Combinations of DEAD box proteins distinguish distinct types of RNA: Protein complexes in neurons

• Published in: Molecular and cellular neuroscience 2009-04, Vol.40 (4), p.485-495
• Main Authors: Miller, Linda C., Blandford, Vanessa, McAdam, Robyn, Sanchez-Carbente, Maria R., Badeaux, Frederique, DesGroseillers, Luc, Sossin, Wayne S.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Animals; Biomarkers - metabolism; Cells, Cultured; Cytoplasmic Granules - chemistry; Cytoplasmic Granules - genetics; Cytoplasmic Granules - metabolism; DEAD-box RNA Helicases - genetics; DEAD-box RNA Helicases - metabolism; Hippocampus - cytology; Isoenzymes - genetics; Isoenzymes - metabolism; Neurons - cytology; Neurons - physiology; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Recombinant Fusion Proteins - genetics; Recombinant Fusion Proteins - metabolism; Ribosomes - metabolism; RNA - classification; RNA - genetics; RNA - metabolism; RNA Transport
• ISSN: 1044-7431; 1095-9327
• DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2009.01.007

Transport of mRNAs to axons and dendrites in neurons is important for growth, polarization and plasticity. Recent proteomic studies in neurons have identified a number of DEAD box proteins as components of RNA granules. Using DEAD box proteins as markers, we have defined classes of RNA:protein structures present in neurons. In particular, we demonstrate that the conjunction of DEAD box 1 and DEAD box 3 identifies a motile ribosome-containing RNA granule present in both axons and dendrites that is similar to the biochemically isolated RNA granule. Conjunction of DEAD box 1 and the novel protein CGI-99 defines a distinct complex in neurons. Attempts to define a P-body like structure with expression of DEAD box 6 and decapping enzymes suggest that this structure may be more complex in neuronal processes than in other compartments. These studies hint at a great complexity in RNA transport and storage in neuronal processes.