Reconstitution of the U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle

Loss of the RNA trimethylguanosine cap is compatible with nuclear accumulation of spliceosomal snRNAs but not pre-mRNA splicing or snRNA processing during animal development

The 2,2,7-trimethylguanosine (TMG) cap is one of the first identified modifications on eukaryotic RNAs. TMG, synthesized by the conserved Tgs1 enzyme, is abundantly present on snRNAs essential for pre-mRNA splicing. Results from ex vivo experiments in vertebrate cells suggested that TMG ensures nuclear localization of snRNAs. Functional studies of TMG using tgs1 mutations in unicellular organisms yield results inconsistent with TMG being indispensable for either nuclear import or splicing. Utilizing a hypomorphic tgs1 mutation in Drosophila, we show that TMG reduction impairs germline development by disrupting the processing, particularly of introns with smaller sizes and weaker splice sites. Unexpectedly, loss of TMG does not disrupt snRNAs localization to the nucleus, disputing an essential role of TMG in snRNA transport. Tgs1 loss also leads to defective 3' processing of snRNAs. Remarkably, stronger tgs1 mutations cause lethality without severely disrupting splicing, likely due to the preponderance of TMG-capped snRNPs. Tgs1, a predominantly nucleolar protein in Drosophila, likely carries out splicing-independent functions indispensable for animal development. Taken together, our results suggest that nuclear import is not a conserved function of TMG. As a distinctive structure on RNA, particularly non-coding RNA, we suggest that TMG prevents spurious interactions detrimental to the function of RNAs that it modifies.

A mechanism for incorporation of galectin-3 into the spliceosome through its association with U1 snRNP

Previously, we showed that galectin-1 and galectin-3 are redundant pre-mRNA splicing factors associated with the spliceosome throughout the splicing pathway. Here we present evidence for the association of galectin-3 with snRNPs outside of the spliceosome (i.e., in the absence of pre-mRNA splicing substrate). Immunoprecipitation of HeLa nuclear extract with anti-galectin-3 resulted in the coprecipitation of the five spliceosomal snRNAs, core Sm polypeptides, and the U1-specific protein, U1 70K. When nuclear extract was fractionated on glycerol gradients, some galectin-3 molecules cosedimented with snRNP complexes. This cosedimentation represents bona fide galectin-3--snRNP complexes as (i) immunoprecipitation of gradient fractions with anti-galectin-3 yielded several complexes with varying ratios of snRNAs and associated proteins and (ii) the distribution of galectin-3--snRNP complexes was altered when the glycerol gradient was sedimented in the presence of lactose, a galectin ligand. A complex at approximately 10S showed an association of galectin-3 with U1 snRNP that was sensitive to treatment with ribonuclease A. We tested the ability of this U1 snRNP to recognize an exogenous pre-mRNA substrate. Under conditions that assemble early splicing complexes, we found this isolated galectin-3--U1 snRNP particle was sufficient to load galectin-3 onto a pre-mRNA substrate, but not onto a control RNA lacking splice sites. Pretreatment of the U1 snRNP with micrococcal nuclease abolished the assembly of galectin-3 onto this early complex. These data identify galectin-3 as a polypeptide associated with snRNPs in the absence of splicing substrate and describe a mechanism for the assembly of galectin-3 onto the forming spliceosome.

Modifications of U2 snRNA are required for snRNP assembly and pre-mRNA splicing

Among the spliceosomal snRNAs, U2 has the most extensive modifications, including a 5' trimethyl guanosine (TMG) cap, ten 2'-O-methylated residues and 13 pseudouridines. At short times after injection, cellularly derived (modified) U2 but not synthetic (unmodified) U2 rescues splicing in Xenopus oocytes depleted of endogenous U2 by RNase H targeting. After prolonged reconstitution, synthetic U2 regenerates splicing activity; a correlation between the extent of U2 modification and U2 function in splicing is observed. Moreover, 5-fluorouridine-containing U2 RNA, a potent inhibitor of U2 pseudouridylation, specifically abolishes rescue by synthetic U2, while rescue by cellularly derived U2 is not affected. By creating chimeric U2 molecules in which some sequences are from cellularly derived U2 and others are from in vitro transcribed U2, we demonstrate that the functionally important modifications reside within the 27 nucleotides at the 5' end of U2. We further show that 2'-O-methylation and pseudouridylation activities reside in the nucleus and that the 5' TMG cap is not necessary for internal modification but is crucial for splicing activity. Native gel analysis reveals that unmodified U2 is not incorporated into the spliceosome. Examination of the U2 protein profile and glycerol-gradient analysis argue that U2 modifications directly contribute to conversion of the 12S to the 17S U2 snRNP particle, which is essential for spliceosome assembly.

A 7-methylguanosine cap commits U3 and U8 small nuclear RNAs to the nucleolar localization pathway

U3 and U8 small nucleolar RNAs (snRNAs) participate in pre-rRNA processing. Like the U1, U2, U4 and U5 major spliceosomal snRNAs, U3 and U8 RNAs are transcribed by RNA polymerase II and their initial 7-methylguanosine (m7G) 5' cap structures subsequently become converted to 2,2,7-trimethylguanosine. However, unlike the polymerase II transcribed spliceosomal snRNAs, which are exported to the cytoplasm for cap hypermethylation, U3 and U8 RNAs undergo cap hypermethylation within the nucleus. Human U3 and U8 RNAs with various cap structures were generated by in vitro transcription, fluorescently labeled and microinjected into nuclei of normal rat kidney (NRK) epithelial cells. When U3 and U8 RNAs containing a m7G cap were microinjected they became extensively localized in nucleoli. U3 and U8 RNAs containing alternative cap structures did not localize in nucleoli nor did U3 or U8 RNAs containing triphosphate 5'-termini. The nucleolar localization of m7G-capped U3 RNA was competed by co-microinjection into the nucleus of a 100-fold molar excess of dinucleotide m7GpppG but not by a 100-fold excess of ApppG dinucleotide. Although it was obviously not possible to assess formation of di- and trimethylguanosine caps on the microinjected U3 and U8 RNAs in these single cell experiments, these results indicate that the initial presence of a m7G cap on U3 and U8 RNAs, most likely together with internal sequence elements, commits these transcripts to the nucleolar localization pathway and point to diverse roles of the m7G cap in the intracellular traffic of various RNAs transcribed by RNA polymerase II.

Modification of human U4 RNA requires U6 RNA and multiple pseudouridine synthases

Small nuclear RNAs (snRNA), cofactors in the splicing of pre-mRNA, are highly modified. In this report the modification of human U4 RNA was studied using cell extracts and in vitro synthesized, and therefore unmodified, U4 RNA. The formation of pseudouridine (Psi) at positions 4, 72 and 79 in U4 RNA was dependent on an RNA-containing cofactor, since the activities in the extracts were micrococcal nuclease (MN) sensitive. Extracts were fractionated on glycerol gradients and there was a broad peak of reconstitution activity centered at 14 S. Reconstitution was not due to additional enzymatic activity, since the peak fraction was MN sensitive. Oligodeoxynucleotide-mediated RNase H digestion of U6 RNA in the extracts inhibited formation of Psi in U4 RNA. From glycerol gradient analysis we determined that exogenously added U4 RNA that is associated with U6 RNA (sedimentation velocity 16 S) was significantly higher in Psi content than U4 RNA not associated with U6 RNA (8 S). Competitive inhibitors of Psi synthases, 5-fluorouridine-containing (5-FU) wild-type and mutant U4 RNAs, were used to investigate formation of Psi in U4 RNA. Deletions and point mutations in these 5-FU-containing U4 RNAs affected their ability to inhibit Psi synthase in vitro. With the aid of these potent inhibitors it was determined that at least two separate activities modify the uridines at these positions.

The newt ribozyme is part of a riboprotein complex

Strand-specific transcripts of a satellite DNA of the newts, Notophthalmus and Triturus, are present in cells in monomeric and multimeric sizes. These transcripts undergo self-catalyzed, site-specific cleavage in vitro: the reaction requires Mg2+ and is mediated by a "hammerhead" domain. Transcription of the newt ribozyme appears to be performed by RNA polymerase II under the control of a proximal sequence element and a distal sequence element. In vitro, the newt ribozyme can cleave in trans an RNA substrate, suggesting that in vivo it might be involved in RNA processing events, perhaps as a riboprotein complex. Here we show that the newt ribozyme is in fact present as a riboprotein particle of about 12 S in the oocytes of Triturus. In addition, reconstitution experiments and gel-shift analyses show that a complex is assembled in vitro on the monomeric ribozyme molecules. UV cross-linking studies identify a few polypeptide species, ranging from 31 to 65 kDa, associated to the newt ribozyme with different affinities. Finally, we find that an appropriate oligoribonucleotide substrate is specifically cleaved by the riboproteic activity in S-100 ovary extracts.

In vitro reconstitution of mammalian U1 snRNPs active in splicing: the U1-C protein enhances the formation of early (E) spliceosomal complexes

We have established an in vitro reconstitution/splicing complementation system which has allowed the investigation of the role of mammalian U1 snRNP components both in splicing and at the early stages of spliceosome formation. U1 snRNPs reconstituted from purified, native snRNP proteins and either authentic or in vitro transcribed U1 snRNA restored both early (E) splicing complex formation and splicing-activity to U1-depleted extracts. In vitro reconstituted U1 snRNPs possessing an m3G or ApppG cap were equally active in splicing, demonstrating that a physiological cap structure is not absolutely required for U1 function. However, the presence of an m7GpppG or GpppG cap was deleterious to splicing, most likely due to competition for the m7G cap binding proteins. No significant reduction in splicing or E complex formation was detected with U1 snRNPs reconstituted from U1 snRNA lacking the RNA binding sites of the U1-70K or U1-A protein (i.e., stem-loop I and II, respectively). Complementation studies with purified HeLa U1 snRNPs lacking subsets of the U1-specific proteins demonstrated a role for the U1-C, but not U1-A, protein in the formation and/or stabilization of early splicing complexes. Studies with recombinant U1-C protein mutants indicated that the N-terminal domain of U1-C is necessary and sufficient for the stimulation of E complex formation.

Metabolism of pre-messenger RNA splicing cofactors: modification of U6 RNA is dependent on its interaction with U4 RNA

The requirements for the formation of pseudouridine (psi) in U4 and U6 RNAs, cofactors in the splicing of pre-messenger RNA, were investigated in vitro using HeLa nuclear (NE) and cytoplasmic (S100) extracts. Maximal psi formation for both RNAs was extract order-dependent. Maximal psi formation in U4 RNA required incubation in S100 followed by the addition of NE, paralleling the in vivo maturation pathway of U4 RNA. In contrast, maximal formation of psi in U6 RNA required incubation in NE followed by the addition of S100 extract. Since U6 RNA does not exit the nucleus in vivo the contribution of S100 was investigated. In experiments where the extracts were treated with micrococcal nuclease to digest endogenous snRNAs, the efficient formation of psi in U6 RNA was dependent on the presence of U4 RNA, but not in U5 RNA or tRNA. When mutant U4 RNAs that inhibit or strengthen the interaction between U4 RNA, and U6 RNA were substituted for wild-type U4 RNA, the results confirmed the need for the interaction between these two RNAs for psi formation in U6 RNA. U6 RNA isolated from glycerol gradients after incubation in extracts had four times as much psi when associated with U4 RNA.

Dynamic localization of RNase MRP RNA in the nucleolus observed by fluorescent RNA cytochemistry in living cells

The dynamic intra-nuclear localization of MRP RNA, the RNA component of the ribonucleoprotein enzyme RNase MRP, was examined in living cells by the method of fluorescent RNA cytochemistry (Wang, J., L.-G. Cao, Y.-L. Wang, and T. Pederson. 1991. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA. 88:7391-7395). MRP RNA very rapidly accumulated in nucleoli after nuclear microinjection of normal rat kidney (NRK) epithelial cells. Localization was specifically in the dense fibrillar component of the nucleolus, as revealed by immunocytochemistry with a monoclonal antibody against fibrillarin, a known dense fibrillar component protein, as well as by digital optical sectioning microscopy and 3-D stereo reconstruction. When MRP RNA was injected into the cytoplasm it was not imported into the nucleus. Nuclear microinjection of mutant MRP RNAs revealed that nucleolar localization requires a sequence element (nucleotides 23-62) previously implicated as a binding site for a nucleolar protein, the To antigen. These results demonstrate the dynamic localization of MRP RNA in the nucleus and provide important insights into the nucleolar targeting of MRP RNA.

m3G cap hypermethylation of U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) in vitro: evidence that the U1 small nuclear RNA-(guanosine-N2)-methyltransferase is a non-snRNP cytoplasmic protein that requires a binding site on the Sm core domain

The RNA components of small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (U snRNPs) possess a characteristic 5'-terminal trimethylguanosine cap structure (m3G cap). This cap is an important component of the nuclear localization signal of U snRNPs. It arises by hypermethylation of a cotranscriptionally added m7G cap. Here we describe an in vitro assay for the hypermethylation, which employs U snRNP particles reconstituted in vitro from purified components and subsequent analysis by m3G cap-specific immunoprecipitation. Complementation studies in vitro revealed that both cytosol and S-adenosylmethionine are required for the hypermethylation of an m7G-capped U1 snRNP reconstituted in vitro, indicating that the U1 snRNA-(guanosine-N2)-methyltransferase is a trans-active non-snRNP protein. Chemical modification revealed one cytoplasmic component required for hypermethylation and one located on the snRNP: these components have different patterns of sensitivity to modification by N-ethylmaleimide and iodoacetic acid (IAA). In the presence of cytosol and S-adenosylmethionine, an intact Sm core domain is a necessary and sufficient substrate for cap hypermethylation. These data, together with our observation that isolated native U1 snRNPs but not naked U1 RNA inhibit the trimethylation of in vitro-reconstituted U1 snRNP, indicate that the Sm core binds the methyltransferase specifically. Moreover, isolated native U2 snRNP also inhibits trimethylation of U1 snRNP, suggesting that other Sm-class U snRNPs might share the same methyltransferase. IAA modification of m7G-capped U1 snRNPs inhibited hypermethylation when they were microinjected into Xenopus oocytes and consequently also inhibited nuclear import. In contrast, modification with IAA of m3G-capped U1 snRNPs reconstituted in vitro did not interfere with their nuclear transport in oocytes. These data suggest that m3G cap formation and nuclear transport of U1 snRNPs are mediated by distinct factors, which require distinct binding sites on the Sm core of U1 snRNP.

m3G cap hypermethylation of U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) in vitro: evidence that the U1 small nuclear RNA-(guanosine-N2)-methyltransferase is a non-snRNP cytoplasmic protein that requires a binding site on the Sm core domain

The RNA components of small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (U snRNPs) possess a characteristic 5'-terminal trimethylguanosine cap structure (m3G cap). This cap is an important component of the nuclear localization signal of U snRNPs. It arises by hypermethylation of a cotranscriptionally added m7G cap. Here we describe an in vitro assay for the hypermethylation, which employs U snRNP particles reconstituted in vitro from purified components and subsequent analysis by m3G cap-specific immunoprecipitation. Complementation studies in vitro revealed that both cytosol and S-adenosylmethionine are required for the hypermethylation of an m7G-capped U1 snRNP reconstituted in vitro, indicating that the U1 snRNA-(guanosine-N2)-methyltransferase is a trans-active non-snRNP protein. Chemical modification revealed one cytoplasmic component required for hypermethylation and one located on the snRNP: these components have different patterns of sensitivity to modification by N-ethylmaleimide and iodoacetic acid (IAA). In the presence of cytosol and S-adenosylmethionine, an intact Sm core domain is a necessary and sufficient substrate for cap hypermethylation. These data, together with our observation that isolated native U1 snRNPs but not naked U1 RNA inhibit the trimethylation of in vitro-reconstituted U1 snRNP, indicate that the Sm core binds the methyltransferase specifically. Moreover, isolated native U2 snRNP also inhibits trimethylation of U1 snRNP, suggesting that other Sm-class U snRNPs might share the same methyltransferase. IAA modification of m7G-capped U1 snRNPs inhibited hypermethylation when they were microinjected into Xenopus oocytes and consequently also inhibited nuclear import. In contrast, modification with IAA of m3G-capped U1 snRNPs reconstituted in vitro did not interfere with their nuclear transport in oocytes. These data suggest that m3G cap formation and nuclear transport of U1 snRNPs are mediated by distinct factors, which require distinct binding sites on the Sm core of U1 snRNP.

Pseudouridine formation in U2 small nuclear RNA

U2 small nuclear RNA contains 13 pseudouridine (psi) nucleotides, of which 11 are clustered in 5' regions involved in base-pairing interactions with other RNAs in the spliceosome. As a first step toward understanding the psi formation pathway in U2 RNA, we investigated psi formation on unmodified human U2 RNA in a HeLa cell extract system. Psi formation was found to occur specifically within only those RNase T1 oligonucleotide fragments of U2 RNA known to contain psi in vivo. Using 5-fluorouridine (FUrd)-containing U2 RNAs as specific inhibitors of psi formation in non-FUrd-substituted substrate U2 RNA, we found that wild-type FUrd-containing U2 RNA as well as several FUrd-containing mutant U2 RNAs completely inhibited psi formation. In contrast, certain other mutant U2 RNAs containing FUrd displayed reduced inhibitory capacity. In these cases psi modifications occurred in specific RNase T1 fragments of the substrate U2 RNA only if the FUrd-containing competitor RNA was mutated at or near this site. Formation of psi at one site in U2 RNA appeared to be neither dependent on prior psi formation at another site or sites nor required for subsequent psi formation elsewhere in the molecule. This autonomous mode of psi formation may be driven by multiple psi synthase enzymes acting independently at different sites in U2 RNA.

In vitro splicing of pre-messenger RNA with extracts from 5-fluorouridine-treated cells

The effect of 5-fluorouridine (5-FU) treatment of cells on the splicing of pre-mRNA was determined using cellular extracts and splicing in vitro. Nuclear extracts from control cells and cells treated with 5-FU were prepared and used to splice pre-mRNAs in vitro. The drug treatment resulted in inhibition of cell growth but had little effect on RNA synthesis. The extracts from 5-FU-treated cells showed significant inhibition of splicing. This inhibition was the result of reduced efficiency and was not caused by a block at a specific step in the splicing pathway. There were no observable changes in the levels or physical properties of the small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles that are essential cofactors in the splicing process. The deficiency in splicing in the extracts from 5-FU-treated cells could be supplemented by the addition of complementary fractions from a control extract.

Multiple pseudouridine synthase activities for small nuclear RNAs

The formation of pseudouridine (psi) in human U1, U2 and U5 small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) was investigated using HeLa cell extracts. Unmodified snRNAs were synthesized in vitro and the extent of psi formation was determined after incubation in cell extracts. The formation of psi on labelled substrates was monitored in the presence of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-containing snRNAs as inhibitors of psi formation. The conversion of uridine to psi was inhibited only when the cognate 5-FU-containing inhibitor snRNA was included in the reaction. For example, 5-FU-containing U1 RNA inhibited psi formation in unmodified U1 RNA, but not in (unmodified) U2 or U5 RNAs. The results suggest that there are at least three activities that form psi in these snRNAs. The 5-FU-containing RNAs were stable during incubation in the cell extracts. A 12-fold molar excess of unlabelled U1 RNA did not inhibit psi formation on a labelled U1 RNA substrate, whereas a 3-fold molar excess of 5-FU-containing U1 RNA nearly abolished psi formation on the U1 substrate. The fact that 5-FU-containing snRNAs are potent inhibitors of psi formation in these pre-mRNA splicing cofactors raises the possibility that this is related to the cytotoxicity of fluoropyrimidines in cancer chemotherapy.

Nuclear processing of the 3'-terminal nucleotides of pre-U1 RNA in Xenopus laevis oocytes

U1 small nuclear RNA is synthesized as a precursor with several extra nucleotides at its 3' end. We show that in Xenopus laevis oocytes, removal of the terminal two nucleotides occurs after the RNA has transited through the cytoplasm and returned to the nucleus. The activity is controlled by an inhibitor of processing, which we call TPI, for 3'-terminal processing inhibitor. This inhibitor is sensitive to both micrococcal nuclease and trypsin treatment, indicating that it is a nucleoprotein. TPI inhibits the 3' processing of pre-U1 RNAs that have 5' ends containing m7G caps but not mature m2,2,7G caps; this finding suggests that TPI interacts directly or indirectly with the 5' end of pre-U1 RNA. The inhibition of processing by TPI, almost complete at 19 degrees C, is reversibly inactivated at slightly higher temperatures. TPI activity is solely in the soluble fraction of oocyte nuclear extracts, in contrast to the 3'-terminal processing activity, which is present in both the particulate and soluble fractions. We propose that the differential processing of the 3'-terminal nucleotides of pre-U1 RNA after its return from the cytoplasm, but not before its exit from the nucleus, may be due to the association of TPI with the m7G cap on the newly synthesized pre-U1 RNA.

Nuclear processing of the 3'-terminal nucleotides of pre-U1 RNA in Xenopus laevis oocytes

U1 small nuclear RNA is synthesized as a precursor with several extra nucleotides at its 3' end. We show that in Xenopus laevis oocytes, removal of the terminal two nucleotides occurs after the RNA has transited through the cytoplasm and returned to the nucleus. The activity is controlled by an inhibitor of processing, which we call TPI, for 3'-terminal processing inhibitor. This inhibitor is sensitive to both micrococcal nuclease and trypsin treatment, indicating that it is a nucleoprotein. TPI inhibits the 3' processing of pre-U1 RNAs that have 5' ends containing m7G caps but not mature m2,2,7G caps; this finding suggests that TPI interacts directly or indirectly with the 5' end of pre-U1 RNA. The inhibition of processing by TPI, almost complete at 19 degrees C, is reversibly inactivated at slightly higher temperatures. TPI activity is solely in the soluble fraction of oocyte nuclear extracts, in contrast to the 3'-terminal processing activity, which is present in both the particulate and soluble fractions. We propose that the differential processing of the 3'-terminal nucleotides of pre-U1 RNA after its return from the cytoplasm, but not before its exit from the nucleus, may be due to the association of TPI with the m7G cap on the newly synthesized pre-U1 RNA.

Pseudouridine modification of U5 RNA in ribonucleoprotein particles assembled in vitro

The formation of pseudouridine (psi) in U5 RNA during ribonucleoprotein (RNP) assembly was investigated by using HeLa cell extracts. In vitro transcribed, unmodified U5 RNA assembled into an RNP particle with the same buoyant density and sedimentation velocity as did U5 small nuclear RNP from extracts. The greatest amount of psi modification was detected when a combination of S100 and nuclear extracts was used for assembly. psi formation was inhibited when ATP and creatine phosphate or MgCl2 were not included in the assembly reaction, paralleling the inhibition of RNP particle formation. A time course of assembly and psi formation showed that psi modification lags behind RNP assembly and that at very early time points, Sm-reactive U5 small nuclear RNPs are not modified. Two of three psi modifications normally found in U5 RNA were present in RNA incubated in the extracts. Mutations in the form of deletions and truncations were made in the U5 sequence, and the effect of these mutations on psi formation was investigated. A mutation in the area of stem-loop I which contains the psi moieties or in the Sm binding sequence affected psi formation.

Pseudouridine modification of U5 RNA in ribonucleoprotein particles assembled in vitro

The formation of pseudouridine (psi) in U5 RNA during ribonucleoprotein (RNP) assembly was investigated by using HeLa cell extracts. In vitro transcribed, unmodified U5 RNA assembled into an RNP particle with the same buoyant density and sedimentation velocity as did U5 small nuclear RNP from extracts. The greatest amount of psi modification was detected when a combination of S100 and nuclear extracts was used for assembly. psi formation was inhibited when ATP and creatine phosphate or MgCl2 were not included in the assembly reaction, paralleling the inhibition of RNP particle formation. A time course of assembly and psi formation showed that psi modification lags behind RNP assembly and that at very early time points, Sm-reactive U5 small nuclear RNPs are not modified. Two of three psi modifications normally found in U5 RNA were present in RNA incubated in the extracts. Mutations in the form of deletions and truncations were made in the U5 sequence, and the effect of these mutations on psi formation was investigated. A mutation in the area of stem-loop I which contains the psi moieties or in the Sm binding sequence affected psi formation.

Leucine periodicity of U2 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle (snRNP) A' protein is implicated in snRNP assembly via protein-protein interactions

Recombinant A' protein could be reconstituted into U2 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles (snRNPs) upon addition to HeLa cell extracts as determined by coimmunoprecipitation and particle density; however, direct binding to U2 RNA could not be demonstrated except in the presence of the U2 snRNP B" protein. Mutational analysis indicated that a central core region of A' was required for particle reconstitution. This region consists of five tandem repeats of approximately 24 amino acids each that exhibit a periodicity of leucine and asparagine residues that is distinct from the leucine zipper. Similar leucine-rich (Leu-Leu motif) repeats are characteristic of a diverse array of soluble and membrane-associated proteins from yeasts to humans but have not been reported previously to reside in nuclear proteins. Several of these proteins, including Toll, chaoptin, RNase/angiogenin inhibitors, lutropin-choriogonadotropin receptor, carboxypeptidase N, adenylyl cyclase, CD14, and human immunodeficiency virus type 1 Rev, may be involved in protein-protein interactions. Our findings suggest that in cell extracts the Leu-Leu motif of A' is required for reconstitution with U2 snRNPs and perhaps with other components involved in splicing through protein-protein interactions.

Leucine periodicity of U2 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle (snRNP) A' protein is implicated in snRNP assembly via protein-protein interactions

Recombinant A' protein could be reconstituted into U2 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles (snRNPs) upon addition to HeLa cell extracts as determined by coimmunoprecipitation and particle density; however, direct binding to U2 RNA could not be demonstrated except in the presence of the U2 snRNP B" protein. Mutational analysis indicated that a central core region of A' was required for particle reconstitution. This region consists of five tandem repeats of approximately 24 amino acids each that exhibit a periodicity of leucine and asparagine residues that is distinct from the leucine zipper. Similar leucine-rich (Leu-Leu motif) repeats are characteristic of a diverse array of soluble and membrane-associated proteins from yeasts to humans but have not been reported previously to reside in nuclear proteins. Several of these proteins, including Toll, chaoptin, RNase/angiogenin inhibitors, lutropin-choriogonadotropin receptor, carboxypeptidase N, adenylyl cyclase, CD14, and human immunodeficiency virus type 1 Rev, may be involved in protein-protein interactions. Our findings suggest that in cell extracts the Leu-Leu motif of A' is required for reconstitution with U2 snRNPs and perhaps with other components involved in splicing through protein-protein interactions.

Zinc finger-like structure in U1-specific protein C is essential for specific binding to U1 snRNP

The U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) contains three specific proteins denoted 70K, A and C, in addition to the common proteins. Specific functions of these proteins are not known although recently protein C was shown to be involved in the binding of U1 snRNP to the 5' splice site of a pre-mRNA. Unlike proteins A and 70K, U1-C lacks an RNA binding domain (RNP-80 motif) and does not appear to bind directly to U1 snRNA. However, at the amino terminal end protein C contains a zinc finger-like structure of the CC-HH type found in transcription factor TF IIIA. Several lines of evidence indicate that the zinc finger-like structure is essential for the binding of protein C to U1 snRNP particles: i) deletion analysis of protein C showed that the N-terminal 45 amino acids are sufficient for binding to U1 snRNPs, ii) modification of the cysteine residues in the N-terminal domain with N-ethylmaleimide and iii) single point mutations of the cysteines and histidines contributing to the putative zinc finger abolished binding of protein C to U1 snRNPs. Interestingly, unlike the proteins U1-A and U1-70K the U1-C protein is unable to bind to naked U1 snRNA. On the other hand it is shown that protein C does not bind to the known protein constituents of the U1 particle without the U1 snRNA being present. These data indicate that the binding of protein C to U1 snRNP is dependent on the presence of both the U1 snRNA and one or more of the U1 snRNP proteins.

Nucleocytoplasmic transport and processing of small nuclear RNA precursors

We have analyzed the structures and locations of small nuclear RNA (snRNA) precursors at various stages in their synthesis and maturation. In the nuclei of pulse-labeled Xenopus laevis oocytes, we detected snRNAs that were longer than their mature forms at their 3' ends by up to 10 nucleotides. Analysis of the 5' caps of these RNAs and pulse-chase experiments showed that these nuclear snRNAs were precursors of the cytoplasmic pre-snRNAs that have been observed in the past. Synthesis of pre-snRNAs was not abolished by wheat germ agglutinin, which inhibits export of the pre-snRNAs from the nucleus, indicating that synthesis of these RNAs is not obligatorily coupled to their export. Newly synthesized U1 RNAs could be exported from the nucleus regardless of the length of the 3' extension, but pre-U1 RNAs that were elongated at their 3' ends by more than about 10 nucleotides were poor substrates for trimming in the cytoplasm. The structure at the 3' end was critical for subsequent transport of the RNA back to the nucleus. This requirement ensures that truncated and incompletely processed U1 RNAs are excluded from the nucleus.

Nucleocytoplasmic transport and processing of small nuclear RNA precursors

We have analyzed the structures and locations of small nuclear RNA (snRNA) precursors at various stages in their synthesis and maturation. In the nuclei of pulse-labeled Xenopus laevis oocytes, we detected snRNAs that were longer than their mature forms at their 3' ends by up to 10 nucleotides. Analysis of the 5' caps of these RNAs and pulse-chase experiments showed that these nuclear snRNAs were precursors of the cytoplasmic pre-snRNAs that have been observed in the past. Synthesis of pre-snRNAs was not abolished by wheat germ agglutinin, which inhibits export of the pre-snRNAs from the nucleus, indicating that synthesis of these RNAs is not obligatorily coupled to their export. Newly synthesized U1 RNAs could be exported from the nucleus regardless of the length of the 3' extension, but pre-U1 RNAs that were elongated at their 3' ends by more than about 10 nucleotides were poor substrates for trimming in the cytoplasm. The structure at the 3' end was critical for subsequent transport of the RNA back to the nucleus. This requirement ensures that truncated and incompletely processed U1 RNAs are excluded from the nucleus.

The spliceosomal snRNAs of Caenorhabditis elegans

Nematodes are the only group of organisms in which both cis- and trans-splicing of nuclear mRNAs are known to occur. Most Caenorhabditis elegans introns are exceptionally short, often only 50 bases long. The consensus donor and acceptor splice site sequences found in other animals are used for both cis- and trans-splicing. In order to identify the machinery required for these splicing events, we have characterized the C. elegans snRNAs. They are similar in sequence and structure to those characterized in other organisms, and several sequence variations discovered in the nematode snRNAs provide support for previously proposed structure models. The C. elegans snRNAs are encoded by gene families. We report here the sequences of many of these genes. We find a highly conserved sequence, the proximal sequence element (PSE), about 65 bp upstream of all 21 snRNA genes thus far sequenced, including the SL RNA genes, which specify the snRNAs that provide the 5' exons in trans-splicing. The sequence of the C. elegans PSE is distinct from PSE's from other organisms.

The PRP4 (RNA4) protein of Saccharomyces cerevisiae is associated with the 5' portion of the U4 small nuclear RNA

We have combined oligonucleotide-directed RNase H degradation and immunoprecipitation in a study of the association of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae PRP4 protein with the U4-U6 complex. We have found that three oligonucleotides were able to direct nearly to completion the RNase H-specific cleavage of the target RNA molecules as they exist in splicing extracts. Immunoprecipitation of the degradation products with PRP4 antibody showed that the 5' portion of U4 small nuclear RNA (snRNA) and the 3' portion of U6 snRNA coimmunoprecipitated with the PRP4 protein. Micrococcal nuclease protection experiments confirmed further that the 5' portion and 3' end of U4 snRNA were very resistant to nuclease digestion, whereas the 3' portion of U6 snRNA was protected to only a very small extent. We conclude that the PRP4 protein of S. cerevisiae is associated primarily with the 5' portion of U4 snRNA in the U4-U6 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP).

The PRP4 (RNA4) protein of Saccharomyces cerevisiae is associated with the 5' portion of the U4 small nuclear RNA

We have combined oligonucleotide-directed RNase H degradation and immunoprecipitation in a study of the association of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae PRP4 protein with the U4-U6 complex. We have found that three oligonucleotides were able to direct nearly to completion the RNase H-specific cleavage of the target RNA molecules as they exist in splicing extracts. Immunoprecipitation of the degradation products with PRP4 antibody showed that the 5' portion of U4 small nuclear RNA (snRNA) and the 3' portion of U6 snRNA coimmunoprecipitated with the PRP4 protein. Micrococcal nuclease protection experiments confirmed further that the 5' portion and 3' end of U4 snRNA were very resistant to nuclease digestion, whereas the 3' portion of U6 snRNA was protected to only a very small extent. We conclude that the PRP4 protein of S. cerevisiae is associated primarily with the 5' portion of U4 snRNA in the U4-U6 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP).

RNA processing and ribonucleoprotein assembly studied in vivo by RNA transfection

We present a method for studying RNA processing and ribonucleoprotein assembly in vivo, by using RNA synthesized in vitro. SP6-transcribed 32P-labeled U2 small nuclear RNA precursor molecules were introduced into cultured human 293 cells by calcium phosphate-mediated uptake, as in standard DNA transfection experiments. RNase protection mapping demonstrated that the introduced pre-U2 RNA underwent accurate 3' end processing. The introduced U2 RNA was assembled into ribonucleoprotein particles that reacted with an antibody specific for proteins known to be associated with the U2 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle. The 3' end-processed, ribonucleoprotein-assembled U2 RNA accumulated in the nuclear fraction. When pre-U2 RNA with a 7-methylguanosine group at the 5' end was introduced into cells, it underwent conversion to a 2,2,7-trimethylguanosine cap structure, a characteristic feature of the U-small nuclear RNAs. Pre-U2 RNA introduced with an adenosine cap (Ap-ppG) also underwent processing, small nuclear ribonucleoprotein assembly, and nuclear accumulation, establishing that a methylated guanosine cap structure is not required for these steps in U2 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein biosynthesis. Beyond its demonstrated usefulness in the study of small nuclear ribonucleoprotein biosynthesis, RNA transfection may be of general applicability to the investigation of eukaryotic RNA processing in vivo and may also offer opportunities for introducing therapeutically targeted RNAs (ribozymes or antisense RNA) into cells.

Site-specific excision from RNA by RNase H and mixed-phosphate-backbone oligodeoxynucleotides

Oligodeoxynucleotides containing phosphodiester or modified internucleoside linkages were investigated with respect to their ability to be acted on by ribonuclease H activities present in a HeLa cell nuclear extract after hybridization with complementary sequences in RNA. Oligodeoxynucleotides complementary to nucleotides 2-14 of human U1 small nuclear RNA were investigated. Extensive cleavage of U1 RNA was observed with the unmodified oligodeoxynucleotide and with the phosphorothioate analogue but not with U1-complementary oligodeoxynucleotides containing methylphosphonate, phosphoro-N-morpholidate, or phosphoro-N-butylamidate internucleoside linkages. Additional experiments using a 514-nucleotide-long RNA substrate demonstrated the capacity of complementary phosphodiester- and phosphorothioate-linked oligodeoxynucleotides (but not ones containing methylphosphonate, phosphoro-N-morpholidate, or phosphoro-N-butylamidate linkages) to serve as RNase H targets when hybridized to an internal RNA site. Detailed comparisons revealed phosphodiester-linked oligodeoxynucleotides to be more efficient than the comparable phosphorothioate-linked oligomers with respect to RNase H action. Various pentadecamer oligodeoxynucleotides complementary to the 514-nucleotide-long test RNA and containing 2-6 consecutive phosphodiester- or phosphorothioate-linked nucleotides flanked by RNase H-resistant methylphosphonate linkages afforded precise "site-directed" RNase H excision within the DNA.RNA hybrid. These results serve to assort modified oligodeoxynucleotide-containing hybrids into RNase H-sensitive and -resistant classes and also provide clues as to how RNase H makes contact with the DNA strand in a DNA.RNA hybrid.

Direct, sequence-specific binding of the human U1-70K ribonucleoprotein antigen protein to loop I of U1 small nuclear RNA

We have studied the interaction of two of the U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP)-specific proteins, U1-70K and U1-A, with U1 small nuclear RNA (snRNA). The U1-70K protein is a U1-specific RNA-binding protein. Deletion and mutation analyses of a beta-galactosidase/U1-70K partial fusion protein indicated that the central portion of the protein, including the RNP sequence domain, is both necessary and sufficient for specific U1 snRNA binding in vitro. The highly conserved eight-amino-acid RNP consensus sequence was found to be essential for binding. Deletion and mutation analyses of U1 snRNA showed that both the U1-70K fusion protein and the native HeLa U1-70K protein bound directly to loop I of U1 snRNA. Binding was sequence specific, requiring 8 of the 10 bases in the loop. The U1-A snRNP protein also interacted specifically with U1 snRNA, principally with stem-loop II.

U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle-specific proteins interact with the first and second stem-loops of U1 RNA, with the A protein binding directly to the RNA independently of the 70K and Sm proteins

The U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle (U1 snRNP), a cofactor in pre-mRNA splicing, contains three proteins, termed 70K, A, and C, that are not present in the other spliceosome-associated snRNPs. We studied the binding of the A and C proteins to U1 RNA, using a U1 snRNP reconstitution system and an antibody-induced nuclease protection technique. Antibodies that reacted with the A and C proteins induced nuclease protection of the first two stem-loops of U1 RNA in reconstituted U1 snRNP. Detailed analysis of the antibody-induced nuclease protection patterns indicated the existence of relatively long-range protein-protein interactions in the U1 snRNP, with the 5' end of U1 RNA and its associated specific proteins interacting with proteins bound to the Sm domain near the 3' end. UV cross-linking experiments in conjunction with an A-protein-specific antibody demonstrated that the A protein bound directly to the U1 RNA rather than assembling in the U1 snRNP exclusively via protein-protein interactions. This conclusion was supported by additional experiments revealing that the A protein could bind to U1 RNA in the absence of bound 70K and Sm core proteins.

The U1 RNA-binding site of the U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP)-associated A protein suggests a similarity with U2 snRNPs

The site of interaction between human U1 RNA and one of its uniquely associated proteins, A, was examined with in vitro binding assays. The A protein bound directly to stem-loop II of U1 RNA in a region which exhibits sequence similarity to U2 RNA. The similarity with U2 RNA was in a region that has been shown to interact with a U2 RNA-associated protein. The A protein-binding site on U1 RNA overlapped a previously described epitope for an RNA-specific human autoantibody (S. L. Deutscher and J. D. Keene, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 85:3299-3303, 1988), supporting the hypothesis that the anti-RNA antibody originated as an anti-idiotypic response to A protein-specific autoantibodies.

Direct, sequence-specific binding of the human U1-70K ribonucleoprotein antigen protein to loop I of U1 small nuclear RNA

We have studied the interaction of two of the U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP)-specific proteins, U1-70K and U1-A, with U1 small nuclear RNA (snRNA). The U1-70K protein is a U1-specific RNA-binding protein. Deletion and mutation analyses of a beta-galactosidase/U1-70K partial fusion protein indicated that the central portion of the protein, including the RNP sequence domain, is both necessary and sufficient for specific U1 snRNA binding in vitro. The highly conserved eight-amino-acid RNP consensus sequence was found to be essential for binding. Deletion and mutation analyses of U1 snRNA showed that both the U1-70K fusion protein and the native HeLa U1-70K protein bound directly to loop I of U1 snRNA. Binding was sequence specific, requiring 8 of the 10 bases in the loop. The U1-A snRNP protein also interacted specifically with U1 snRNA, principally with stem-loop II.

U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle-specific proteins interact with the first and second stem-loops of U1 RNA, with the A protein binding directly to the RNA independently of the 70K and Sm proteins

The U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle (U1 snRNP), a cofactor in pre-mRNA splicing, contains three proteins, termed 70K, A, and C, that are not present in the other spliceosome-associated snRNPs. We studied the binding of the A and C proteins to U1 RNA, using a U1 snRNP reconstitution system and an antibody-induced nuclease protection technique. Antibodies that reacted with the A and C proteins induced nuclease protection of the first two stem-loops of U1 RNA in reconstituted U1 snRNP. Detailed analysis of the antibody-induced nuclease protection patterns indicated the existence of relatively long-range protein-protein interactions in the U1 snRNP, with the 5' end of U1 RNA and its associated specific proteins interacting with proteins bound to the Sm domain near the 3' end. UV cross-linking experiments in conjunction with an A-protein-specific antibody demonstrated that the A protein bound directly to the U1 RNA rather than assembling in the U1 snRNP exclusively via protein-protein interactions. This conclusion was supported by additional experiments revealing that the A protein could bind to U1 RNA in the absence of bound 70K and Sm core proteins.

The U1 RNA-binding site of the U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP)-associated A protein suggests a similarity with U2 snRNPs

The site of interaction between human U1 RNA and one of its uniquely associated proteins, A, was examined with in vitro binding assays. The A protein bound directly to stem-loop II of U1 RNA in a region which exhibits sequence similarity to U2 RNA. The similarity with U2 RNA was in a region that has been shown to interact with a U2 RNA-associated protein. The A protein-binding site on U1 RNA overlapped a previously described epitope for an RNA-specific human autoantibody (S. L. Deutscher and J. D. Keene, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 85:3299-3303, 1988), supporting the hypothesis that the anti-RNA antibody originated as an anti-idiotypic response to A protein-specific autoantibodies.

U2 small nuclear RNP assembly in vitro

Incubation of a SP6-transcribed human U2 RNA precursor molecule in a HeLa cell S100 fraction resulted in the formation of ribonucleoprotein complexes. In the presence of ATP, the particles that assembled had several properties of native U2 snRNP, including resistance to dissociation in Cs2SO4 gradients, their buoyant density, and pattern of digestion by micrococcal nuclease. These particles also reacted with Sm monoclonal antibody and a human autoantibody with specificity for the U2 snRNP-specific proteins A' and B", but not with antibodies for U1 snRNP-specific proteins. In contrast, the particles that formed in the absence of ATP did not have these properties. ATP analogs with non-hydrolyzable beta-gamma bonds did not substitute for ATP in U2 snRNP assembly. Additional experiments with a mutant U2 RNA confirmed that nucleotides 154-167 of U2 RNA are required for binding of the U2 snRNP-specific proteins but not of the "Sm" core proteins. Pseudouridine formation, a major post-transcriptional modification of U2 RNA, was enhanced under assembly permissive conditions.

Loop I of U1 small nuclear RNA is the only essential RNA sequence for binding of specific U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle proteins

The binding of the U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP)-specific proteins C, A, and 70K to U1 small nuclear RNA (snRNA) was analyzed. Assembly of U1 snRNAs from bean and soybean and a set of mutant Xenopus U1 snRNAs into U1 snRNPs in Xenopus egg extracts was studied. The ability to bind proteins was analyzed by immunoprecipitation with monospecific antibodies and by a protein-sequestering assay. The only sequence essential for binding of the U1-specific proteins was the conserved loop sequence in the 5' hairpin of U1. Further analysis suggested that protein C binds directly to the loop and that the assembly of proteins A and 70K into the RNP requires mainly protein-protein interactions. Protein C apparently recognizes a specific RNA sequence rather than a secondary structural element in the RNA.

Pathway of B1-Alu expression in microinjected oocytes: Xenopus laevis proteins associated with nuclear precursor and processed cytoplasmic RNAs

We have previously characterized B1-Alu gene expression by microinjected Xenopus laevis oocytes. The transcription, endonucleolytic processing and its kinetics, nuclear transport kinetics, and subsequent cellular compartmentalization have been described previously (Adeniyi-Jones and Zasloff, Nature 317:81-84, 1985). Briefly, a B1-Alu gene is transcribed by RNA polymerase III to a 210-nucleotide (210nt) primary transcript which is processed to yield 135nt and 75nt RNAs. After processing, the 135nt RNA enters the cytoplasmic compartment, where it remains stable, while the 75nt RNA is degraded. In this report we characterize this pathway further and show that the RNAs involved are complexed with specific X. laevis proteins. The primary transcript was associated with an X. laevis protein of 63 kilodaltons (p63) as well as La, a protein known to be associated with RNA polymerase III transcripts. After processing, the cytoplasmic 135nt RNA remained associated only with the X. laevis p63 in the form of a small ribonucleoprotein. Human autoimmune antibodies were purified by affinity chromatography to X. laevis p63 and used to immunoprecipitate human ribonucleoprotein containing a 63-kilodalton polypeptide and small RNAs. These data suggest that Alu-analogous ribonucleoproteins and their metabolic pathways are conserved across species and provide insight as to their possible functions.

Loop I of U1 small nuclear RNA is the only essential RNA sequence for binding of specific U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle proteins

The binding of the U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP)-specific proteins C, A, and 70K to U1 small nuclear RNA (snRNA) was analyzed. Assembly of U1 snRNAs from bean and soybean and a set of mutant Xenopus U1 snRNAs into U1 snRNPs in Xenopus egg extracts was studied. The ability to bind proteins was analyzed by immunoprecipitation with monospecific antibodies and by a protein-sequestering assay. The only sequence essential for binding of the U1-specific proteins was the conserved loop sequence in the 5' hairpin of U1. Further analysis suggested that protein C binds directly to the loop and that the assembly of proteins A and 70K into the RNP requires mainly protein-protein interactions. Protein C apparently recognizes a specific RNA sequence rather than a secondary structural element in the RNA.

Pre-mRNA splicing by complementation with purified human U1, U2, U4/U6 and U5 snRNPs

The four major nucleoplasmic small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles U1, U2, U4/U6 and U5 can be extensively purified from HeLa cells by immunoaffinity chromatography using a monoclonal anti-trimethylguanosine antibody. The snRNP particles in active splicing extracts are selectively bound to the immunoaffinity matrix, and are then gently eluted by competition with an excess of free nucleoside. Biochemical complementation studies show that the purified snRNPs are active in pre-mRNA splicing, but only in the presence of additional non-snRNP protein factors. All the RNPs that are necessary for splicing can be purified in this manner. The active snRNPs are characterized with respect to their polypeptide composition, and shown to be distinct from several other activities implicated in splicing.

Pathway of B1-Alu expression in microinjected oocytes: Xenopus laevis proteins associated with nuclear precursor and processed cytoplasmic RNAs

We have previously characterized B1-Alu gene expression by microinjected Xenopus laevis oocytes. The transcription, endonucleolytic processing and its kinetics, nuclear transport kinetics, and subsequent cellular compartmentalization have been described previously (Adeniyi-Jones and Zasloff, Nature 317:81-84, 1985). Briefly, a B1-Alu gene is transcribed by RNA polymerase III to a 210-nucleotide (210nt) primary transcript which is processed to yield 135nt and 75nt RNAs. After processing, the 135nt RNA enters the cytoplasmic compartment, where it remains stable, while the 75nt RNA is degraded. In this report we characterize this pathway further and show that the RNAs involved are complexed with specific X. laevis proteins. The primary transcript was associated with an X. laevis protein of 63 kilodaltons (p63) as well as La, a protein known to be associated with RNA polymerase III transcripts. After processing, the cytoplasmic 135nt RNA remained associated only with the X. laevis p63 in the form of a small ribonucleoprotein. Human autoimmune antibodies were purified by affinity chromatography to X. laevis p63 and used to immunoprecipitate human ribonucleoprotein containing a 63-kilodalton polypeptide and small RNAs. These data suggest that Alu-analogous ribonucleoproteins and their metabolic pathways are conserved across species and provide insight as to their possible functions.

The Mr 70,000 protein of the U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle binds to the 5' stem-loop of U1 RNA and interacts with Sm domain proteins

The U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) particle, a cofactor in mRNA splicing, contains nine proteins, six of which are also present in other U snRNPs and three of which are specific to the U1 snRNP. Here we have used a reconstituted human U1 snRNP together with snRNP monoclonal antibodies to define the RNA binding sites of one of the U1 snRNP-specific proteins. When Sm monoclonal antibody (specific for the B', B, and D proteins of U snRNPs) was bound to U1 snRNPs prior to micrococcal nuclease digestion, the same approximately equal to 24 nucleotide fragment of U1 RNA (corresponding to nucleotides 120-143 and termed the "Sm domain") was protected as when no antibody was bound prior to digestion. In contrast, when RNP monoclonal antibody, which reacts with the U1 snRNP-specific Mr 70,000 protein, was bound, additional U1 RNA regions were protected against nuclease digestion. This phenomenon, which we term "antibody-mediated nuclease protection," was exploited to map the position of the Mr 70,000 protein to stem-loop I of U1 RNA. However, there were also sites of Mr 70,000 protein interaction with more 3'-ward regions of U1 RNA, particularly the Sm domain. This indicates that in the three-dimensional structure of the U1 snRNP, the RNP and Sm antigens are in contact with each other. The proximity of the Mr 70,000 protein's RNA binding site (stem-loop I) to the functionally important 5' end of U1 RNA suggests that this protein may be involved in the recognition of, or stabilization of base pairing with, pre-mRNA 5' splice sites.