Tracking single mRNA molecules in live cells. (6th May 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Moon, Hyungseok C; Lee, Byung Hun; Lim, Kiseong; Seok Son, Jae; Song, Minho S; Yoon Park, Hye
• Is Part Of: Journal of physics. Volume 49:Number 23(2016)
• Publication Date: 2016-05-06
• Subjects: particle tracking -- live cell imaging -- mRNA -- MS2 system -- fluorescence; Physics -- Periodicals; 530
• DOI: 10.1088/0022-3727/49/23/233001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-3727

Abstract

Abstract: mRNAs inside cells interact with numerous RNA-binding proteins, microRNAs, and ribosomes that together compose a highly heterogeneous population of messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) particles. Perhaps one of the best ways to investigate the complex regulation of mRNA is to observe individual molecules. Single molecule imaging allows the collection of quantitative and statistical data on subpopulations and transient states that are otherwise obscured by ensemble averaging. In addition, single particle tracking reveals the sequence of events that occur in the formation and remodeling of mRNPs in real time. Here, we review the current state-of-the-art techniques in tagging, delivery, and imaging to track single mRNAs in live cells. We also discuss how these techniques are applied to extract dynamic information on the transcription, transport, localization, and translation of mRNAs. These studies demonstrate how single molecule tracking is transforming the understanding of mRNA regulation in live cells.