Gain-of-function reporters for analysis of mRNA 3′-end formation: Design and optimization

The concept of mRNA 3'-end formation as a static, minimally regulated housekeeping process has undergone a paradigm shift. Many recent studies have shown that accurate and efficient 3'-end formation of mRNA is highly regulated and that dysregulation of this process is a hallmark of several diseases. While there are many global analysis methods for monitoring altered mRNA processing, methods for investigating specific RNA 3'-end processing events in cells have not significantly changed. Here we describe a facile gain-of-function cellular reporter for the analysis of mRNA 3'-end formation as an alternative to approaches that are technically challenging or use radioactivity. We also offer suggestions for optimization of our approach and enhancement of its reproducibility.