Selection of mRNA 5'-untranslated region sequence with high translation efficiency through ribosome display

Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2008 Aug 15;373(1):48-52. doi: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2008.05.173. Epub 2008 Jun 9.

Abstract

The 5'-untranslated region (5'-UTR) of mRNAs functions as a translation enhancer, promoting translation efficiency. Many in vitro translation systems exhibit a reduced efficiency in protein translation due to decreased translation initiation. The use of a 5'-UTR sequence with high translation efficiency greatly enhances protein production in these systems. In this study, we have developed an in vitro selection system that favors 5'-UTRs with high translation efficiency using a ribosome display technique. A 5'-UTR random library, comprised of 5'-UTRs tagged with a His-tag and Renilla luciferase (R-luc) fusion, were in vitro translated in rabbit reticulocytes. By limiting the translation period, only mRNAs with high translation efficiency were translated. During translation, mRNA, ribosome and translated R-luc with His-tag formed ternary complexes. They were collected with translated His-tag using Ni-particles. Extracted mRNA from ternary complex was amplified using RT-PCR and sequenced. Finally, 5'-UTR with high translation efficiency was obtained from random 5'-UTR library.

MeSH terms

  • 5' Untranslated Regions / genetics
  • 5' Untranslated Regions / isolation & purification*
  • Animals
  • Base Sequence
  • Directed Molecular Evolution / methods*
  • Enhancer Elements, Genetic*
  • Gene Library
  • Luciferases, Renilla / genetics
  • Protein Biosynthesis / genetics*
  • Rabbits
  • Reticulocytes
  • Ribosomes / metabolism*

Substances

  • 5' Untranslated Regions
  • Luciferases, Renilla