Translation machinery reprogramming in programmed cell death in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Cell Biology
• Genetics

Background:

• Programmed cell death (PCD) is a complex process involving molecular pathways in eukaryotes and prokaryotes.
• In Escherichia coli, toxin-antitoxin systems regulate PCD by altering mRNA and ribosome organization.
• In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, ribosome stoichiometry changes during stress, affecting ohnolog proportions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of ribosomal protein expression in yeast programmed cell death induced by acetic acid.
• To analyze differential gene expression patterns of cytosolic and mitochondrial ribosomal proteins during PCD.
• To identify other genes involved in translation and rRNA maturation affected by acetic acid.

Main Methods:

• Induction of programmed cell death in yeast using acetic acid.
• Analysis of differential gene expression of ribosomal proteins.
• Examination of gene expression trends in cytosolic and mitochondrial ribosomal proteins.
• Investigation of genes related to translation and rRNA post-transcriptional maturation.

Main Results:

• Differential expression of ribosomal proteins was confirmed in yeast during acetic acid-induced PCD.
• Pairs of ohnologs were involved in the differential expression of ribosomal proteins.
• Distinct expression trends were observed for cytosolic and mitochondrial ribosomal proteins.
• Acetic acid exposure led to differential expression of genes involved in translation and rRNA maturation, including mRNA decapping and snoRNA synthesis.

Conclusions:

• Reprogramming of the translation apparatus is a significant event in yeast programmed cell death.
• Cytosolic ribosome reorganization plays a relevant role in acetic acid-induced PCD in yeast.
• Changes in ribosomal protein expression and translation-related processes are critical for determining cell fate during stress-induced PCD.