Messenger RNA in HeLa cells: an investigation of free and polyribosome-bound cytoplasmic messenger ribonucleoprotein particles by kinetic labelling and electron microscopy

Is RNA the working genome in eukaryotes ? The 60 year evolution of a conceptual challenge

About 80 years ago, in 1943, after a century of biochemical and genetic research, DNA was established as the carrier of genetic information. At the onset of Molecular Biology around 1960, the genome of living organisms embodied 3 basic, still unknown paradigms: its composition, organisation and expression. Between 1980 and 1990, its replication was understood, and ideas about its 3D-organisation were suggested and finally confirmed by 2010. The basic mechanisms of gene expression in higher organisms, the synthesis of precursor RNAs and their processing into functional RNAs, were also discovered about 60 years ago in 1961/62. However, some aspects were then, and are still now debated, although the latest results in post-genomic research have confirmed the basic principles. When my history-essay was published in 2003, describing the discovery of RNA processing 40 years earlier, the main facts were not yet generally confirmed or acknowledged. The processing of pre-rRNA to 28 S and 18 S rRNA was clearly demonstrated, confirmed by others and generally accepted as a fact. However, the "giant" size of pre-mRNA 10-100 kb-long and pervasive DNA transcription were still to be confirmed by post-genomic methods. It was found, surprisingly, that up to 90% of DNA is transcribed in the life cycle of eukaryotic organisms thus showing that pervasive transcription was the general rule. In this essay, we shall take a journey through the 60-year history of evolving paradigms of gene expression which followed the emergence of Molecular Biology, and we will also evoke some of the "folklore" in research throughout this period. Most important was the growing recognition that although the genome is encoded in DNA, the Working Genome in eukaryotic organisms is RNA.

Primary transcripts: From the discovery of RNA processing to current concepts of gene expression - Review

The main purpose of this review is to recall for investigators - and in particular students -, some of the early data and concepts in molecular genetics and biology that are rarely cited in the current literature and are thus invariably overlooked. There is a growing tendency among editors and reviewers to consider that only data produced in the last 10-20 years or so are pertinent. However this is not the case. In exact science, sound data and lucid interpretation never become obsolete, and even if forgotten, will resurface sooner or later. In the field of gene expression, covered in the present review, recent post-genomic data have indeed confirmed many of the earlier results and concepts developed in the mid-seventies, well before the start of the recombinant DNA revolution. Human brains and even the most powerful computers, have difficulty in handling and making sense of the overwhelming flow of data generated by recent high-throughput technologies. This was easier when low throughput, more integrative methods based on biochemistry and microscopy dominated biological research. Nowadays, the need for organising concepts is ever more important, otherwise the mass of available data can generate only "building ruins" - the bricks without an architect. Concepts such as pervasive transcription of genomes, large genomic domains, full domain transcripts (FDTs) up to 100 kb long, the prevalence of post-transcriptional events in regulating eukaryotic gene expression, and the 3D-genome architecture, were all developed and discussed before 1990, and are only now coming back into vogue. Thus, to review the impact of earlier concepts on later developments in the field, I will confront former and current data and ideas, including a discussion of old and new methods. Whenever useful, I shall first briefly report post-genomic developments before addressing former results and interpretations. Equally important, some of the terms often used sloppily in scientific discussions will be clearly defined. As a basis for the ensuing discussion, some of the issues and facts related to eukaryotic gene expression will first be introduced. In chapter 2 the evolution in perception of biology over the last 60 years and the impact of the recombinant DNA revolution will be considered. Then, in chapter 3 data and theory concerning the genome, gene expression and genetics will be reviewed. The experimental and theoretical definition of the gene will be discussed before considering the 3 different types of genetic information - the "Triad" - and the importance of post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression in the light of the recent finding that 90% of genomic DNA seems to be transcribed. Some previous attempts to provide a conceptual framework for these observations will be recalled, in particular the "Cascade Regulation Hypothesis" (CRH) developed in 1967-85, and the "Gene and Genon" concept proposed in 2007. A knowledge of the size of primary transcripts is of prime importance, both for experimental and theoretical reasons, since these molecules represent the primary units of the "RNA genome" on which most of the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression occurs. In chapter 4, I will first discuss some current post-genomic topics before summarising the discovery of the high Mr-RNA transcripts, and the investigation of their processing spanning the last 50 years. Since even today, a consensus concerning the real form of primary transcripts in eukaryotic cells has not yet been reached, I will refer to the viral and specialized cellular models which helped early on to understand the mechanisms of RNA processing and differential splicing which operate in cells and tissues. As a well-studied example of expression and regulation of a specific cellular gene in relation to differentiation and pathology, I will discuss the early and recent work on expression of the globin genes in nucleated avian erythroblasts. An important concept is that the primary transcript not only embodies protein-coding information and regulation of its expression, but also the 3D-structure of the genomic DNA from which it was derived. The wealth of recent post-genomic data published in this field emphasises the importance of a fundamental principle of genome organisation and expression that has been overlooked for years even though it was already discussed in the 1970-80ties. These issues are addressed in chapter 5 which focuses on the involvement of the nuclear matrix and nuclear architecture in DNA and RNA biology. This section will make reference to the Unified Matrix Hypothesis (UMH), which was the first molecular model of the 3D organisation of DNA and RNA. The chapter on the "RNA-genome and peripheral memories" discusses experimental data on the ribonucleoprotein complexes containing pre-mRNA (pre-mRNPs) and mRNA (mRNPs) which are organised in nuclear and cytoplasmic spaces respectively. Finally, "Outlook " will enumerate currently unresolved questions in the field, and will propose some ideas that may encourage further investigation, and comprehension of available experimental data still in need of interpretation. In chapter 8, some propositions and paradigms basic to the authors own analysis are discussed. "In conclusion" the raison d'être of this review is recalled and positioned within the overall framework of scientific endeavour.

Gene and genon concept: coding versus regulation. A conceptual and information-theoretic analysis of genetic storage and expression in the light of modern molecular biology

We analyse here the definition of the gene in order to distinguish, on the basis of modern insight in molecular biology, what the gene is coding for, namely a specific polypeptide, and how its expression is realized and controlled. Before the coding role of the DNA was discovered, a gene was identified with a specific phenotypic trait, from Mendel through Morgan up to Benzer. Subsequently, however, molecular biologists ventured to define a gene at the level of the DNA sequence in terms of coding. As is becoming ever more evident, the relations between information stored at DNA level and functional products are very intricate, and the regulatory aspects are as important and essential as the information coding for products. This approach led, thus, to a conceptual hybrid that confused coding, regulation and functional aspects. In this essay, we develop a definition of the gene that once again starts from the functional aspect. A cellular function can be represented by a polypeptide or an RNA. In the case of the polypeptide, its biochemical identity is determined by the mRNA prior to translation, and that is where we locate the gene. The steps from specific, but possibly separated sequence fragments at DNA level to that final mRNA then can be analysed in terms of regulation. For that purpose, we coin the new term "genon". In that manner, we can clearly separate product and regulative information while keeping the fundamental relation between coding and function without the need to introduce a conceptual hybrid. In mRNA, the program regulating the expression of a gene is superimposed onto and added to the coding sequence in cis - we call it the genon. The complementary external control of a given mRNA by trans-acting factors is incorporated in its transgenon. A consequence of this definition is that, in eukaryotes, the gene is, in most cases, not yet present at DNA level. Rather, it is assembled by RNA processing, including differential splicing, from various pieces, as steered by the genon. It emerges finally as an uninterrupted nucleic acid sequence at mRNA level just prior to translation, in faithful correspondence with the amino acid sequence to be produced as a polypeptide. After translation, the genon has fulfilled its role and expires. The distinction between the protein coding information as materialised in the final polypeptide and the processing information represented by the genon allows us to set up a new information theoretic scheme. The standard sequence information determined by the genetic code expresses the relation between coding sequence and product. Backward analysis asks from which coding region in the DNA a given polypeptide originates. The (more interesting) forward analysis asks in how many polypeptides of how many different types a given DNA segment is expressed. This concerns the control of the expression process for which we have introduced the genon concept. Thus, the information theoretic analysis can capture the complementary aspects of coding and regulation, of gene and genon.

20S Proteasome Differentially Alters Translation of Different mRNAs via the Cleavage of eIF4F and eIF3

The molecular basis for coordinated regulation of protein synthesis and degradation is not understood. Here we report that the 20S proteasome endoproteolytically cleaves the translation initiation factors eIF4G, a subunit of eIF4F, and eIF3a, a subunit of eIF3. The cleavage of eIF4G or eIF3a differentially affects the assembly of ribosomal preinitiation complexes on different cellular and viral mRNAs in an in vitro system containing pure components. Inhibition of proteolytic activity of the 20S proteasome with specific inhibitors prevents cleavage of both factors in vitro and in vivo, restores assembly of ribosomal complexes in vitro, and differentially affects translation of different mRNAs in vivo. These studies demonstrate the importance of the endoproteolytic activity of proteasomes in regulation of cellular processes and suggest a link between protein synthesis and degradation.

Prosomes form sarcomere-like banding patterns in skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle cells

Prosomes (20S proteasomes) constitute the catalytic core of the 26S proteasomes, but were first observed as factors associated with unstranslated mRNA. Recently, their RNase activity was discovered together with the fact that their proteolytic function is dispensable in adapted human cells. By indirect immunofluorescence using monoclonal antibodies, we demonstrate as a general phenomenon, regular intercalation of specific types of prosomes into the sarcomeric structure of all types of striated muscle. Surprisingly, in cultured smooth muscle cells without sarcomeric organization, some prosomes also form regular striations in extended projections of cytoplasmic regions. The significance of their sarcomeric distribution is not understood as yet, but the pattern we observe is very similar to that shown by others for muscle-specific mRNAs, identified by in situ hybridization, and that of the cognate proteins. A role of prosomes in the cotranslational assembly of the myofibrillar proteins is suggested, since prosomes organize into pseudo-sarcomeric patterns prior to formation de novo of the actin-myosin arrangement.

In mouse myoblasts nuclear prosomes are associated with the nuclear matrix and accumulate preferentially in the perinucleolar areas

Prosomes are the core of 26S proteasomes, although they were originally observed as 20S particles associated with cytoplasmic mRNPs. Here we show for the first time that prosomes are also genuine constituents of the nuclear matrix, chromatin and the nuclear RNP networks. Using mouse myoblasts we tested three monoclonal antibodies recognising the prosomal subunits p23K, p27K and p30K, and found that the corresponding prosome subclasses are characterised by a variable distribution pattern within the nuclei. Their presence on the nuclear matrix, and most abundantly in the perinucleolar area, is of particular importance. When myoblasts fuse into myotubes, the distribution pattern of certain types of prosomes on the nuclear matrix changes drastically. Surprisingly, DNA strongly interferes with the detection of prosomal antigens by immunofluorescence methods, whereas RNA, histones and other proteins soluble in 2 M NaCl have no such effect. This ‘masking’ of prosomes can be completely overcome by extensive or even mild digestion with DNase I or restriction enzymes. Many nuclear prosomes can be solubilized by combined treatment with 0.5% Triton X-100 and 2 M NaCl, and others can be released by digestion of DNA and/or RNA, and about 10–20% of nuclear prosomes remain tightly bound to the protein-based nuclear matrix.

Specific types of prosomes distribute differentially between intermediate and actin filaments in epithelial, fibroblastic and muscle cells

First observed as components of non-translated mRNP complexes, prosomes harbour RNase and several proteinase activities; they are also the central constituent of the "Multicatalytic Proteinase (MCP) complexes" or "26S-proteasomes". In two recent publications (Arcangeletti et al., 1997b; De Conto et al., 1997) we have shown, by applying a new fixation technique, that these particles distribute differentially between the cytoskeletal networks of intermediate filament (IF) and actin types; previously they had been observed exclusively on the intermediate filaments. Here we further investigate the distribution of prosomes of several types, distinct by their subunit composition, between the IF of vimentin type and the actin network, as well as in the 3D space of the cell. It is shown that subtypes of prosomes occupy specific networks of the cytoskeleton, and that this pattern is specific for a given cell type. Confocal microscopy shows that prosome cytodistribution is not homogeneous in the 3D space: in the perinuclear area they colocalize most strongly with the IF, and more peripherally with the microfilament/stress fiber system; connections may exist between the two networks. Furthermore, new data indicate that the prosome-actin interaction may participate in the molecular structure of the stress fibers.

In the nucleus and cytoplasm of chicken erythroleukemic cells, prosomes containing the p23K subunit are found in centers of globin (pre-)mRNA processing and accumulation

Prosomes were originally identified as 20S particles associated with untranslated mRNA; they also constitute the core of the 26S proteasomes. The cellular distribution of three types of prosomes characterized by the presence of subunits with molecular masses of 23, 27, and 30 kDa was analyzed using an immunocytochemical approach on cultured chicken erythroblasts. The prosomes containing the p27K and p30K subunits were found in diffuse distribution in both nuclei and cytoplasm. In contrast, the prosomes containing the p23K subunit, although relatively rare in the nuclear space, were found concentrated in one or two large spots. Using in situ hybridization with an alpha(A)-globin gene-specific riboprobe we found that the p23K-type prosomes colocalize in the nucleus with centers of globin (pre-)mRNA processing, and of mRNA accumulation in the cytoplasm. This result suggests there is local coincidence of specific-type prosome function with processing and, possibly, transport of a particular kind of (pre-)mRNA.

Dynamic distribution and formation of a para-sarcomeric banding pattern of prosomes during myogenic differentiation of satellite cells in vitro

Myogenesis proceeds by fusion of proliferating myoblasts into myotubes under the control of various transcription factors. In adult skeletal muscle, myogenic stem cells are represented by the satellite cells which can be cultured and differentiate in vitro. This system was used to investigate the subcellular distribution of a particular type of prosomes at different steps of the myogenic process. Prosomes constitute the MCP core of the 26S proteasomes but were first observed as subcomplexes of the untranslated mRNPs; recently, their RNase activity was discovered. A monoclonal antibody raised against the p27K subunit showed that the p27K subunit-specific prosomes move transiently into the nucleus prior to the onset of myoblast fusion into myotubes; this represents possibly one of the first signs of myoblast switching into the differentiation pathway. Prior to fusion, the prosomes containing the p27K subunit return to the cytoplasm, where they align with the gradually formed lengthwise-running desmin-type intermediate filaments and the microfilaments, co-localizing finally with the actin bundles. The prosomes progressively form discontinuous punctate structures which eventually develop a pseudo-sarcomeric banding pattern. In myotubes just formed in vitro, the formation of this pattern seems to preceed that produced by the muscle-specific sarcomeric (alpha)-actin. Interestingly, this pattern of prosomes of myotubes in terminal in vitro differentiation was very similar to that of prosomes observed in vivo in foetal and adult muscle. These observations are discussed in relation to molecular myogenesis and prosome/proteasome function.

Modification of cytoskeleton and prosome networks in relation to protein synthesis in influenza A virus-infected LLC-MK2 cells

Modifications of the cytoskeleton and protein synthesis were investigated in LLC-MK2 cells during infection by FPV/Ulster 73, an avian strain of influenza A virus. During infection, the cytoskeleton and the prosome networks undergo a dramatic reorganization, which seems to be at least temporally differentiated for each cytoskeletal system, i.e. microfilaments (MFs), microtubules (MTs), intermediate filaments (IFs). In order to evaluate the role of the three different cytoskeletal networks during FPV/Ulster infection, studies were carried out on cellular and virus-specific protein synthesis and viral production, using drugs which selectively affect individual cytoskeletal systems. Our data show that the perturbation of the IF system, but not that of the MFs or MTs, seems to have a strong inhibitory effect on virus production and cellular and viral protein synthesis. Furthermore, the dynamics of IFs and prosomes were investigated during viral infection and, at no time, dissociation of the prosome and IF networks was observed. Taken together, these results strongly support the idea that the interactions between the protein synthesis machinery, the cytoskeleton, and the prosomes are all affected by viral infection in a partially coordinated manner.

Changes in the subunit distribution of prosomes (MCP-proteasomes) during the differentiation of human leukemic cells

The subunit composition of cell-internal and surface prosomes during phorbol myristate acetate (PMA)-induced differentiation of human leukemic T lymphocytes (CCRF-CEM cell line) was studied in relation to clusters of differentiation (CD) markers. PMA inhibited cell growth and decreased the amounts of CD1a and CD4 while CD3, CD8, CD25, CD45, CD57 and MHCI increased it; the p53 anti-oncogene increased while actin levels remained constant. Cells incubated with the inducer PMA for 3 days and placed in fresh inhibitor-free medium resumed growth at a low rate, while the CD values slowly reverted to those of the initial phenotype. The presence and relative amounts of prosome subunits were analyzed by flow cytometry, light and fluorescent microscopy and Western blotting using 3 monoclonal antibodies (p25K, p27K and p30-33K MAbs). The decrease in cytoplasmic antigens on day 3 was remarkable (cells followed for 7 days) while increased surface antigens were observed. Changes in the subcellular distributions of prosome antigens, particularly the p25K and p30-33K subunit, were correlated with a partial arrest of the cell cycle. Interestingly, the composition of cell internal and surface prosomes showed different patterns of change.

Visualization of prosomes (MCP-proteasomes), intermediate filament and actin networks by "instantaneous fixation" preserving the cytoskeleton

A new "instantaneous" fixation/extraction procedure, yielding good preservation of intermediate filaments (IFs) and actin filaments when applied at 37 degrees C, has been explored to reexamine the relationships of the prosomes to the cytoskeleton. Prosomes are protein complexes of variable subunit composition, including occasionally a small RNA, which were originally observed as trans-acting factors in untranslated mRNPs. Constituting also the proteolytic core of the 26S proteasomes, they are also called "multicatalytic proteinase (MCP) complexes" or "20S-Proteasomes." In Triton X-100-extracted epithelial, fibroblastic, and muscle cells, prosome particles were found associated primarily with the IFs (Olink-Coux et al., 1994). Application of "instantaneous fixation" has now led to the new observation that a major fraction of prosome particles, composed of specific sets of subunits, is distributed in variable proportions between the IFs and the microfilament/ stress fiber system in PtK1 epithelial cells and human fibroblasts. Electron microscopy using gold-labeled antibodies confirms this dual localization on classical whole mounts and on cells exposed to instantaneous fixation. In contrast to the resistance of the prosome-IF association, a variable fraction of the prosome particles is released from the actin cytoskeleton by Triton X-100 when applied prior to fixation. Moreover, in vitro copolymerization of prosomes with G-actin made it possible to observe "ladder-like" filamentous structures in the electron microscope, in which the prosome particles, like the "rungs of a ladder," laterally crosslink two or more actin filaments in a regular pattern. These results demonstrate that prosomes are bound in the cell not only to IFs but also to the actin cytoskeleton and, furthermore, not only within large M(r) complexes (possibly mRNPs and/or 26S proteasomes), but also directly, as individual prosome particles.

Prosome cytodistribution relative to desmin and actin filaments in dividing C2.7 myoblasts and during myotube formation in vitro

Prosomes constitute the multicatalytic proteinase (MCP) core of the 26S proteasomes, but were first observed as subcomplexes of untranslated mRNP; this suggests that they play a putative role in the control of protein biosynthesis in addition to their catabolic enzymatic function. In previous investigations it was shown that some prosomes colocalize with the intermediate filaments (IF) of the cytoskeleton, of the cytokeratin type in epithelial cells, and of the vimentin type in fibroblasts. Studies on adult rat muscle carried out with prosome-specific monoclonal antibodies (p-mAbs) have shown, surprisingly, that specific types of prosomes predominantly occupy a particular zone in between the M and the Z lines of the sarcomeric structure. The data presented here show that the subunit composition of prosomes changes when the dividing C2.7 myoblasts fuse into myotubes. We show furthermore that, in dividing C2.7 myoblasts, prosomes colocalize with the desmin network as well as with that of actin, in a distribution that changes with the subunit pattern of the prosomes investigated by individual p-mAbs. Surprisingly, when myogenic fusion is induced, specific types of prosomes move first to the nuclei; later on, they reappear in the cytoplasm. There, superimposing initially onto the reorganizing desmin filaments that run from one pole of the prefusion myoblast to the other, prosomes gradually colocalize with the actin fibers in the fusing myotubes, finally forming a "pearl on a string" pattern. These results are discussed in relation to parallel observations of prosome distribution between the actin and IF networks not only in epithelial cells but also in fusing muscle satellite cells, which made it possible to monitor the complete buildup of the sarcomeric structure.

Prosomes (proteasomes) changes during differentiation are related to the type of inducer

The core of the 26S proteasome, the 20S prosome, is a highly organized multi-protein complex found in large amount in malignant cells. Differentiation of several cell lines, including the monoblastic U937 and the lymphoblastoid CCRF-CEM, is accompanied by a general decrease in the prosome concentration when phorbol-myrirtic-acetate (PMA) and retinoic acid plus dihydroxyvitamine D3 (RA+VD) are used. Incubation of U937 cells for three days with PMA or RA+VD causes differentiation, but the resulting patterns of prosome labeling in the cell and on the plasma membrane are not the same. In contrast, the same kind of prosome changes occur in U937 and CCRF-CEM cells when PMA is used as inducer. The intracellular distribution of prosomes is also linked to malignancy and differentiation. Prosomes are found in the nucleus and the cytoplasm of cancer cells; and treatment with RA+VD decreases the prosomes in the nucleus whereas PMA causes various prosome proteins changes. These results indicate that prosomes are important in cell regulation and in the expression of malignancy.

Characterization of prosomes in human lymphocyte subpopulations and their presence as surface antigens

Prosomes, also called "multicatalytic proteinase" (MCP) or "proteasomes," are a new type of ubiquitous RNP particle present in some archeobacteria and in all eukaryotic cells tested from yeast to human. They were discovered as subcomplexes of untranslated messenger-ribonucleoproteins (mRNP) and later found to have a MCP activity putatively involved in antigen processing. Being composed of variable sets of characteristic proteins and associating small RNAs (pRNA), families of individual "mosaic" prosome particles seem to characterize the differentiation type and physiological state of individual cells and tissues. Here, prosomes from human lymphocytes, isolated and characterized biochemically and by Western blot analysis, were found to differ in their subunit composition compared to other human prosomes. Surprisingly, prosomal antigens were discovered at the outer surface of blood cells monitored by flow cytometry with monoclonal antibodies to individual prosomal proteins. It was observed that human T and B lymphocytes have variable and characteristic prosomal antigens at their surface according to their CD classification. Interestingly, the lymphocyte subpopulations most strongly labeled by the anti-p25K and anti-p27K mAbs were the NK and B cells.

Changes in the amount and distribution of prosomal subunits during the differentiation of U937 myeloid cells: high expression of p23K

Prosomes (Proteasomes/Multicatalytic proteinase (MCP)-complexes) are protein particles built of 28 subunits in variable composition, having proteinase activity. We have studied the changes in prosomal subunits p29K, p31K and the highly expressed p23K during the differentiation of U937 cells. Control cells had little prosomal subunit p31K in the cytoplasm, while p29K antigen was detected in both the nucleus and cytoplasm; more p23K antigen was found in the cytoplasm than in the nucleus. Flow cytometry demonstrated a biphasic intracellular decrease in prosomes during differentiation induced by phorbol-myristic-acetate (PMA) and retinoic acid plus 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (RA + VD). p23K and p29K decreased both in the cytoplasm and the nucleus of differentiated cells, though the p23K antigen was concentrated near vesicles and the plasma membrane in PMA-induced cells. The p31K antigens disappeared from RA + VD-induced cells, while in PMA-induced cells, cytoplasmic labelling was unchanged and nuclear labelling was increased. Small amounts of prosomal proteins p23K and p29K were found on the outer membrane of un-induced cells. While there was no labelling on the outer membrane of RA + VD-induced cells, p23K protein increased on the plasma membrane of PMA-induced cells. The prosome-like particle protein p21K was not present to any significant extent in the intracellular compartment of control or induced cells; however, p21K was detected on the outer surface of control cells and was increased only in PMA-induced cells. The culture medium of control and induced cells contained no p21K, p23K, p29K or p31K. RA + VD seemed to induce a general decrease of prosomal subunits within the cells and at the outer surface, whereas PMA caused a migration toward the plasma membrane and an increase at the outer surface. These changes in the distribution and type of prosomes in RA + VD- and PMA-induced cells indicate that prosomes may play a part in differentiation, especially p23K which is the most highly expressed protein among those studied and presents the more important changes.

Phylogenic relationships of the amino acid sequences of prosome (proteasome, MCP) subunits

Prosomes [or proteasomes, Multi-Catalytic Proteinase (MCP) are multisubunit protein complexes, found from archaebacteria to man, the structure of which (a 4-layer cylinder) is remarkable conserved. They were first observed as subcomplexes of untranslated mRNP, and then as a multicatalytic proteinase with several proteolytic activities. A number of sequences from subunits of these complexes are now available. Analysis of the sequences shows that these subunits are evolutionarily related, and reveals three highly conserved amino acid stretches. Based on a phylogenic approach, we propose to classify the sequenced subunits into 14 families, which fall into two superfamilies, of the alpha- and beta-type. These data, together with several recently published observations, suggest that some subunits may be interchangeable within the complexes, which would thus constitute a population of heterogenous particles.

Cytolocation of prosome antigens on intermediate filament subnetworks of cytokeratin, vimentin and desmin type

Analysis by double-label indirect immunofluorescence of PtK1 and HeLa cells had previously demonstrated that prosome* antigens form networks that superimpose on those of the intermediate filaments of the cytokeratin type. We show here that in PtK1 cells various prosomal antigens also reside to a variable extent on intermediate filaments subnetworks of the vimentin type. In proliferating human fibroblasts the prosome and vimentin networks were found to coincide, while in proliferating myoblasts of the C2.7 mouse myogenic cell line the prosomal antigens seem to superimpose on the intermediate filaments of the desmin type. Thus, the prosomes, which are RNP particles of variable composition and subcomplexes of untranslated mRNP, and carry a multicatalytic proteinase activity, seem to co-localize with the specific kind of cytoplasmic intermediate filament in relation to the cell type. These results, which generalize the previous data, are discussed in view of possible role(s) for prosomes in mRNA metabolism and/or intermediate filaments remodelling.

The prosomal RNA-binding protein p27K is a member of the alpha-type human prosomal gene family

Monoclonal antibodies demonstrated high conservation during evolution of a prosomal protein of M(r) 27,000 and differentiation--specific expression of the epitope. More than 90% of the reacting antigen was found as a p27K protein in the free messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) fraction but another protein of M(r) 38,000, which shared protease fingerprint patterns with the p27K polypeptide, was also labelled in the nuclear and polyribosomal fractions. Sequencing of cDNA recombinant clones encoding the p27/38K protein and comparison with another prosomal protein, p30-33K, demonstrated the existence of a common characteristic sequence pattern containing three highly conserved segments. The genes Hs PROS-27 and Hs PROS-30 were mapped to chromosomes 14 (14q13) and 11 (11p15.1), respectively. The structure of the p27K protein shows multiple potential phosphorylation sites, an NTP-binding fold and an RNA-binding consensus sequence. The Hs PROS-27/beta-galactosidase fusion protein binds a single RNA of about 120 nucleotides from total HeLa cell RNA. Sequence comparisons show that the Hs PROS-27 and Hs PROS-30 genes belong to the gene family that encodes the prosome--MCP (multicatalytic proteinase)--proteasome proteins. Comparison with other members of the family from various species allowed us to show that the tripartite consensus sequence characteristic of the alpha-type sub-family is conserved from archeobacteria to man. The members of this gene family are characterised by very high evolutionary conservation of amino acid sequences of homologous genes and 20%-35% sequence similarity, between different family member within the same species and are clearly distinct from the beta-type family.

Disruption of prosomes by some bivalent metal ions results in the loss of their multicatalytic proteinase activity and cancels the nuclease resistance of prosomal RNA

Prosomes are ribonucleoprotein particles constituted by a variable set of about 20 proteins found associated with untranslated mRNA. In addition, they contain a small RNA, the presence of which has been an issue of controversy for a long time. The intact particles have a multicatalytic proteinase (MCP) activity and are very stable; we have never observed autodigestion of the particle by its intrinsic proteinase activity. Surprisingly it was found that Zn2+ and Cu2+ ions at concentrations of 0.1-1 mM disrupt the prosome particles isolated from HeLa cells and duck erythroblasts and abolish instantaneously its MCP activity, without altering the two-dimensional electrophoretic pattern of the constituent proteins. Fe2+, however, seems to induce autodegradation rather than dissociation of the prosome constituents. Most interestingly, protein or oligopeptide substrates protect the particle and its proteinase activity from disruption by Zn2+ or Cu2+. Nuclease-digestion assays reveal that the prosomal RNA, which is largely resistant in the intact particle, becomes digestible after dissociation of prosomes by Zn2+. These data give, for the first time, unambiguous proof of the presence of an RNA in the particle. Furthermore, they demonstrate a structure-function relationship between the complex and its enzyme activity, which seems to be based on the particle as an entity and not on the single constituent proteins.

Two mRNAs exist for the Hs PROS-30 gene encoding a component of human prosomes

Screening of a lambda gt11 cDNA expression library of the HeLa cell genome with a monoclonal antibody that specifically recognizes prosomal 30-33-kDa proteins, allowed isolation of a 1264-nucleotide (nt) recombinant cDNA containing a 327-nt untranslated 5'-end. The amino acid (aa) sequence deduced from this cDNA revealed a protein of 269 aa (M(r) of 30,227) that includes a consensus box characteristic for Tyr phosphorylation, also observed in other prosomal proteins. Comparison with another prosomal 27-kDa protein, cloned in our laboratory, indicated the presence of three prosome-specific homology boxes observed in these proteins from archaebacteria to man. Interestingly, except for the untranslated 5'-end, as well as the sequence coding for the N-terminal six aa, this cDNA is identical to two recently published cDNAs encoding subunit C2 of human liver proteasome [Tamura et al., Biochim. Biophys. Acta 1089 (1991) 95-102] and subunit NU of human erythrocyte macropain [DeMartino et al., Biochim. Biophys. Acta 1079 (1991) 29-38]. Primer extension and Northern blot analysis using two specific 18-mer oligodeoxyribonucleotides indicated the presence of two mRNAs that have divergent 5'-ends. These results, as confirmed by the polymerase chain reaction, establish the existence of two distinct Hs PROS-30 mRNAs, differing in their 5'-noncoding regions and in the N-terminal six aa of their protein products.

The protein of M(r) 21,000 constituting the prosome-like particle of duck erythroblasts is homologous to apoferritin

In duck erythroblasts, two major populations of untranslated messenger (m) RNP can be separated by sucrose gradient centrifugation in low ionic strength. One of these contains globin mRNA associated to protein factors, among them the prosomes. The other, sedimenting in the 35S zone, contains non-globin mRNA. From this '35S' mRNP, a new RNP particle called the prosome-like particle was isolated and characterized [Akhayat, O., Infante, A. A., Infante, D., Martins de Sa, C., Grossi de Sa, M.-F. & Scherrer, K. (1987) Eur. J. Biochem. 170, 23-33]. The PLP is a multimer of a protein of M(r) 21,000, and contains small RNA species. The particle is tightly associated with repressed mRNA and inhibits in vitro protein synthesis. We show here that the protein of M(r) 21,000, constituting the prosome-like particle, is apoferritin. Different approaches confirm the RNP character of this particle and provide evidence that some of its RNA species are tRNA. The hypothesis is discussed as to whether (apo-)ferritin might serve other functions in addition to iron storage.

Prosomes and their multicatalytic proteinase activity

Prosomes were first described as being mRNA-associated RNP (ribonucleoprotein) particles and subcomponents of repressed mRNPs (messenger ribonucleoprotein). We show here that prosomes isolated from translationally inactive mRNP have a protease activity identical to that described by others for the multicatalytic proteinase complex (MCP, 'proteasome'). By RNase or non-ionic detergent treatment, the MCP activity associated with repressed non-globin mRNP from avian erythroblasts, sedimenting at 35 S, could be quantitatively shifted on sucrose gradients to the 19-S sedimentation zone characteristic of prosomes, which were identified by monoclonal antibodies. The presence of small RNA in the enzymatic complex was shown by immunoprecipitation of the protease activity out of dissociated mRNP using a mixture of anti-prosome monoclonal antibodies; a set of small RNAs 80-120 nucleotides long was isolated from the immunoprecipitate. Furthermore, on CsCl gradients, colocalisation of the MCP activity with prosomal proteins and prosomal RNA was found, and no difference in the prosomal RNA pattern was observed whether the particles were fixed or not prior to centrifugation. These data indicate that the MCP activity is a property of prosomes, shown to be in part RNP and subcomplexes of in vivo untranslated mRNP. A hypothesis for the role of the prosome-MCP particles in maintaining homeostasis of specific protein levels is proposed.

Structure and RNA content of the prosomes

Duck erythroblasts prosomes were analysed by small angle neutron scattering (SANS), dynamic light scattering and (cryo-)electron microscopy. A molecular weight of approximately 720,000 +/- 50,000, a radius of gyration of 64 +/- 2 A and a hydrodynamic radius of approximately 86 A were obtained. Electron micrographs show a hollow cylinder-like particle with a diameter of 120 A, a height of 170 A and a diameter of 40 A for the cavity, built of four discs, the two outer ones being more pronounced than those in the center. Results from SANS indicate less then 5% of RNA in the purified prosomes, but nuclease protection assays confirm its presence.

Prosomes, subcomplexes of untranslated mRNP

PROSOMES are a novel class of small RNP particles of uniform morphology, but of variable RNA (pRNA) and protein composition (about 650,000 MW; 12 nm diameter in the EM). They were discovered as subcomplexes of free mRNP, tightly attached to inactive mRNA in the cytoplasm. The pRNAs hybridize stably to mRNA. Prosomes associate in vitro to mRNA and inhibit cell free protein synthesis inducing an mRNA structure unable to interact with ribosomes. Many types of prosomes were observed. The individual particle is made up by a variable combination of about 20 characteristic proteins and one or several pRNa. Some prosomal proteins are glycosylated, phosphorylated and, possibly, ADP-ribosylated and are highly conserved in evolution whilst others vary with the species and the mRNA population they are associated to. A protease activity was found associated to prosomes. The function(s) of the prosomes is(are) still unknown. The differential inhibition of in vitro protein synthesis points to a capacity to recognize mRNA and to keep it in an inactive state. The observation with the aid of monoclonal antibodies (pMABs) that prosomes and thus mRNP are attached to the intermediate filaments (IF) raises the question if one of the functions of the IF might be in the topological distribution of mRNA within the cell. Similar to the cytokeratin fibers, the prosome networks bridge neighboring cells at specific positions. The nucleus also contains some prosomal antigens, located on chromosomes and on the nuclear matrix. Their presence and distribution in the cell compartments varies with the cell type and the prosomal antigen probed. Oocytes contain large amounts of prosomes.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Prosomes and heat shock complexes in Drosophila melanogaster cells

Prosomes and heat shock protein (HSP) complexes isolated from the cytoplasm of Drosophila cells in culture were biochemically and immunologically characterized. The two complexes were found to separate on sucrose gradients, allowing the analysis of their protein constituents by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and by reaction with anti-HSP sera and prosome-specific monoclonal antibodies. All of the prosomal proteins were found to be clearly distinct from the HSP; none of the prosomal proteins was synthesized de novo in heat shock. However, an antiprosome (anti-p27K) monoclonal antibody (mouse anti-duck) recognizing the Drosophila p29K prosomal protein allowed immunoprecipitation from a heat-shocked postmitochondrial supernatant of the crude HSP complex, including the low- and the high-molecular-weight components, in particular the 70 x 10(3)-molecular weight HSP. The highly purified small 16S HSP complex still contained this preexistent p29K prosomal protein, which thus also seems to be a metabolically stable constituent of the HSP complex. The significance of this structural and possibly functional relationship between prosomes and HSP, involving the highly ubiquitous and evolutionarily conserved prosomal protein p27/29K, remains to be elucidated.

Prosomes and heat shock complexes in Drosophila melanogaster cells

Prosomes and heat shock protein (HSP) complexes isolated from the cytoplasm of Drosophila cells in culture were biochemically and immunologically characterized. The two complexes were found to separate on sucrose gradients, allowing the analysis of their protein constituents by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and by reaction with anti-HSP sera and prosome-specific monoclonal antibodies. All of the prosomal proteins were found to be clearly distinct from the HSP; none of the prosomal proteins was synthesized de novo in heat shock. However, an antiprosome (anti-p27K) monoclonal antibody (mouse anti-duck) recognizing the Drosophila p29K prosomal protein allowed immunoprecipitation from a heat-shocked postmitochondrial supernatant of the crude HSP complex, including the low- and the high-molecular-weight components, in particular the 70 x 10(3)-molecular weight HSP. The highly purified small 16S HSP complex still contained this preexistent p29K prosomal protein, which thus also seems to be a metabolically stable constituent of the HSP complex. The significance of this structural and possibly functional relationship between prosomes and HSP, involving the highly ubiquitous and evolutionarily conserved prosomal protein p27/29K, remains to be elucidated.

The association of prosomes with some of the intermediate filament networks of the animal cell

The small RNP complexes of defined morphology and biochemical composition termed prosomes, first isolated from the cytoplasm associated with repressed mRNA (Martins de Sa, C., M.-F. Grossi de Sa, O. Akhayat, F. Broders, and K. Scherrer. J. Mol. Biol. 1986. 187:47-493), were found also in the nucleus (Grossi de Sa, M.-F., C. Martins de Sa, F. Harper, O. Coux, O. Akhayat, P. Gounon, J. K. Pal, Y. Florentin, and K. Scherrer. 1988. J. Cell Sci. 89:151-165). Immunofluorescence, immunoelectron microscopy, and immunochemical studies using mAbs directed against some of the prosomal proteins of duck erythroblasts indicate that in the cytoplasm of HeLa and PtK cells, prosome antigens are associated with the intermediate filament network of the cytokeratin type.

Eukaryotic pre-tRNA 5' processing nuclease: copurification with a complex cylindrical particle

In eukaryotes pre-tRNA species are processed at the 5' end by an endonuclease. Here we describe the first characterization of the structure of a eukaryotic pre-tRNA 5' processing endonuclease. The 5' pre-tRNAase, isolated from X. laevis ovaries, copurifies with a 16S macromolecular complex consisting of at least 14 polypeptides ranging in MW from about 20,000 to 32,000. These polypeptides comprise a cylindrical particle, apparently organized as a stack of four rings, similar or identical to a ubiquitous eukaryotic subcellular particle described in the literature over the past 15 years. Similar copurification is observed for the enzyme from HeLa cells, suggesting that the X. laevis enzyme is representative of a general class of eukaryotic pre-tRNA 5' processing nuclease.

Prosomes. Ubiquity and inter-species structural variation

The "prosomes", a novel type of ubiquitous ribonucleoprotein particle of extraordinary stability and of defined electron microscopical structure, have been characterized in several cell types and species. Identified as a 19 S sub-component of free mRNA-protein complexes, including globin and other repressed mRNA, in the cytoplasm of duck, mouse and HeLa cells, they were previously found to inhibit protein synthesis in vitro. In all cells studied, electron microscopy shows an identical, seemingly ring-like but rather raspberry-shaped particle of 12 nm diameter, resistant to EDTA and 1% (w/v) Sarkosyl. Two-dimensional electrophoretic analysis of prosomal proteins shows a characteristic pattern in the 19,000 to 35,000 Mr range of pI 4 to 7, with an additional 56,000 Mr component specific to avian species. The prosomes found in globin mRNA-protein complexes contain about 25 protein components, 16 of which have identical molecular weight and pI values in duck and mouse, and which are also found in the prosomes of the heterogeneous free mRNPs of HeLa cells. Seral and monoclonal antibodies raised in mice against the prosomes of duck erythroblasts cross-react with some of the proteins of the mouse and HeLa cell particles. Prosomes isolated from duck and mouse globin mRNP, both contain small cytoplasmic RNAs of 70 to 90 nucleotides, which represent about 15% of the particle mass. The molecular weight and the 3'-terminal oligonucleotide of each one of these small cytoplasmic RNAs are identical in the two animal species; fingerprints of their oligonucleotides generated by RNase T1 show that more than 80% of spots are identical. In contrast, the prosomes of HeLa cells, associated with a large population of repressed mRNA, contain at least 12 small cytoplasmic RNA species. All prosomal RNAs tested so far hybridize to mRNA. The data available indicate that prosomes constitute a novel class of ubiquitous cellular ribonucleoprotein complexes, present in the nucleus and cytoplasm that, in its structural variations shown here, reflects function and species.

Particulate protein-synthesis factors associated with translatable mRNA in mouse hybridoma cells

Besides of mRNA, the postribosomal pellet of mouse hybridoma cells contains RNA species which become labeled more rapidly than rRNA. Their synthesis is inhibited by actinomycin D. Density-gradient centrifugation of the postribosomal pellet yielded fractions of approx. 55-60 and 90S, synthesizing after the addition of both ribosomal subunits and energy-sources light and heavy chains of immunoglobulin, as demonstrated by indirect immunoprecipitation. Analysis of translation products by electrophoresis indicated the presence of precursors of mRNAs for immunoglobulin chains in these particles. Postribosomal pellets thus apparently contain different particles composed of similar polypeptide chains and containing protein-synthesis factors associated with translatable mRNA.

76-kDa poly(A)-protein is involved in the formation of 48 S initiation complexes

In erythropoietic mouse cells induced by Friend leukemia virus, approximately 50% of non-polyribosomal globin mRNA is found in 48 S initiation complexes ready to be translated. EDTA releases 15 S globin mRNPs, homologous to polyribosomal globin mRNPs. The 76-kDa poly(A)-protein is one of its main protein components. The other 50% of non-polyribosomal message can be separated as 20 S 'free' mRNPs. Its protein composition is different, especially the 76-kDa protein is lacking. The role of this protein is discussed.

Interaction of cytoplasmic messenger-RNA with proteins: their possible function in the regulation of translation

In the present report we summarize recent results concerning our studies on messenger ribonucleoprotein particles and RNA-binding proteins from the cytoplasm of mouse erythroblasts and mouse Krebs II ascites cells.

Possible involvement of messenger RNA-associated proteins in protein synthesis

Two distinct forms of globin messenger RNA were isolated from mouse spleen cells infected with Friend erythroleukemia virus: polyribosomal messenger ribonucleoprotein particles (15S mRNP), and their corresponding protein-free mRNAs obtained by chemical deproteinization. The translation efficiencies of both messenger forms were assayed in a Krebs II ascites cell-free system. Selective removal of RNA-binding proteins from the ascites cell lysate did not affect globin synthesis when the mRNA was supplied as 15S mRNP; deproteinized mRNA however was not translated. Only in the presence of two fractions of RNA-binding proteins was the protein-free mRNA translated. Some of the RNA-binding proteins have the same molecular weights and isoelectric points as the principal proteins of 15S mRNP.

Comparisons of proteins associated with duck-globin mRNA and its polyadenylated segment in polyribosomal and repressed free messenger ribonucleoprotein complexes

EDTA dissociation of polyribosomes from duck erythroblasts allowed us to isolate the 15-S globin messenger ribonucleoproteins (mRNP) by sucrose gradient centrifugation or affinity chromatography on poly(U)-Sepharose or oligo(dT)-cellulose columns. Their protein composition was compared by one and two-dimensional electrophoresis in sodium dodecyl sulfate to the free 20-S mRNP containing the repressed fraction of globin mRNA [Vincent, A., Civelli, O., Maundrell, K., and Scherrer, K. (1980) Eur. J. Biochem. 112, 617--633]. The protein composition of the 15-S mRNP isolated by these methods in different ionic strength conditions, was characterized by a major 73 000-Mr polypeptide and seven minor polypeptides with Mr ranging from 45 000 to 68 000, all of which are slightly basic, and about five acidic ones in the 80 000--130 000-Mr range. All these are retained in the 15-S mRNP core particle isolated at 0.5 M KCl. At low ionic strength, in addition, a specific group of acidic polypeptides in the Mr range 35 000--105 000 was also found associated with globin mRNA. Oligo(dT)-cellulose chromatography of mRNP digested with ribonucleases A and T1 indicated that the 73 000-Mr major protein is bound to the poly(A) segment; some other proteins resolved as minor components interact with both the poly(A) and non-poly(A) regions of globin mRNA. Characterization of proteins interacting with the poly(A) segment of non-polyribosomal globin mRNA in 20-S free mRNP demonstrated the absence of the polyribosomal 73 000-Mr poly(A)-binding protein. Furthermore, it confirmed that the protein compositions of translatable polyribosomal and repressed free globin mRNP are very different. Indeed, the respective core (0.5 M KCl) particles contain only two possibly common polypeptides. The specificity of proteins associated with globin mRNA in two different functional states shown here supports the hypothesis of a role of mRNP proteins in translational control of mRNA.

Cytoplasmic polyadenylate processing events accompany the transfer of mRNA from the free mRNP particles to the polysomes in Physarum

The relationship between the mRNA in the polysomes and the free cytoplasmic messenger ribonucleoprotein of Physarum polycephalum was studied by microinjection techniques. Labeled free cytoplasmic ribonucleoprotein, prepared from donor plasmodia, was microinjected into unlabeled host plasmodia, and its fat was followed in the host ribonucleoprotein particles. Approximately one-half of the poly(A)-containing RNA [poly(A)+RNA] that originated from the microinjected particles was incorporated into the host polysomes by normal translational processes within 1 hr. Very short poly(A) sequences (approximately 15 nucleotide residues) were found in these poly(A)+RNA molecules. These short poly(A) sequences were sensitive to digestion with micrococcal nuclease, suggesting that they were not associated with protein. Because the poly(A)+RNA molecules of the microinjected free cytoplasmic mRNP had originally contained poly(A) sequences 50-65 nucleotides long and were associated with protein extensive poly(A) degradation and poly(A).protein complex dissociation must have occurred during their incorporation into the polysomes or during their translation. These results demonstrate a precursor-product relationship between free cytoplasmic mRNP and polysomal mRNA and suggest that the incorporation process in Physarum is accompanied by structural modifications in the poly(A) region of mRNA. They also imply that the polysome is a site for disruption of the poly(A).protein complex and poly(A) degradation.

Membrane-bound ribosomes of myeloma cells. V. Subcellular distribution of immunoglobulin mRNA molecules

The subcellular distribution of the most abundant mRNA sequences, particularly those of the immunoglobulin heavy (Ig H) and light (IG L) chain mRNA sequences, of MOPC 21 (P3K) mouse myeloma cells has been examined by translating the mRNA of various subcellular fractions in a messenger-dependent reticulocyte lysate (MDL) and by identifying Ig products with the use of a specific antiserum. Analyses of the distribution of the mRNA template activity and the translation products by SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis reveal that approximately 85% of the mRNA present in the free ribosomal fraction is incorporated into polysomes and that the remainder is present as mRNP particles. On the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) the mRNA is found entirely in polysomes. In general, the size class of free (F) and membrane-bound (MB) polysomes corresponds to the size of their translation products. Thus, mRNAs coding Ig H (5.0 x 10(5) daltons in size) and Ig L (2.5 x 10(5) daltons in size) are incorporated into polysomes formed of 12 and 6 ribosomes, respectively. About 10% of the Ig mRNAs are not bound to membranes. A third of these are associated with mRNPs and the remainder incorporated into F polysomes of the same size as the Ig-synthesizing MB polysomes.

Identification and characterization of the translationally repressed cytoplasmic globin messenger-ribonucleoprotein particles from duck erythroblasts

Globin messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) particles which have been isolated from duck erythroblast post-polyribosomal supernatant are translationally inactive in vivo and in vitro but contain translatable mRNA active after deproteinisation. They were characterized following purification by successive sucrose gradient sedimentation in a buffer containing 0.05 M KCl. The complex, which sediments homogeneously at about 20 S, has a density of 1.39 g/cm3 and thus consists of four parts protein to one part RNA; 40% of this RNA is globin mRNA and no other mRNA could be detected. Sedimentation of the purified globin mRNP on sucrose gradients in 0.5 M KCl produced four components while polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in non-denaturing conditions and in the presence of EDTA resulted in the separation of three components. Hybridization to globin cDNA and translation in vitro of the RNA extracted from these subparticles revealed the existence of two core particles containing globin mRNA with nominal sedimentation coefficients of 13 S and 16 S. Analysis of the protein components of the isolated sub-complexes by dodecyl sulfate and bidimensional gel electrophoresis indicated a very characteristic protein composition for each of these complexes. The 16-S and 13-S globin mRNPs differed essentially by the presence in the 13-S mRNP only of a group of major polypeptides. Of the other two sub-complexes, one consisted of 90% small RNA in the 4-S range; the second sedimented ahead of the globin mRNP core particles at about 19S and consisted of a very characteristic set of about 14 polypeptides. The polyribosomal 73000-Mr poly(A)-binding protein was not detected in the purified free globin mRNP although the mRNA in the untranslatable particle is polyadenylated. The presence in the cytoplasm of duck erythroblasts of two forms of untranslated globin messenger ribonucleoprotein particles, distinct in their protein composition from polyribosomal globin mRNP, suggests that they may have a specific role in the regulation of translation of globin mRNA.

In vitro translation studies of the cytoplasmic nonpolysomal particles containing messenger RNA

We analyzed the translational capacity of different kinds of free cytoplasmic messenger ribonucleoprotein complexes (free mRNP) in a Hela cell cell free system. Native free mRNP are not translated although free mRNP washed with 0.5 M KC1 can direct polypeptide synthesis. Furthermore, the 0.5 M KC1 wash possesses a factor which inhibits the translation of 0.5 M KC1 washed free mRNP as well as globin mRNA naked mRNA from plasmocytoma, or Hela cells. We also demonstrated that native free mRNP are able to form a complex with ribosomal subunits in the presence of initiation factors. This indicates that inhibition of translation by the 0.5 M KC1 wash occurs either at some point after initiation complex formation or at the elongation step.