Identity determinants of E. coli threonine tRNA

The role of tRNA identity elements in aminoacyl-tRNA editing

The rules of the genetic code are implemented by the unique features that define the amino acid identity of each transfer RNA (tRNA). These features, known as "identity elements," mark tRNAs for recognition by aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (ARSs), the enzymes responsible for ligating amino acids to tRNAs. While tRNA identity elements enable stringent substrate selectivity of ARSs, these enzymes are prone to errors during amino acid selection, leading to the synthesis of incorrect aminoacyl-tRNAs that jeopardize the fidelity of protein synthesis. Many error-prone ARSs have evolved specialized domains that hydrolyze incorrectly synthesized aminoacyl-tRNAs. These domains, known as editing domains, also exist as free-standing enzymes and, together with ARSs, safeguard protein synthesis fidelity. Here, we discuss how the same identity elements that define tRNA aminoacylation play an integral role in aminoacyl-tRNA editing, synergistically ensuring the correct translation of genetic information into proteins. Moreover, we review the distinct strategies of tRNA selection used by editing enzymes and ARSs to avoid undesired hydrolysis of correctly aminoacylated tRNAs.

System-wide optimization of an orthogonal translation system with enhanced biological tolerance

Over the past two decades, synthetic biological systems have revolutionized the study of cellular physiology. The ability to site-specifically incorporate biologically relevant non-standard amino acids using orthogonal translation systems (OTSs) has proven particularly useful, providing unparalleled access to cellular mechanisms modulated by post-translational modifications, such as protein phosphorylation. However, despite significant advances in OTS design and function, the systems-level biology of OTS development and utilization remains underexplored. In this study, we employ a phosphoserine OTS (pSerOTS) as a model to systematically investigate global interactions between OTS components and the cellular environment, aiming to improve OTS performance. Based on this analysis, we design OTS variants to enhance orthogonality by minimizing host process interactions and reducing stress response activation. Our findings advance understanding of system-wide OTS:host interactions, enabling informed design practices that circumvent deleterious interactions with host physiology while improving OTS performance and stability. Furthermore, our study emphasizes the importance of establishing a pipeline for systematically profiling OTS:host interactions to enhance orthogonality and mitigate mechanisms underlying OTS-mediated host toxicity.

The tRNA identity landscape for aminoacylation and beyond

tRNAs are key partners in ribosome-dependent protein synthesis. This process is highly dependent on the fidelity of tRNA aminoacylation by aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases and relies primarily on sets of identities within tRNA molecules composed of determinants and antideterminants preventing mischarging by non-cognate synthetases. Such identity sets were discovered in the tRNAs of a few model organisms, and their properties were generalized as universal identity rules. Since then, the panel of identity elements governing the accuracy of tRNA aminoacylation has expanded considerably, but the increasing number of reported functional idiosyncrasies has led to some confusion. In parallel, the description of other processes involving tRNAs, often well beyond aminoacylation, has progressed considerably, greatly expanding their interactome and uncovering multiple novel identities on the same tRNA molecule. This review highlights key findings on the mechanistics and evolution of tRNA and tRNA-like identities. In addition, new methods and their results for searching sets of multiple identities on a single tRNA are discussed. Taken together, this knowledge shows that a comprehensive understanding of the functional role of individual and collective nucleotide identity sets in tRNA molecules is needed for medical, biotechnological and other applications.

Biochemistry of Aminoacyl tRNA Synthetase and tRNAs and Their Engineering for Cell-Free and Synthetic Cell Applications

Cell-free biology is increasingly utilized for engineering biological systems, incorporating novel functionality, and circumventing many of the complications associated with cells. The central dogma describes the information flow in biology consisting of transcription and translation steps to decode genetic information. Aminoacyl tRNA synthetases (AARSs) and tRNAs are key components involved in translation and thus protein synthesis. This review provides information on AARSs and tRNA biochemistry, their role in the translation process, summarizes progress in cell-free engineering of tRNAs and AARSs, and discusses prospects and challenges lying ahead in cell-free engineering.

Whole-Genome Transformation Promotes tRNA Anticodon Suppressor Mutations under Stress

tRNAs are encoded by a large gene family, usually with several isogenic tRNAs interacting with the same codon. Mutations in the anticodon region of other tRNAs can overcome specific tRNA deficiencies. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that such mutations have occurred in evolution, but the driving force is unclear. We show that in yeast suppressor mutations in other tRNAs are able to overcome deficiency of the essential TRT2-encoded tRNAThrCGU at high temperature (40°C). Surprisingly, these tRNA suppressor mutations were obtained after whole-genome transformation with DNA from thermotolerant Kluyveromyces marxianus or Ogataea polymorpha strains but from which the mutations did apparently not originate. We suggest that transient presence of donor DNA in the host facilitates proliferation at high temperature and thus increases the chances for occurrence of spontaneous mutations suppressing defective growth at high temperature. Whole-genome sequence analysis of three transformants revealed only four to five nonsynonymous mutations of which one causing TRT2 anticodon stem stabilization and two anticodon mutations in non-threonyl-tRNAs, tRNALysCUU and tRNAeMetCAU, were causative. Both anticodon mutations suppressed lethality of TRT2 deletion and apparently caused the respective tRNAs to become novel substrates for threonyl-tRNA synthetase. Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) data could not detect any significant mistranslation, and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR results contradicted induction of the unfolded protein response. We suggest that stress conditions have been a driving force in evolution for the selection of anticodon-switching mutations in tRNAs as revealed by phylogenetic analysis.IMPORTANCE In this work, we have identified for the first time the causative elements in a eukaryotic organism introduced by applying whole-genome transformation and responsible for the selectable trait of interest, i.e., high temperature tolerance. Surprisingly, the whole-genome transformants contained just a few single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), which were unrelated to the sequence of the donor DNA. In each of three independent transformants, we have identified a SNP in a tRNA, either stabilizing the essential tRNAThrCGU at high temperature or switching the anticodon of tRNALysCUU or tRNAeMetCAU into CGU, which is apparently enough for in vivo recognition by threonyl-tRNA synthetase. LC-MS/MS analysis indeed indicated absence of significant mistranslation. Phylogenetic analysis showed that similar mutations have occurred throughout evolution and we suggest that stress conditions may have been a driving force for their selection. The low number of SNPs introduced by whole-genome transformation may favor its application for improvement of industrial yeast strains.

Fail-safe genetic codes designed to intrinsically contain engineered organisms

One challenge in engineering organisms is taking responsibility for their behavior over many generations. Spontaneous mutations arising before or during use can impact heterologous genetic functions, disrupt system integration, or change organism phenotype. Here, we propose restructuring the genetic code itself such that point mutations in protein-coding sequences are selected against. Synthetic genetic systems so-encoded should fail more safely in response to most spontaneous mutations. We designed fail-safe codes and simulated their expected effects on the evolution of so-encoded proteins. We predict fail-safe codes supporting expression of 20 or 15 amino acids could slow protein evolution to ∼30% or 0% the rate of standard-encoded proteins, respectively. We also designed quadruplet-codon codes that should ensure all single point mutations in protein-coding sequences are selected against while maintaining expression of 20 or more amino acids. We demonstrate experimentally that a reduced set of 21 tRNAs is capable of expressing a protein encoded by only 20 sense codons, whereas a standard 64-codon encoding is not expressed. Our work suggests that biological systems using rationally depleted but otherwise natural translation systems should evolve more slowly and that such hypoevolvable organisms may be less likely to invade new niches or outcompete native populations.

A natural non-Watson-Crick base pair in human mitochondrial tRNAThr causes structural and functional susceptibility to local mutations

Six pathogenic mutations have been reported in human mitochondrial tRNA^Thr (hmtRNA^Thr); however, the pathogenic molecular mechanism remains unclear. Previously, we established an activity assay system for human mitochondrial threonyl-tRNA synthetase (hmThrRS). In the present study, we surveyed the structural and enzymatic effects of pathogenic mutations in hmtRNA^Thr and then focused on m.15915 G > A (G30A) and m.15923A > G (A38G). The harmful evolutionary gain of non-Watson–Crick base pair A29/C41 caused hmtRNA^Thr to be highly susceptible to mutations disrupting the G30–C40 base pair in various ways; for example, structural integrity maintenance, modification and aminoacylation of tRNA^Thr, and editing mischarged tRNA^Thr. A similar phenomenon was observed for hmtRNA^Trp with an A29/C41 non-Watson–Crick base pair, but not in bovine mtRNA^Thr with a natural G29–C41 base pair. The A38G mutation caused a severe reduction in Thr-acceptance and editing of hmThrRS. Importantly, A38 is a nucleotide determinant for the t⁶A modification at A37, which is essential for the coding properties of hmtRNA^Thr. In summary, our results revealed the crucial role of the G30–C40 base pair in maintaining the proper structure and function of hmtRNA^Thr because of A29/C41 non-Watson–Crick base pair and explained the molecular outcome of pathogenic G30A and A38G mutations.

Aminoacyl-tRNA Synthetases in the Bacterial World

Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (aaRSs) are modular enzymes globally conserved in the three kingdoms of life. All catalyze the same two-step reaction, i.e., the attachment of a proteinogenic amino acid on their cognate tRNAs, thereby mediating the correct expression of the genetic code. In addition, some aaRSs acquired other functions beyond this key role in translation. Genomics and X-ray crystallography have revealed great structural diversity in aaRSs (e.g., in oligomery and modularity, in ranking into two distinct groups each subdivided in 3 subgroups, by additional domains appended on the catalytic modules). AaRSs show huge structural plasticity related to function and limited idiosyncrasies that are kingdom or even species specific (e.g., the presence in many Bacteria of non discriminating aaRSs compensating for the absence of one or two specific aaRSs, notably AsnRS and/or GlnRS). Diversity, as well, occurs in the mechanisms of aaRS gene regulation that are not conserved in evolution, notably between distant groups such as Gram-positive and Gram-negative Bacteria. The review focuses on bacterial aaRSs (and their paralogs) and covers their structure, function, regulation, and evolution. Structure/function relationships are emphasized, notably the enzymology of tRNA aminoacylation and the editing mechanisms for correction of activation and charging errors. The huge amount of genomic and structural data that accumulated in last two decades is reviewed, showing how the field moved from essentially reductionist biology towards more global and integrated approaches. Likewise, the alternative functions of aaRSs and those of aaRS paralogs (e.g., during cell wall biogenesis and other metabolic processes in or outside protein synthesis) are reviewed. Since aaRS phylogenies present promiscuous bacterial, archaeal, and eukaryal features, similarities and differences in the properties of aaRSs from the three kingdoms of life are pinpointed throughout the review and distinctive characteristics of bacterium-like synthetases from organelles are outlined.

The crystal structure of yeast mitochondrial ThrRS in complex with the canonical threonine tRNA

In mitochondria of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a single aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase (aaRS), MST1, aminoacylates two isoacceptor tRNAs, tRNA₁^Thr and tRNA₂^Thr, that harbor anticodon loops of different size and sequence. As a result of this promiscuity, reassignment of the CUN codon box from leucine to threonine is facilitated. However, the mechanism by which a single aaRS binds distinct anticodon loops with high specificity is not well understood. Herein, we present the crystal structure of MST1 in complex with the canonical tRNA₂^Thr and non-hydrolyzable analog of threonyl adenylate. Our structure reveals that the dimeric arrangement of MST1 is essential for binding the 5′-phosphate, the second base pair of the acceptor stem, the first two base pairs of the anticodon stem and the first nucleotide of the variable arm. Further, in contrast to the bacterial ortholog that ‘reads’ the entire anticodon sequence, MST1 recognizes bases in the second and third position and the nucleotide upstream of the anticodon sequence. We speculate that a flexible loop linking strands β4 and β5 may be allosteric regulator that establishes cross-subunit communication between the aminoacylation and tRNA-binding sites. We also propose that structural features of the anticodon-binding domain in MST1 permit binding of the enlarged anticodon loop of tRNA₁^Thr.

Transfer RNA Modification

Transfer RNA (tRNA) from all organisms on this planet contains modified nucleosides, which are derivatives of the four major nucleosides. tRNA from Escherichia coli/Salmonella enterica contains 31 different modified nucleosides, which are all, except for one (Queuosine[Q]), synthesized on an oligonucleotide precursor, which through specific enzymes later matures into tRNA. The corresponding structural genes for these enzymes are found in mono- and polycistronic operons, the latter of which have a complex transcription and translation pattern. The syntheses of some of them (e.g.,several methylated derivatives) are catalyzed by one enzyme, which is position and base specific, but synthesis of some have a very complex biosynthetic pathway involving several enzymes (e.g., 2-thiouridines, N6-threonyladenosine [t6A],and Q). Several of the modified nucleosides are essential for viability (e.g.,lysidin, t6A, 1-methylguanosine), whereas deficiency in others induces severe growth defects. However, some have no or only a small effect on growth at laboratory conditions. Modified nucleosides that are present in the anticodon loop or stem have a fundamental influence on the efficiency of charging the tRNA, reading cognate codons, and preventing missense and frameshift errors. Those, which are present in the body of the tRNA, have a primarily stabilizing effect on the tRNA. Thus, the ubiquitouspresence of these modified nucleosides plays a pivotal role in the function of the tRNA by their influence on the stability and activity of the tRNA.

Multiple ways to regulate translation initiation in bacteria: Mechanisms, regulatory circuits, dynamics

To adapt their metabolism rapidly and constantly in response to environmental variations, bacteria often target the translation initiation process, during which the ribosome assembles on the mRNA. Here, we review different mechanisms of regulation mediated by cis-acting elements, sRNAs and proteins, showing, when possible, their intimate connection with the translational apparatus. Indeed the ribosome itself could play a direct role in several regulatory mechanisms. Different features of the regulatory signals (sequences, structures and their positions on the mRNA) are contributing to the large variety of regulatory mechanisms. Ribosome heterogeneity, variation of individual cells responses and the spatial and temporal organization of the translation process add more layers of complexity. This hampers to define manageable set of rules for bacterial translation initiation control.

Identification of lethal mutations in yeast threonyl-tRNA synthetase revealing critical residues in its human homolog

Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (aaRSs) are a group of ancient enzymes catalyzing aminoacylation and editing reactions for protein biosynthesis. Increasing evidence suggests that these critical enzymes are often associated with mammalian disorders. Therefore, complete determination of the enzymes functions is essential for informed diagnosis and treatment. Here, we show that a yeast knock-out strain for the threonyl-tRNA synthetase (ThrRS) gene is an excellent platform for such an investigation. Saccharomyces cerevisiae ThrRS has a unique modular structure containing four structural domains and a eukaryote-specific N-terminal extension. Using randomly mutated libraries of the ThrRS gene (thrS) and a genetic screen, a set of loss-of-function mutants were identified. The mutations affected the synthetic and editing activities and influenced the dimer interface. The results also highlighted the role of the N-terminal extension for enzymatic activity and protein stability. To gain insights into the pathological mechanisms induced by mutated aaRSs, we systematically introduced the loss-of-function mutations into the human cytoplasmic ThrRS gene. All mutations induced similar detrimental effects, showing that the yeast model could be used to study pathology-associated point mutations in mammalian aaRSs.

Transfer RNA Modification: Presence, Synthesis, and Function

Transfer RNA (tRNA) from all organisms on this planet contains modified nucleosides, which are derivatives of the four major nucleosides. tRNA from Escherichia coli/Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium contains 33 different modified nucleosides, which are all, except one (Queuosine [Q]), synthesized on an oligonucleotide precursor, which by specific enzymes later matures into tRNA. The structural genes for these enzymes are found in mono- and polycistronic operons, the latter of which have a complex transcription and translation pattern. The synthesis of the tRNA-modifying enzymes is not regulated similarly, and it is not coordinated to that of their substrate, the tRNA. The synthesis of some of them (e.g., several methylated derivatives) is catalyzed by one enzyme, which is position and base specific, whereas synthesis of some has a very complex biosynthetic pathway involving several enzymes (e.g., 2-thiouridines, N  6-cyclicthreonyladenosine [ct6A], and Q). Several of the modified nucleosides are essential for viability (e.g., lysidin, ct6A, 1-methylguanosine), whereas the deficiency of others induces severe growth defects. However, some have no or only a small effect on growth at laboratory conditions. Modified nucleosides that are present in the anticodon loop or stem have a fundamental influence on the efficiency of charging the tRNA, reading cognate codons, and preventing missense and frameshift errors. Those that are present in the body of the tRNA primarily have a stabilizing effect on the tRNA. Thus, the ubiquitous presence of these modified nucleosides plays a pivotal role in the function of the tRNA by their influence on the stability and activity of the tRNA.

Aminoacyl-tRNA Synthetases in the Bacterial World

Aminoacyl-tRNAsynthetases (aaRSs) are modular enzymesglobally conserved in the three kingdoms of life. All catalyze the same two-step reaction, i.e., the attachment of a proteinogenic amino acid on their cognate tRNAs, thereby mediating the correct expression of the genetic code. In addition, some aaRSs acquired other functions beyond this key role in translation.Genomics and X-ray crystallography have revealed great structural diversity in aaRSs (e.g.,in oligomery and modularity, in ranking into two distinct groups each subdivided in 3 subgroups, by additional domains appended on the catalytic modules). AaRSs show hugestructural plasticity related to function andlimited idiosyncrasies that are kingdom or even speciesspecific (e.g.,the presence in many Bacteria of non discriminating aaRSs compensating for the absence of one or two specific aaRSs, notably AsnRS and/or GlnRS).Diversity, as well, occurs in the mechanisms of aaRS gene regulation that are not conserved in evolution, notably betweendistant groups such as Gram-positive and Gram-negative Bacteria.Thereview focuses on bacterial aaRSs (and their paralogs) and covers their structure, function, regulation,and evolution. Structure/function relationships are emphasized, notably the enzymology of tRNA aminoacylation and the editing mechanisms for correction of activation and charging errors. The huge amount of genomic and structural data that accumulatedin last two decades is reviewed,showing how thefield moved from essentially reductionist biologytowards more global and integrated approaches. Likewise, the alternative functions of aaRSs and those of aaRSparalogs (e.g., during cellwall biogenesis and other metabolic processes in or outside protein synthesis) are reviewed. Since aaRS phylogenies present promiscuous bacterial, archaeal, and eukaryal features, similarities and differences in the properties of aaRSs from the three kingdoms of life are pinpointedthroughout the reviewand distinctive characteristics of bacterium-like synthetases from organelles are outlined.

Studies on crenarchaeal tyrosylation accuracy with mutational analyses of tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase and tyrosine tRNA from Aeropyrum pernix

Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases play a key role in the translation of genetic code into correct protein sequences. These enzymes recognize cognate amino acids and tRNAs from noncognate counterparts, and catalyze the formation of aminoacyl-tRNAs. While Although several tyrosyl-tRNA synthetases (TyrRSs) from various species have been structurally and functionally well characterized, the crenarchaeal TyrRS remains poorly understood. In this study, we performed mutational analyses on tyrosine tRNA (tRNA(Tyr)) and TyrRS from the crenarchaeon, Aeropyrum pernix, to investigate the molecular recognition mechanism. Kinetics for tyrosylation using in vitro transcript indicated that the discriminator base A73 and adjacent G72 in the acceptor stem are identity elements of tRNA(Tyr), whereas the C1 base and anticodon had modest roles as identity determinants. Intriguingly, in contrast to the identity element of eukaryotic/euryarchaeal TyrRSs, the first base-pair (C1-G72) of the acceptor stem was not essential in crenarchaeal TyrRS as a pair. Furthermore, A. pernix TyrRS mutants were constructed at positions Tyr39 and Asp172, which could form hydrogen bonds with the 4-hydroxyl group of l-tyrosine. The tyrosylation activities with the mutants resulted that Asp172 mutants completely abolished tyrosylation activity, whereas Tyr39 mutants had no effect on activity. Thus, crenarchaeal TyrRS appears to adopt different molecular recognition mechanism from other TyrRSs.

Mapping hidden potential identity elements by computing the average discriminating power of individual tRNA positions

The recently published discrete mathematical method, extended consensus partition (ECP), identifies nucleotide types at each position that are strictly absent from a given sequence set, while occur in other sets. These are defined as discriminating elements (DEs). In this study using the ECP approach, we mapped potential hidden identity elements that discriminate the 20 different tRNA identities. We filtered the tDNA data set for the obligatory presence of well-established tRNA features, and then separately for each identity set, the presence of already experimentally identified strictly present identity elements. The analysis was performed on the three kingdoms of life. We determined the number of DE, e.g. the number of sets discriminated by the given position, for each tRNA position of each tRNA identity set. Then, from the positional DE numbers obtained from the 380 pairwise comparisons of the 20 identity sets, we calculated the average excluding value (AEV) for each tRNA position. The AEV provides a measure on the overall discriminating power of each position. Using a statistical analysis, we show that positional AEVs correlate with the number of already identified identity elements. Positions having high AEV but lacking published identity elements predict hitherto undiscovered tRNA identity elements.

Functional consequences of T-stem mutations in E. coli tRNAThrUGU in vitro and in vivo

The binding affinities between Escherichia coli EF-Tu and 34 single and double base-pair changes in the T stem of E. coli tRNA(Thr)(UGU) were compared with similar data obtained previously for several aa-tRNAs binding to Thermus thermophilus EF-Tu. With a single exception, the two proteins bound to mutations in three T-stem base pairs in a quantitatively identical manner. However, tRNA(Thr) differs from other tRNAs by also using its rare A52-C62 pair as a negative specificity determinant. Using a plasmid-based tRNA gene replacement strategy, we show that many of the tRNA(Thr)(UGU) T-stem changes are either unable to support growth of E. coli or are less effective than the wild-type sequence. Since the inviable T-stem sequences are often present in other E. coli tRNAs, it appears that T-stem sequences in each tRNA body have evolved to optimize function in a different way. Although mutations of tRNA(Thr) can substantially increase or decrease its affinity to EF-Tu, the observed affinities do not correlate with the growth phenotype of the mutations in any simple way. This may either reflect the different conditions used in the two assays or indicate that the T-stem mutants affect another step in the translation mechanism.

Radial scan of the molecular electrostatic potential of RNA double helices: an application to the enzyme-tRNA recognition

We introduced a method to characterize quantitatively the molecular electrostatic potential (MEP) of the minor and major grooves of base pairs located at nucleic acid double helices. By means of a radial MEP scan, we obtained a n-tuple of potential values corresponding to each groove, which can be analyzed by plotting the MEP values as a function of the angle in the radial scan. We studied base pairs of two different tRNAs, relevant in the recognition process with their cognate aminoacyl tRNA synthetases (aaRSs), in order to correlate their electrostatic behavior with the corresponding aminoacylation activity. We analyzed the first three base pairs of the Escherichia coli tRNA(Ala) acceptor stem, finding several cases where the MEP profiles obtained from the plots are in agreement with the reported aminoacylation activities. Additionally, a non-hierarchical clustering performed over the MEP n-tuples resulted in meaningful classifications that correlate with the activity and with the predicted stereochemistry of the reaction. We also studied the first two base pairs of the E. coli tRNA(Thr) acceptor stem but constraining the analysis to the angle intervals that seem relevant for the binding sites of the enzyme. These intervals were deduced from the ThrRS-tRNA(Thr) complex crystal structure. In this case, we also found a good agreement between the MEP profiles and the activity, supporting the idea that the tRNA identity elements function is to allow an optimal electrostatic complementarity between the aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase and the tRNA.

tRNAs and tRNA mimics as cornerstones of aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase regulations

Structural plasticity of transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules is essential for interactions with their biological partners in aminoacylation reactions and during ribosome-dependent protein synthesis. This holds true when tRNAs are recruited for other functions than translation. Here we review regulation pathways where tRNAs and tRNA mimics play a pivotal role. We further discuss the importance of the identity signals used in aminoacylation that are also required to specify regulatory mechanisms. Such mechanisms are diverse and intervene in transcription, splicing and translation. Altogether, the review highlights the many manners architectural features of tRNA were selected by evolution to control biological key processes.

Achieving error-free translation; the mechanism of proofreading of threonyl-tRNA synthetase at atomic resolution

The fidelity of aminoacylation of tRNA(Thr) by the threonyl-tRNA synthetase (ThrRS) requires the discrimination of the cognate substrate threonine from the noncognate serine. Misacylation by serine is corrected in a proofreading or editing step. An editing site has been located 39 A away from the aminoacylation site. We report the crystal structures of this editing domain in its apo form and in complex with the serine product, and with two nonhydrolyzable analogs of potential substrates: the terminal tRNA adenosine charged with serine, and seryl adenylate. The structures show how serine is recognized, and threonine rejected, and provide the structural basis for the editing mechanism, a water-mediated hydrolysis of the mischarged tRNA. When the adenylate analog binds in the editing site, a phosphate oxygen takes the place of one of the catalytic water molecules, thereby blocking the reaction. This rules out a correction mechanism that would occur before the binding of the amino acid on the tRNA.

Genome of bacteriophage P1

P1 is a bacteriophage of Escherichia coli and other enteric bacteria. It lysogenizes its hosts as a circular, low-copy-number plasmid. We have determined the complete nucleotide sequences of two strains of a P1 thermoinducible mutant, P1 c1-100. The P1 genome (93,601 bp) contains at least 117 genes, of which almost two-thirds had not been sequenced previously and 49 have no homologs in other organisms. Protein-coding genes occupy 92% of the genome and are organized in 45 operons, of which four are decisive for the choice between lysis and lysogeny. Four others ensure plasmid maintenance. The majority of the remaining 37 operons are involved in lytic development. Seventeen operons are transcribed from sigma(70) promoters directly controlled by the master phage repressor C1. Late operons are transcribed from promoters recognized by the E. coli RNA polymerase holoenzyme in the presence of the Lpa protein, the product of a C1-controlled P1 gene. Three species of P1-encoded tRNAs provide differential controls of translation, and a P1-encoded DNA methyltransferase with putative bifunctionality influences transcription, replication, and DNA packaging. The genome is particularly rich in Chi recombinogenic sites. The base content and distribution in P1 DNA indicate that replication of P1 from its plasmid origin had more impact on the base compositional asymmetries of the P1 genome than replication from the lytic origin of replication.

Bacterial translational control at atomic resolution

Translational regulation allows rapid adaptation of protein synthesis to environmental conditions. In prokaryotes, the synthesis of many RNA-binding proteins is regulated by a translational feedback mechanism involving a competition between their natural substrate and their binding site on mRNA, which are often thought to resemble each other. This article describes the case of threonyl-tRNA synthetase, which represses the translation of its own mRNA. Recent data provide the first opportunity to describe at the atomic level both the extent and the limit of mimicry between the way this enzyme recognizes tRNA(Thr) and its regulatory site in mRNA. The data also give some clues about how the binding of the synthetase to its mRNA inhibits translation.

The modular structure of Escherichia coli threonyl-tRNA synthetase as both an enzyme and a regulator of gene expression

In addition to its role in tRNA aminoacylation, Escherichia coli threonyl-tRNA synthetase is a regulatory protein which binds a site, called the operator, located in the leader of its own mRNA and inhibits translational initiation by competing with ribosome binding. This work shows that the two essential steps of regulation, operator recognition and inhibition of ribosome binding, are performed by different domains of the protein. The catalytic and the C-terminal domain of the protein are involved in binding the two anticodon arm-like structures in the operator whereas the N-terminal domain of the enzyme is responsible for the competition with the ribosome. This is the first demonstration of a modular structure for a translational repressor and is reminiscent of that of transcriptional regulators. The mimicry between the operator and tRNA, suspected on the basis of previous experiments, is further supported by the fact that identical regions of the synthetase recognize both the operator and the tRNA anticodon arm. Based on these results, and recent structural data, we have constructed a computer-derived molecular model for the operator-threonyl-tRNA synthetase complex, which sheds light on several essential aspects of the regulatory mechanism.

Correlation between tRNALys3 aminoacylation and its incorporation into HIV-1

During human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) assembly, tRNA(Lys) is selectively packaged into the virus, where tRNA(Lys3) serves as the primer for reverse transcription. Lysyl-tRNA synthetase is also selectively incorporated into HIV-1 and is therefore a strong candidate for being the signal by which viral proteins interact with tRNA(Lys) isoacceptors. Previously, mutations in the tRNA(Lys3) anticodon have been shown to strongly inhibit the charging of tRNA(Lys3) by lysyl-tRNA synthetase in vitro, and we show here that in vivo aminoacylation is also inhibited by anticodon changes. The order of decreasing in vivo aminoacylation for tRNA(Lys3) anticodon mutants is: wild-type SUU (where S = mcm(5)S(2)U) 100%) --> SGU (49%) --> CGU (40%) --> SGA (0%) and CGA (0%). We found that the ability of these tRNA(Lys3) anticodon variants to be aminoacylated in vivo is directly correlated with their ability to be packaged into HIV-1. These data showed that the anticodon is a major determinant for tRNA(Lys3) packaging and support the conclusion that its productive interaction with lysyl-tRNA synthetase is important for tRNA(Lys3) incorporation into HIV-1.

The tRNA specificity of Thermus thermophilus EF-Tu

By introducing a GAC anticodon, 21 different Escherichia coli tRNAs were misacylated with either phenylalanine or valine and assayed for their affinity to Thermus thermophilus elongation factor Tu (EF-Tu)*GTP by using a ribonuclease protection assay. The presence of a common esterified amino acid permits the thermodynamic contribution of each tRNA body to the overall affinity to be evaluated. The E. coli elongator tRNAs exhibit a wide range of binding affinities that varied from -11.7 kcal/mol for Val-tRNA(Glu) to -8.1 kcal/mol for Val-tRNA(Tyr), clearly establishing EF-Tu*GTP as a sequence-specific RNA-binding protein. Because the ionic strength dependence of k(off) varied among tRNAs, some of the affinity differences are the results of a different number of phosphate contacts formed between tRNA and protein. Because EF-Tu is known to contact only the phosphodiester backbone of tRNA, the observed specificity must be a consequence of an indirect readout mechanism.

Transfer RNA recognition by aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases

The aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases are an ancient group of enzymes that catalyze the covalent attachment of an amino acid to its cognate transfer RNA. The question of specificity, that is, how each synthetase selects the correct individual or isoacceptor set of tRNAs for each amino acid, has been referred to as the second genetic code. A wealth of structural, biochemical, and genetic data on this subject has accumulated over the past 40 years. Although there are now crystal structures of sixteen of the twenty synthetases from various species, there are only a few high resolution structures of synthetases complexed with cognate tRNAs. Here we review briefly the structural information available for synthetases, and focus on the structural features of tRNA that may be used for recognition. Finally, we explore in detail the insights into specific recognition gained from classical and atomic group mutagenesis experiments performed with tRNAs, tRNA fragments, and small RNAs mimicking portions of tRNAs.

Transfer RNA identity change in anticodon variants of E. coli tRNA(Phe) in vivo

The anticodon sequence is a major recognition element for most aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases. We investigated the in vivo effects of changing the anticodon on the aminoacylation specificity in the example of E. coli tRNA(Phe). Constructing different anticodon mutants of E. coli tRNA(Phe) by site-directed mutagenesis, we isolated 22 anticodon mutant tRNA(Phe); the anticodons corresponded to 16 amino acids and an opal stop codon. To examine whether the mutant tRNAs had changed their amino acid acceptor specificity in vivo, we tested the viability of E. coli strains containing these tRNA(Phe) genes in a medium which permitted tRNA induction. Fourteen mutant tRNA genes did not affect host viability. However, eight mutant tRNA genes were toxic to the host and prevented growth, presumably because the anticodon mutants led to translational errors. Many mutant tRNAs which did not affect host viability were not aminoacylated in vivo. Three mutant tRNAs containing anticodon sequences corresponding to lysine (UUU), methionine (CAU) and threonine (UGU) were charged with the amino acid corresponding to their anticodon, but not with phenylalanine. These three tRNAs and tRNA(Phe) are located in the same cluster in a sequence similarity dendrogram of total E. coli tRNAs. The results support the idea that such tRNAs arising from in vivo evolution are derived by anticodon change from the same ancestor tRNA.

Sequence analysis and modular organization of threonyl-tRNA synthetase from Thermus thermophilus and its interrelation with threonyl-tRNA synthetases of other origins

The gene encoding threonyl-tRNA synthetase (Thr-tRNA synthetase) from the extreme thermophilic eubacterium Thermus thermophilus HB8 has been cloned and sequenced. The ORF encodes a polypeptide chain of 659 amino acids (Mr 75 550) that shares strong similarities with other Thr-tRNA synthetases. Comparative analysis with the three-dimensional structure of other subclass IIa synthetases shows it to be organized into four structural modules: two N-terminal modules specific to Thr-tRNA synthetases, a catalytic core and a C-terminal anticodon-binding module. Comparison with the three-dimensional structure of Escherichia coli Thr-tRNA synthetase in complex with tRNAThr enabled identification of the residues involved in substrate binding and catalytic activity. Analysis by atomic absorption spectrometry of the enzyme overexpressed in E. coli revealed the presence in each monomer of one tightly bound zinc atom, which is essential for activity. Despite strong similarites in modular organization, Thr-tRNA synthetases diverge from other subclass IIa synthetases on the basis of their N-terminal extensions. The eubacterial and eukaryotic enzymes possess a large extension folded into two structural domains, N1 and N2, that are not significantly similar to the shorter extension of the archaebacterial enzymes. Investigation of a truncated Thr-tRNA synthetase demonstrated that domain N1 is not essential for tRNA charging. Thr-tRNA synthetase from T. thermophilus is of the eubacterial type, in contrast to other synthetases from this organism, which exhibit archaebacterial characteristics. Alignments show conservation of part of domain N2 in the C-terminal moiety of Ala-tRNA synthetases. Analysis of the nucleotide sequence upstream from the ORF showed the absence of both any anticodon-like stem-loop structure and a loop containing sequences complementary to the anticodon and the CCA end of tRNAThr. This means that the expression of Thr-tRNA synthetase in T. thermophilus is not regulated by the translational and trancriptional mechanisms described for E. coli thrS and Bacillus subtilis thrS and thrZ. Here we discuss our results in the context of evolution of the threonylation systems and of the position of T. thermophilus in the phylogenic tree.

The structure of threonyl-tRNA synthetase-tRNA(Thr) complex enlightens its repressor activity and reveals an essential zinc ion in the active site

E. coli threonyl-tRNA synthetase (ThrRS) is a class II enzyme that represses the translation of its own mRNA. We report the crystal structure at 2.9 A resolution of the complex between tRNA(Thr) and ThrRS, whose structural features reveal novel strategies for providing specificity in tRNA selection. These include an amino-terminal domain containing a novel protein fold that makes minor groove contacts with the tRNA acceptor stem. The enzyme induces a large deformation of the anticodon loop, resulting in an interaction between two adjacent anticodon bases, which accounts for their prominent role in tRNA identity and translational regulation. A zinc ion found in the active site is implicated in amino acid recognition/discrimination.

Universal rules and idiosyncratic features in tRNA identity

Correct expression of the genetic code at translation is directly correlated with tRNA identity. This survey describes the molecular signals in tRNAs that trigger specific aminoacylations. For most tRNAs, determinants are located at the two distal extremities: the anticodon loop and the amino acid accepting stem. In a few tRNAs, however, major identity signals are found in the core of the molecule. Identity elements have different strengths, often depend more on k cat effects than on K m effects and exhibit additive, cooperative or anti-cooperative interplay. Most determinants are in direct contact with cognate synthetases, and chemical groups on bases or ribose moieties that make functional interactions have been identified in several systems. Major determinants are conserved in evolution; however, the mechanisms by which they are expressed are species dependent. Recent studies show that alternate identity sets can be recognized by a single synthetase, and emphasize the importance of tRNA architecture and anti-determinants preventing false recognition. Identity rules apply to tRNA-like molecules and to minimalist tRNAs. Knowledge of these rules allows the manipulation of identity elements and engineering of tRNAs with switched, altered or multiple specificities.

Evolution of a transfer RNA gene through a point mutation in the anticodon

The transfer RNA (tRNA) multigene family comprises 20 amino acid-accepting groups, many of which contain isoacceptors. The addition of isoacceptors to the tRNA repertoire was critical to establishing the genetic code, yet the origin of isoacceptors remains largely unexplored. A model of tRNA evolution, termed "tRNA gene recruitment," was formulated. It proposes that a tRNA gene can be recruited from one isoaccepting group to another by a point mutation that concurrently changes tRNA amino acid identity and messenger RNA coupling capacity. A test of the model showed that an Escherichia coli strain, in which the essential tRNAUGUThr gene was inactivated, was rendered viable when a tRNAArg with a point mutation that changed its anticodon from UCU to UGU (threonine) was expressed. Insertion of threonine at threonine codons by the "recruited" tRNAArg was corroborated by in vitro aminoacylation assays showing that its specificity had been changed from arginine to threonine. Therefore, the recruitment model may account for the evolution of some tRNA genes.

Specificity of tRNA-mRNA interactions in Bacillus subtilis tyrS antitermination

The Bacillus subtilis tyrS gene, encoding tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase, is a member of the T-box family of genes, which are regulated by control of readthrough of a leader region transcriptional terminator. Readthrough is induced by interaction of the cognate uncharged tRNA with the leader; the system responds to decreased tRNA charging, caused by amino acid limitation or insufficient levels of the aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase. Recognition of the cognate tRNA is mediated by pairing of the anticodon of the tRNA with the specifier sequence of the leader, a codon specifying the appropriate amino acid; a second interaction between the acceptor end of the tRNA and an antiterminator structure is also important. Certain switches of the specifier sequence to a new codon result in a switch in the specificity of the amino acid response, while other switches do not. These effects may reflect additional sequence or structural requirements for the mRNA-tRNA interaction. This study includes investigation of the effects of a large number of specifier sequence switches in tyrS and analysis of structural differences between tRNA(Tyr) and tRNA species which interact inefficiently with the tyrS leader to promote antitermination.

Discriminating among the discriminator bases of tRNAs

Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases must select their specific tRNAs from the 20 structurally similar tRNAs present in a cell. The discriminator base, at position 73 of the tRNA, is important for this selection but its effects on aminoacylation are variable depending on context. Recent structural studies provide insight into this variability.

Identity elements of Thermus thermophilus tRNA(Thr)

In this study, we identified nucleotides that specify aminoacylation of tRNA(Thr) by Thermus thermophilus threonyl-tRNA synthetase (ThrRS) using in vitro transcripts. Mutation studies showed that the first base pair in the acceptor stem as well as the second and third positions of the anticodon are major identity elements of T. thermophilus tRNA(Thr), which are essentially the same as those of Escherichia coli tRNA(Thr). The discriminator base, U73, also contributed to the specific aminoacylation, but not the second base pair in the acceptor stem. These findings are in contrast to E. coli tRNA(Thr), where the second base pair is required for threonylation, with the discriminator base, A73, playing no roles. In addition, among several mutations at the third base pair in the acceptor stem, only the G3-U70 mutant was a poor substrate for ThrRS, suggesting that the G3-U70 wobble pair, which is the identity determinant of tRNA(Ala), acts as a negative element for ThrRS. Similar results were obtained in E. coli and yeast. Thus, this manner of rejection of tRNA(Ala) is also likely to have been retained in the threonine system throughout evolution.

Identity elements of tRNA(Thr) towards Saccharomyces cerevisiae threonyl-tRNA synthetase

Identity elements of tRNA(Thr) towards Saccharomyces cerevisiae threonyl-tRNA synthetase were examined using in vitro transcripts. By mutation studies, a marked decrease in aminoacylation with threonine showed that the first base pair in the acceptor stem and the second and third positions of the anticodon are major identity elements of tRNA(Thr), which are essentially the same as those of Escherichia coli tRNA(Thr). Base substitution of the discriminator base, A73, by G73 or C73 impaired the threonine accepting activity, but not that by U73, suggesting that this position contributes to discrimination from other tRNAs possessing G73 or C73. No effects on aminoacylation were observed with substitutions at the second base pair in the acceptor stem. These are in contrast to E.coli tRNA(Thr) where the second base pair is required for the specific aminoacylation, with the discriminator base playing no roles. Of several mutations at the third base pair in the acceptor stem, only the G3-U70 mutation impaired the activity, suggesting that the G3-U70 wobble pair, the identity determinant of tRNAAla, acts as a negative element for threonyl-tRNA synthetase. These findings indicate that while the first base pair in the acceptor stem and the anticodon nucleotides have been retained as major recognition sites between S. cerevisiae and E.coli tRNA(Thr), the mechanism by which the synthetase recognizes the vicinity of the top of the acceptor stem seems to have diverged with the species.

Evidence for class-specific discrimination of a semiconserved base pair by tRNA synthetases

Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases have been divided into two classes based on the existence of two structurally distinct active sites. To date, few class-specific tRNA recognition features have been elucidated. High-resolution X-ray structures of representative class I and class II synthetases complexed to cognate tRNA substrates have been solved. In these structures, the class I enzyme approaches the end of the tRNA acceptor stem from the minor-groove side, while the class II synthetase approaches its cognate tRNA from the major-groove side. This distinction is reflected in the different initial sites (2'- or 3'-OH) of amino acid attachment. The role that the semiconserved G1.C72 terminal base pair plays in the aminoacylation of Escherichia coli tRNAs is probed in this in vitro study. We show here that class II alanyl-, prolyl-, and histidyl-tRNA synthetases are sensitive to changes at position 1 x 72. Previous work on class I synthetases and new data presented here with the valine-specific enzyme indicate that class I enzymes show little sensitivity to replacements of G1.C72. This work provides new evidence for class-specific differences in tRNA acceptor stem interactions that appear to be reflected not only in the initial site of aminoacylation but also in the mode of synthetase interaction with the semiconserved G1.C72 base pair proximal to the amino acid attachment site.

Identity elements of Saccharomyces cerevisiae tRNA(His)

Recognition of tRNA(His) by Saccharomyces cerevisiae histidyl-tRNA synthetase was studied using in vitro transcripts. Histidine tRNA is unique in possessing an extra nucleotide, G-1, at the 5' end. Mutation studies indicate that this irregular secondary structure at the end of the acceptor stem is important for aminoacylation with histidine, while the requirement of either base of this extra base pair is smaller than that in Escherichia coli. The anticodon was also found to be required for histidylation. The regions involved in histidylation are essentially the same as those in E.coli, whereas the proportion of the contributions of the two portions distant from each other, the anticodon and the end of the acceptor stem, makes a substantial difference between the two systems.

Interaction between the acceptor end of tRNA and the T box stimulates antitermination in the Bacillus subtilis tyrS gene: a new role for the discriminator base

The Bacillus subtilis tyrS gene is a member of a group of gram-positive aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase and amino acid biosynthesis genes which are regulated by transcription antitermination. Each gene in the group is specifically induced by limitation for the appropriate amino acid. This response is mediated by interaction of the cognate tRNA with the mRNA leader region to promote formation of an antiterminator structure. The tRNA interacts with the leader by codon-anticodon pairing at a position designated the specifier sequence which is upstream of the antiterminator. In this study, an additional site of possible contact between the tRNA and the leader was identified through covariation of leader mRNA and tRNA sequences. Mutations in the acceptor end of tRNA(Tyr) could suppress mutations in the side bulge of the antiterminator, in a pattern consistent with base pairing. This base pairing may thereby directly affect the formation and/or function of the antiterminator. The discriminator position of the tRNA, an important identity determinant for a number of tRNAs, including tRNA(Tyr), was shown to act as a second specificity determinant for assuring response to the appropriate tRNA. Furthermore, overproduction of an unchargeable variant of tRNA(Tyr) resulted in antitermination in the absence of limitation for tyrosine, supporting the proposal that uncharged tRNA is the effector in this system.

The transfer RNA identity problem: a search for rules

Correct recognition of transfer RNAs (tRNAs) by aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases is central to the maintenance of translational fidelity. The hypothesis that synthetases recognize anticodon nucleotides was proposed in 1964 and had considerable experimental support by the mid-1970s. Nevertheless, the idea was not widely accepted until relatively recently in part because the methodologies initially available for examining tRNA recognition proved hampering for adequately testing alternative hypotheses. Implementation of new technologies has led to a reasonably complete picture of how tRNAs are recognized. The anticodon is indeed important for 17 of the 20 Escherichia coli isoaccepting groups. For many of the isoaccepting groups, the acceptor stem or position 73 (or both) is important as well.

Mutant alleles of tRNA(Thr) genes suppress the hisG46 missense mutation in Salmonella typhimurium

Extragenic suppressors of the hisG46 missense mutation were mapped to the 71 and 88 min regions of the Salmonella typhimurium chromosome, positions that in Escherichia coli contain the thrV (tRNA(Thr1)) and thrT (tRNA(Thr3)) genes, respectively. The suppressor loci were identified as mutant alleles of thrV and thrT, using allele-specific colony hybridization. An oligomer, based on the conserved 5' sequence of the thrT and thrV genes in E. coli and designed to contain the putative mutant anticodon, discriminated between suppressor-containing and wild-type strains. Similarly, probes specific for the thrV[SuGGG] and thrT[SuGGG] were used to differentiate the two suppressors. To date, all extragenic suppressors of hisG46 have been identified as either thrV[SuGGG] or thrT[SuGGG]. A near equal distribution of thrV[SuGGG] and thrT[SuGGG] suppressors was found among 29 spontaneous and 43 mutagen-induced hisG46 extragenic suppressor revertants. It was concluded, therefore, that mutant alleles of thrV and thrT are predominantly, if not solely, responsible for intergenic suppression of the hisG46 mutation.

Triple aminoacylation specificity of a chimerized transfer RNA

We report here the rational design and construction of a chimerized transfer RNA with tripartite aminoacylation specificity. A yeast aspartic acid specific tRNA was transformed into a highly efficient acceptor of alanine and phenylalanine and a moderate acceptor of valine. The transformation was guided by available knowledge of the requirements for aminoacylation by each of the three amino acids and was achieved by iterative changes in the local sequence context and the structural framework of the variable loop and the two variable regions of the dihydrouridine loop. The changes introduced to confer efficient acceptance of the three amino acids eliminate aminoacylation with aspartate. The interplay of determinants and antideterminants for different specific aminoacylations, and the constraints imposed by the structural framework, suggest that a tRNA with an appreciable capacity for more than three efficient aminoacylations may be inherently difficult to achieve.

Anticodon bases C34 and C35 are major, positive, identity elements in Saccharomyces cerevisiae tRNA(Trp)

A single form of tRNA(Trp) exists in the yeast cytoplasm to respond to the unique codon, UGG, which specifies this amino acid. Mutations in the anticodon of the corresponding gene, which generate potential nonsense suppressor tRNAs, have been generated in vitro and tested in vivo for biological activity. The amber (C35U) and opal (C34U) suppressors show strong and weak activities respectively while the ochre suppressor (C34U,C35U) has no detectable biological activity. To understand the basis for these differences, a set of synthetic tRNA(Trp) genes has been constructed to permit in vitro, T7 RNA polymerase synthesis of transcripts corresponding to the normal and mutant tRNAs. Kinetic parameters for aminoacylation of these transcripts by purified, yeast, tryptophanyl-tRNA synthetase have been measured and compared to values observed using the naturally occurring tRNA(Trp) as a substrate. The efficiency of aminoacylation is reduced by 40, 2000, and 30,000 fold by the C35U, C34U, and C34U,C35U mutations respectively. Interestingly, the C35U change affects only tRNA binding while C34U also alters catalytic efficiency. We conclude that both C34 and C35 are major identity elements in the recognition of tRNA(Trp) by its cognate synthetase. These differences in aminoacylation efficiency closely parallel the in vivo suppressor activities of the mutants.

Translational regulation of the Escherichia coli threonyl-tRNA synthetase gene: structural and functional importance of the thrS operator domains

Previous work showed that E coli threonyl-tRNA synthetase (ThrRS) binds to the leader region of its own mRNA and represses its translation by blocking ribosome binding. The operator consists of four distinct domains, one of them (domain 2) sharing structural analogies with the anticodon arm of the E coli tRNA(Thr). The regulation specificity can be switched by using tRNA identity rules, suggesting that the operator could be recognized by ThrRS as a tRNA-like structure. In the present paper, we investigated the relative contribution of the four domains to the regulation process by using deletions and point mutations. This was achieved by testing the effects of the mutations on RNA conformation (by probing experiments), on ThrRS recognition (by footprinting experiments and measure of the competition with tRNA(Thr) for aminoacylation), on ribosome binding and ribosome/ThrRS competition (by toeprinting experiments). It turns out that: i) the four domains are structurally and functionally independent; ii) domain 2 is essential for regulation and contains the major structural determinants for ThrRS binding; iii) domain 4 is involved in control and ThrRS recognition, but to a lesser degree than domain 2. However, the previously described analogies with the acceptor-like stem are not functionally significant. How it is recognized by ThrRS remains to be resolved; iv) domain 1, which contains the ribosome loading site, is not involved in ThrRS recognition. The binding of ThrRS probably masks the ribosome binding site by steric hindrance and not by direct contacts. This is only achieved when ThrRS interacts with both domains 2 and 4; and v) the unpaired domain 3, which connects domains 2 and 4, is not directly involved in ThrRS recognition. It should serve as an articulation to provide an appropriate spacing between domains 2 and 4. Furthermore, it is possibly involved in ribosome binding.

Escherichia coli tRNA(Asp) recognition mechanism differing from that of the yeast system

Various tRNA transcripts were constructed to study the identity elements of Escherichia coli tRNA(Asp). Base substitutions from G34 to U34 at the first position of the anticodon, and from U35 to A35 at the second, severely impaired the aspartate charging activity. The activity was also decreased, but in a more moderate fashion, by base changes at G2-C71, C36 and C38. Identity nucleotides of tRNA(Asp) are distributed in a different fashion between E. coli and yeast, which occur at the second base pair of the acceptor stem, G10-U25 base pair in the D-stem and 3' half of the anticodon loop.

Molecular mimicry in translational control of E. coli threonyl-tRNA synthetase gene. Competitive inhibition in tRNA aminoacylation and operator-repressor recognition switch using tRNA identity rules

We previously showed that: (i) E.coli threonyl-tRNA synthetase (ThrRS) binds to the leader of its mRNA and represses translation by preventing ribosome binding to its loading site; (ii) the translational operator shares sequence and structure similarities with tRNA(Thr); (iii) it is possible to switch the specificity of the translational control from ThrRS to methionyl-tRNA synthetase (MetRS) by changing the CGU anticodon-like sequence to CAU, the tRNA(Met) anticodon. Here, we show that the wild type (CGU) and the mutated (CAU) operators act as competitive inhibitors of tRNA(Thr) and tRNA(fMet) for aminoacylation catalyzed by E.coli ThrRS and MetRS, respectively. The apparent Kd of the MetRS/CAU operator complex is one order magnitude higher than that of the ThrRS/CGU operator complex. Although ThrRS and MetRS shield the anticodon- and acceptor-like domains of their respective operators, the relative contribution of these two domains differs significantly. As in the threonine system, the interaction of MetRS with the CAU operator occludes ribosome binding to its loading site. The present data demonstrate that the anticodon-like sequence is one major determinant for the identity of the operator and the regulation specificity. It further shows that the tRNA-like operator obeys to tRNA identity rules.

The role of anticodon bases and the discriminator nucleotide in the recognition of some E. coli tRNAs by their aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases

The T7 polymerase transcription system was used for in vitro synthesis of unmodified versions of the E. coli tRNA mutants that insert asparagine, cysteine, glycine, histidine, and serine. These tRNAs were used to qualitatively explore the role of some anticodon bases and the discriminator nucleotide in the recognition of tRNA by aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases. Coupled with data from earlier studies, these new results essentially complete a survey of all E. coli tRNAs with respect to the involvement of anticodon bases and the discriminator nucleotide in tRNA recognition. It is found that in the vast majority of tRNAs both of these elements are significant components of tRNA identity. This is not universally true, however. Anticodon sequences are unimportant in tRNA(Ser), tRNA(Leu), and tRNA(Ala) while the discriminator base is inconsequential in tRNA(Ser) and tRNA(Thr). The significance of these results for origin-of-life studies is discussed.