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A structured RNA motif locks Argonaute2:miR-122 onto the 5’ end of the HCV genome

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  • Luca F. R. Gebert

    (The Scripps Research Institute)

  • Mansun Law

    (The Scripps Research Institute)

  • Ian J. MacRae

    (The Scripps Research Institute)

Abstract

microRNAs (miRNAs) form regulatory networks in metazoans. Viruses engage miRNA networks in numerous ways, with Flaviviridae members exploiting direct interactions of their RNA genomes with host miRNAs. For hepatitis C virus (HCV), binding of liver-abundant miR-122 stabilizes the viral RNA and regulates viral translation. Here, we investigate the structural basis for these activities, taking into consideration that miRNAs function in complex with Argonaute (Ago) proteins. The crystal structure of the Ago2:miR-122:HCV complex reveals a structured RNA motif that traps Ago2 on the viral RNA, masking its 5’ end from enzymatic attack. The trapped Ago2 can recruit host factor PCBP2, implicated in viral translation, while binding of a second Ago2:miR-122 competes with PCBP2, creating a potential molecular switch for translational control. Combined results reveal a viral RNA structure that modulates Ago2:miR-122 dynamics and repurposes host proteins to generate a functional analog of the mRNA cap-binding complex.

Suggested Citation

  • Luca F. R. Gebert & Mansun Law & Ian J. MacRae, 2021. "A structured RNA motif locks Argonaute2:miR-122 onto the 5’ end of the HCV genome," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 12(1), pages 1-13, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:12:y:2021:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-021-27177-9
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27177-9
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Carlos Gorbea & Tim Mosbruger & Demián Cazalla, 2017. "A viral Sm-class RNA base-pairs with mRNAs and recruits microRNAs to inhibit apoptosis," Nature, Nature, vol. 550(7675), pages 275-279, October.
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