Dribble, the Drosophila KRR1p Homologue, Is Involved in rRNA Processing

Abstract

The Drosophila dribble (dbe) gene encodes a KH domain protein, homologous to yeast KRR1p. Expression ofdbe transcripts is ubiquitous during embryogenesis. Overexpressed Dribble protein is localized in the nucleus and in some cell types in a subregion of the nucleolus. Homozygousdbe mutants die at first instar larval stage. Clonal analyses suggest that dbe + is required for survival of dividing cells. In dbe mutants, a novel rRNA-processing defect is found and accumulation of an abnormal rRNA precursor is detected.