The role of the cytoskeleton and protein factors in mRNA localization in plant cells

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Subcellular mRNA localization plays an essential role in the development and function of eukaryotic cells. Although most of the known examples of mRNA localization are from model animal cell types, there are few examples that have been identified in plant cells. Research stemming from our previous interest in seed storage protein mRNA localization in rice endosperm cells resulted in the identification of a protein that possesses RNA and microtubule binding activity. This protein was identified as the multifunctional protein (MFP), a peroxisomal matrix protein involved in several steps of fatty acid b-oxidation. We hypothesize that the microtubule and RNA binding activities of MFP are important in translational autoregulation and in facilitating its import into the peroxisome.  We are also studying the role of three proteins, Mago nashi, Y14 and PYM, in mRNA localization and translation in plant cells. These proteins form a ternary complex that appears to be dynamic within the nucleus and cytosol. The specific objectives of the research described in this proposal are to: 1) Enhance our understanding of the MT and RNA binding activities of peroxisomal MFP and malate dehydrogenase and their proposed role in the regulated synthesis and peroxisomal import of these proteins; 2) Further characterize the role of the Mago/Y14/PYM complex in mRNA localization and translation in plant cells. The field of mRNA localization in plant cells is largely unexplored despite its importance in cell differentiation and development. The research outlined in this proposal will enhance our understanding of the roles and mechanisms of mRNA localization in plant cells, and provide my laboratory with many avenues of sustained, high impact research in the future.