Processing bodies (P-bodies) are cytoplasmic RNA granules containing the Dcp1-Dcp2 decapping-enzymes where mRNA decay can occur. We have used the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe as a model system to study their structures and compositions. Because several components of P-bodies, such as the decapping enzyme and its co-activators, are found in both yeast and mammalian cells, it is believed that P-bodies are evolutionarily conserved among eukaryotes. However, we found that species diversity has developed; the protein compositions and underlying molecular mechanisms for their function can be distinct between species. These results led us to suggest that the whole complex including the decapping-enzyme and its co activators might have coevolved together and acquired additional proteins and different mechanisms for its function highlighting the importance of cross-pecies studies of this sort. Furthermore, we found that, although predominantly present in the cytoplasm, components of P-bodies also function in the nucleus. A function of Pdc2, the fission yeast ortholog of Pat1 protein, and the decapping enzyme Dcp1-cp2 function together with the 5’-3’ exonuclease Dhp1 in the nucleus to regulate lncRNA by promoting its decapping/destruction was suggested.
Date:
2018-01
Relation:
International Journal of Molecular Biology: Open Access. 2018 Jan 17;31(1):Article number 00041.
