Classification of gas5 as a multi-small-nucleolar-RNA (snoRNA) host gene and a member of the 5'-terminal oligopyrimidine gene family reveals common features of snoRNA host genes.

ABSTRACT: We have identified gas5 (growth arrest-specific transcript 5) as a non-protein-coding multiple small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA) host gene similar to UHG (U22 host gene). Encoded within the 11 introns of the mouse gas5 gene are nine (10 in human) box C/D snoRNAs predicted to function in the 2'-O-methylation of rRNA. The only regions of conservation between mouse and human gas5 genes are their snoRNAs and 5'-end sequences. Mapping the 5' end of the mouse gas5 transcript demonstrates that it possesses an oligopyrimidine tract characteristic of the 5'-terminal oligopyrimidine (5'TOP) class of genes. Arrest of cell growth or inhibition of translation by cycloheximide, pactamycin, or rapamycin-which specifically inhibits the translation of 5'TOP mRNAs-results in accumulation of the gas5 spliced RNA.

SUBMITTER: Smith CM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC109273 | biostudies-literature | 1998 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature