TREX reveals proteins that bind to specific RNA regions in living cells.

Different regions of RNA molecules can often engage in specific interactions with distinct RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), giving rise to diverse modalities of RNA regulation and function. However, there are currently no methods for unbiased identification of RBPs that interact with specific RNA regions in living cells and under endogenous settings. Here we introduce TREX (targeted RNase H-mediated extraction of crosslinked RBPs)-a highly sensitive approach for identifying proteins that directly bind to specific RNA regions in living cells.

Coalescent RNA-localizing and transcriptional activities of SAM68 modulate adhesion and subendothelial basement membrane assembly.

Endothelial cell interactions with their extracellular matrix are essential for vascular homeostasis and expansion. Large-scale proteomic analyses aimed at identifying components of integrin adhesion complexes have revealed the presence of several RNA binding proteins (RBPs) of which the functions at these sites remain poorly understood. Here, we explored the role of the RBP SAM68 (Src associated in mitosis, of 68 kDa) in endothelial cells.

The alternative matrisome: Alternative splicing of ECM proteins in development, homeostasis and tumor progression.

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a fundamental component of the tissue of multicellular organisms that is comprised of an intricate network of multidomain proteins and associated factors, collectively known as the matrisome. The ECM creates a biophysical environment that regulates essential cellular processes such as adhesion, proliferation and migration and impacts cell fate decisions. The composition of the ECM varies across organs, developmental stages and diseases.

Shaping Up the Tumor Microenvironment With Cellular Fibronectin.

Normal tissue homeostasis and architecture restrain tumor growth. Thus, for a tumor to develop and spread, malignant cells must overcome growth-repressive inputs from surrounding tissue and escape immune surveillance mechanisms that curb cancer progression. This is achieved by promoting the conversion of a physiological microenvironment to a pro-tumoral state and it requires a constant dialog between malignant cells and ostensibly normal cells of adjacent tissue.