De-centralizing the Central Dogma: mRNA translation in space and time

As our understanding of the cell interior has grown, we have come to appreciate that most cellular operations are localized, that is, they occur at discrete and identifiable locations or domains. These cellular domains contain enzymes, machines, and other components necessary to carry out and regulate these localized op-erations. Here, we review these features of one such operation: the localization and translation of mRNAs within subcellular compartments observed across cell types and organisms. We describe the conceptual ad-vantages and the ingredientsand mechanisms of local translation. We focus on the nature and features of localized mRNAs, how they travel and get localized, and how this process is regulated. We also evaluate our current understanding of protein synthesis machines (ribosomes) and their cadre of regulatory elements, that is, the translation factors.

Automated summary

As our understanding of cellular processes deepens, we have recognized the localization and translation of mRNAs as important operations within cells. This review examines the features of localized mRNAs, their transport and localization mechanisms, and the regulation of this process. Additionally, it evaluates our current understanding of ribosomes and translation factors.