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Gene regulation: translational initiation by internal ribosome binding
1Department of Biochemistry, Biophysics and Genetics, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver 80262.
Current Opinion in Genetics & Development
|April 1, 1993
Summary
Cellular messenger RNAs (mRNAs) can now initiate translation using internal ribosome binding, a process previously believed exclusive to viral RNAs. Research reveals structural and functional details of internal ribosome entry sites and protein factors involved.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Translational initiation in eukaryotes typically occurs via a cap-dependent mechanism.
- Internal ribosome entry sites (IRES) mediate cap-independent translation initiation.
- Previously, IRES-mediated translation was primarily observed in viral RNAs, particularly picornaviruses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the emerging phenomenon of internal ribosome binding in cellular mRNAs.
- To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying internal ribosome entry in non-viral contexts.
- To analyze the structural and functional roles of IRES elements and associated protein factors.
Main Methods:
- Structural analysis of internal ribosome entry sites.
- Functional assays to assess translation initiation.
- Biochemical characterization of protein factors interacting with IRES elements.
Main Results:
- Several cellular messenger RNAs (mRNAs) have been identified that utilize internal ribosome binding for translational initiation.
- Structural and functional analyses have provided new insights into the molecular mechanisms of internal ribosome entry.
- Key protein factors that stimulate translation mediated by these internal ribosome entry sites have been characterized.
Conclusions:
- Internal ribosome binding is a mechanism utilized by cellular mRNAs, expanding beyond its previously known viral association.
- Understanding the structure and function of IRES elements and their regulatory proteins is crucial for comprehending cellular translation regulation.