The integrator complex is required for integrity of Cajal bodies

J Cell Sci. 2012 Jan 1;125(Pt 1):166-75. doi: 10.1242/jcs.090837. Epub 2012 Jan 16.

Abstract

The nucleus in eukaryotic cells is a highly organized and dynamic structure containing numerous subnuclear bodies. The morphological appearance of nuclear bodies seems to be a reflection of ongoing functions, such as DNA replication, transcription, repair, RNA processing and RNA transport. The integrator complex mediates processing of small nuclear RNA (snRNA), so it might play a role in nuclear body formation. Here, we show that the integrator complex is essential for integrity of the Cajal body. Depletion of INTS4, an integrator complex subunit, abrogated 3'-end processing of snRNA. A defect in this activity caused a significant accumulation of the Cajal body marker protein coilin in nucleoli. Some fractions of coilin still formed nucleoplasmic foci; however, they were free of other Cajal body components, such as survival of motor neuron protein (SMN), Sm proteins and snRNAs. SMN and Sm proteins formed striking cytoplasmic granules. These findings demonstrate that the integrator complex is essential for snRNA maturation and Cajal body homeostasis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Active Transport, Cell Nucleus
  • Cell Nucleolus / metabolism
  • Coiled Bodies / metabolism*
  • Cytoplasmic Granules / metabolism
  • Gene Knockdown Techniques
  • HeLa Cells
  • Humans
  • Nuclear Proteins / deficiency
  • Nuclear Proteins / genetics
  • Nuclear Proteins / metabolism*
  • Phenotype
  • Protein Transport
  • RNA, Small Nuclear / metabolism
  • Ribonucleases / metabolism
  • Ribonucleoproteins, Small Nuclear / metabolism
  • SMN Complex Proteins / metabolism

Substances

  • INTS4 protein, human
  • Nuclear Proteins
  • RNA, Small Nuclear
  • Ribonucleoproteins, Small Nuclear
  • SMN Complex Proteins
  • p80-coilin
  • Ribonucleases