Mechanism of siRNA processing by the Dicer-2:R2D2 complex
EMSL Project ID
51787
Abstract
The Dicer-2 RNA processing enzyme in invertebrates plays dual roles in processing endogenous and viral siRNAs using distinct mechanisms. We previously determined a 6.8 Å structure of Drosophila Dicer-2 in complex with a viral-like dsRNA substrate (i.e., with blunt termini) [REF]. Our work demonstrated a new mode of RNA binding by Dicers and rationalized a mechanism by which it distinguishes between self and non-self RNAs. Our unexpected discovery has created new opportunities to more fully understand how Dicer works, including extending the resolution of our published structure and determining structures of Dicer-2 complexes in the presence of regulatory binding partners. In this application, we propose limited, 24-h access to PNCC instrumentation to screen new cryo-EM grids of Dicer-2 complexes as a means to push this project forward while our local instrumentation is experiencing significant downtime and repairs.
Project Details
Start Date
2020-12-15
End Date
2021-03-17
Status
Closed
Released Data Link
Team
Principal Investigator
Co-Investigator(s)