Multiple metal-binding cores are required for metalloregulation by M-box riboswitch RNAs.

ABSTRACT: Riboswitches are regulatory RNAs that control downstream gene expression in response to direct association with intracellular metabolites or metals. Typically, riboswitch aptamer domains bind to a single small-molecule metabolite. In contrast, an X-ray crystallographic structural model for the M-box riboswitch aptamer revealed the absence of an organic metabolite ligand but the presence of at least six tightly associated magnesiums. This observation agrees well with the proposed role of the M-box riboswitch in functioning as a sensor of intracellular magnesium, although additional nonspecific metal interactions are also undoubtedly required for these purposes. To gain greater functional insight into the metalloregulatory capabilities of M-box RNAs, we sought to determine whether all or a s

SUBMITTER: Wakeman CA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2755058 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature