Structural basis for recognition of the tra mRNA precursor by the Sex-lethal protein
Article Abstract:
The crystal structure of the complex between the two tandemly arranged RNA-binding domains (RBDs) of the Sex-lethal (Sxl) protein of Drosophila melanogaster and a 12-nucleotide single-stranded RNA derived from the transformer (tra) polypyrimidine tract indicates how the RBDs cooperate specifically to recognize the sequence. There is no intramolecular base-pairing in the sequence, which is recognized through extensive interactions with both the bases and the backbone moieties. The RNA recognition mechanism of Sxl differs from those of the U1 small nuclear (sn)ribonucleoprotein (RNP) A protein and U2B" snRNP proteins.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1999
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Metal ion catalysis during splicing of premessenger RNA
Article Abstract:
Eukaryotic gene expression requires the removal of intervening premessenger RNA sequences. The catalytic mechanisms are unknown although two divalent metal ions may mediate catalysis. Splicing reactions with a precursor RNA containing a 3-sulphur substitution at the 5-splice site, show that interaction between metal ion and leaving group is necessary for catalysis. However 3-sulphur substitution at the 3-splice site showed no evidence of metal ion-leaving group interaction, indicating that the two splicing steps occur via different catalytic mechanisms.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1997
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