Abstract
The translation initiator-tRNA plays a crucial role in the initiation of protein synthesis in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, by employing specific base pairing between its anticodon triplet CAU and the general initiation codon AUG in the mRNA. Here we show that the initiator-tRNA may also act, in a manner that is independent of its role in protein translation, as a pre-mRNA splicing regulator. Specifically, we show that alternative splicing events that are induced by mutations in the translation initiation AUG codon can be suppressed by expressing initiator-tRNA constructs carrying anticodon mutations that compensate for the AUG mutations. These mutated initiator-tRNAs appeared to be uncharged with an amino acid. Our results imply that recognition of the initiation AUG sequence by the anticodon triplet of initiator-tRNA in its unloaded state plays a role in quality control of splicing in the cell nucleus by a yet unresolved mechanism. Identifying the initiator-tRNA as a transacting splicing regulator suggests a novel involvement of this molecule in splicing regulation and provides a critical step toward deciphering this intriguing mechanism.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
