TRANSPORT OF NUCLEIC-ACIDS THROUGH MEMBRANE CHANNELS - SNAKING THROUGH SMALL HOLES

Transport of nucleic acids through cell membranes is an essential biol ogical process that occurs in all living organisms. This review focuse s on two plant systems in which nucleic acid molecules are transported through membrane channels: transport of Agrobacterium T-DNA through n uclear pores and movement of plant viruses through intercellular conne ctions. To provide a broader perspective, nuclear uptake of animal vir uses and nuclear import/export of small nuclear (sn) RNA and messenger (m) RNA are described. By comparing the examined cases of nucleic aci d transport, the review proposes a set of general rules for this type of transport through membrane channels.