Mitochondrial tRNAs undergo posttranscriptional modifications critical for accurate translation of mitochondrial DNA-encoded proteins. In S. pombe, enzymes like MTU1 (homologous to human TRMU) catalyze 2-thiolation of uridine at the wobble position (U34) of mt-tRNAs (Lys, Glu, Gln). This modification enhances codon-anticodon pairing fidelity . While human and bacterial homologs are well-studied, S. pombe-specific data remain limited.
The gene designation SPAC23H4.04 is not explicitly mentioned in indexed literature. Close examination of S. pombe gene databases reveals:
SPAC23H4.05c: An uncharacterized protein with no annotated function .
SPAC23H4.02/ppk9+: Encodes a Snf1-like protein kinase (Ssp2) involved in glucose derepression, unrelated to tRNA modification .
This discrepancy suggests either a misannotation, a novel gene, or a focus on an understudied locus.
Recombinant mitochondrial tRNA-modifying enzymes are typically produced in E. coli or yeast systems. For instance:
| Feature | Human TRMU | Hypothetical SPAC23H4.04 |
|---|---|---|
| Host System | E. coli | Not reported |
| Tag | C-terminal His-tag | Unknown |
| Purity | >85% (SDS-PAGE) | Unverified |
| Activity | 2-thiolation of mt-tRNAs | Presumed, unconfirmed |
No commercial or academic sources (e.g., Creative BioMart , MyBioSource ) list SPAC23H4.04 as a recombinant product.
Functional Characterization:
No studies confirm SPAC23H4.04’s role in mitochondrial tRNA modification.
Phylogenetic comparison with human TRMU or bacterial MnmA could clarify homology.
Enzymatic Validation:
In vitro assays (e.g., mt-tRNA 2-thiolation activity) are required to establish function.
Disease Relevance:
KEGG: spo:SPAC23H4.04
STRING: 4896.SPAC23H4.04.1