A Translation Initiation Element Specific to mRNAs with Very Short 5′UTR that Also Regulates Transcription Initiator of Short 5′UTR mRNAs
2008

A New Translation Initiation Element for Short mRNAs

publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Elfakess R, Dikstein R

Primary Institution: The Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel

Hypothesis

The study investigates a novel translation initiation element that regulates both transcription and translation in mRNAs with very short 5' UTRs.

Conclusion

The TISU element is a strong translation initiator that also plays a critical role in transcription regulation.

Supporting Evidence

  • The TISU element is found in approximately 4% of mammalian genes.
  • TISU directs efficient translation initiation from mRNAs with very short 5' UTRs.
  • YY1 transcription factor binds to TISU and mediates its transcriptional activity.

Takeaway

Scientists found a special part of the gene that helps start making proteins from very short messages, and it also helps turn on the gene.

Methodology

The study used computational analysis to identify the TISU element and performed various experiments including primer extension assays and in vitro translation assays.

Statistical Information

P-Value

6.25E-30

Statistical Significance

p<0.0005

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0003094

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