De-centralizing the Central Dogma: mRNA translation in space and time

• Published in: Molecular cell 2023-02, Vol.83 (3), p.452-468
• Main Authors: Bourke, Ashley M., Schwarz, Andre, Schuman, Erin M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: local translation; mRNA localization; Protein Biosynthesis; protein synthesis; ribosome; Ribosomes - genetics; Ribosomes - metabolism; RNA, Messenger - genetics; RNA, Messenger - metabolism; translation factor
• ISSN: 1097-2765; 1097-4164
• DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.12.030

As our understanding of the cell interior has grown, we have come to appreciate that most cellular operations are localized, that is, they occur at discrete and identifiable locations or domains. These cellular domains contain enzymes, machines, and other components necessary to carry out and regulate these localized operations. Here, we review these features of one such operation: the localization and translation of mRNAs within subcellular compartments observed across cell types and organisms. We describe the conceptual advantages and the “ingredients” and mechanisms of local translation. We focus on the nature and features of localized mRNAs, how they travel and get localized, and how this process is regulated. We also evaluate our current understanding of protein synthesis machines (ribosomes) and their cadre of regulatory elements, that is, the translation factors. Bourke et al. discuss how local translation and its spatiotemporal regulation have expanded our conceptual understanding of genetic information flow within a cell (the Central Dogma). Here, the authors review the mechanisms and molecules involved in mRNA localization and translation within subcellular domains across a variety of cells and organisms.