Two zinc finger proteins with functions in m6A writing interact with HAKAI

ABSTRACT: The methyltransferase complex (m6A writer), which catalyzes the deposition of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) in mRNAs, is highly conserved across most eukaryotic organisms, but its components and interactions between them are still far from fully understood. Using in vivo interaction proteomics, two HAKAI-interacting zinc finger proteins, HIZ1 and HIZ2, were discovered as novel components of the Arabidopsis m6A writer complex. HAKAI is required for the interaction between HIZ1 and MTA. Whilst HIZ1 knockout plants have normal levels of m6A, plants in which it is overexpressed show reduced methylation. In addition, HIZ1 was found to be involved in root hair development upon auxin transport inhibition in a HAKAI-dependent manner. Mutant plants lacking HIZ2 are viable but have an 85% reduction in m6A abundance and show severe developmental defects. Our findings suggest that HIZ1 appears to be a HAKAI-dependent negative regulator of m6A deposition and HIZ2 is a novel and essential member of the Arabidopsis m6A writer complex.

INSTRUMENT(S):

ORGANISM(S): Arabidopsis Thaliana (mouse-ear Cress)

TISSUE(S): Plant Cell, Whole Body

SUBMITTER: Mi Zhang  

LAB HEAD: Rupert G. Fray

PROVIDER: PXD026287 | Pride | 2022-02-09

REPOSITORIES: Pride