Single-molecule visualization of mRNA circularization during translation

Abstract

Protein synthesis: Seeing single mRNA molecules Single-molecule fluorescence imaging is revealing the formation of circular mRNA and the complex interplay of messenger RNA (mRNA) and ribosomal proteins during translation, the decoding of mRNA to form proteins. Various translation factors encourage the circularization of mRNA, which might help control mRNA expression, but detailed insights have been limited. Jong-Bong Lee at Pohang University of Science & Technology, South Korea, and co-workers reviewed recent progress in single-molecule imaging of mRNA circularization. Various fluorescence imaging methods have revealed the changing shapes, structures, locations and binding kinetics of mRNA molecules, as well as the quantities of important target proteins. The researchers highlight future challenges, such as simultaneously tracking multiple translation regulators, and improving protein purification and labeling. Such detailed single-molecule visualization could eventually enable scientists to directly manipulate interactions within mRNA-protein complexes.