Identification of proteins that form specific complexes with the highly conserved protein Translin in Schizosaccharomyces pombe

Translin is a single-stranded DNA and RNA binding protein that has a high affinity for G-rich sequences. TRAX is a Translin paralog that associates with Translin. Both Translin and TRAX were highly conserved in eukaryotes. The nucleic acid binding form of Translin is a barrel-shaped homo-octamer. A Translin–TRAX hetero-octamer having a similar structure also binds nucleic acids. Previous reports suggested that Translin may be involved in chromosomal translocations, telomere metabolism and the control of mRNA transport and translation. More recent studies have indicated that Translin–TRAX hetero-octamers are involved in RNA silencing. To gain a further insight into the functions of Translin, we have undertaken to systematically search for proteins with which it forms specific complexes in living cells. Here we report the results of such a search conducted in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe, a suitable model system. This search was carried out by affinity purification and immuno-precipitation techniques, combined with differential labeling of the intracellular proteins with the stable isotopes 15N and 14N. We identified for the first time two proteins containing an RNA Recognition Motif (RRM), which are specifically associated with the yeast Translin: (1) the pre-mRNA-splicing factor srp1 that belongs to the highly conserved SR family of proteins and (2) vip1, a protein conserved in fungi. Our data also support the presence of RNA in these intracellular complexes. Our experimental approach should be generally applicable to studies of weak intracellular protein–protein interactions and provides a clear distinction between false positive vs. truly interacting proteins. •Search for proteins that form specific complexes with the protein Translin in S. pombe•Methods: in vivo “heavy” isotope labeling; affinity purification; mass-spectrometry•Two new Translin-associated RNA-binding proteins were identified: srp1 and vip1.•srp1 is a member of the highly conserved SR protein family.•Our methodology is generally applicable to studies of weakly interacting proteins.