The low-complexity domain of the FUS RNA binding protein self-assembles via the mutually exclusive use of two distinct cross-β cores

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10 Scopus citations

Abstract

The low-complexity (LC) domain of the fused in sarcoma (FUS) RNA binding protein self-associates in a manner causing phase separation from an aqueous environment. Incubation of the FUS LC domain under physiologically normal conditions of salt and pH leads to rapid formation of liquid-like droplets that mature into a gel-like state. Both examples of phase separation have enabled reductionist biochemical assays allowing discovery of an N-terminal region of 57 residues that assembles into a labile, cross-β structure. Here we provide evidence of a nonoverlapping, C-terminal region of the FUS LC domain that also forms specific cross-β interactions. We propose that biologic function of the FUS LC domain may operate via the mutually exclusive use of these N- and C-terminal cross-β cores. Neurodegenerative disease-causing mutations in the FUS LC domain are shown to imbalance the two cross-β cores, offering an unanticipated concept of LC domain function and dysfunction.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article numbere2114412118
JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America
Volume118
Issue number42
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 19 2021

Keywords

  • ALS mutation
  • Cross-beta polymer
  • FUS
  • Low-complexity sequence
  • Neurodegenerative disease

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General

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