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Interallelic complementation at the suppressor of forked locus of Drosophila reveals complementation between

M Simonelig1, K Elliott, A Mitchelson

  • 1Institut Jacques Monod, Université Paris, France. simoneli@ccr.jussieu.fr

Genetics
|April 1, 1996
PubMed

Insights

The Su(f) gene in fruit flies is crucial for mRNA processing. Its larger protein product is essential, and different mutated versions can interact to restore partial function, suggesting protein interactions.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Developmental Biology

Background:

  • The Su(f) protein in Drosophila melanogaster shows homology to yeast and human proteins involved in mRNA 3' end processing.
  • This suggests conserved mechanisms for mRNA maturation across eukaryotes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the genetic and molecular complexity of the Su(f) locus.
  • To determine the functional role of Su(f) gene products in mRNA 3' end formation.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of Su(f) gene transcription and protein products.
  • Genetic analysis of Su(f) alleles, including complementation studies.
  • Functional characterization using transgenic constructs.

Main Results:

  • The Su(f) locus produces three RNAs, potentially encoding two proteins.
  • Only the larger 84 kD Su(f) protein is required for wild-type function.
  • Complementation between lethal Su(f) alleles indicates that different mutated domains can interact to restore partial function.

Conclusions:

  • The 84 kD Su(f) protein is essential for mRNA 3' end processing in Drosophila.
  • Evidence suggests protein-protein interactions involving Su(f) molecules, potentially mediating its function.

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