Elucidation of molecular mechanisms controlling localization and metabolism of mRNAs via retrotransposon insertions

2014 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 24657123
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Challenging Exploratory Research
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Research Field: Molecular biology
• Research Institution: The Institute of Physical and Chemical Research
• Principal Investigator: NAKAGAWA Shinichi 独立行政法人理化学研究所, 中川RNA生物学研究室, 准主任研究員 (50324679)
• Project Period (FY): 2012-04-01 – 2015-03-31
• Keywords: ノンコーディングRNA / レトロトランスポゾン / 4.5SH / 核

Outline of Final Research Achievements

To elucidate functions of retrotransposon sequences inserted in the untranslated region of mRNAs, we performed a series of analyses on an abundant nuclear noncoding RNA called 4.5SH, which is highly homologous to retrotransposon SINE B1. 4.5SH formed double-stranded RNA duplex with mRNAs containing antisense insertions of SINE B1, which were retained in the nucleus. The nuclear-retained mRNAs with antisense SINE B1 insertions were released into cytoplasm upon knockdown of 4.5SH. The nuclear retention via 4.5SH was regulated by a double-stranded RNA binding protein called NF110. These results revealed a novel mechanism that controls sub-cellular localization of mRNAs through the intra-molecular formation of the double stranded RNA structures.

Free Research Field

生物学