Chemo-enzymatic modification of eukaryotic mRNA

Abstract

Messenger RNA may not be very abundant in the cell but its central role in gene expression is indisputable. In addition to being the template for translation it can be subject for a variety of regulatory mechanisms affecting gene expression, ranging from simple structural changes to modifications and active transport. To elucidate and potentially control the underlying changes in vitro and in cells, site-specific modification and labeling strategies are required. In this perspective, we introduce chemo-enzymatic concepts for posttranscriptional modification focusing on eukaryotic mRNAs. We describe how eukaryotic mRNA can be enzymatically modified via its 5′ cap. Directions towards chemo-enzymatic mRNA labeling and visualization inside cells are given, taking into account current developments in fluorophore design. Recent achievements and future perspectives will be highlighted in the framework of an honest discussion of existing challenges.