AP lyase activity of the human ribosomal protein uS3: The DNA cleavage sequence specificity and the location of the enzyme active center

The human protein uS3, a component of the small ribosomal subunit, has a long-known extra-ribosomal activity as an enzyme of base excision DNA repair displayed in its ability to cleave DNA at abasic (AP) sites. It has been found that the efficacy of DNA cleavage by uS3 in vitro depends on the DNA sequence. To clarify the issue on the sequence specificity of uS3 as an AP lyase in general, we applied a combinatorial approach based on the use of a model single-stranded circular DNA with an AP site flanked with random trinucleotides at both sides. The cleavage of this DNA by uS3 under conditions when only its minor portion undergoes the reaction resulted in the formation of the linear DNA with random triplets at the 5' and 3' termini. NGS sequencing of the DNA library derived from this DNA allowed identifying the contexts within which uS3 cleaves DNA the most and the least effectively. Given that the AP lyase reaction occurs via the formation of a covalent intermediate (Schiff base), we determined the region comprising the active center of the uS3 protein. By digesting of uS3 cross-linked to a radiolabeled AP site-containing model DNA with specific proteolytic agents followed by analysis of the resulting modified oligopeptides, the cross-link was mapped to the region 155-192 (likely, to R173/R178). Thus, our results clarified two previously unstudied features of the uS3 AP lyase activity, one related to the recognition of sequences in DNA surrounding the AP site, and the other to the protein region directly contacting this site.

Issues of increasing the effectiveness of beet and rawsugar subcomplexes in terms of environmental protection

The article discusses the issues of increasing the effectiveness of the functioning of beet and raw sugar subcomplexes in terms of environmental protection. The main areas of scientific and technical progress aimed at increasing the profitability of the production of sugar beets, sugar cane and sugar as a final product at these subcomplexes as well as reducing harmful effects of their growing andproduction processeson the atmosphere, soil, and water bodies have been identified. The authors consider the development of new product lines and machines in accordance with the system of machines for sugar factories, modernization of existing and development of new trailed beet and cane harvesting machines; resource saving: intensification of the use and processing of beet and cane raw materials, ensuring a minimum amount of waste and its comprehensive processing; problems of greening associated with the work of sugar factories.

Ribosomal protein uS3 in cell biology and human disease: Latest insights and prospects

The conserved ribosomal protein uS3 in eukaryotes has long been known as one of the essential components of the small (40S) ribosomal subunit, which is involved in the structure of the 40S mRNA entry pore, ensuring the functioning of the 40S subunit during translation initiation. Besides, uS3, being outside the ribosome, is engaged in various cellular processes related to DNA repair, NF-kB signaling pathway and regulation of apoptosis. This review is devoted to recent data opening new horizons in understanding the roles of uS3 in such processes as the assembly and maturation of 40S subunits, ensuring proper structure of 48S pre-initiation complexes, regulation of initiation and ribosome-based RNA quality control pathways. Besides, we summarize novel results on the participation of the protein in processes beyond translation and consider biomedical implications of previously known and recently found extra-ribosomal functions of uS3, primarily, in oncogenesis.

Interaction of tRNA with eukaryotic ribosome

This paper is a review of currently available data concerning interactions of tRNAs with the eukaryotic ribosome at various stages of translation. These data include the results obtained by means of cryo-electron microscopy and X-ray crystallography applied to various model ribosomal complexes, site-directed cross-linking with the use of tRNA derivatives bearing chemically or photochemically reactive groups in the CCA-terminal fragment and chemical probing of 28S rRNA in the region of the peptidyl transferase center. Similarities and differences in the interactions of tRNAs with prokaryotic and eukaryotic ribosomes are discussed with concomitant consideration of the extent of resemblance between molecular mechanisms of translation in eukaryotes and bacteria.

The CCA-end of P-tRNA Contacts Both the Human RPL36AL and the A-site Bound Translation Termination Factor eRF1 at the Peptidyl Transferase Center of the Human 80S Ribosome

We have demonstrated previously that the E-site specific protein RPL36AL present in human ribosomes can be crosslinked with the CCA-end of a P-tRNA in situ. Here we report the following: (i) We modeled RPL36AL into the structure of the archaeal ortholog RPL44E extracted from the known X-ray structure of the 50S subunit of Haloarcula marismortui. Superimposing the obtained RPL36AL structure with that of P/E tRNA observed in eukaryotic 80S ribosomes suggested that RPL36AL might in addition to its CCA neighbourhood interact with the inner site of the tRNA elbow similar to an interaction pattern known from tRNA•synthetase pairs. (ii) Accordingly, we detected that the isolated recombinant protein RPL36AL can form a tight binary complex with deacylated tRNA, and even tRNA fragments truncated at their CCA end showed a high affinity in the nanomolar range supporting a strong interaction outside the CCA end. (iii) We constructed programmed 80S complexes containing the termination factor eRF1 (stop codon UAA at the A-site) and a 2’,3’-dialdehyde tRNA (tRNAox) analog at the P-site. Surprisingly, we observed a crosslinked ternary complex containing the tRNA, eRF1 and RPL36AL crosslinked both to the aldehyde groups of tRNAox at the 2’- and 3’-positions of the ultimate A. We also demonstrated that, upon binding to the ribosomal A-site, eRF1 induces an alternative conformation of the ribosome and/or the tRNA, leading to a novel crosslink of tRNAox to another large-subunit ribosomal protein (namely L37) rather than to RPL36AL, both ribosomal proteins being labeled in a mutually exclusive fashion. Since the human 80S ribosome in complex with P-site bound tRNAox and A-site bound eRF1 corresponds to the post-termination state of the ribosome, the results represent the first biochemical evidence for the positioning of the CCA-arm of the P-tRNA in close proximity to both RPL36AL and eRF1 at the end of the translation process.

The SBP2 protein central to selenoprotein synthesis contacts the human ribosome at expansion segment 7L of the 28S rRNA

SBP2 is a pivotal protein component in selenoprotein synthesis. It binds the SECIS stem-loop in the 3' UTR of selenoprotein mRNA and interacts with both the specialized translation elongation factor and the ribosome at the 60S subunit. In this work, our goal was to identify the binding partners of SBP2 on the ribosome. Cross-linking experiments with bifunctional reagents demonstrated that the SBP2-binding site on the human ribosome is mainly formed by the 28S rRNA. Direct hydroxyl radical probing of the entire 28S rRNA revealed that SBP2 bound to 80S ribosomes or 60S subunits protects helix ES7L-E in expansion segment 7 of the 28S rRNA. Diepoxybutane cross-linking confirmed the interaction of SBP2 with helix ES7L-E. Additionally, binding of SBP2 to the ribosome led to increased reactivity toward chemical probes of a few bases in ES7L-E and in the universally conserved helix H89, indicative of conformational changes in the 28S rRNA in response to SBP2 binding. This study revealed for the first time that SBP2 makes direct contacts with a discrete region of the human 28S rRNA.

General approach for introduction of various chemical labels in specific RNA locations based on insertion of amino linkers

Introduction of reporter groups at designed RNA sites is a widely accepted approach to gain information about the molecular environment of RNAs in their complexes with other biopolymers formed during various cellular processes. A general approach to obtain RNAs bearing diverse reporter groups at designed locations is based on site-specific insertion of groups containing primary aliphatic amine functions (amino linkers) with their subsequent selective derivatization by appropriate chemicals. This article is a brief review on methods for site-specific introduction of amino linkers in different RNAs. These methods comprise: (i) incorporation of a nucleoside carrying an amino-linker or a function that can be substituted with it into oligoribonucleotides in the course of their chemical synthesis; (ii) assembly of amino linker-containing RNAs from short synthetic fragments via their ligation; (iii) synthesis of amino linker-modified RNAs using T7 RNA polymerase; (iv) insertion of amino linkers into unmodified RNAs at functional groups of a certain type such as the 5'-phosphates and N7 of guanosine residues and (v) introduction of an amino linker into long highly structured RNAs exploiting an approach based on sequence-specific modification of nucleic acids. Particular reporter groups used for derivatization of amino linker-containing RNAs together with types of RNA derivatives obtained and fields of their application are presented.

Ribosomal protein S5e is implicated in translation initiation through its interaction with the N-terminal domain of initiation factor eIF2α

A key step of translation initiation in eukaryotes is formation of the 48S preinitiation complex (PIC) containing the 40S ribosome, a set of eukaryotic initiation factors (eIFs), mRNA, and initiator Met-tRNA interacting with mRNA start codon; however, the PIC structure remains substantially unknown. Here, we apply formaldehyde-induced protein-protein crosslinks to identify contacts between ribosomal protein S5e (rpS5e, "e" stands for "eukaryotic") and eIFs within the mammalian PIC, assembled on either model canonical or IRES-containing mRNA. Using immunoblotting and mass spectrometry, we show that with both types of mRNA, rpS5e crosslinks to eIF2α. Comparative analysis of peptides resulting from trypsinolysis of the crosslinked proteins before and after crosslink reversal reveals crosslinked peptides in the N-terminal parts of rpS5e and eIF2α. Application of these data to a model PIC structure obtained with the use of available structures indicates that eIF2α undergoes major conformation rearrangements to enable contacts of the factor with rpS5e. These contacts are suggested to maintain the correct positioning of eIF2α relative to other PIC components; this could be essential for start-codon selection by the PIC.

A novel insight into the mechanism of mammalian selenoprotein synthesis

The amino acid selenocysteine is encoded by UGA, usually a stop codon, thus requiring a specialized machinery to enable its incorporation into selenoproteins. The machinery comprises the tRNA(Sec), a 3'-UTR mRNA stem-loop termed SElenoCysteine Insertion Sequence (SECIS), which is mandatory for recoding UGA as a Sec codon, the SECIS Binding Protein 2 (SBP2), and other proteins. Little is known about the molecular mechanism and, in particular, when, where, and how the SECIS and SBP2 contact the ribosome. Previous work by others used the isolated SECIS RNA to address this question. Here, we developed a novel approach using instead engineered minimal selenoprotein mRNAs containing SECIS elements derivatized with photoreactive groups. By cross-linking experiments in rabbit reticulocyte lysate, new information could be gained about the SBP2 and SECIS contacts with components of the translation machinery at various translation steps. In particular, we found that SBP2 was bound only to the SECIS in 48S pre-initiation and 80S pretranslocation complexes. In the complex where the Sec-tRNA(Sec) was accommodated to the A site but transpeptidation was blocked, SBP2 bound the ribosome and possibly the SECIS element as well, and the SECIS had flexible contacts with the 60S ribosomal subunit involving several ribosomal proteins. Altogether, our findings led to broadening our understanding about the unique mechanism of selenocysteine incorporation in mammals.

Positioning of CCA-arms of the A- and the P-tRNAs towards the 28S rRNA in the human ribosome

Nucleotides of 28S rRNA involved in binding of the human 80S ribosome with acceptor ends of the A site and the P site tRNAs were determined using two complementary approaches, namely, cross-linking with application of tRNA(Asp) analogues substituted with 4-thiouridine in position 75 or 76 and hydroxyl radical footprinting with the use of the full sized tRNA and the tRNA deprived of the 3'-terminal trinucleotide CCA. In general, these 28S rRNA nucleotides are located in ribosomal regions homologous to the A, P and E sites of the prokaryotic 50S subunit. However, none of the approaches used discovered interactions of the apex of the large rRNA helix 80 with the acceptor end of the P site tRNA typical with prokaryotic ribosomes. Application of the results obtained to available atomic models of 50S and 60S subunits led us to a conclusion that the A site tRNA is actually present in both A/A and A/P states and the P site tRNA in the P/P and P/E states. Thus, the present study gives a biochemical confirmation of the data on the structure and dynamics of the mammalian ribosomal pretranslocation complex obtained with application of cryo-electron microscopy and single-molecule FRET [Budkevich et al., 2011]. Moreover, in our study, particular sets of 28S rRNA nucleotides involved in oscillations of tRNAs CCA-termini between their alternative locations in the mammalian 80S ribosome are revealed.

Structural and functional topography of the human ribosome

This review covers data on the structural organization of functional sites in the human ribosome, namely, the messenger RNA binding center, the binding site of the hepatitis C virus RNA internal ribosome entry site, and the peptidyl transferase center. The data summarized here have been obtained primarily by means of a site-directed cross-linking approach with application of the analogs of the respective ribosomal ligands bearing cross-linkers at the designed positions. These data are discussed taking into consideration available structural data on ribosomes from various kingdoms obtained with the use of cryo-electron microscopy, X-ray crystallography, and other approaches.

A central fragment of ribosomal protein S26 containing the eukaryote-specific motif YxxPKxYxK is a key component of the ribosomal binding site of mRNA region 5' of the E site codon

The eukaryotic ribosomal protein S26e (rpS26e) lacking eubacterial counterparts is a key component of the ribosomal binding site of mRNA region 5′ of the codon positioned at the exit site. Here, we determined the rpS26e oligopeptide neighboring mRNA on the human 80S ribosome using mRNA analogues bearing perfluorophenyl azide-derivatized nucleotides at designed locations. The protein was cross-linked to mRNA analogues in specific ribosomal complexes, in which the derivatized nucleotide was located at positions −3 to −9. Digestion of cross-linked rpS26e with various specific proteolytic agents followed by identification of the resulting modified oligopeptides made it possible to map the cross-links to fragment 60–71. This fragment contains the motif YxxPKxYxK conserved in eukaryotic but not in archaeal rpS26e. Analysis of X-ray structure of the Tetrahymena thermophila 40S subunit showed that this motif is not implicated in the intraribosomal interactions, implying its involvement in translation process in a eukaryote-specific manner. Comparison of the results obtained with data on positioning of ribosomal ligands on the 40S subunit lead us to suggest that this motif is involved in interaction with both the 5′-untranslated region of mRNA and the initiation factor eIF3 specific for eukaryotes, providing new insights into molecular mechanisms of translation in eukaryotes.

Eukaryote-specific motif of ribosomal protein S15 neighbors A site codon during elongation and termination of translation

The eukaryotic ribosomal protein S15 is a key component of the decoding site in contrast to its prokaryotic counterpart, S19p, which is located away from the mRNA binding track on the ribosome. Here, we determined the oligopeptide of S15 neighboring the A site mRNA codon on the human 80S ribosome with the use of mRNA analogues bearing perfluorophenyl azide-modified nucleotides in the sense or stop codon targeted to the 80S ribosomal A site. The protein was cross-linked to mRNA analogues in specific ribosomal complexes that were obtained in the presence of eRF1 in the experiments with mRNAs bearing stop codon. Digestion of modified S15 with various specific proteolytic agents followed by identification of the resulting modified oligopeptides showed that cross-link was in C-terminal fragment in positions 131-145, most probably, in decapeptide 131-PGIGATHSSR-140. The position of cross-linking site on the S15 protein did not depend on the nature of the A site-bound codon (sense or stop codon) and on the presence of polypeptide chain release factor eRF1 in the ribosomal complexes with mRNA analogues bearing a stop codon. The results indicate an involvement of the mentioned decapeptide in the formation of the ribosomal decoding site during elongation and termination of translation. Alignment of amino acid sequences of eukaryotic S15 and its prokaryotic counterpart, S19p from eubacteria and archaea, revealed that decapeptide PGIGATHSSR in positions 131-140 is strongly conserved in eukaryotes and has minor variations in archaea but has no homology with any sequence in C-terminal part of eubacterial S19p, which suggests involvement of the decapeptide in the translation process in a eukaryote-specific manner.

A short motif in Drosophila SECIS Binding Protein 2 provides differential binding affinity to SECIS RNA hairpins

Selenoproteins contain the amino acid selenocysteine which is encoded by a UGA Sec codon. Recoding UGA Sec requires a complex mechanism, comprising the cis-acting SECIS RNA hairpin in the 3'UTR of selenoprotein mRNAs, and trans-acting factors. Among these, the SECIS Binding Protein 2 (SBP2) is central to the mechanism. SBP2 has been so far functionally characterized only in rats and humans. In this work, we report the characterization of the Drosophila melanogaster SBP2 (dSBP2). Despite its shorter length, it retained the same selenoprotein synthesis-promoting capabilities as the mammalian counterpart. However, a major difference resides in the SECIS recognition pattern: while human SBP2 (hSBP2) binds the distinct form 1 and 2 SECIS RNAs with similar affinities, dSBP2 exhibits high affinity toward form 2 only. In addition, we report the identification of a K (lysine)-rich domain in all SBP2s, essential for SECIS and 60S ribosomal subunit binding, differing from the well-characterized L7Ae RNA-binding domain. Swapping only five amino acids between dSBP2 and hSBP2 in the K-rich domain conferred reversed SECIS-binding properties to the proteins, thus unveiling an important sequence for form 1 binding.

Positioning of subdomain IIId and apical loop of domain II of the hepatitis C IRES on the human 40S ribosome

The 5′-untranslated region of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA contains a highly structured motif called IRES (Internal Ribosome Entry Site) responsible for the cap-independent initiation of the viral RNA translation. At first, the IRES binds to the 40S subunit without any initiation factors so that the initiation AUG codon falls into the P site. Here using an original site-directed cross-linking strategy, we identified 40S subunit components neighboring subdomain IIId, which is critical for HCV IRES binding to the subunit, and apical loop of domain II, which was suggested to contact the 40S subunit from data on cryo-electron microscopy of ribosomal complexes containing the HCV IRES. HCV IRES derivatives that bear a photoactivatable group at nucleotide A275 or at G263 in subdomain IIId cross-link to ribosomal proteins S3a, S14 and S16, and HCV IRES derivatized at the C83 in the apex of domain II cross-link to proteins S14 and S16.

Sites of 18S rRNA contacting mRNA 3' and 5' of the P site codon in human ribosome: a cross-linking study with mRNAs carrying 4-thiouridines at specific positions

Long synthetic mRNAs were used to study the positioning of the E site codon, the 2nd and 3rd nucleotides of the A site bound codon and a nucleotide 3' of this codon with respect to the 18S rRNA in the human 80S ribosome. The mRNAs contained a GAC triplet coding for Asp and a single 4-thiouridine residue (s(4)U) upstream or downstream of the GAC codon. In the presence of tRNA(Asp), the GAC codon of the mRNAs was targeted to the ribosomal P site thus placing s(4)U in one of the following positions -3, -2, -1, +5, +6 or +7 with respect to the first nucleotide of the P site bound codon. It was found that mRNAs that bore s(4)U in positions +5 to +7 cross-linked to the 18S rRNA nucleotides C1696, C1698 and 1820-1825, the distribution of cross-links among these targets depending on the position of s(4)U. Cross-links of mRNAs containing s(4)U in positions -3 to -1 were found in the region 1699-1704 of the 18S rRNA. In the absence of tRNA, all mRNAs cross-linked only to C1696 and C1698. Absence of the cross-linked nucleotides C1696 and C1698 in the case of mRNAs containing s(4)U in positions -3 to -1 confirmed that tRNA(Asp) actually phased the mRNA on the ribosome.

Arrangement of 3'-terminus of tRNA on the human ribosome as revealed from cross-linking data

This study is directed towards an important problem concerning the organization of the peptidyl transferase center (PTC) on the mammalian ribosome that cannot be studied by X-ray analysis since crystals of 80S ribosomes are still unavailable. Here, we investigated the arrangement of the 3'-end of tRNA in the 80S ribosomal A and P sites using a tRNA(Asp) analogue that bears a 4-thiouridine (s(4)U) attached to the 3'-terminal adenosine. It was shown that an additional nucleotide s(4)U77 on the 3'-end does not impede codon-dependent binding of the tRNA to the A and P sites of 80S ribosome. Mild UV-irradiation of the ribosomal complexes containing a short appropriately designed mRNA and the tRNA analogue resulted in cross-linking of the analogue exclusively to 28S rRNA. The cross-linking site was detected in the 4302-4540 fragment of the 28S rRNA which belongs to the highly conserved domain V that in prokaryotic ribosomes is involved in the formation of the PTC. Nucleotides cross-linked to the tRNA analogue were determined by means of reverse transcription. A comparison of the results obtained with a dynamic model of mutual arrangement of s(4)U77 of the A site tRNA and nucleotides of 23S rRNA built on the basis of an atomic model for the prokaryotic PTC led to the conclusion that environments of the tRNA 3'-terminus in prokaryotic and eukaryotic ribosomes share a significant extent of similarity, although pronounced differences are also detectable.

Proteins surrounding hairpin IIIe of the hepatitis C virus internal ribosome entry site on the human 40S ribosomal subunit

Binding of the internal ribosome entry site (IRES) of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA to the eIF-free 40S ribosomal subunit is the first step of initiation of translation of the viral RNA. Hairpins IIId and IIIe comprising 253-302 nt of the IRES are known to be essential for binding to the 40S subunit. Here we have examined the molecular environment of the HCV IRES in its binary complex with the human 40S ribosomal subunit. For this purpose, two RNA derivatives were used that bore a photoactivatable perfluorophenyl azide cross-linker. In one derivative the cross-linker was at the nucleotide A296 in hairpin IIIe, and in the other at G87 in domain II. Site-specific introduction of the cross-linker was performed using alkylating derivatives of oligodeoxyribonucleotides complementary to the target RNA sequences. No cross-links with the rRNA were detected with either RNA derivative. The RNA with the photoactivatable group at A296 cross-linked to proteins identified as S5 and S16 (major) and p40 and S3a (minor), while no cross-links with proteins were detected with RNA modified at G87. The results obtained indicate that hairpin IIIe is located on the solvent side of the 40S subunit head on a site opposite the beak.

Arrangement of mRNA 3' of the A site codon on the human 80S ribosome

Positioning of mRNA 3' of the A site codon was studied with the use of short mRNA analogues carrying a UUU triplet at the 5'-termini and a perfluorophenylazide group at either the N7 atom of the guanosine or the C5 atom of the uridine 3' of the triplet. Modified nucleotides were directed to positions +7, +9 or +12 with respect to the first nucleotide of the P site codon by tRNA(Phe) cognate to the UUU triplet targeted to the P site. Mild UV-irradiation resulted in cross-linking of the mRNA analogues to the 18S rRNA and to 40S proteins, the yield of cross-linking depending on the nature of the mRNA nucleotide bearing the modified group and its position on the ribosome. In addition, the yield of cross-linking to the 18S rRNA decreased strongly when the modified nucleotide was moved from position +7 to position +12. All the mRNA analogues cross-linked to the 18S rRNA nucleotides that had been found earlier at the decoding site, namely, to the invariant dinucleotide A1824/A1825 and the variable A1823 in the 3'-minidomain of the 18S rRNA, and also to the invariant nucleotide C1698 in the 3'-minidomain and the conserved region 605-620 in the apical region of helix 18 in the 5'-domain. The results indicate that (1) the mRNA makes a sharp turn between positions +6 and +7, (2) the triplet immediately 3' of the A site codon neighbors the 18S rRNA and proteins, and (3) the codon 3' of the triplet mentioned is surrounded mainly by proteins.

The first position of a codon placed in the A site of the human 80S ribosome contacts nucleotide C1696 of the 18S rRNA as well as proteins S2, S3, S3a, S30, and S15

Messenger RNA analogues (42-mers) containing a GAC codon (aspartic acid) in the middle of their sequence followed by a s(4)UGA stop codon were used to identify the components of the human ribosomal A site in direct contact with the photoactivatable 4-thiouridine (s(4)U) residue. We compared the behavior of the nonphased ribosome-mRNA complex, (-)tRNA(Asp), to the one of the phased complex, (+)tRNA(Asp), in the absence and in the presence of eRF1, the eukaryotic class 1 translation termination factor of human origin. The patterns of cross-links obtained for the three complexes were similar to those previously reported for rabbit ribosomes [Chavatte, L., et al. (2001) Eur. J. Biochem. 268, 2896-2904]. Cross-links involving proteins S2, S3, S3a, and S30 were poorly dependent on the presence of tRNA(Asp) and eRF1. Cross-linking to nucleotide C1696 of 18S rRNA occurred in all complexes, but its yield was at least two times higher in the phased complex with an empty A site than in the nonphased complex or when the A site was occupied by eRF1. In contrast, protein S15 cross-linked only in the phased complex in the absence of eRF1. The data obtained point to notable differences in organization of the decoding site between mammalian and prokaryotic ribosomes and to large internal mobility of the components of the tRNA (eRF1)-free A site.

The central part of the 5.8 S rRNA is differently arranged in programmed and free human ribosomes

A sequence-specific modification of the human 5.8 S rRNA in isolated 60 S subunits, non-programmed 80 S ribosomes and ribosomes complexed with mRNA and tRNAs was studied with the use of a derivative of the nonaribonucleotide UCUGUGUUU bearing a perfluorophenylazide group on the C-5 atom of the 5'-terminal uridine. Part of the oligonucleotide moiety of the derivative was complementary to the 5.8 S rRNA sequence ACACA in positions 82-86 flanked by two guanines at the 5'-terminus. The target for the cross-linking was identified as nucleotide G89 on the 5.8 S RNA. In addition, several ribosomal proteins were modified by the oligonucleotide derivative bound to the 5.8 S rRNA and proteins L6 and L8 were among them. Application of these results to known cryo-electron microscopy images of eukaryotic 60 S subunits made it possible to suggest that the central part of the 5.8 S rRNA containing the sequence 82-86 and proteins L6 and L8 are located at the base of the L1 stalk of the 60 S subunit. The efficacy of cross-linking in non-programmed 80 S ribosomes was much lower than in isolated 60 S subunits and in programmed 80 S ribosomes. We suggest that the difference in the accessibilities of the central part of the 5.8 S rRNA in the programmed and non-programmed 80 S ribosomes is caused by a conformational switch that seems to be required to dissociate the 80 S ribosomes into the subunits after termination of translation to allow initiation of translation of a new template.

Human ribosomal protein S13: cloning, expression, refolding, and structural stability

The cDNA of human ribosomal protein S13 was cloned into the expression vector pET-15b. Large-scale production of the recombinant protein was carried out in Escherichia coli cells. Protein accumulated in the form of inclusion bodies was isolated, purified, and refolded by dialysis. The recombinant protein was immunologically reactive, interacting with antiserum against native rpS13. The secondary structure content of the refolded protein was analyzed by means of CD spectroscopy. It was found that 43+/-5% of amino acids sequence of the protein form alpha-helices and 11+/-3% are placed in beta-strands that coincides with theoretical predictions. The beta-strands seem to be located in the extension regions of the rpS13 and do not have homologuous regions in the structure of rpS15 from Thermus thermophilus, which is a prokaryotic homolog of rpS13. The protein structure is stable at a pH range from 4.0 to 8.0 and at low concentrations of urea (up to 3 M).

Variable and conserved elements of human ribosomes surrounding the mRNA at the decoding and upstream sites

This study is centred upon an important biological problem concerning the structural organization of mammalian ribosomes that cannot be studied by X-ray analysis because 80S ribosome crystals are still unavailable. Here, positioning of the mRNA on 80S ribosomes was studied using mRNA analogues containing the perfluorophenylazide cross-linker on either the guanosine or an uridine residue. The modified nucleotides were directed to positions from -9 to +6 with respect to the first nucleotide of the P site bound codon by a tRNA cognate to the triplet targeted to the P site. Upon mild UV-irradiation, the modified nucleotides at positions +4 to +6 cross-linked to protein S15 and 18S rRNA nucleotides A1823-A1825. In addition, modified guanosines in positions +5 and +6 also cross-linked to G626, and in position +1 to G1702. Cross-linking from the upstream positions was mainly to protein S26 that has no prokaryotic homologues. These findings indicate that the tail of mammalian S15 comes closer to the decoding site than that of its prokaryotic homologue S19, and that the environments of the upstream part of mRNA on 80S and 70S ribosomes differ. On the other hand, the results confirm the widely accepted idea regarding the conserved nature of the decoding site of the small subunit rRNA.

Positioning of mRNA codons with respect to 18S rRNA at the P and E sites of human ribosome

Positioning of each nucleotide of the E site and the P site bound codons with respect to the 18S rRNA on the human ribosome was studied by cross-linking with mRNA analogs, derivatives of the hexaribonucleotide UUUGUU (comprising Phe and Val codons) that carried a perfluorophenylazide group on the second or the third uracil, and a derivative of the dodecaribonucleotide UUAGUAUUUAUU with a similar group on the guanine residue. The location of the modified nucleotides at any mRNA position from -3 to +3 (position +1 corresponds to the 5' nucleotide of the P site bound codon) was adjusted by the cognate tRNAs. A modified uridine at positions from -1 to +3 cross-linked to nucleotide G1207 of the 18S rRNA, and to nucleotide G961 when it was in position -2. A modified guanosine cross-linked to nucleotide G1207 if it was in position -3 of the mRNA. These data indicate that nucleotide G961 of the 18S rRNA is close only to mRNA positions -3 and -2, while G1207 is in the vicinity of positions from -3 to +3. The latter suggests that there is a sharp turn between the P and E site bound codons that brings nucleotide G1207 of the 18S rRNA close to each nucleotide of these codons. This correlates well with X-ray crystallographic data on bacterial ribosomes, indicating existence of a sharp turn between the P site and E site bound codons near a conserved nucleotide G926 of the 16S rRNA (corresponding to G1207 in 18S rRNA) close to helix 23b containing the conserved nucleotide 693 of the 16S rRNA (corresponding exactly to G961 of the 18S rRNA).

Expression and purification of human ribosomal proteins S3, S5, S10, S19, and S26

The cDNAs for the human ribosomal proteins S3, S5, S10, S19, and S26 were introduced into a pET-15b vector and recombinant proteins containing an N-(His)(6)-fusion tag were expressed in high yields. To resolve the problem of frameshift during expression of S26 caused by the presence of tandem arginine codons in its mRNA that are rare in Escherichia coli, we substituted the rare AGA codon with the more frequent arginine codon (CGC) using a primer with this mutation for PCR amplification of S26 cDNA. All proteins were expressed mainly in the form of inclusion bodies and purified to homogeneity by metal affinity chromatography in one step (except for S3). Expression of the full-length S3 was accompanied by the formation of a low molecular weight polypeptide that was co-purified with S3 by metal affinity chromatography. Complete purification of S3 required an additional gel-filtration step. The proteins were refolded by stepwise dialysis. Both identity and purity of the proteins were confirmed by 2D PAGE. The proteins obtained could be used in a wide range of applications in biophysics, biochemistry, and molecular biology.

Nucleotides of 18S rRNA surrounding mRNA codons at the human ribosomal A, P, and E sites: a crosslinking study with mRNA analogs carrying an aryl azide group at either the uracil or the guanine residue

The 18S rRNA environment of the mRNA at the decoding site of human 80S ribosomes has been studied by cross-linking with derivatives of hexaribonucleotide UUUGUU (comprising Phe and Val codons) that carried a perfluorophenylazide group either at the N7 atom of the guanine or at the C5 atom of the 5'-terminal uracil residue. The location of the codons on the ribosome at A, P, or E sites has been adjusted by the cognate tRNAs. Three types of complexes have been obtained for each type derivative, namely, (1) codon UUU and Phe-tRNAPhe at the P site (codon GUU at the A site), (2) codon UUU and tRNAPhe at the P site and PheVal-tRNAVal at the A site, and (3) codon GUU and Val-tRNAVal at the P site (codon UUU at the E site). This allowed the placement of modified nucleotides of the mRNA analog at positions -3, +1, or +4 on the ribosome. Mild UV irradiation resulted in tRNA-dependent crosslinking of the mRNA analogs to the 18S rRNA. Nucleotide G961 crosslinked to mRNA position -3, nucleotide G1207 to position +1, and A1823 together with A1824 to position +4. All of these nucleotides are located in the most strongly conserved regions of the small subunit RNA structure, and correspond to nucleotides G693, G926, G1491, and A1492 of bacterial 16S rRNA. Three of them (with the exception of G1491) had been found earlier at the 70S ribosomal decoding site. The similarities and differences between the 16S and 18S rRNA decoding sites are discussed.

Site-specific modification of 4.5S RNA apical domain by complementary oligodeoxynucleotides carrying an alkylating group

Site-specific alkylation of RNA by reactive oligodeoxynucleotides provides structural information and represents the first step towards the design of RNA derivatives to be used for functional studies. Specific alkylation of 4.5S RNA at G53, the first base of the apical tetraloop, was achieved by incubation with oligodeoxynucleotide ON2, complementary to nucleotides 38-53, which carries a p-(N-2-chloroethyl-N-methylamino)benzylamidophosphate group at the 5' end. Alkylation efficiency was increased by a factor of 6, without alteration of specificity, in the presence of a helper oligodeoxynucleotide, ON1, complementary to nucleotides 58-71 of the opposite strand of the RNA helix. A second reactive oligodeoxynucleotide, ON1-3'-R, was obtained by attaching the alkylating group to the 3' end of ON1. ON1-3'-R was able to modify G58. In the presence of ON2 as a helper oligodeoxynucleotide, the specificity of ON1-3'-R changes and efficient alkylation of nucleotides G54, A56 and G57 of the apical region of 4.5S RNA was observed.

Hybridization of two oligodeoxynucleotides to both strands of an RNA hairpin structure increases the efficiency of RNA-DNA duplex formation

Hybridization of two oligodeoxyribonucleotides (ON1 and ON2), complementary to opposite strands of the apical domain of Escherichia coli 4.5S RNA, was studied. ON1, complementary to bases 58-71, was not able to form a stable RNA-DNA hybrid whereas ON2, complementary to bases 38-53, was. Addition of both oligonucleotides at the same time resulted in the formation of a ternary complex permitting hybridization of ON1 and increasing hybridization of ON2. Under this condition, binary complexes of ON1 or ON2 with 4.5S RNA were not observed. The data demonstrate that hybridization of oligonucleotides to both strands of an RNA hairpin structure increases the efficiency of hybridization of either oligonucleotide.

A novel approach to introduce site-directed specific cross-links within RNA-protein complexes. Application to the Escherichia coli threonyl-tRNA synthetase/translational operator complex

We describe a methodology which allows the introduction of a photoactivatable azido group at specific internal positions of any RNA in order to identify the neighboring elements of an interacting protein. The first step involves site-directed modification of the target RNA with an antisense oligodeoxyribonucleotide bearing, at its 3' or 5' phosphate, a 4-[-N-(2-chloroethyl)-N-methylamino]benzylmethylamino group. Position N7 of a guanine residue located in the close vicinity of the hybrid is the main target for alkylation. The antisense oligodeoxyribonucleotide is then removed by acidic pH treatment and a photoreactive reagent (2,4-dinitro-5-fluorophenylazide) is condensed to the modified nucleotide. This method was used to induce specific cross-links between Escherichia coli threonyl-tRNA synthetase and the leader region of threonyl-tRNA synthetase mRNA, which is involved in translational feedback regulation. Control experiments revealed that the modification affects neither the structure of the mRNA nor the interaction with the enzyme. More than 50% of the modified mRNA complexed with threonyl-tRNA synthetase can be cross-linked to the enzyme, depending on the nucleotide modified.