Insights into the relation between mRNA and protein expression patterns: I. Theoretical considerations

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Systems Biology
• Biochemical Engineering

Background:

• Cellular translation is a fundamental process with significant implications for medicine and engineering.
• Discrepancies between mRNA and protein expression levels necessitate a deeper understanding of the translation process.
• Advancements in monitoring mRNA and protein levels require sophisticated models to interpret expression data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a mechanistic, genome-wide model of translation.
• To map changes in mRNA levels to corresponding changes in protein levels.
• To identify key parameters influencing the mRNA-protein expression relationship.

Main Methods:

• Development of a mechanistic, genome-wide model for cellular translation.
• System-level analysis to identify critical parameters affecting mRNA-protein mapping.
• Investigating the influence of kinetic parameters and ribosome concentration.

Main Results:

• The correlation between mRNA and protein levels is influenced by kinetic parameters and ribosome concentration.
• Ribosome concentration, initiation/elongation/termination kinetics, and protein stability are key determinants.
• Competition for aminoacyl-tRNAs significantly impacts translation efficiency.

Conclusions:

• A mechanistic model provides insights into the complex mapping between mRNA and protein expression.
• Understanding translation kinetics and ribosome dynamics is crucial for predicting protein output.
• This model aids in interpreting cellular responses and engineering applications.