A minimal spliceosomal complex A recognizes the branch site and polypyrimidine tract

A model for DHX15 mediated disassembly of A-complex spliceosomes

A critical step of pre-mRNA splicing is the recruitment of U2 snRNP to the branch point sequence of an intron. U2 snRNP conformation changes extensively during branch helix formation, and several RNA-dependent ATPases are implicated in the process. However, the molecular mechanisms involved remain to be fully dissected. We took advantage of the differential nucleotide triphosphates requirements for DExD/H-box enzymes to probe their contributions to in vitro spliceosome assembly. Both ATP and GTP hydrolysis support the formation of A-complex, indicating the activity of a DEAH-enzyme because DEAD-enzymes are selective for ATP. We immunodepleted DHX15 to assess its involvement, and although splicing efficiency decreases with reduced DHX15, A-complex accumulation incongruently increases. DHX15 depletion also results in the persistence of the atypical ATP-independent interaction between U2 snRNP and a minimal substrate that is otherwise destabilized in the presence of either ATP or GTP. These results lead us to hypothesize that DHX15 plays a quality control function in U2 snRNP's engagement with an intron. In efforts to identify the RNA target of DHX15, we determined that an extended polypyrimidine tract is not necessary for disruption of the atypical interaction between U2 snRNP and the minimal substrate. We also examined U2 snRNA by RNase H digestion and identified nucleotides in the branch binding region that become accessible with both ATP and GTP hydrolysis, again implicating a DEAH-enzyme. Together, our results demonstrate that multiple ATP-dependent rearrangements are likely involved in U2 snRNP addition to the spliceosome and that DHX15 may have an expanded role in maintaining splicing fidelity.

Structural basis of branch site recognition by the human spliceosome

Recognition of the intron branch site (BS) by the U2 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) is a critical event during spliceosome assembly. In mammals, BS sequences are poorly conserved, and unambiguous intron recognition cannot be achieved solely through a base-pairing mechanism. We isolated human 17S U2 snRNP and reconstituted in vitro its adenosine 5´-triphosphate (ATP)–dependent remodeling and binding to the pre–messenger RNA substrate. We determined a series of high-resolution (2.0 to 2.2 angstrom) structures providing snapshots of the BS selection process. The substrate-bound U2 snRNP shows that SF3B6 stabilizes the BS:U2 snRNA duplex, which could aid binding of introns with poor sequence complementarity. ATP-dependent remodeling uncoupled from substrate binding captures U2 snRNA in a conformation that competes with BS recognition, providing a selection mechanism based on branch helix stability.

The "guiding" principles of noncoding RNA function

The human genome is pervasively transcribed and yet only a small fraction of these RNAs (less than 2%) are known to code for proteins. The vast majority of the RNAs are classified as noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) and are further subgrouped as small (shorter than 200 bases) and long noncoding RNAs. The ncRNAs have been identified in all three domains of life and regulate diverse cellular processes through transcriptional and posttranscriptional gene regulation. Most of these RNAs work in conjunction with proteins forming a wide array of base pairing interactions. The determinants of these base pairing interactions are now becoming more evident and show striking similarities among the diverse group of ncRNAs. Here we present a mechanistic overview of pairing between RNA-RNA or RNA-DNA that dictates the function of ncRNAs; we provide examples to illustrate that ncRNAs work through shared evolutionary mechanisms that encompasses a guide-target interaction, involving not only classical Watson-Crick but also noncanonical Wobble and Hoogsteen base pairing. We also highlight the similarities in target selection, proofreading, and the ruler mechanism of ncRNA-protein complexes that confers target specificity and target site selection. This article is categorized under: Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Regulatory RNAs RNA-Based Catalysis > RNA-Mediated Cleavage RNA Evolution and Genomics > RNA and Ribonucleoprotein Evolution.

Spliceosomal snRNA Epitranscriptomics

Small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) are critical components of the spliceosome that catalyze the splicing of pre-mRNA. snRNAs are each complexed with many proteins to form RNA-protein complexes, termed as small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs), in the cell nucleus. snRNPs participate in pre-mRNA splicing by recognizing the critical sequence elements present in the introns, thereby forming active spliceosomes. The recognition is achieved primarily by base-pairing interactions (or nucleotide-nucleotide contact) between snRNAs and pre-mRNA. Notably, snRNAs are extensively modified with different RNA modifications, which confer unique properties to the RNAs. Here, we review the current knowledge of the mechanisms and functions of snRNA modifications and their biological relevance in the splicing process.

In Silico Analysis of a Highly Mutated Gene in Cancer Provides Insight into Abnormal mRNA Splicing: Splicing Factor 3B Subunit 1K700E Mutant

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. The etiology of the disease has remained elusive, but mutations causing aberrant RNA splicing have been considered one of the significant factors in various cancer types. The association of aberrant RNA splicing with drug/therapy resistance further increases the importance of these mutations. In this work, the impact of the splicing factor 3B subunit 1 (SF3B1) K700E mutation, a highly prevalent mutation in various cancer types, is investigated through molecular dynamics simulations. Based on our results, K700E mutation increases flexibility of the mutant SF3B1. Consequently, this mutation leads to i) disruption of interaction of pre-mRNA with SF3B1 and p14, thus preventing proper alignment of mRNA and causing usage of abnormal 3' splice site, and ii) disruption of communication in critical regions participating in interactions with other proteins in pre-mRNA splicing machinery. We anticipate that this study enhances our understanding of the mechanism of functional abnormalities associated with splicing machinery, thereby, increasing possibility for designing effective therapies to combat cancer at an earlier stage.

Structure of the human activated spliceosome in three conformational states

During each cycle of pre-mRNA splicing, the pre-catalytic spliceosome (B complex) is converted into the activated spliceosome (B^act complex), which has a well-formed active site but cannot proceed to the branching reaction. Here, we present the cryo-EM structure of the human B^act complex in three distinct conformational states. The EM map allows atomic modeling of nearly all protein components of the U2 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP), including three of the SF3a complex and seven of the SF3b complex. The structure of the human B^act complex contains 52 proteins, U2, U5, and U6 small nuclear RNA (snRNA), and a pre-mRNA. Three distinct conformations have been captured, representing the early, mature, and late states of the human B^act complex. These complexes differ in the orientation of the Switch loop of Prp8, the splicing factors RNF113A and NY-CO-10, and most components of the NineTeen complex (NTC) and the NTC-related complex. Analysis of these three complexes and comparison with the B and C complexes reveal an ordered flux of components in the B-to-B^act and the B^act-to-B^* transitions, which ultimately prime the active site for the branching reaction.

Molecular Architecture of SF3b and Structural Consequences of Its Cancer-Related Mutations

SF3b is a heptameric protein complex of the U2 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) that is essential for pre-mRNA splicing. Mutations in the largest SF3b subunit, SF3B1/SF3b155, are linked to cancer and lead to alternative branch site (BS) selection. Here we report the crystal structure of a human SF3b core complex, revealing how the distinctive conformation of SF3b155's HEAT domain is maintained by multiple contacts with SF3b130, SF3b10, and SF3b14b. Protein-protein crosslinking enabled the localization of the BS-binding proteins p14 and U2AF65 within SF3b155's HEAT-repeat superhelix, which together with SF3b14b forms a composite RNA-binding platform. SF3b155 residues, the mutation of which leads to cancer, contribute to the tertiary structure of the HEAT superhelix and its surface properties in the proximity of p14 and U2AF65. The molecular architecture of SF3b reveals the spatial organization of cancer-related SF3b155 mutations and advances our understanding of their effects on SF3b structure and function.

Functional roles of DExD/H-box RNA helicases in Pre-mRNA splicing

Splicing of precursor mRNA takes place via two consecutive steps of transesterification catalyzed by a large ribonucleoprotein complex called the spliceosome. The spliceosome is assembled through ordered binding to the pre-mRNA of five small nuclear RNAs and numerous protein factors, and is disassembled after completion of the reaction to recycle all components. Throughout the splicing cycle, the spliceosome changes its structure, rearranging RNA-RNA, RNA-protein and protein-protein interactions, for positioning and repositioning of splice sites. DExD/H-box RNA helicases play important roles in mediating structural changes of the spliceosome by unwinding of RNA duplexes or disrupting RNA-protein interactions. DExD/H-box proteins are also implicated in the fidelity control of the splicing process at various steps. This review summarizes the functional roles of DExD/H-box proteins in pre-mRNA splicing according to studies conducted mostly in yeast and will discuss the concept of the complicated splicing reaction based on recent findings.

Intronic features that determine the selection of the 3' splice site

Most eukaryotic primary transcripts include segments, or introns, that will be accurately removed during RNA biogenesis. This process, known as pre-messenger RNA splicing, is catalyzed by the spliceosome, accurately selecting a set of intronic marks from others apparently equivalent. This identification is critical, as incorrectly spliced RNAs can be toxic for the organism. One of these marks, the dinucleotide AG, signals the intronic 3' end, or 3' splice site (ss). In this review we will focus on those intronic features that have an impact on 3' ss selection. These include the location and type of neighboring sequences, and their distance to the 3' end. We will see that their interplay is needed to select the right intronic end, and that this can be modulated by additional intronic elements that contribute to alternative splicing, whereby diverse RNAs can be generated from identical precursors. This complexity, still poorly understood, is fundamental for the accuracy of gene expression. In addition, a clear knowledge of 3' ss selection is needed to fully decipher the coding potential of genomes.

Human genetic variation recognizes functional elements in noncoding sequence

Noncoding DNA, particularly intronic DNA, harbors important functional elements that affect gene expression and RNA splicing. Yet, it is unclear which specific noncoding sites are essential for gene function and regulation. To identify functional elements in noncoding DNA, we characterized genetic variation within introns using ethnically diverse human polymorphism data from three public databases-PMT, NIEHS, and SeattleSNPs. We demonstrate that positions within introns corresponding to known functional elements involved in pre-mRNA splicing, including the branch site, splice sites, and polypyrimidine tract show reduced levels of genetic variation. Additionally, we observed regions of reduced genetic variation that are candidates for distance-dependent localization sites of functional elements, possibly intronic splicing enhancers (ISEs). Using several bioinformatics approaches, we provide additional evidence that supports our hypotheses that these regions correspond to ISEs. We conclude that studies of genetic variation can successfully discriminate and identify functional elements in noncoding regions. As more noncoding sequence data become available, the methods employed here can be utilized to identify additional functional elements in the human genome and provide possible explanations for phenotypic associations.

Spliceosome structure: piece by piece

Processing of pre-mRNAs by RNA splicing is an essential step in the maturation of protein coding RNAs in eukaryotes. Structural studies of the cellular splicing machinery, the spliceosome, are a major challenge in structural biology due to the size and complexity of the splicing ensemble. Specifically, the structural details of splice site recognition and the architecture of the spliceosome active site are poorly understood. X-ray and NMR techniques have been successfully used to address these questions defining the structure of individual domains, isolated splicing proteins, spliceosomal RNA fragments and recently the U1 snRNP multiprotein.RNA complex. These results combined with extant biochemical and genetic data have yielded important insights as well as posing fresh questions with respect to the regulation and mechanism of this critical gene regulatory process.

Dimerization and protein binding specificity of the U2AF homology motif of the splicing factor Puf60

PUF60 is an essential splicing factor functionally related and homologous to U2AF(65). Its C-terminal domain belongs to the family of U2AF (U2 auxiliary factor) homology motifs (UHM), a subgroup of RNA recognition motifs that bind to tryptophan-containing linear peptide motifs (UHM ligand motifs, ULMs) in several nuclear proteins. Here, we show that the Puf60 UHM is mainly monomeric in physiological buffer, whereas its dimerization is induced upon the addition of SDS. The crystal structure of PUF60-UHM at 2.2 angstroms resolution, NMR data, and mutational analysis reveal that the dimer interface is mediated by electrostatic interactions involving a flexible loop. Using glutathione S-transferase pulldown experiments, isothermal titration calorimetry, and NMR titrations, we find that Puf60-UHM binds to ULM sequences in the splicing factors SF1, U2AF65, and SF3b155. Compared with U2AF65-UHM, Puf60-UHM has distinct binding preferences to ULMs in the N terminus of SF3b155. Our data suggest that the functional cooperativity between U2AF65 and Puf60 may involve simultaneous interactions of the two proteins with SF3b155.

Searching for splicing motifs

Intron removal during pre-mRNA splicing in higher eukaryotes requires the accurate identification of the two splice sites at the ends of the exons, or exon definition. The sequences constituting the splice sites provide insufficient information to distinguish true splice sites from the greater number of false splice sites that populate transcripts. Additional information used for exon recognition resides in a large number of positively or negatively acting elements that lie both within exons and in the adjacent introns. The identification of such sequence motifs has progressed rapidly in recent years, such that extensive lists are now available for exonic splicing enhancers and exonic splicing silencers. These motifs have been identified both by empirical experiments and by computational predictions, the validity of the latter being confirmed by experimental verification. Molecular searches have been carried out either by the selection of sequences that bind to splicing factors, or enhance or silence splicing in vitro or in vivo. Computational methods have focused on sequences of 6 or 8 nucleotides that are over- or under-represented in exons, compared to introns or transcripts that do not undergo splicing. These various methods have sought to provide global definitions of motifs, yet the motifs are distinctive to the method used for identification and display little overlap. Astonishingly, at least three-quarters of a typical mRNA would be comprised of these motifs. A present challenge lies in understanding how the cell integrates this surfeit of information to generate what is usually a binary splicing decision.

Improved identification of enriched peptide RNA cross-links from ribonucleoprotein particles (RNPs) by mass spectrometry

Direct UV cross-linking combined with mass spectrometry (MS) is a powerful tool to identify hitherto non-characterized protein-RNA contact sites in native ribonucleoprotein particles (RNPs) such as the spliceosome. Identification of contact sites after cross-linking is restricted by: (i) the relatively low cross-linking yield and (ii) the amount of starting material available for cross-linking studies. Therefore, the most critical step in such analyses is the extensive purification of the cross-linked peptide-RNA heteroconjugates from the excess of non-crosslinked material before MS analysis. Here, we describe a strategy that combines small-scale reversed-phase liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) of UV-irradiated and hydrolyzed RNPs, immobilized metal-ion affinity chromatography (IMAC) to enrich cross-linked species and their analysis by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation (MALDI) MS(/MS). In cases where no MS/MS analysis can be performed, treatment of the enriched fractions with alkaline phosphatase leads to unambiguous identification of the cross-linked species. We demonstrate the feasibility of this strategy by MS analysis of enriched peptide-RNA cross-links from UV-irradiated reconstituted [15.5K-61K-U4atac snRNA] snRNPs and native U1 snRNPs. Applying our approach to a partial complex of U2 snRNP allowed us to identify the contact site between the U2 snRNP-specific protein p14/SF3b14a and the branch-site interacting region (BSiR) of U2 snRNA.

Nuclear protein profiling of Jurkat cells during heat stress-induced apoptosis by 2-DE and MS/MS

Heat stress causes severe constraints on numerous physiological functions of cells, such as the repression of splicing of mRNA precursors. In this study, we performed proteomic profiling of a nuclear fraction of Jurkat cells during heat stress using 2-DE and LC-MS/MS. We found 10 protein spots whose expression had changed after heat stress at 43 degrees C for 30 min. Seven of those protein spots, periodic tryptophan protein 1 homolog (PWP1), importin beta-1 subunit, sumoylated protein, splicing factor 3a subunit 3 (SF3a3), TAR DNA-binding protein 43, U2 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein auxiliary factor 35 kDa subunit (U2AF35) and small ubiquitin-related modifier-1 (SUMO-1) were downregulated, while three other protein spots, Protein SET, 40S ribosomal protein SA and 60S acidic ribosomal protein P0 were upregulated by the heat stress. We focused on the downregulation of two splicing factors, which might participate in the repression of pre-mRNA processing by heat stress, leading to cell apoptosis.

Spliceosome assembly and composition

Cells control alternative splicing by modulating assembly of the pre-mRNA splicing machinery at competing splice sites. Therefore, a working knowledge of spliceosome assembly is essential for understanding how alternative splice site choices are achieved. In this chapter, we review spliceosome assembly with particular emphasis on the known steps and factors subject to regulation during alternative splice site selection in mammalian cells. We also review recent advances regarding similarities and differences between the in vivo and in vitro assembly pathways, as well as proofreading mechanisms contributing to the fidelity of splice site selection.

An RNA map predicting Nova-dependent splicing regulation

Nova proteins are a neuron-specific alternative splicing factors. We have combined bioinformatics, biochemistry and genetics to derive an RNA map describing the rules by which Nova proteins regulate alternative splicing. This map revealed that the position of Nova binding sites (YCAY clusters) in a pre-messenger RNA determines the outcome of splicing. The map correctly predicted Nova's effect to inhibit or enhance exon inclusion, which led us to examine the relationship between the map and Nova's mechanism of action. Nova binding to an exonic YCAY cluster changed the protein complexes assembled on pre-mRNA, blocking U1 snRNP (small nuclear ribonucleoprotein) binding and exon inclusion, whereas Nova binding to an intronic YCAY cluster enhanced spliceosome assembly and exon inclusion. Assays of splicing intermediates of Nova-regulated transcripts in mouse brain revealed that Nova preferentially regulates removal of introns harbouring (or closest to) YCAY clusters. These results define a genome-wide map relating the position of a cis-acting element to its regulation by an RNA binding protein, namely that Nova binding to YCAY clusters results in a local and asymmetric action to regulate spliceosome assembly and alternative splicing in neurons.

An exonic splicing silencer is involved in the regulated splicing of glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase mRNA

The inhibition of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) expression by arachidonic acid occurs by changes in the rate of pre-mRNA splicing. Here, we have identified a cis-acting RNA element required for regulated splicing of G6PD mRNA. Using transfection of G6PD RNA reporter constructs into rat hepatocytes, the cis-acting RNA element involved in this regulation was localized to nucleotides 43-72 of exon 12 in the G6PD mRNA. In in vitro splicing assays, RNA substrates containing exon 12 were not spliced. In contrast, RNA substrates containing other regions (exons 8 and 9 or exons 10 and 11) of the G6PD mRNA were efficiently spliced. Furthermore, exon 12 can inhibit splicing when substituted for other exons in RNA substrates that are readily spliced. This activity of the exon 12 regulatory element suggests that it is an exonic splicing silencer. Consistent with its activity as a splicing silencer, spliceosome assembly was inhibited on RNA substrates containing exon 12 compared with RNAs representing other regions of the G6PD transcript. Elimination of nucleotides 43-72 of exon 12 did not restore splicing of exon 12-containing RNA; thus, the 30-nucleotide element may not be exclusively a silencer. The binding of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins K, L, and A2/B1 from both HeLa and hepatocyte nuclear extracts to the element further supports its activity as a silencer. In addition, SR proteins bind to the element, consistent with the presence of enhancer activity within this sequence. Thus, an exonic splicing silencer is involved in the inhibition of splicing of a constitutively spliced exon in the G6PD mRNA.

Biochemical and NMR analyses of an SF3b155-p14-U2AF-RNA interaction network involved in branch point definition during pre-mRNA splicing

The p14 subunit of the essential splicing factor 3b (SF3b) can be cross-linked to the branch-point adenosine of pre-mRNA introns within the spliceosome. p14 stably interacts with the SF3b subunit SF3b155, which also binds the 65-kDa subunit of U2 auxiliary splicing factor (U2AF65). We combined biochemical and NMR techniques to study the conformation of p14 either alone or complexed with SF3b155 fragments, as well as an interaction network involving p14, SF3b155, U2AF65, and U2 snRNA/pre-mRNA. p14 comprises a canonical RNA recognition motif (RRM) with an additional C-terminal helix (alphaC) and a beta hairpin insertion. SF3b155 binds to the beta-sheet surface of p14, thereby occupying the canonical RNA-binding site of the p14 RRM. The minimal region of SF3b155 interacting with p14 (i.e., residues 381-424) consists of four alpha-helices, which are partially preformed in isolation. Helices alpha2 and alpha3 (residues 401-415) constitute the core p14-binding epitope. Regions of SF3b155 binding to p14 and U2AF65 are nonoverlapping. This allows for a simultaneous interaction of SF3b155 with both proteins, which may support the stable association of U2 snRNP with the pre-mRNA. p14-RNA interactions are modulated by SF3b155 and the RNA-binding site of the p14-SF3b155 complex involves the noncanonical beta hairpin insertion of the p14 RRM, consistent with the beta-sheet surface being occupied by the helical SF3b155 peptide and p14 helix alphaC. Our data suggest that p14 lacks inherent specificity for recognizing the branch point, but that some specificity may be achieved by scaffolding interactions involving other components of SF3b.

Characterization of a U2AF-independent commitment complex (E') in the mammalian spliceosome assembly pathway

Early recognition of pre-mRNA during spliceosome assembly in mammals proceeds through the association of U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle (snRNP) with the 5' splice site as well as the interactions of the branch binding protein SF1 with the branch region and the U2 snRNP auxiliary factor U2AF with the polypyrimidine tract and 3' splice site. These factors, along with members of the SR protein family, direct the ATP-independent formation of the early (E) complex that commits the pre-mRNA to splicing. We report here the observation in U2AF-depleted HeLa nuclear extract of a distinct, ATP-independent complex designated E' which can be chased into E complex and itself commits a pre-mRNA to the splicing pathway. The E' complex is characterized by a U1 snRNA-5' splice site base pairing, which follows the actual commitment step, an interaction of SF1 with the branch region, and a close association of the 5' splice site with the branch region. These results demonstrate that both commitment to splicing and the early proximity of conserved sequences within pre-mRNA substrates can occur in a minimal complex lacking U2AF, which may function as a precursor to E complex in spliceosome assembly.

Proteomic analysis identifies a new complex required for nuclear pre-mRNA retention and splicing

Using the proteomic tandem affinity purification (TAP) method, we have purified the Saccharomyces cerevisie U2 snRNP-associated splicing factors SF3a and SF3b. While SF3a purification revealed only the expected subunits Prp9p, Prp11p and Prp21p, yeast SF3b was found to contain only six subunits, including previously known components (Rse1p, Hsh155p, Cus1p, Hsh49p), the recently identified Rds3p factor and a new small essential protein (Ysf3p) encoded by an unpredicted split ORF in the yeast genome. Surprisingly, Snu17p, the proposed yeast orthologue of the seventh human SF3b subunit, p14, was not found in the yeast complex. TAP purification revealed that Snu17p, together with Bud13p and a newly identified factor, Pml1p/Ylr016c, form a novel trimeric complex. Subunits of this complex were not essential for viability. However, they are required for efficient splicing in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, inactivation of this complex causes pre-mRNA leakage from the nucleus. The corresponding complex was named pre-mRNA REtention and Splicing (RES). The presence of RES subunit homologues in numerous eukaryotes suggests that its function is evolutionarily conserved.

The conserved RNA recognition motif 3 of U2 snRNA auxiliary factor (U2AF 65) is essential in vivo but dispensable for activity in vitro

The general splicing factor U2AF(65) recognizes the polypyrimidine tract (Py tract) that precedes 3' splice sites and has three RNA recognition motifs (RRMs). The C-terminal RRM (RRM3), which is highly conserved, has been proposed to contribute to Py-tract binding and establish protein-protein contacts with splicing factors mBBP/SF1 and SAP155. Unexpectedly, we find that the human RRM3 domain is dispensable for U2AF(65) activity in vitro. However, it has an essential function in Schizosaccharomyces pombe distinct from binding to the Py tract or to mBBP/SF1 and SAP155. First, deletion of RRM3 from the human protein has no effect on Py-tract binding. Second, RRM123 and RRM12 select similar sequences from a random pool of RNA. Third, deletion of RRM3 has no effect on the splicing activity of U2AF(65) in vitro. However, deletion of the RRM3 domain of S. pombe U2AF(59) abolishes U2AF function in vivo. In addition, certain amino acid substitutions on the four-stranded beta-sheet surface of RRM3 compromise U2AF function in vivo without affecting binding to mBBP/SF1 or SAP155 in vitro. We propose that RRM3 has an unrecognized function that is possibly relevant for the splicing of only a subset of cellular introns. We discuss the implications of these observations on previous models of U2AF function.

Structuring of the 3′ Splice Site by U2AF65

Recognition of the 3' splice site in mammalian introns is accomplished by association of the splicing factor U2AF with the precursor mRNA (pre-mRNA) in a multiprotein splicing commitment complex. It is well established that this interaction involves binding of the large U2AF65 subunit to sequences upstream of the 3' splice site, but the orientation of the four domains of this protein with respect to the RNA and hence their role in structuring the commitment complex remain unclear and the basis of contradictory models. We have examined the interaction of U2AF65 with an RNA representing the 3' splice site using a series of U2AF deletion mutants modified at the N terminus with the directed hydroxyl radical probe iron-EDTA. These studies, combined with an analysis of extant high resolution x-ray structures of protein.RNA complexes, suggest a model whereby U2AF65 bends the pre-mRNA to juxtapose reactive functionalities of the pre-mRNA substrate and organize these structures for subsequent spliceosome assembly.

The ATP requirement for U2 snRNP addition is linked to the pre-mRNA region 5' to the branch site

Association of U2 snRNP with the pre-mRNA branch region is the first ATP-dependent step in spliceosome assembly. The basis of this energy dependence is not known. Previously, we identified minimal intron-derived substrates that form complexes with U2 independent of ATP. Here, we identify the intron region linked to the ATP dependence of this step by comparing these substrates to longer RNAs that recapitulate the ATP requirement. This region needed to impose ATP dependence lies immediately 5' to the branch site. Sequences ranging from 6 to 14 nt yield a near linear inhibitory effect on efficiency of complex formation with U2 snRNP, with 18 nt yielding near maximal ATP dependence. This region is not protected prior to U2 addition, and RNase H targeting of the region within nuclear extract converts an ATP-dependent substrate into an ATP-independent one. Within this region, there is no sequence specificity linked with the ATP requirement, as neither a specific sequence is needed, nor even nucleobases. These data and the results of other modifications suggest models in which the 18-nt region is a target for interactions with U2 snRNP in an ATP-bound or -activated conformation.

Characterization of U4 and U6 interactions with the 5' splice site using a S. cerevisiae in vitro trans-splicing system

Spliceosome assembly has been characterized as the ordered association of the snRNP particles U1, U2, and U4/U6.U5 onto pre-mRNA. We have used an in vitro trans-splicing/cross-linking system in Saccharomyces cerevisiae nuclear extracts to examine the first step of this process, 5' splice site recognition. This trans-splicing reaction has ATP, Mg(2+), and splice-site sequence requirements similar to those of cis-splicing reactions. Using this system, we identified and characterized a novel U4-5' splice site interaction that is ATP-dependent, but does not require the branch point, the 3' splice site, or the 5' end of the U1 snRNA. Additionally, we identified several ATP-dependent U6 cross-links at the 5' splice site, indicating that different regions of U6 sample it before a U6-5' splice site interaction is stabilized that persists through the first step of splicing. This work provides evidence for ATP-dependent U4/U6 association with the 5' splice site independent of ATP-mediated U2 association with the branch point. Furthermore, it defines specific nucleotides in U4 and U6 that interact with the 5' splice site at this early stage, even in the absence of base-pairing with the U1 snRNA.

Functional selection of splicing enhancers that stimulate trans-splicing in vitro

The role of exonic sequences in naturally occurring trans-splicing has not been explored in detail. Here, we have identified trans-splicing enhancers through the use of an iterative selection scheme. Several classes of enhancer sequences were identified that led to dramatic increases in trans-splicing efficiency. Two sequence families were investigated in detail. These include motifs containing the element (G/C)GAC(G/C) and also 5' splice site-like sequences. Distinct elements were tested for their ability to function as splicing enhancers and in competition experiments. In addition, discrete trans-acting factors were identified. This work demonstrates that splicing enhancers are able to effect a large increase in trans-splicing efficiency and that the process of exon definition is able to positively enhance trans-splicing even though the reaction itself is independent of the need for the 5' end of U1 snRNA. Due to the presence of internal introns in messages that are trans-spliced, the natural arrangement of 5' splice sites downstream of trans-splicing acceptors may lead to a general promotion of this unusual reaction.

Sequences upstream of the branch site are required to form helix II between U2 and U6 snRNA in a trans-splicing reaction

Three different base paired stems form between U2 and U6 snRNA over the course of the mRNA splicing reaction (helices I, II and III). One possible function of U2/U6 helix II is to facilitate subsequent U2/U6 helix I and III interactions, which participate directly in catalysis. Using an in vitro trans-splicing assay, we investigated the function of sequences located just upstream from the branch site (BS). We find that these upstream sequences are essential for stable binding of U2 to the branch region, and for U2/U6 helix II formation, but not for initial U2/BS pairing. We also show that non-functional upstream sequences cause U2 snRNA stem-loop IIa to be exposed to dimethylsulfate modification, perhaps reflecting a U2 snRNA conformational change and/or loss of SF3b proteins. Our data suggest that initial binding of U2 snRNP to the BS region must be stabilized by an interaction with upstream sequences before U2/U6 helix II can form or U2 stem-loop IIa can participate in spliceosome assembly.

Prespliceosomal assembly on microinjected precursor mRNA takes place in nuclear speckles

Nuclear speckles (speckles) represent a distinct nuclear compartment within the interchromatin space and are enriched in splicing factors. They have been shown to serve neighboring active genes as a reservoir of these factors. In this study, we show that, in HeLa cells, the (pre)spliceosomal assembly on precursor mRNA (pre-mRNA) is associated with the speckles. For this purpose, we used microinjection of splicing competent and mutant adenovirus pre-mRNAs with differential splicing factor binding, which form different (pre)spliceosomal complexes and followed their sites of accumulation. Splicing competent pre-mRNAs are rapidly targeted into the speckles, but the targeting is temperature-dependent. The polypyrimidine tract sequence is required for targeting, but, in itself, is not sufficient. The downstream flanking sequences are particularly important for the targeting of the mutant pre-mRNAs into the speckles. In supportive experiments, the behavior of the speckles was followed after the microinjection of antisense deoxyoligoribonucleotides complementary to the specific domains of snRNAs. Under these latter conditions prespliceosomal complexes are formed on endogenous pre-mRNAs. We conclude that the (pre)spliceosomal complexes on microinjected pre-mRNA are formed inside the speckles. Their targeting into and accumulation in the speckles is a result of the cumulative loading of splicing factors to the pre-mRNA and the complexes formed give rise to the speckled pattern observed.

Yeast U1 snRNP-pre-mRNA complex formation without U1snRNA-pre-mRNA base pairing

Base pairing between the 5' end of U1 snRNA and the conserved 5' splice site of pre-mRNA is important for commitment complex formation in vitro. However, the biochemical mechanisms by which pre-mRNA is initially recognized by the splicing machinery is not well understood. To evaluate the role of this base pairing interaction, we truncated U1 snRNA to eliminate the RNA-RNA interaction and surprisingly found that U1 snRNP can still form a nearly normal RNA-protein complex and maintain sequence specificity. We propose that some feature of U1 snRNP, perhaps one or more protein factors, is more important than the base pairing for initial 5' splice site recognition. In addition, at least five sets of interactions contribute to complex formation or stability. Only one of these is base pairing between the 5' splice site and the 5' end of U1 snRNA, without which the U1 snRNP-pre-mRNA complex is less stable and has a somewhat altered conformation.

Functional association of U2 snRNP with the ATP-independent spliceosomal complex E

In the current model for spliceosome assembly, U1 snRNP binds to the 5' splice site in the E complex followed by ATP-dependent binding of U2 snRNP to the branchpoint sequence (BPS) in the A complex. Here we report the characterization of highly purified, functional E complex. We provide evidence that this complex contains functional U2 snRNP and that this snRNP is required for E complex assembly. The BPS is not required for U2 snRNP binding in the E complex. These data suggest a model for spliceosome assembly in which U1 and U2 snRNPs first associate with the spliceosome in the E complex and then an ATP-dependent step results in highly stable U2 snRNP binding to the BPS in the A complex.

ATP can be dispensable for prespliceosome formation in yeast

The first ATP-dependent step in pre-mRNA splicing involves the stable binding of U2 snRNP to form the prespliceosome. We show that a prespliceosome-like complex forms in the absence of ATP in yeast extracts lacking the U2 suppressor protein CUS2. These complexes display the same pre-mRNA and U snRNA requirements as authentic prespliceosomes and can be chased through the splicing pathway, indicating that they are a functional intermediate in the spliceosome assembly pathway. ATP-independent prespliceosome-like complexes are also observed in extracts containing a mutant U2 snRNA. Loss of CUS2 does not bypass the role of PRP5, an RNA helicase family member required for ATP-dependent prespliceosome formation. Genetic interactions between CUS2 and a heat-sensitive prp5 allele parallel those observed between CUS2 and U2, and suggest that CUS2 mediates functional interactions between U2 RNA and PRP5. We propose that CUS2 enforces ATP dependence during formation of the prespliceosome by brokering an interaction between PRP5 and the U2 snRNP that depends on correct U2 RNA structure.

ATP can be dispensable for prespliceosome formation in yeast

The first ATP-dependent step in pre-mRNA splicing involves the stable binding of U2 snRNP to form the prespliceosome. We show that a prespliceosome-like complex forms in the absence of ATP in yeast extracts lacking the U2 suppressor protein CUS2. These complexes display the same pre-mRNA and U snRNA requirements as authentic prespliceosomes and can be chased through the splicing pathway, indicating that they are a functional intermediate in the spliceosome assembly pathway. ATP-independent prespliceosome-like complexes are also observed in extracts containing a mutant U2 snRNA. Loss of CUS2 does not bypass the role of PRP5, an RNA helicase family member required for ATP-dependent prespliceosome formation. Genetic interactions between CUS2 and a heat-sensitive prp5allele parallel those observed between CUS2 and U2, and suggest that CUS2 mediates functional interactions between U2 RNA and PRP5. We propose that CUS2 enforces ATP dependence during formation of the prespliceosome by brokering an interaction between PRP5 and the U2 snRNP that depends on correct U2 RNA structure.

PUF60: a novel U2AF65-related splicing activity

We have identified a new pyrimidine-tract binding factor, PUF, that is required, together with U2AF, for efficient reconstitution of RNA splicing in vitro. The activity has been purified and consists of two proteins, PUF60 and the previously described splicing factor p54. p54 and PUF60 form a stable complex in vitro when cotranslated in a reaction mixture. PUF activity, in conjunction with U2AF, facilitates the association of U2 snRNP with the pre-mRNA. This reaction is dependent upon the presence of the large subunit of U2AF, U2AF65, but not the small subunit U2AF35. PUF60 is homologous to both U2AF65 and the yeast splicing factor Mud2p. The C-terminal domain of PUF60, the PUMP domain, is distantly related to the RNA-recognition motif domain, and is probably important in protein-protein interactions.