This project is directed at the elucidation of mechanisms of RNA recognition by a family of RNA-binding proteins (RRM family) which have a common sequence motif. Novel members of the RRM family will be isolated using degenerate nucleic acid probing and antibody reactivity. Molecular genetic and biophysical methods will be used to elucidate amino acid determinants involved in RNA binding specificity by RRM family members which function in transcription (La and Ro) and RNA processing (U1 and U2 snRNP proteins).
One aim will focus on a novel neuron- specific RRM protein, termed Hel-N1, which we have found can affect cell proliferation and differentiation when expressed in cultured cells. Our data indicate that Hel-N1 can bind to RNA """"""""instability sequences"""""""" in the noncoding regions of oncoprotein and lymphokine messages, including c- myc, c-fos and GM-CSF. We propose to study the role of Hel-N1 and other RNA binding proteins in RNA stability, growth control and cellular transformation. Therefore, these studies will address fundamental mechanisms of RNA recognition and binding which function at many levels of nucleic acid metabolism and which regulate nucleic acid-protein interactions.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
3R01CA060083-04S1
Application #
2447992
Study Section
Biochemistry Study Section (BIO)
Project Start
1993-04-01
Project End
1998-04-30
Budget Start
1996-02-01
Budget End
1998-04-30
Support Year
4
Fiscal Year
1997
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Duke University
Department
Microbiology/Immun/Virology
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
071723621
City
Durham
State
NC
Country
United States
Zip Code
27705