analysed in comparison to that of the A1 gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Biamonti
- Istituto di Genetica Biochimica ed Evoluzionistica del CNR, Pavia, Italy
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Cobianchi F, Biamonti G, Maconi M, Riva S. Human hnRNP protein A1: a model polypeptide for a structural and genetic investigation of a broad family of RNA binding proteins. Genetica 1994; 94:101-14. [PMID: 7896132 DOI: 10.1007/bf01443425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The hnRNP fiber is the substrate on which pre-mRNA processing occurs. The protein moiety of the fiber (hnRNP proteins) constitutes a broad family of RNA binding proteins that revealed, upon molecular analysis, a number of interesting features. Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1 is a major component of the human hnRNP complex. In recent years this protein has attracted great attention because of several emerging evidences of its direct involvement in pre-mRNA processing and it has become one of the best characterized RNA binding proteins. Detailed knowledge of the structure of protein A1 has laid the basis for the understanding of its function, and for this reason A1 can be considered as a model polypeptide for the investigation of a large number of RNA binding proteins. In this work we report recent findings regarding the binding properties of protein A1 as well as new data on the gene structure of A1 and of its closely related hnRNP protein A2. Our results show that a single A1 molecule contains the determinants for simultaneous binding of two single-stranded nucleic acid molecules and we demonstrate that the glycine-rich domain of A1, isolated from the rest of the molecule, is capable of sustaining protein-protein interactions. These features probably account for the reannealing activity of the protein and for its capacity to modulate the binding of snRNPs to intron sequences in vitro. Comparison of A1 and A2 gene sequences revealed a remarkable conservation of the overall structural organization, suggesting important functions for the different structural elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Cobianchi
- Istituto di Genetica Biochimica ed Evoluzionistica, CNR, Pavia, Italy
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Burd CG, Dreyfuss G. RNA binding specificity of hnRNP A1: significance of hnRNP A1 high-affinity binding sites in pre-mRNA splicing. EMBO J 1994; 13:1197-204. [PMID: 7510636 PMCID: PMC394929 DOI: 10.1002/j.1460-2075.1994.tb06369.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 354] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Pre-mRNA is processed as a large complex of pre-mRNA, snRNPs and pre-mRNA binding proteins (hnRNP proteins). The significance of hnRNP proteins in mRNA biogenesis is likely to be reflected in their RNA binding properties. We have determined the RNA binding specificity of hnRNP A1 and of each of its two RNA binding domains (RBDs), by selection/amplification from pools of random sequence RNA. Unique RNA molecules were selected by hnRNP A1 and each individual RBD, suggesting that the RNA binding specificity of hnRNP A1 is the result of both RBDs acting as a single RNA binding composite. Interestingly, the consensus high-affinity hnRNP A1 binding site, UAGGGA/U, resembles the consensus sequences of vertebrate 5' and 3' splice sites. The highest affinity 'winner' sequence for hnRNP A1 contained a duplication of this sequence separated by two nucleotides, and was bound by hnRNP A1 with an apparent dissociation constant of 1 x 10(-9) M. hnRNP A1 also bound other RNA sequences, including pre-mRNA splice sites and an intron-derived sequence, but with reduced affinities, demonstrating that hnRNP A1 binds different RNA sequences with a > 100-fold range of affinities. These experiments demonstrate that hnRNP A1 is a sequence-specific RNA binding protein. UV light-induced protein-RNA crosslinking in nuclear extracts demonstrated that an oligoribonucleotide containing the A1 winner sequence can be used as a specific affinity reagent for hnRNP A1 and an unidentified 50 kDa protein. We also show that this oligoribonucleotide, as well as two others containing 5' and 3' pre-mRNA splice sites, are potent inhibitors of in vitro pre-mRNA splicing.
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Affiliation(s)
- C G Burd
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia 19104-6148
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Abstract
Eukaryotic RNA binding proteins (RBP) are key players in RNA processing and in post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. By interacting with RNA and other factors and by modulating the RNA structure, they promote the assembly of a great variety of specific ribonucleoprotein complexes. Many RBPs are composed of highly structured and conserved RNA binding domains (RBD) linked to unstructured and divergent auxiliary domains; such modular structure can account for a multiplicity of interactions. In this context, the auxiliary domains emerge as essential partners of the RBDs in both RNA binding and functional specialisation. Moreover, the determinants of biologically important functions, such as strand annealing, protein-protein interactions, nuclear localization and activity in in vitro splicing, seem to reside in the auxiliary domains. The structural and functional properties of these domains suggest their possible derivation from ancestral non-specific RNA binding polypeptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Biamonti
- Istituto di Genetica Biochimica ed Evoluzionistica del CNR, Pavia, Italy
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Traub P, Shoeman RL. Intermediate filament proteins: cytoskeletal elements with gene-regulatory function? INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CYTOLOGY 1994; 154:1-103. [PMID: 8083030 DOI: 10.1016/s0074-7696(08)62198-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- P Traub
- Max-Planck-Institut für Zellbiologie, Ladenburg/Heidelberg, Germany
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