The RNA-binding protein RBP10 controls a regulatory cascade that defines bloodstream-form trypanosome identity

摘要: Gene expression control in the pathogen Trypanosoma brucei relies almost exclusively on post-transcriptional mechanisms, so RNA binding proteins must assume burden that is usually borne by transcription factors. T. multiply blood of mammals as bloodstream forms, and midgut Tsetse flies procyclic forms. We show here a single RNA-binding protein, RBP10, defines bloodstream-form trypanosome differentiation state. Depletion RBP10 from trypanosomes gives cells can grow only forms; conversely, forms converts them to binds procyclic-specific mRNAs containing an UAUUUUUU motif, targeting for translation repression destruction. Products target include not major surface protein enzymes energy metabolism, but also kinases stage-specific proteins: consequently, alterations trigger regulatory cascade.