RNA-dependent nuclear matrix contains a 33 kb globin full domain transcript as well as prosomes but no 26S proteasomes.

Previously, we have shown that in murine myoblasts prosomes are constituents of the nuclear matrix; a major part of the latter was found to be RNase sensitive. Here, we further define the RNA-dependent matrix in avian erythroblastosis virus (AEV) transformed erythroid cells in relation to its structure, presence of specific RNA, prosomes and/or proteasomes. These cells transcribe but do not express globin genes prior to induction. Electron micrographs show little difference in matrices treated with DNase alone or with both, DNase and RNase. In situ hybridization with alpha globin riboprobes shows that this matrix includes globin transcripts. Of particular interest is that, apparently, a nearly 35 kb long globin full domain transcript (FDT), including genes, intergenic regions and a large upstream domain is a part of the RNA-dependent nuclear matrix. The 23K-type of prosomes, previously shown to be co-localized with globin transcripts in the nuclear RNA processing centers, were found all over the nuclear matrix. Other types of prosomes show different distributions in the intact cell but similar distribution patterns on the matrix. Globin transcripts and at least 80% of prosomes disappear from matrices upon RNase treatment. Interestingly, the 19S proteasome modulator complex is insensitive to RNase treatment. Only 20S prosomes but not 26S proteasomes are thus part of the RNA-dependent nuclear matrix. We suggest that giant pre-mRNA and FDTs in processing, aligning prosomes and other RNA-binding proteins are involved in the organization of the dynamic nuclear matrix. It is proposed that the putative function of RNA within the nuclear matrix and, thus, the nuclear dynamic architecture, might explain the giant size and complex organization of primary transcripts and their introns. Copyright 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.