High throughput sequencing analysis of Trypanosoma brucei DRBD3/PTB1-bound mRNAs

Mol Biochem Parasitol. 2015 Jan-Feb;199(1-2):1-4. doi: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2015.02.003. Epub 2015 Feb 25.

Abstract

Trypanosomes are early-branched eukaryotes that show an unusual dependence on post-transcriptional mechanisms to regulate gene expression. RNA-binding proteins are crucial in controlling mRNA fate in these organisms, but their RNA substrates remain largely unknown. Here we have analyzed on a global scale the mRNAs associated with the Trypanosoma brucei RNA-binding protein DRBD3/PTB1, by capturing ribonucleoprotein complexes using UV cross-linking and subsequent immunoprecipitation. DRBD3/PTB1 associates with many transcripts encoding ribosomal proteins and translation factors. Consequently, silencing of DRBD3/PTB1 expression altered the protein synthesis rate. DRBD3/PTB1 also binds to mRNAs encoding the enzymes required to obtain energy through the oxidation of proline to succinate. We hypothesize that DRBD3/PTB1 is a key player in RNA regulon-based gene control influencing protein synthesis in trypanosomes.

Keywords: RNA-binding proteins; Trypanosoma brucei; mRNA translation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing*
  • Immunoprecipitation
  • Protein Binding
  • Protozoan Proteins / metabolism*
  • RNA, Messenger / genetics*
  • RNA, Messenger / metabolism*
  • RNA-Binding Proteins / metabolism*
  • Sequence Analysis, RNA*
  • Trypanosoma brucei brucei / genetics*

Substances

  • Protozoan Proteins
  • RNA, Messenger
  • RNA-Binding Proteins