Translational properties of mHNA, a messenger RNA containing anhydrohexitol nucleotides

Short messenger RNAs (mRNAs) with hexitol residues in two codons were const ructed and their properties were studied in an Escherichia coli in vitro tr anslation system. The replacement of the natural ribonucleotides of mRNA in the AUG start codon and the UUC second codon by hexitol nucleotides did no t influence the main steps of translation, as indicated by the same level o f binding of mRNA with or without hexitol residues under P-site conditions, and the same yield of tRNA binding to the P- and A-sites. Moreover, both p eptide formation and translocation took place on mRNAs with hexitol residue s. The presence of an A-type messenger hexitol nucleic acid (mHNA)-transfer RNA (tRNA) duplex is important for efficient translation and the 2'-OH fun ction in mRNA is not necessary for binding and movement through the ribosom e. Groove shape recognition of the codon-anticodon complex, more than hydro gen-bond interactions of ribose residues in mRNA, is an important factor fo r correct translation.