Coordination Funds

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Work of the last 20 years demonstrated that gene regulation at the level of mRNAs is as important as transcriptional control. In eukaryotic cells, mRNAs are always associated with various RNA-binding proteins in a well-defined manner, forming higher-order complexes. These complexes regulate the temporal and spatial availability of transcripts for translation. They are highly dynamic and change their composition during the life of an mRNA from transcription to degradation. A special type of RNA-based gene regulation is the active transport of mRNAs by molecular motors along the cytoskeleton to the cell periphery, where they are locally translated. This results in subcellular protein gradients. mRNA localization and localized translation is found throughout eukaryotes and plays a role in diverse processes such as asymmetric cell division, embryogenesis, and neuronal plasticity. Impaired mRNA transport factors have been implicated in a number of heritable, mostly neuronal diseases. The aim of the FOR2333 Research Unit is to bring together various experts from throughout Germany, studying different aspects of mRNA localization. The research team consists of scientists from a broad range of expertise, including cell biology, biochemistry, genetics, structural biology and bioinformatics. In our second funding period, we wish to understand (i) how cis-acting elements within localizing mRNAs are defined, (ii) how different domains within one RNA-binding protein cooperate to mediate RNA localization, and (iii) why and how remodeling of mRNA transport complexes occurs when they change their subcellular location or upon environmental cues. We will make use of our strong collaborative ties, established in the first funding period, to train young scientists at regular network meetings, a method workshop and one international conference. In short, this Research Unit brings together junior and senior scientists from throughout Germany to advance our understanding of mRNA localization.