A groundbreaking discovery has been made by researchers at the Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet regarding how human cells generate energy. Their findings, recently published in The EMBO Journal, shed light on the intricate processes through which mitochondria handle transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules crucial for energy production.
Mitochondria rely on properly processed tRNAs to synthesize proteins essential for energy generation. Any issues in tRNA processing can result in severe mitochondrial diseases. Up until now, the precise mechanism of tRNA maturation within mitochondria remained largely unknown.
“Our research unveils the molecular intricacies involved in how the mitochondrial RNase Z complex identifies and processes tRNA molecules,” explained Genís Valentín Gesé, lead author of the study. “Through cutting-edge cryo-electron microscopy techniques, we have managed to observe this complex in action, capturing snapshots of tRNA at various maturation stages. This represents a significant advancement in comprehending cellular energy production and maintenance.”
By utilizing advanced cryo-electron microscopy methods, the scientists were able to visualize the mitochondrial RNase Z complex responsible for tRNA maturation. They obtained high-resolution images illustrating how this complex meticulously processes tRNA molecules step by step.
“The detailed visualization of the RNase Z complex is akin to observing a finely tuned engine’s gears,” Valentín Gesé elaborated. “We can witness each component’s interaction with tRNA, providing invaluable insights into the precise mechanisms governing tRNA maturation.”
One notable revelation from their research is understanding that tRNAs are processed in a 5′-to-3′ order to ensure accurate preparation for protein synthesis. Additionally, they elucidated how the RNase Z complex avoids cleaving already 3′-CCA tail-equipped tRNAs to prevent processing errors.
2024-11-09 03:15:05
Post from phys.org