A DEAD-box RNA helicase mediates meiotic silencing by unpaired DNA.

During the sexual phase of Neurospora crassa, unpaired genes are subject to a silencing mechanism known as meiotic silencing by unpaired DNA (MSUD). MSUD targets the transcripts of an unpaired gene and utilizes typical RNA interference factors for its process. Using a reverse genetic screen, we have identified a meiotic silencing gene called sad-9, which encodes a DEAD-box RNA helicase.

Involvement of RNA granule proteins in meiotic silencing by unpaired DNA.

In Neurospora crassa, expression from an unpaired gene is suppressed by a mechanism known as meiotic silencing by unpaired DNA (MSUD). MSUD utilizes common RNA interference (RNAi) factors to silence target mRNAs. Here, we report that Neurospora CAR-1 and CGH-1, homologs of two Caenorhabditis elegans RNA granule components, are involved in MSUD.

An NCBP3-Domain Protein Mediates Meiotic Silencing by Unpaired DNA.

In the filamentous fungus , genes unpaired during meiosis are silenced by a process known as meiotic silencing by unpaired DNA (MSUD). MSUD utilizes common RNA interference (RNAi) proteins, such as Dicer and Argonaute, to target homologous mRNAs for silencing. Previously, we demonstrated that nuclear cap-binding proteins NCBP1 and NCBP2 are involved in MSUD.

The Nuclear Cap-Binding Complex Mediates Meiotic Silencing by Unpaired DNA.

In the filamentous fungus , cross walls between individual cells are normally incomplete, making the entire fungal network vulnerable to attack by viruses and selfish DNAs. Accordingly, several genome surveillance mechanisms are maintained to help the fungus combat these repetitive elements. One of these defense mechanisms is called meiotic silencing by unpaired DNA (MSUD), which identifies and silences unpaired genes during meiosis.

Benzoylalanine-derived ketoamides carrying vinylbenzyl amino residues: discovery of potent water-soluble calpain inhibitors with oral bioavailability.

Novel benzoylalanine-derived ketoamides were prepared and evaluated for calpain I inhibition. Derivatives carrying vinylbenzyl amino residues in the P(2)-P(3) region inhibited calpain in nanomolar concentrations and thus represent a novel class of nonpeptidic calpain inhibitors. Selected examples exhibited an improved pharmacokinetic profile including improved water-solubility and metabolic stability.