Abstract
Despite efforts to visualize the spatio-temporal dynamics of single messenger RNAs, the ability to precisely control their function has lagged. This study presents an optogenetic approach for manipulating the localization and translation of specific mRNAs by trapping them in clusters. This clustering greatly amplified reporter signals, enabling endogenous RNA-protein interactions to be clearly visualized in single cells. Functionally, this sequestration reduced the ability of mRNAs to access ribosomes, markedly attenuating protein synthesis. A spatio-temporally resolved analysis indicated that sequestration of endogenous β-actin mRNA attenuated cell motility through the regulation of focal-adhesion dynamics. These results suggest a mechanism highlighting the indispensable role of newly synthesized β-actin protein for efficient cell migration. This platform may be broadly applicable for use in investigating the spatio-temporal activities of specific mRNAs in various biological processes.
Highlights
The localization and translation of mRNAs are regulated by complex and heterogeneous mechanisms in living systems
Numerous efforts have been made toward the goal of visualizing the spatiotemporal dynamics of single mRNA molecules, yet our capacity for precisely controlling their functions lags behind
We present an optogenetic approach for manipulating the localization and translation of specific mRNAs in live cells
Summary
The localization and translation of mRNAs are regulated by complex and heterogeneous mechanisms in living systems. Numerous efforts have been made toward the goal of visualizing the spatiotemporal dynamics of single mRNA molecules, yet our capacity for precisely controlling their functions lags behind. We present an optogenetic approach for manipulating the localization and translation of specific mRNAs in live cells.
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