Interaction between JULGI and G-quadruplex: prominent factor of strategy for improving crop yield

Abstract

JULGI is the RNA binding protein(RBP), especially to G-quadruplex. In vivo , it directly binds to the SMXL5 5’UTR which is a precursor of SMXL5, a positive regulator of phloem differentiation of plant, and then induces G-quadruplex formation to restrict the translation. Although JULGI has important roles in transport capacity, plant gr owth, and fi nally crop yield, how JULGI interacts with G-quadruplex is not known yet. Also, JULGI has a unique feature that sets it apart from other G-quadruplex binding proteins. Unlike others, JULGI has a preference for RNA over DNA and it can not only stabilize but also induce the G-quadruplex. So, I try to understand the binding mechanism between JULGI and G-quadruplex in molecular level by crystallography and biochemical assay. Currently, I aim to fi nd the condition where JULGI is stabilized and use various types of G - quadruplex to verify the difference between them. This future finding will be helpful to design a new strategy for increasing crop yield.