Dual roles for transcription and translation factors in the RNA storage particles of Xenopus oocytes.

During oogenesis, Xenopus laevis utilizes homologues of normal transcription or translation factors to sequester a variety of RNA molecules into ribonucleoprotein storage particles. This remarkable adaptive function for a diverse group of regulatory molecules allows the oocyte to stockpile macromolecules for use during embryogenesis. We discuss the special features of these nucleic acid-binding proteins and the insights into their structure and function that follow from their dual biological role.