ZAR1
Domain
Disordered region at the N-terminus undergoes liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) for the formation of MARDO (mitochondria-associated ribonucleoprotein domain), a membraneless compartment that stores maternal mRNAs in oocytes.
The 3CxxC-type mediates binding to the 3'-UTR of mRNAs.
Function
mRNA-binding protein that mediates formation of MARDO (mitochondria-associated ribonucleoprotein domain), a membraneless compartment that stores maternal mRNAs in oocytes. MARDO assembly around mitochondria is directed by an increase in mitochondrial membrane potential during oocyte growth. Promotes formation of MARDO phase-separated membraneless compartment by undergoing liquid-liquid phase separation upon binding to maternal mRNAs. Binds to the 3'-UTR of maternal mRNAs. Maternal mRNAs stored in the MARDO are translationally repressed. Essential for female fertility and oocyte-to-embryo transition by coordinating maternal mRNA storage, translation and degradation.
Post-translational modifications
Ubiquitinated and degradaded by the proteasome during oocyte meiotic maturation, leading to MARDO (mitochondria-associated ribonucleoprotein domain) membraneless compartment dissolution.
Sequence Similarities
Belongs to the ZAR1 family.
Tissue Specificity
Ovary and testis.
Cellular localization
- Cytoplasm
- Cytoplasmic ribonucleoprotein granule
- Cytoplasm
- Specifically localizes to MARDO (mitochondria-associated ribonucleoprotein domain), a mitochondria-associated membraneless compartment that stores mRNAs in oocytes.
Alternative names
Zygote arrest protein 1, ZAR1