Isoginkgetin is a cell-permeable chemical isolated from the Ginkgo biloba tree that binds to and inhibits snRNPs. Would this be most problematic for E. coli cells, yeast cells, or human cells? Why?

Key Concepts

snRNPs (small nuclear ribonucleoproteins)

snRNPs are essential components of the spliceosome, a complex responsible for the splicing of pre-mRNA in eukaryotic cells. They play a critical role in the removal of introns and the joining of exons, which is vital for producing mature mRNA. Since E. coli lacks a nucleus and does not perform splicing, snRNPs are not relevant to its cellular processes.

Eukaryotic vs. Prokaryotic Cells

Eukaryotic cells, such as those in yeast and humans, have a defined nucleus and complex organelles, allowing for processes like mRNA splicing. In contrast, prokaryotic cells, like E. coli, do not have a nucleus and perform transcription and translation simultaneously, making them less affected by inhibitors of splicing mechanisms. This distinction is crucial for understanding the impact of isoginkgetin on different cell types.

Cell Permeability and Chemical Inhibition

Cell permeability refers to the ability of a substance to cross the cell membrane and enter the cell. Isoginkgetin's classification as a cell-permeable chemical suggests it can enter cells and inhibit snRNPs, which would disrupt mRNA processing in eukaryotic cells. This inhibition would be particularly problematic for human and yeast cells, as they rely on snRNPs for proper gene expression.