Internal initiation of translation by viral and cellular IRESs--a new avenue for specific inhibition of protein synthesis?
Many virus species, as well as a limited number of cellular mRNAs, initiate protein synthesis by an unusual mechanism, based on well-defined RNA structures called internal ribosome entry sites (IRES). IRES-mediated internal initiation allows recognition of the start codon by the ribosome in a cap-independent way, avoiding major regulatory steps. The IRES elements and their trans-acting factors are potential targets for developing new agents against hepatitis C, and may provide new possibilities for antitumor therapy.
Gallego
José
J
MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 2QH, UK. jgs@mrc-lmb.cam.ac.uk
D000818:Animals; D004267:DNA Viruses / Q000235:genetics*; D006801:Humans; D008968:Molecular Conformation; D014176:Protein Biosynthesis / Q000187:drug effects*; D011500:Protein Synthesis Inhibitors / Q000494:pharmacology*; D012328:RNA Viruses / Q000235:genetics*; D012333:RNA, Messenger / Q000235:genetics; D012270:Ribosomes / Q000187:drug effects*
D011500:Protein Synthesis Inhibitors; D012333:RNA, Messenger