Dual roles for transcription and translation factors in the RNA storage particles of Xenopus oocytes.
During oogenesis, Xenopus laevis utilizes homologues of normal transcription or translation factors to sequester a variety of RNA molecules into ribonucleoprotein storage particles. This remarkable adaptive function for a diverse group of regulatory molecules allows the oocyte to stockpile macromolecules for use during embryogenesis. We discuss the special features of these nucleic acid-binding proteins and the insights into their structure and function that follow from their dual biological role.
Tafuri
S R
SR
Laboratory of Molecular Embryology, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bldg 6, Rm B1A-13, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
Wolffe
A P
AP