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An Optimized Quantitative Pull-Down Analysis of RNA-Binding Proteins Using Short Biotinylated RNA
Published on: February 17, 2023
DNA and RNA Binding Proteins: From Motifs to Roles in Cancer
Ondrej Bonczek1,2, Lixiao Wang2, Sivakumar Vadivel Gnanasundram2
1Research Centre for Applied Molecular Oncology (RECAMO), Masaryk Memorial Cancer Institute (MMCI), Zluty Kopec 7, 656 53 Brno, Czech Republic.
Abstract:
DNA and RNA binding proteins (DRBPs) are a broad class of molecules that regulate numerous cellular processes across all living organisms, creating intricate dynamic multilevel networks to control nucleotide metabolism and gene expression. These interactions are highly regulated, and dysregulation contributes to the development of a variety of diseases, including cancer. An increasing number of proteins with DNA and/or RNA binding activities have been identified in recent years, and it is important to understand how their activities are related to the molecular mechanisms of cancer. In addition, many of these proteins have overlapping functions, and it is therefore essential to analyze not only the loss of function of individual factors, but also to group abnormalities into specific types of activities in regard to particular cancer types. In this review, we summarize the classes of DNA-binding, RNA-binding, and DRBPs, drawing particular attention to the similarities and differences between these protein classes. We also perform a cross-search analysis of relevant protein databases, together with our own pipeline, to identify DRBPs involved in cancer. We discuss the most common DRBPs and how they are related to specific cancers, reviewing their biochemical, molecular biological, and cellular properties to highlight their functions and potential as targets for treatment.
Insights
DNA and RNA binding proteins (DRBPs) regulate gene expression and nucleotide metabolism. This review highlights DRBPs involved in cancer, discussing their roles and potential as therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- DNA and RNA binding proteins (DRBPs) are crucial regulators of cellular processes, including nucleotide metabolism and gene expression.
- Dysregulation of DRBPs is linked to various diseases, notably cancer, underscoring their importance in disease pathogenesis.
- Understanding the diverse functions and interactions of DRBPs is essential for deciphering cancer's molecular mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and categorize DNA-binding, RNA-binding, and combined DRBPs.
- To identify DRBPs implicated in cancer through database analysis and a custom pipeline.
- To explore the biochemical, molecular, and cellular properties of cancer-associated DRBPs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and categorization of DRBPs based on binding specificities (DNA, RNA, or both).
- Cross-search analysis of protein databases and application of a proprietary pipeline to identify cancer-relevant DRBPs.
- Analysis of biochemical, molecular biological, and cellular characteristics of identified DRBPs.
Main Results:
- Summary of different classes of DNA-binding, RNA-binding, and DRBPs, emphasizing their similarities and differences.
- Identification of specific DRBPs frequently associated with various cancer types.
- Detailed discussion of the functions and properties of common cancer-associated DRBPs.
Conclusions:
- DRBPs play critical roles in cancer development and progression.
- Specific DRBPs represent promising targets for novel cancer therapies.
- Further investigation into DRBP functions and dysregulation is warranted for therapeutic advancements.
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