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Review
. 2020 Sep 3;21(9):e50799.
doi: 10.15252/embr.202050799. Epub 2020 Aug 16.

So close, no matter how far: multiple paths connecting transcription to mRNA translation in eukaryotes

Boris Slobodin  1 , Rivka Dikstein  1
Affiliations
Review

So close, no matter how far: multiple paths connecting transcription to mRNA translation in eukaryotes

Boris Slobodin et al. EMBO Rep. .

Abstract

Transcription of DNA into mRNA and translation of mRNA into proteins are two major processes underlying gene expression. Due to the distinct molecular mechanisms, timings, and locales of action, these processes are mainly considered to be independent. During the last two decades, however, multiple factors and elements were shown to coordinate transcription and translation, suggesting an intricate level of synchronization. This review discusses the molecular mechanisms that impact both processes in eukaryotic cells of different origins. The emerging global picture suggests evolutionarily conserved regulation and coordination between transcription and mRNA translation, indicating the importance of this phenomenon for the fine-tuning of gene expression and the adjustment to constantly changing conditions.

Keywords: IRES; gene expression; m6A; mRNA translation; transcription.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Multiple features bridge transcription and mRNA translation
Transcription employs a network of multiple elements and factors to exert translation regulation. Note that some parameters are static and encoded in genome (left box), while others might be condition‐dependent and dynamic (right box).
Figure 2
Figure 2. Cis‐acting elements regulating both transcription and translation
The particular impacts of each element on transcription and translation are detailed (left and right columns, respectively). Note that unlike other elements, the TATA box does not appear in the mRNA sequence.
Figure 3
Figure 3. Impact of the m6A modification on translation
Reported effects of m6A on translation are detailed according to the intragenic site of deposition, molecular mechanisms, and regulating factors.
Figure 4
Figure 4. Schematic overview of the factors linking nuclear transcription and cytoplasmic translation
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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