Molecular motors: directing traffic during RNA localization

Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol. 2011 Jun;46(3):229-39. doi: 10.3109/10409238.2011.572861. Epub 2011 Apr 11.

Abstract

RNA localization, the enrichment of RNA in a specific subcellular region, is a mechanism for the establishment and maintenance of cellular polarity in a variety of systems. Ultimately, this results in a universal method for spatially restricting gene expression. Although the consequences of RNA localization are well-appreciated, many of the mechanisms that are responsible for carrying out polarized transport remain elusive. Several recent studies have illuminated the roles that molecular motor proteins play in the process of RNA localization. These studies have revealed complex mechanisms in which the coordinated action of one or more motor proteins can act at different points in the localization process to direct RNAs to their final destination. In this review, we discuss recent findings from several different systems in an effort to clarify pathways and mechanisms that control the directed movement of RNA.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biological Transport / genetics
  • Cell Polarity / genetics*
  • Drosophila
  • Dyneins / chemistry
  • Dyneins / genetics
  • Dyneins / metabolism
  • Female
  • Kinesins / chemistry
  • Kinesins / genetics
  • Kinesins / metabolism
  • Microtubules / chemistry
  • Microtubules / genetics
  • Microtubules / metabolism
  • Molecular Motor Proteins / chemistry*
  • Molecular Motor Proteins / genetics*
  • Molecular Motor Proteins / metabolism
  • Myosins / chemistry
  • Myosins / genetics
  • Myosins / metabolism
  • Oocytes / chemistry
  • Oocytes / metabolism
  • RNA / chemistry
  • RNA / genetics
  • RNA / metabolism
  • RNA Processing, Post-Transcriptional / genetics*
  • RNA Transport*
  • RNA, Messenger / chemistry
  • RNA, Messenger / genetics
  • RNA, Messenger / metabolism

Substances

  • Molecular Motor Proteins
  • RNA, Messenger
  • RNA
  • Myosins
  • Dyneins
  • Kinesins