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Published on: July 31, 2019
TcRRMs and Tcp28 genes are intercalated and differentially expressed in Trypanosoma cruzi life cycle
Giselle Guimarães Gomes1, Turán Peter Urményi, Edson Rondinelli
1Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Abstract:
The identification and characterization of RNA binding proteins in Trypanosoma cruzi are particularly relevant as they play key roles in the regulatory mechanisms of gene expression. In this work, we have identified coding sequences for the proteins, named TcRRM1 and TcRRM2, in the EST database generated by the T. cruzi genomic initiative. TcRRM1 and TcRRM2 contain two RNA binding domains (RRM) and are very similar to two Trypanosoma brucei RNA binding proteins previously reported, Tbp34 and Tbp37, and to a not yet annotated ORF in Leishmania major genome project. The T. cruzi RRM genes are organized in tandem, alternating with copies of Tcp28, a gene of unknown function. However, TcRRM transcript accumulation is higher in the spheromastigote stage, while Tcp28 transcripts accumulate more in the trypomastigote stage suggesting developmental regulation.
Insights
Researchers identified two RNA binding proteins, TcRRM1 and TcRRM2, in Trypanosoma cruzi. Their expression patterns suggest developmental regulation, offering insights into gene expression control in this parasite.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Parasitology
- Genomics
Background:
- RNA binding proteins are crucial for gene expression regulation in Trypanosoma cruzi.
- Understanding these proteins is key to deciphering parasite biology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize novel RNA binding proteins in Trypanosoma cruzi.
- To investigate the genomic organization and developmental regulation of these proteins.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the T. cruzi EST database for identifying coding sequences.
- Analyzed gene organization and transcript accumulation across different parasite stages.
Main Results:
- Identified two RNA binding proteins, TcRRM1 and TcRRM2, containing two RNA binding domains (RRM).
- Found TcRRM genes organized in tandem with the Tcp28 gene.
- Observed differential transcript accumulation of TcRRM and Tcp28 between spheromastigote and trypomastigote stages.
Conclusions:
- TcRRM1 and TcRRM2 are novel RNA binding proteins in T. cruzi, similar to homologs in other kinetoplastids.
- The distinct expression patterns of TcRRM and Tcp28 suggest stage-specific roles and developmental regulation.
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