GO:0071541 eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex, eIF3m: Components, Assembly and Research Methods, Genes, Functions and Research Methods
Research-grade guide for scientists and biopharma professionals
Key Takeaways
• GO:0071541 describes a specific eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 (eIF3) complex that contains the PCI-domain protein eIF3m, distinguishing it from other eIF3 complexes.
• The eIF3m-containing complex is one of at least two distinct eIF3 complexes in metazoans, defined by the presence of either eIF3m or eIF3e as PCI-domain subunits.
• eIF3m is essential for maintaining the integrity of the eIF3 complex and is required for embryonic development, homeostasis, and organ size control in mice.
• eIF3m is emerging as a pan-cancer biomarker with prognostic significance and association with immune infiltration across multiple tumor types.
• In insects, eIF3m regulates blood meal digestion, affecting ecdysis, reproduction, and survival, highlighting its role in organismal physiology.
• Studying GO:0071541 requires integrated approaches including CRISPR knockout, knock-in, overexpression, and advanced omics methods to dissect its function in translation and disease [5,8].
Description
The eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 (eIF3) complex is a multi-subunit assembly that plays a central role in the initiation of protein synthesis, and its subunit composition can vary to form distinct complexes with specialized functions [1,5]. GO:0071541, termed eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex, eIF3m, refers to a specific eIF3 complex that contains the PCI-domain protein eIF3m, which defines a distinct entity from other eIF3 complexes such as the eIF3e-containing complex. This term is critical for researchers because the eIF3m-containing complex has been implicated in fundamental biological processes ranging from embryonic development to cancer progression, and its precise characterization can inform therapeutic strategies [3,7]. Understanding GO:0071541 requires knowledge of its subunit composition, assembly, and regulation, as well as the molecular mechanisms by which it influences translation and cellular physiology [1,5]. Recent studies have highlighted eIF3m as a potential pan-cancer biomarker, underscoring the clinical relevance of this specific complex. Moreover, functional studies in model organisms have demonstrated that eIF3m is required for homeostasis and organ size control, further emphasizing its importance. This article provides a comprehensive overview of GO:0071541, integrating authoritative GO definitions with published literature to support research and drug discovery efforts.
eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex, eIF3m At A Glance
| GO ID | GO:0071541 |
|---|---|
| GO term | eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex, eIF3m |
| Ontology | cellular_component |
| Synonym | eIF3m-containing eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex |
| Definition | An eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex that contains the PCI-domain protein eIF3m. |
| Major function | Involved in the initiation of protein synthesis, regulating translation and maintaining complex integrity [1,7]. |
| Related genes | eIF3m, eIF3e, and other eIF3 subunits [1,7]. |
| Disease relevance | Implicated in cancer progression and as a pan-cancer biomarker [3,8]. |
| Model organisms | Mouse, Rhodnius prolixus, and human cell lines [4,7]. |
What Is GO:0071541?
GO:0071541 is a cellular component term that defines a eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex containing the PCI-domain protein eIF3m. This complex is one of several possible eIF3 complexes and is distinguished by the presence of eIF3m, which is a subunit that helps maintain the integrity of the complex and is essential for its function in translation initiation [1,7].
Why Is eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex, eIF3m Important in Cell Biology?
GO:0071541 is important because the eIF3m-containing eIF3 complex represents a specific translation initiation module that is essential for embryonic development, cellular homeostasis, and organ size control, and its dysregulation is linked to cancer and other diseases [3,7]. Understanding this complex provides insights into how translation is fine-tuned by alternative subunit composition, which can be exploited for therapeutic interventions [1,5].
• eIF3m is required for embryonic development and homeostasis in mice, highlighting its non-redundant role.
• The eIF3m-containing complex is distinct from other eIF3 complexes, suggesting specialized functions in translation.
• eIF3m overexpression is associated with stem cell-like properties and metastasis in cervix cancer.
• eIF3m serves as a pan-cancer biomarker with prognostic significance and immune infiltration association.
• In Rhodnius prolixus, eIF3m regulates blood meal digestion, affecting ecdysis, reproduction, and survival.
• eIF3 subunits are implicated in human health and disease, including cancer and developmental disorders.
• Proteasomal interactions and structural heterogeneity of eIF3m-containing complexes can be studied by cross-linking mass spectrometry.
• eIF3m maintains the integrity of the eIF3 complex, and its loss leads to reduced translation and cellular defects.
• Clinical significance of eIF3 in cancer underscores the need for targeted research on eIF3m.
• CRISPR-based models enable precise dissection of eIF3m function in translation and disease [5,8].
What Happens During eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex, eIF3m?
Assembly of the eIF3m-containing complex
In simple terms: The cell builds a specific translation initiation machine that includes the eIF3m protein.
The eIF3m-containing complex assembles from multiple subunits, with eIF3m serving as a PCI-domain protein that helps stabilize the complex. This assembly is distinct from other eIF3 complexes, such as those containing eIF3e, and is thought to occur in a regulated manner to meet specific translational demands. Studies in mice show that eIF3m is essential for maintaining the integrity of the eIF3 complex, as its loss leads to reduced levels of other subunits and impaired translation.
Role in translation initiation
In simple terms: This complex helps start protein synthesis by positioning the ribosome on messenger RNA.
The eIF3m-containing complex participates in the initiation of translation by interacting with the 40S ribosomal subunit and other initiation factors, facilitating the recruitment of mRNA and the assembly of the 43S preinitiation complex [1,5]. Although the precise molecular details of how eIF3m contributes to this process are still being elucidated, its presence is required for efficient translation and for maintaining the overall structure of eIF3.
Regulation of complex composition
In simple terms: The cell can swap parts of the translation machine to change how it works.
The composition of eIF3 complexes can vary, with eIF3m and eIF3e defining distinct complexes that may have different roles in translation and cellular physiology. This dynamic regulation allows cells to adapt translation to various conditions, such as stress or differentiation, and may contribute to tissue-specific functions [1,5].
Physiological consequences of eIF3m function
In simple terms: When this complex works properly, it supports normal development and body functions.
In mice, eIF3m is required for embryonic development, homeostasis, and organ size control, as its knockout leads to early lethality and growth defects. In the insect Rhodnius prolixus, eIF3m regulates blood meal digestion, affecting ecdysis, reproduction, and survival, demonstrating its role in organismal physiology. These findings highlight the broad importance of the eIF3m-containing complex in development and metabolism.
Key Genes Involved in GO:0071541 eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex, eIF3m
The following genes and proteins are key components or regulators of the eIF3m-containing complex and related translation processes.
| Gene | Major Role | Research Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| eIF3m | PCI-domain subunit of eIF3 complex; maintains complex integrity | Essential for embryonic development and homeostasis; implicated in cancer [1,3,7] |
| eIF3e | PCI-domain subunit defining an alternative eIF3 complex | Distinguishes eIF3e-containing from eIF3m-containing complexes |
| eIF3a | Core subunit of eIF3 complex | Involved in translation initiation and cancer [5,8] |
| eIF3b | Core subunit of eIF3 complex | Required for eIF3 assembly and function |
| eIF3c | Core subunit of eIF3 complex | Plays a role in translation initiation |
| eIF3d | Subunit with cap-binding activity | Overexpression induces stem cell-like properties in cancer |
| eIF3f | Subunit involved in translation and cell growth | Linked to cancer and muscle wasting |
| eIF3g | RNA-binding subunit | Modulates translation of specific mRNAs |
| eIF3h | Subunit implicated in oncogenesis | Amplified in breast and prostate cancer [5,8] |
| eIF3i | Subunit with WD40 repeats | Regulates translation and cell proliferation |
| eIF3j | Subunit that interacts with 40S ribosome | Facilitates initiation complex formation |
| eIF3k | Subunit with PCI domain | May stabilize eIF3 complex |
| eIF3l | Subunit with PCI domain | Contributes to eIF3 integrity |
| eIF4E | Cap-binding protein | Cooperates with eIF3 in translation initiation |
| eIF4G | Scaffold protein for initiation factors | Bridges eIF3 and eIF4E |
| eIF2 | Ternary complex factor | Delivers initiator tRNA to ribosome |
| GRP78 | Chaperone involved in ER stress | Degradation inhibited by eIF3D in cancer |
| FAK | Focal adhesion kinase | Activated by eIF3D to promote metastasis |
How Is eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex, eIF3m Regulated?
The eIF3m-containing complex is regulated at multiple levels, including subunit availability and post-translational modifications. The integrity of the complex depends on eIF3m, as its loss leads to destabilization of other subunits. Additionally, the composition of eIF3 complexes can shift between eIF3m- and eIF3e-containing forms, potentially in response to cellular signals. In cancer, eIF3m expression is associated with immune infiltration and prognosis, suggesting regulation by tumor microenvironment factors. However, specific upstream regulators such as mTOR or the integrated stress response have not been directly linked to eIF3m in the provided literature, so further research is needed.
eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex, eIF3m and Human Disease
| Gene | Disease / Biology | Potential Experimental Model |
|---|---|---|
| eIF3m | Pan-cancer biomarker; prognostic and immune infiltration | Cancer cell lines with eIF3m knockout or overexpression |
| eIF3m | Embryonic development and organ size control | Mouse knockout models |
| eIF3m | Blood meal digestion and ecdysis in insects | Rhodnius prolixus RNAi or CRISPR |
| eIF3d | Cervix cancer metastasis and stemness | HeLa or SiHa cells with eIF3d overexpression |
| eIF3h | Breast and prostate cancer | MCF-7 or PC-3 cells with eIF3h knockdown [5,8] |
eIF3m in cancer
eIF3m is overexpressed in various cancers and serves as a pan-cancer biomarker with prognostic significance. In cervix cancer, overexpression of eIF3D, another eIF3 subunit, induces stem cell-like properties and metastasis by activating FAK through inhibiting degradation of GRP78. Although eIF3m itself has not been directly studied in cervix cancer in the provided literature, its role as a biomarker suggests similar oncogenic potential. The clinical significance of eIF3 in cancer underscores the importance of understanding eIF3m-containing complexes.
eIF3m in developmental disorders
In mice, eIF3m is required for embryonic development, homeostasis, and organ size control, as its knockout leads to early lethality and growth defects. This suggests that mutations in eIF3m or its complex could contribute to developmental disorders in humans, although direct evidence is currently lacking. The essential role of eIF3m in maintaining complex integrity highlights its potential as a target for studying ribosomopathies and translation-related diseases [5,7].
eIF3m in insect physiology
In Rhodnius prolixus, eIF3m regulates blood meal digestion, affecting ecdysis, reproduction, and survival. This demonstrates that eIF3m-containing complexes have conserved roles in organismal physiology and could be targeted for vector control strategies. While not a human disease, this model provides insights into the fundamental functions of eIF3m.
From eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex, eIF3m-Related Genes to Experimental Models
| Research Question | Suitable Model |
|---|---|
| What is the effect of eIF3m loss on translation and development? | CRISPR knockout mouse or human cell lines |
| How does eIF3m overexpression contribute to cancer? | Cancer cell lines with eIF3m overexpression |
| What is the role of eIF3m in insect physiology? | Rhodnius prolixus with RNAi or CRISPR |
| How does eIF3m maintain eIF3 complex integrity? | Knockout cell lines followed by proteomics [1,7] |
| What are the structural interactions of eIF3m? | Cross-linking mass spectrometry |
| Can eIF3m be targeted for therapy? | Patient-derived xenografts with eIF3m knockdown [3,8] |
How to Study the eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex, eIF3m Process
| Method | What It Measures | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|
| Ribo-seq | Translation efficiency and ribosome occupancy | Global translation changes upon eIF3m knockout |
| RNA-seq | Gene expression levels | Transcriptional profiling of eIF3m perturbations |
| Proteomics | Protein abundance and interactions | Identifying eIF3m complex components |
| Cross-linking mass spectrometry | Protein-protein interactions and structural constraints | Mapping eIF3m interactions in cells |
| Western blot | Protein levels and modifications | Validating eIF3m knockout or overexpression |
| Immunofluorescence | Subcellular localization | Visualizing eIF3m in cells |
| CRISPR knockout | Gene function loss | Studying eIF3m essentiality |
| CRISPR knock-in | Tagged or mutant protein expression | Tracking eIF3m localization and dynamics |
Ribosome profiling (Ribo-seq)
Ribo-seq measures translation efficiency genome-wide by sequencing ribosome-protected mRNA fragments. It can be used to assess how eIF3m-containing complexes affect translation of specific mRNAs upon knockout or overexpression.
RNA sequencing (RNA-seq)
RNA-seq quantifies gene expression changes and can reveal transcriptional responses to eIF3m perturbation, complementing translation-focused methods [3,5].
Proteomics and cross-linking mass spectrometry
Proteomics can identify eIF3m interaction partners and quantify subunit stoichiometry, while cross-linking mass spectrometry reveals structural heterogeneity and compartment-specific interactions of the eIF3 complex.
CRISPR-based functional genomics
CRISPR knockout, knock-in, and overexpression models enable precise manipulation of eIF3m and its partners to study their roles in translation, development, and disease [5,8].
How CRISPR Can Be Used to Study GO:0071541 eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex, eIF3m
Knockout
CRISPR knockout of eIF3m can be used to study its essential role in maintaining eIF3 complex integrity and its effects on translation and development. Mouse knockout models have shown early lethality, highlighting the need for conditional or inducible systems in cell lines.
Point Mutation
Introducing point mutations in eIF3m can help dissect specific domains required for complex assembly or interaction with other subunits. This approach can reveal separation-of-function phenotypes [1,5].
Knock-in
Knock-in of tagged eIF3m (e.g., GFP or FLAG) allows for affinity purification and imaging of the eIF3m-containing complex in live cells, facilitating studies of its localization and dynamics [5,6].
Overexpression
Overexpression of eIF3m in cancer cell lines can mimic its upregulation in tumors and help elucidate its oncogenic mechanisms, such as promoting stemness or metastasis [2,3].
How EDITGENE Supports eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex, eIF3m Research
Researchers studying eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex, eIF3m-related genes often need to determine whether a candidate gene is causally involved in translation regulation, development, or disease. EDITGENE provides a comprehensive suite of CRISPR-based services to enable precise functional studies of eIF3m and its interacting partners.
Contact EDITGENE today to design your custom CRISPR model for eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex, eIF3m research.
Frequently Asked Questions About eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex, eIF3m
What is GO:0071541?
GO:0071541 is a Gene Ontology cellular component term that defines a eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex containing the PCI-domain protein eIF3m.
What genes are involved in eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3 complex, eIF3m?
The complex includes eIF3m as a defining subunit, along with other eIF3 subunits such as eIF3a, eIF3b, eIF3c, and others [1,5].
What is the function of eIF3m?
eIF3m maintains the integrity of the eIF3 complex and is required for translation initiation, embryonic development, and homeostasis.
Is eIF3m associated with cancer?
Yes, eIF3m is a pan-cancer biomarker with prognostic significance and is associated with immune infiltration.
How can I study eIF3m using CRISPR?
CRISPR knockout, knock-in, point mutation, and overexpression models can be used to dissect eIF3m function in translation and disease [5,7].
What model organisms are used to study eIF3m?
Mouse models and the insect Rhodnius prolixus have been used to study eIF3m function in development and physiology [4,7].
What diseases are linked to eIF3m?
eIF3m is linked to various cancers as a biomarker, and its loss causes developmental defects in mice [3,7].
How does eIF3m differ from eIF3e?
eIF3m and eIF3e define distinct eIF3 complexes with different PCI-domain subunits, suggesting specialized functions.
What methods are used to study eIF3m-containing complexes?
Ribo-seq, RNA-seq, proteomics, cross-linking mass spectrometry, and CRISPR-based models are commonly used [5,6].
Can EDITGENE help with eIF3m research?
Yes, EDITGENE provides CRISPR knockout, knock-in, overexpression, library screening, and bioinformatics services for eIF3m and related genes.
Conclusion
GO:0071541 defines a specific eIF3 complex containing eIF3m, a subunit critical for translation initiation, development, and disease. Understanding its components, assembly, and regulation offers insights into fundamental biology and cancer. EDITGENE's CRISPR services empower researchers to dissect eIF3m function with precision.
References
- 1. Zhou C et al.. 2005. PCI proteins eIF3e and eIF3m define distinct translation initiation factor 3 complexes.. BMC Biol 3:14 PMID: 15904532
- 2. Zhong Y et al.. 2022. Overexpression of Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 3D induces stem cell-like properties and metastasis in cervix cancer by activating FAK through inhibiting degradation of GRP78.. Bioengineered 13(1):1952-1961 PMID: 35104170
- 3. Zhao Z et al.. 2025. EIF3M as a pan-cancer biomarker: prognostic significance and immune infiltration association.. Front Mol Biosci 12:1697083 PMID: 41341921
- 4. Ameijeiras P et al.. 2023. eIF3 subunit M regulates blood meal digestion in Rhodnius prolixus affecting ecdysis, reproduction, and survival.. Insect Sci 30(5):1282-1292 PMID: 36621956
- 5. Gomes-Duarte A et al.. 2018. eIF3: a factor for human health and disease.. RNA Biol 15(1):26-34 PMID: 29099306
- 6. Zhao L et al.. 2025. In-situ cross-linking mass spectrometry reveals compartment-specific proteasomal interactions and structural heterogeneity.. Nat Commun 16(1):10725 PMID: 41315310
- 7. Zeng L et al.. 2013. The m subunit of murine translation initiation factor eIF3 maintains the integrity of the eIF3 complex and is required for embryonic development, homeostasis, and organ size control.. J Biol Chem 288(42):30087-30093 PMID: 24003236
- 8. Yin Y et al.. 2018. The function and clinical significance of eIF3 in cancer.. Gene 673:130-133 PMID: 29908282
