Synthetic biomolecular condensates enhance translation from a target mRNA in living cells
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ABSTRACT: Biomolecular condensates composed of proteins and RNA are one approach by which cells regulate post-transcriptional gene expression. Their formation typically involves the phase separation of intrinsically disordered proteins with a target mRNA, sequestering the mRNA into a liquid condensate. This sequestration regulates gene expression by modulating translation or facilitating RNA processing. Here, we engineer synthetic condensates using a fusion of an RNA-binding protein, the human Pumilio2 homology domain, and a synthetic intrinsically disordered protein, an elastin-like polypeptide, that can bind and sequester a target mRNA transcript. In protocells, sequestration of a target mRNA largely limits its translation. Conversely, in E. Coli, sequestration of the same target mRNA increases its translation. We characterize the Pum2-ELP condensate system using microscopy, biophysical and biochemical assays, and RNA-seq. This approach enables modulation of cell function via the formation of synthetic biomolecular condensates that upregulate the expression of a target protein.
ORGANISM(S): Escherichia coli
PROVIDER: GSE277409 | GEO | 2024/11/30
REPOSITORIES: GEO
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