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Transient molecular chimerism for exploiting xenogeneic organelles.

Yuichiro Kashiyama1,2, Moe Maruyama3, Masami Nakazawa4

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This study reveals transient molecular chimerism in the flagellate Rapaza viridis, where nuclear proteins support photosynthesis in acquired chloroplasts (kleptoplasts). This finding offers new insights into organelle evolution and function.

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Area of Science:

  • Cell Biology
  • Evolutionary Biology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Organelle genomes confirm prokaryotic ancestry, but most organelle proteins are nuclear-encoded, creating molecular chimerism.
  • The evolutionary drivers of this chimerism remain poorly understood, lacking substantial empirical evidence.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide biochemical evidence for transient molecular chimerism in nature.
  • To elucidate a potential mechanism for chimerism.
  • To investigate the role of nuclear-encoded proteins in supporting photosynthesis within transient kleptoplasts.

Main Methods:

  • Focusing on two kleptoplast-targeted proteins in Rapaza viridis: RuBisCO small subunit-like protein (RvRbcS-like) and RuBisCO activase homologue.
  • Utilizing immunofluorescence microscopy to confirm protein localization.
  • Employing knockdown and knockout experiments to assess functional impact on photosynthesis.

Main Results:

  • Confirmed kleptoplast localization of RvRbcS-like and RuBisCO activase.
  • Demonstrated impaired photosynthesis upon knockdown/knockout, especially for RvRbcS-like.
  • Identified a unique carboxyl-terminal extension in RvRbcS-like, suggesting a role in pyrenoid reorganization and kleptoplast remodeling.

Conclusions:

  • Rapaza viridis exhibits transient molecular chimerism, with nuclear proteins supporting photosynthesis in xenogeneic kleptoplasts.
  • Protein translocation into kleptoplasts involves rapid, de novo assembly of transport systems after each acquisition.
  • This organism serves as a valuable model for studying organelle origins and evolution.