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Updated: Jan 2, 2026

Rapid In Vivo Fixation and Isolation of Translational Complexes from Eukaryotic Cells
Published on: December 25, 2021
Oxidation and alkylation stresses activate ribosome-quality control
Liewei L Yan1, Carrie L Simms1, Fionn McLoughlin1
1Department of Biology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
Organisms combat chemically damaged mRNA, like that from nucleobase oxidation and alkylation, using cellular surveillance. These pathways clear modified mRNA and prevent aberrant protein buildup, maintaining cell health.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cellular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Nucleobase oxidation and alkylation can alter RNA base-pairing.
- The cellular mechanisms for managing chemically modified mRNA remain largely unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if cellular surveillance pathways respond to nucleobase alkylation and oxidation.
- To determine the role of these pathways in clearing damaged mRNA and aberrant proteins.
Main Methods:
- Utilized genetic deletions (Xrn1, LTN1) and chemical agents (oxidizing, alkylating).
- Monitored mRNA levels and protein aggregate formation.
- Assessed Hel2-dependent ubiquitylation of ribosomal proteins.
Main Results:
- No-go decay and ribosome-quality control are activated by nucleobase alkylation and oxidation.
- Xrn1 is crucial for reducing damaged mRNA levels.
- LTN1 deletion leads to protein aggregate accumulation, associated with Hel2-mediated ubiquitylation.
Conclusions:
- Chemically damaged mRNA poses a significant burden on cellular homeostasis.
- Organisms possess evolved mechanisms, including mRNA surveillance, to counteract the accumulation of damaged mRNA and its toxic products.
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