Cell cycle events are precisely orchestrated to ensure accurate cell division. Yang et al. have discovered that sequestering mature mRNAs in the nucleus modulates cell cycle players. In dividing Arabidopsis cells, nuclear retention of CDC20 and CCS52B mRNAs prevents them from being released into the cytoplasm until the nuclear envelope breaks down at prometaphase. Released mRNAs are rapidly translated into proteins, ensuring their regulatory functions at the proper cell cycle stage. Similar nuclear sequestration strategies may be used for other mRNAs in different cellular contexts.
