Alba-Domain Proteins of Trypanosoma brucei Are Cytoplasmic RNA-Binding Proteins That Interact with the Translation Machinery
Author Information
Author(s): Mani Jan, Güttinger Andreas, Schimanski Bernd, Heller Manfred, Acosta-Serrano Alvaro, Pescher Pascale, Späth Gerald, Roditi Isabel
Primary Institution: Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
Hypothesis
Alba-domain proteins in Trypanosoma brucei regulate the expression of procyclin mRNAs through interactions with their untranslated regions.
Conclusion
Alba proteins are involved in the regulation of translation of procyclin mRNAs in Trypanosoma brucei.
Supporting Evidence
- Alba proteins were identified as RNA-binding proteins that interact with the GPEET mRNA.
- RNA interference against Alba proteins reduced the translation of a reporter transcript.
- Alba proteins co-purified with poly(A) binding proteins and ribosomal proteins.
Takeaway
This study found that certain proteins in Trypanosoma brucei help control how the parasite makes its surface proteins, which is important for its survival.
Methodology
The study used electromobility shift assays, RNA interference, and mass spectrometry to analyze the interactions and functions of Alba proteins.
Limitations
The study does not explore the potential functions of Alba proteins in other life cycle stages of Trypanosoma brucei.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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