1
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Tomecki R, Drazkowska K, Madaj R, Mamot A, Dunin-Horkawicz S, Sikorski PJ. Expanding the Available RNA Labeling Toolbox With CutA Nucleotidyltransferase for Efficient Transcript Labeling with Purine and Pyrimidine Nucleotide Analogs. Chembiochem 2024; 25:e202400202. [PMID: 38818670 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202400202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
RNA labeling is an invaluable tool for investigation of the function and localization of nucleic acids. Labels are commonly incorporated into 3' end of RNA and the primary enzyme used for this purpose is RNA poly(A) polymerase (PAP), which belongs to the class of terminal nucleotidyltransferases (NTases). However, PAP preferentially adds ATP analogs, thus limiting the number of available substrates. Here, we report the use of another NTase, CutA from the fungus Thielavia terrestris. Using this enzyme, we were able to incorporate into the 3' end of RNA not only purine analogs, but also pyrimidine analogs. We engaged strain-promoted azide-alkyl cycloaddition (SPAAC) to obtain fluorescently labeled or biotinylated transcripts from RNAs extended with azide analogs by CutA. Importantly, modified transcripts retained their biological properties. Furthermore, fluorescently labeled mRNAs were suitable for visualization in cultured mammalian cells. Finally, we demonstrate that either affinity studies or molecular dynamic (MD) simulations allow for rapid screening of NTase substrates, what opens up new avenues in the search for the optimal substrates for this class of enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafal Tomecki
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawinskiego 5a, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland
- Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Pawinskiego 5a, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Karolina Drazkowska
- Laboratory of Epitranscriptomics, Department of Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 101, 02-089, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Rafal Madaj
- Laboratory of Structural Bioinformatics, Institute of Evolutionary Biology, Faculty of Biology, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 101, 02-089, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Adam Mamot
- Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Am Klopferspitz 18, 82152, Martinsried, Germany
| | - Stanislaw Dunin-Horkawicz
- Laboratory of Structural Bioinformatics, Institute of Evolutionary Biology, Faculty of Biology, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 101, 02-089, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Protein Evolution, Max Planck Institute for Biology Tübingen, Max-Planck-Ring 5, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Pawel J Sikorski
- Laboratory of Epitranscriptomics, Department of Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, Biological and Chemical Research Centre, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 101, 02-089, Warsaw, Poland
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2
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Yermalovich AV, Mohsenin Z, Cowdin M, Giotti B, Gupta A, Feng A, Golomb L, Wheeler DB, Xu K, Tsankov A, Cleaver O, Meyerson M. An essential role for Cmtr2 in mammalian embryonic development. Dev Biol 2024:S0012-1606(24)00199-4. [PMID: 39094818 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2024.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
CMTR2 is an mRNA cap methyltransferase with poorly understood physiological functions. It catalyzes 2'-O-ribose methylation of the second transcribed nucleotide of mRNAs, potentially serving to mark RNAs as "self" to evade the cellular innate immune response. Here we analyze the consequences of Cmtr2 deficiency in mice. We discover that constitutive deletion of Cmtr2 results in mouse embryos that die during mid-gestation, exhibiting defects in embryo size, placental malformation and yolk sac vascularization. Endothelial cell deletion of Cmtr2 in mice results in vascular and hematopoietic defects, and perinatal lethality. Detailed characterization of the constitutive Cmtr2 KO phenotype shows an activation of the p53 pathway and decreased proliferation, but no evidence of interferon pathway activation. In summary, our study reveals the essential roles of Cmtr2 in mammalian cells beyond its immunoregulatory function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alena V Yermalovich
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Zarin Mohsenin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Mitzy Cowdin
- Department of Molecular Biology, Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Bruno Giotti
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Akansha Gupta
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Alice Feng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Lior Golomb
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Douglas B Wheeler
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Kelly Xu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Alexander Tsankov
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ondine Cleaver
- Department of Molecular Biology, Center for Regenerative Science and Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Matthew Meyerson
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA; Center for Cancer Genomics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02215, USA; Departments of Genetics and Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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3
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Warminski M, Grab K, Szczepanski K, Spiewla T, Zuberek J, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. Photoactivatable mRNA 5' Cap Analogs for RNA-Protein Crosslinking. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2400994. [PMID: 39049186 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202400994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Chemical modification of messenger RNA (mRNA) has paved the way for advancing mRNA-based therapeutics. The intricate process of mRNA translation in eukaryotes is orchestrated by numerous proteins involved in complex interaction networks. Many of them bind specifically to a unique structure at the mRNA 5'-end, called 5'-cap. Depending on the 5'-terminal sequence and its methylation pattern, different proteins may be involved in the translation initiation and regulation, but a deeper understanding of these mechanisms requires specialized molecular tools to identify natural binders of mRNA 5'-end variants. Here, a series of 8 new synthetic 5'-cap analogs that allow the preparation of RNA molecules with photoreactive tags using a standard in vitro transcription reaction are reported. Two photoreactive tags and four different modification sites are selected to minimize potential interference with cap-protein contacts and to provide complementary properties regarding crosslinking chemistry and molecular interactions. The tailored modification strategy allows for the generation of specific crosslinks with model cap-binding proteins, such as eIF4E and Dcp2. The usefulness of the photoreactive cap analogs is also demonstrated for identifying the cap-binding subunit in a multi-protein complex, which makes them perfect candidates for further development of photoaffinity labeling probes to study more complex mRNA-related processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Warminski
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, Warsaw, 02-093, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Grab
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, Warsaw, 02-093, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, Warsaw, 02-089, Poland
| | - Kacper Szczepanski
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, Warsaw, 02-089, Poland
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, Warsaw, 02-097, Poland
| | - Tomasz Spiewla
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, Warsaw, 02-093, Poland
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Warsaw, Zwirki i Wigury 93, Warsaw, 02-089, Poland
| | - Joanna Zuberek
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, Warsaw, 02-093, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, Warsaw, 02-093, Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, Warsaw, 02-097, Poland
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4
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Lukoszek R, Inesta-Vaquera F, Brett NJM, Liang S, Hepburn LA, Hughes DJ, Pirillo C, Roberts EW, Cowling VH. CK2 phosphorylation of CMTR1 promotes RNA cap formation and influenza virus infection. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114405. [PMID: 38923463 PMCID: PMC11290353 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The RNA cap methyltransferase CMTR1 methylates the first transcribed nucleotide of RNA polymerase II transcripts, impacting gene expression mechanisms, including during innate immune responses. Using mass spectrometry, we identify a multiply phosphorylated region of CMTR1 (phospho-patch [P-Patch]), which is a substrate for the kinase CK2 (casein kinase II). CMTR1 phosphorylation alters intramolecular interactions, increases recruitment to RNA polymerase II, and promotes RNA cap methylation. P-Patch phosphorylation occurs during the G1 phase of the cell cycle, recruiting CMTR1 to RNA polymerase II during a period of rapid transcription and RNA cap formation. CMTR1 phosphorylation is required for the expression of specific RNAs, including ribosomal protein gene transcripts, and promotes cell proliferation. CMTR1 phosphorylation is also required for interferon-stimulated gene expression. The cap-snatching virus, influenza A, utilizes host CMTR1 phosphorylation to produce the caps required for virus production and infection. We present an RNA cap methylation control mechanism whereby CK2 controls CMTR1, enhancing co-transcriptional capping.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Francisco Inesta-Vaquera
- School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Genetics, School of Sciences, Universidad de Extremadura, Avenida de Elvas, s/n, 06006 Badajoz, Spain
| | - Natasha J M Brett
- School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK; Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK; School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Shang Liang
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Lydia A Hepburn
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - David J Hughes
- School of Biology, University of St Andrews, Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, St Andrews KY16 9ST, UK
| | - Chiara Pirillo
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK
| | - Edward W Roberts
- Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK; School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Victoria H Cowling
- School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK; Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK; School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Garscube Estate, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK.
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5
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Song J, Zhang Y, Zhou C, Zhan J, Cheng X, Huang H, Mao S, Zong Z. The dawn of a new Era: mRNA vaccines in colorectal cancer immunotherapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 132:112037. [PMID: 38599100 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a typical cancer that accounts for 10% of all new cancer cases annually and nearly 10% of all cancer deaths. Despite significant progress in current classical interventions for CRC, these traditional strategies could be invasive and with numerous adverse effects. The poor prognosis of CRC patients highlights the evident and pressing need for more efficient and targeted treatment. Novel strategies regarding mRNA vaccines for anti-tumor therapy have also been well-developed since the successful application for the prevention of COVID-19. mRNA vaccine technology won the 2023 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, signaling a new direction in human anti-cancer treatment: mRNA medicine. As a promising new immunotherapy in CRC and other multiple cancer treatments, the mRNA vaccine has higher specificity, better efficacy, and fewer side effects than traditional strategies. The present review outlines the basics of mRNA vaccines and their advantages over other vaccines and informs an available strategy for developing efficient mRNA vaccines for CRC precise treatment. In the future, more exploration of mRNA vaccines for CRC shall be attached, fostering innovation to address existing limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Song
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China; School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yujun Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China; Huankui Academy, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Chulin Zhou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China; The Second Clinical Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jianhao Zhan
- Huankui Academy, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xifu Cheng
- School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Haoyu Huang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Shengxun Mao
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Zhen Zong
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.1 MinDe Road, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China.
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6
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Zhou KI, Pecot CV, Holley CL. 2'- O-methylation (Nm) in RNA: progress, challenges, and future directions. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 30:570-582. [PMID: 38531653 PMCID: PMC11019748 DOI: 10.1261/rna.079970.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
RNA 2'-O-methylation (Nm) is highly abundant in noncoding RNAs including ribosomal RNA (rRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), and small nuclear RNA (snRNA), and occurs in the 5' cap of virtually all messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in higher eukaryotes. More recently, Nm has also been reported to occur at internal sites in mRNA. High-throughput methods have been developed for the transcriptome-wide detection of Nm. However, these methods have mostly been applied to abundant RNAs such as rRNA, and the validity of the internal mRNA Nm sites detected with these approaches remains controversial. Nonetheless, Nm in both coding and noncoding RNAs has been demonstrated to impact cellular processes, including translation and splicing. In addition, Nm modifications at the 5' cap and possibly at internal sites in mRNA serve to prevent the binding of nucleic acid sensors, thus preventing the activation of the innate immune response by self-mRNAs. Finally, Nm has been implicated in a variety of diseases including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurologic syndromes. In this review, we discuss current challenges in determining the distribution, regulation, function, and disease relevance of Nm, as well as potential future directions for the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine I Zhou
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Chad V Pecot
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27514, USA
- University of North Carolina RNA Discovery Center, UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Christopher L Holley
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
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7
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Warminski M, Trepkowska E, Smietanski M, Sikorski PJ, Baranowski MR, Bednarczyk M, Kedzierska H, Majewski B, Mamot A, Papiernik D, Popielec A, Serwa RA, Shimanski BA, Sklepkiewicz P, Sklucka M, Sokolowska O, Spiewla T, Toczydlowska-Socha D, Warminska Z, Wolosewicz K, Zuberek J, Mugridge JS, Nowis D, Golab J, Jemielity J, Kowalska J. Trinucleotide mRNA Cap Analogue N6-Benzylated at the Site of Posttranscriptional m6A m Mark Facilitates mRNA Purification and Confers Superior Translational Properties In Vitro and In Vivo. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:8149-8163. [PMID: 38442005 PMCID: PMC10979456 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.3c12629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Eukaryotic mRNAs undergo cotranscriptional 5'-end modification with a 7-methylguanosine cap. In higher eukaryotes, the cap carries additional methylations, such as m6Am─a common epitranscriptomic mark unique to the mRNA 5'-end. This modification is regulated by the Pcif1 methyltransferase and the FTO demethylase, but its biological function is still unknown. Here, we designed and synthesized a trinucleotide FTO-resistant N6-benzyl analogue of the m6Am-cap-m7GpppBn6AmpG (termed AvantCap) and incorporated it into mRNA using T7 polymerase. mRNAs carrying Bn6Am showed several advantages over typical capped transcripts. The Bn6Am moiety was shown to act as a reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) purification handle, allowing the separation of capped and uncapped RNA species, and to produce transcripts with lower dsRNA content than reference caps. In some cultured cells, Bn6Am mRNAs provided higher protein yields than mRNAs carrying Am or m6Am, although the effect was cell-line-dependent. m7GpppBn6AmpG-capped mRNAs encoding reporter proteins administered intravenously to mice provided up to 6-fold higher protein outputs than reference mRNAs, while mRNAs encoding tumor antigens showed superior activity in therapeutic settings as anticancer vaccines. The biochemical characterization suggests several phenomena potentially underlying the biological properties of AvantCap: (i) reduced propensity for unspecific interactions, (ii) involvement in alternative translation initiation, and (iii) subtle differences in mRNA impurity profiles or a combination of these effects. AvantCapped-mRNAs bearing the Bn6Am may pave the way for more potent mRNA-based vaccines and therapeutics and serve as molecular tools to unravel the role of m6Am in mRNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Warminski
- Division
of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Edyta Trepkowska
- Explorna
Therapeutics sp. z o.o. Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Pawel J. Sikorski
- Centre
of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
- Laboratory
of Epitranscriptomics, Department of Environmental Microbiology and
Biotechnology, Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, Biological
and Chemical Research Centre, University
of Warsaw, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Marcelina Bednarczyk
- Centre
of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
- Explorna
Therapeutics sp. z o.o. Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Hanna Kedzierska
- Explorna
Therapeutics sp. z o.o. Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Bartosz Majewski
- Explorna
Therapeutics sp. z o.o. Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Adam Mamot
- Centre
of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Diana Papiernik
- Explorna
Therapeutics sp. z o.o. Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Popielec
- Explorna
Therapeutics sp. z o.o. Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Remigiusz A. Serwa
- Proteomics
Core Facility, IMol Polish Academy of Sciences, 02-247 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Brittany A. Shimanski
- Department
of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University
of Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19716, United States
| | - Piotr Sklepkiewicz
- Explorna
Therapeutics sp. z o.o. Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Sklucka
- Explorna
Therapeutics sp. z o.o. Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Olga Sokolowska
- Explorna
Therapeutics sp. z o.o. Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Spiewla
- Division
of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
- Explorna
Therapeutics sp. z o.o. Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Zofia Warminska
- Centre
of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Karol Wolosewicz
- Explorna
Therapeutics sp. z o.o. Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Zuberek
- Division
of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jeffrey S. Mugridge
- Department
of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University
of Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19716, United States
| | - Dominika Nowis
- Explorna
Therapeutics sp. z o.o. Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
- Laboratory
of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jakub Golab
- Explorna
Therapeutics sp. z o.o. Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
- Laboratory
of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre
of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
- Explorna
Therapeutics sp. z o.o. Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division
of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
- Explorna
Therapeutics sp. z o.o. Zwirki i Wigury 93, 02-089 Warsaw, Poland
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8
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Avila-Bonilla RG, Macias S. The molecular language of RNA 5' ends: guardians of RNA identity and immunity. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 30:327-336. [PMID: 38325897 PMCID: PMC10946433 DOI: 10.1261/rna.079942.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
RNA caps are deposited at the 5' end of RNA polymerase II transcripts. This modification regulates several steps of gene expression, in addition to marking transcripts as self to enable the innate immune system to distinguish them from uncapped foreign RNAs, including those derived from viruses. Specialized immune sensors, such as RIG-I and IFITs, trigger antiviral responses upon recognition of uncapped cytoplasmic transcripts. Interestingly, uncapped transcripts can also be produced by mammalian hosts. For instance, 5'-triphosphate RNAs are generated by RNA polymerase III transcription, including tRNAs, Alu RNAs, or vault RNAs. These RNAs have emerged as key players of innate immunity, as they can be recognized by the antiviral sensors. Mechanisms that regulate the presence of 5'-triphosphates, such as 5'-end dephosphorylation or RNA editing, prevent immune recognition of endogenous RNAs and excessive inflammation. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the complexity of RNA cap structures and 5'-triphosphate RNAs, highlighting their roles in transcript identity, immune surveillance, and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo Gamaliel Avila-Bonilla
- Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, EH9 3FL Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Macias
- Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, EH9 3FL Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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9
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Liu Y, Yan Q, Zeng Z, Fan C, Xiong W. Advances and prospects of mRNA vaccines in cancer immunotherapy. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189068. [PMID: 38171406 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2023.189068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Cancer vaccines, designed to activate the body's own immune system to fight against tumors, are a current trend in cancer treatment and receiving increasing attention. Cancer vaccines mainly include oncolytic virus vaccine, cell vaccine, peptide vaccine and nucleic acid vaccine. Over the course of decades of research, oncolytic virus vaccine T-VEC, cellular vaccine sipuleucel-T, various peptide vaccines, and DNA vaccine against HPV positive cervical cancer have brought encouraging results for cancer therapy, but are losing momentum in development due to their respective shortcomings. In contrast, the advantages of mRNA vaccines such as high safety, ease of production, and unmatched efficacy are on full display. In addition, advances in technology such as pseudouridine modification have cracked down the bottleneck for developing mRNA vaccines including instability, innate immunogenicity, and low efficiency of in vivo delivery. Several cancer mRNA vaccines have achieved promising results in clinical trials, and their usage in conjunction with other immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has further boosted the efficiency of anti-tumor immune response. We expect a rapid development of mRNA vaccines for cancer immunotherapy in the near future. This review provides a brief overview of the current status of mRNA vaccines, highlights the action mechanism of cancer mRNA vaccines, their recent advances in clinical trials, and prospects for their clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Qijia Yan
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Zhaoyang Zeng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chunmei Fan
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China; Department of Histology and Embryology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan Province, China.
| | - Wei Xiong
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Hunan Key Laboratory of Cancer Metabolism, Hunan Cancer Hospital and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China; Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Cancer Invasion of the Chinese Ministry of Education, Cancer Research Institute, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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10
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Yan S, Fu P, Li H, Huang Z, Shan R, Gong B. Comprehensive Analysis of circRNA, lncRNA, miRNA and mRNA Expression Profiles and Their Competing Endogenous RNA Networks in Hepatitis B Virus-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Mol Biotechnol 2024:10.1007/s12033-024-01056-2. [PMID: 38411789 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-024-01056-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Pursuing knowledge about circular RNA (circRNA), long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), microRNA (miRNA), and messenger RNA (mRNA) expression profiles and their competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks in hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV-related HCC) was the focus of this research. Expression patterns of circRNAs, lncRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs were searched for in relation to HBV-related HCC using whole-transcriptome sequencing. The expression levels of chosen circRNA, lncRNA, miRNA, and mRNA were analyzed using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The potential connections and roles of ceRNA were deduced via bioinformatics research. The sum of 284 circRNAs, 2,927 lncRNAs, 693 miRNAs, and 5566 mRNAs were discovered to be expressed at considerably different levels in HBV-related HCC tissue and adjacent normal tissue. And the most significantly up- and down-regulated circRNAs, lncRNAs, miRNAs, and mRNAs were verified in HBV-related HCC by qRT-PCR. The circRNA/miRNA/mRNA and lncRNA/miRNA/mRNA networks of HBV-related HCC were established, and the ceRNA regulatory networks revealed the gene expression mechanisms controlled by ncRNAs. Collectively, we revealed the contribution of various circRNA, lncRNA, miRNA, and mRNA expression profiles and identified their ceRNA regulatory networks in HBV-related HCC, providing a theoretical basis for further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoying Yan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Medical Center of Burn Plastic and Wound Repair, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Nanchang Key Laboratory of Diagnosis of Infectious Diseases, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Peng Fu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Medical Center of Burn Plastic and Wound Repair, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Huiming Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Medical Center of Burn Plastic and Wound Repair, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Zikun Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Medical Center of Burn Plastic and Wound Repair, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
- Nanchang Key Laboratory of Diagnosis of Infectious Diseases, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Renfeng Shan
- Department of General Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Binbin Gong
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, No.17, Yongwaizheng Street, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China.
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11
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František Potužník J, Nešuta O, Škríba A, Voleníková B, Mititelu MB, Mancini F, Serianni V, Fernandez H, Spustová K, Trylčová J, Vopalensky P, Cahová H. Diadenosine Tetraphosphate (Ap 4 A) Serves as a 5' RNA Cap in Mammalian Cells. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2024; 63:e202314951. [PMID: 37934413 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202314951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
The recent expansion of the field of RNA chemical modifications has changed our understanding of post-transcriptional gene regulation. Apart from internal nucleobase modifications, 7-methylguanosine was long thought to be the only eukaryotic RNA cap. However, the discovery of non-canonical RNA caps in eukaryotes revealed a new niche of previously undetected RNA chemical modifications. We are the first to report the existence of a new non-canonical RNA cap, diadenosine tetraphosphate (Ap4 A), in human and rat cell lines. Ap4 A is the most abundant dinucleoside polyphosphate in eukaryotic cells and can be incorporated into RNA by RNA polymerases as a non-canonical initiating nucleotide (NCIN). Using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), we show that the amount of capped Ap4 A-RNA is independent of the cellular concentration of Ap4 A. A decapping enzyme screen identifies two enzymes cleaving Ap4 A-RNA,NUDT2 and DXO, both of which also cleave other substrate RNAs in vitro. We further assess the translatability and immunogenicity of Ap4 A-RNA and show that although it is not translated, Ap4 A-RNA is recognized as self by the cell and does not elicit an immune response, making it a natural component of the transcriptome. Our findings open a previously unexplored area of eukaryotic RNA regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiří František Potužník
- Chemical Biology of Nucleic, Acids, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague, 6, Czechia
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, Prague, 2, Czechia
| | - Ondřej Nešuta
- Chemical Biology of Nucleic, Acids, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague, 6, Czechia
| | - Anton Škríba
- Chemical Biology of Nucleic, Acids, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague, 6, Czechia
| | - Barbora Voleníková
- Chemical Biology of Nucleic, Acids, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague, 6, Czechia
| | - Maria-Bianca Mititelu
- Chemical Biology of Nucleic, Acids, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague, 6, Czechia
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, Prague, 2, Czechia
| | - Flaminia Mancini
- Chemical Biology of Nucleic, Acids, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague, 6, Czechia
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, Prague, 2, Czechia
| | - Valentina Serianni
- Chemical Biology of Nucleic, Acids, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague, 6, Czechia
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, Prague, 2, Czechia
| | - Henri Fernandez
- Chemical Biology of Nucleic, Acids, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague, 6, Czechia
| | - Kristína Spustová
- Chemical Biology of Nucleic, Acids, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague, 6, Czechia
| | - Jana Trylčová
- Chemical Biology of Nucleic, Acids, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague, 6, Czechia
| | - Pavel Vopalensky
- Chemical Biology of Nucleic, Acids, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague, 6, Czechia
| | - Hana Cahová
- Chemical Biology of Nucleic, Acids, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS, Flemingovo náměstí 2, Prague, 6, Czechia
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12
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Warminski M, Mamot A, Depaix A, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. Chemical Modifications of mRNA Ends for Therapeutic Applications. Acc Chem Res 2023; 56:2814-2826. [PMID: 37782471 PMCID: PMC10586375 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.3c00442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) is the universal cellular instruction for ribosomes to produce proteins. Proteins are responsible for most of the functions of living organisms, and their abnormal structure or activity is the cause of many diseases. mRNA, which is expressed in the cytoplasm and, unlike DNA, does not need to be delivered into the nucleus, appears to be an ideal vehicle for pursuing the idea of gene therapy in which genetic information about proteins is introduced into an organism to exert a therapeutic effect. mRNA molecules of any sequence can be synthesized using the same set of reagents in a cell-free system via a process called in vitro transcription (IVT), which is very convenient for therapeutic applications. However, this does not mean that the path from the idea to the first mRNA-based therapeutic was short and easy. It took 30 years of trial and error in the search for solutions that eventually led to the first mRNA vaccines created in record time during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. One of the fundamental problems in the development of RNA-based therapeutics is the legendary instability of mRNA, due to the transient nature of this macromolecule. From the chemical point of view, mRNA is a linear biopolymer composed of four types of ribonucleic subunits ranging in length from a few hundred to hundreds of thousands of nucleotides, with unique structures at its ends: a 5'-cap at the 5'-end and a poly(A) tail at the 3'-end. Both are extremely important for the regulation of translation and mRNA durability. These elements are also convenient sites for sequence-independent labeling of mRNA to create probes for enzymatic assays and tracking of the fate of mRNA in cells and living organisms. Synthetic 5'-cap analogs have played an important role in the studies of mRNA metabolism, and some of them have also been shown to significantly improve the translational properties of mRNA or affect mRNA stability and reactogenicity. The most effective of these is used in clinical trials of mRNA-based anticancer vaccines. Interestingly, thanks to the knowledge gained from the biophysical studies of cap-related processes, even relatively large modifications such as fluorescent tags can be attached to the cap structure without significant effects on the biological properties of the mRNA, if properly designed cap analogs are used. This has been exploited in the development of molecular tools (fluorescently labeled mRNAs) to track these macromolecules in complex biological systems, including organisms. These tools are extremely valuable for better understanding of the cellular mechanisms involved in mRNA metabolism but also for designing therapeutic mRNAs with superior properties. Much less is known about the usefulness/utility of poly(A) tail modifications in the therapeutic context, but it is clear that chemical modifications of poly(A) can also affect biochemical properties of mRNA. This Account is devoted to chemical modifications of both the 5'- and 3'-ends of mRNA aimed at improving the biological properties of mRNA, without interfering with its translational function, and is based on the authors' more than 20 years of experience in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Warminski
- Division
of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Adam Mamot
- Centre
of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anaïs Depaix
- Centre
of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division
of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre
of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
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13
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Cornelissen NV, Mineikaitė R, Erguven M, Muthmann N, Peters A, Bartels A, Rentmeister A. Post-synthetic benzylation of the mRNA 5' cap via enzymatic cascade reactions. Chem Sci 2023; 14:10962-10970. [PMID: 37829022 PMCID: PMC10566477 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc03822j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNAs are emerging modalities for vaccination and protein replacement therapy. Increasing the amount of protein produced by stabilizing the transcript or enhancing translation without eliciting a strong immune response are major steps towards overcoming the present limitations and improving their therapeutic potential. The 5' cap is a hallmark of mRNAs and non-natural modifications can alter the properties of the entire transcript selectively. Here, we developed a versatile enzymatic cascade for regioselective benzylation of various biomolecules and applied it for post-synthetic modification of mRNA at the 5' cap to demonstrate its potential. Starting from six synthetic methionine analogues bearing (hetero-)benzyl groups, S-adenosyl-l-methionine analogues are formed and utilized for N7G-cap modification of mRNAs. This post-synthetic enzymatic modification exclusively modifies mRNAs at the terminal N7G, producing mRNAs with functional 5' caps. It avoids the wrong orientation of the 5' cap-a problem in common co-transcriptional capping. In the case of the 4-chlorobenzyl group, protein production was increased to 139% during in vitro translation and to 128-150% in four different cell lines. This 5' cap modification did not activate cytosolic pathogen recognition receptors TLR3, TLR7 or TLR8 significantly more than control mRNAs, underlining its potential to contribute to the development of future mRNA therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- N V Cornelissen
- University of Münster, Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry Corrensstr. 36 48149 Münster Germany
| | - R Mineikaitė
- University of Münster, Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry Corrensstr. 36 48149 Münster Germany
| | - M Erguven
- University of Münster, Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry Corrensstr. 36 48149 Münster Germany
- University of Münster, Cells in Motion Interfaculty Centre Waldeyerstr. 15 48149 Münster Germany
| | - N Muthmann
- University of Münster, Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry Corrensstr. 36 48149 Münster Germany
| | - A Peters
- University of Münster, Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry Corrensstr. 36 48149 Münster Germany
| | - A Bartels
- University of Münster, Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry Corrensstr. 36 48149 Münster Germany
| | - A Rentmeister
- University of Münster, Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry Corrensstr. 36 48149 Münster Germany
- University of Münster, Cells in Motion Interfaculty Centre Waldeyerstr. 15 48149 Münster Germany
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14
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Wang YS, Kumari M, Chen GH, Hong MH, Yuan JPY, Tsai JL, Wu HC. mRNA-based vaccines and therapeutics: an in-depth survey of current and upcoming clinical applications. J Biomed Sci 2023; 30:84. [PMID: 37805495 PMCID: PMC10559634 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-023-00977-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNA-based drugs have tremendous potential as clinical treatments, however, a major challenge in realizing this drug class will promise to develop methods for safely delivering the bioactive agents with high efficiency and without activating the immune system. With regard to mRNA vaccines, researchers have modified the mRNA structure to enhance its stability and promote systemic tolerance of antigenic presentation in non-inflammatory contexts. Still, delivery of naked modified mRNAs is inefficient and results in low levels of antigen protein production. As such, lipid nanoparticles have been utilized to improve delivery and protect the mRNA cargo from extracellular degradation. This advance was a major milestone in the development of mRNA vaccines and dispelled skepticism about the potential of this technology to yield clinically approved medicines. Following the resounding success of mRNA vaccines for COVID-19, many other mRNA-based drugs have been proposed for the treatment of a variety of diseases. This review begins with a discussion of mRNA modifications and delivery vehicles, as well as the factors that influence administration routes. Then, we summarize the potential applications of mRNA-based drugs and discuss further key points pertaining to preclinical and clinical development of mRNA drugs targeting a wide range of diseases. Finally, we discuss the latest market trends and future applications of mRNA-based drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Shiuan Wang
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Monika Kumari
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Guan-Hong Chen
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hsiang Hong
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Joyce Pei-Yi Yuan
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan
| | - Jui-Ling Tsai
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Han-Chung Wu
- Institute of Cellular and Organismic Biology, Academia Sinica, No. 128, Academia Road, Section 2, Nankang, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan.
- Biomedical Translation Research Center (BioTReC), Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11571, Taiwan.
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15
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Wu Y, Pu X, Wu S, Zhang Y, Fu S, Tang H, Wang X, Xu M. PCIF1, the only methyltransferase of N6,2-O-dimethyladenosine. Cancer Cell Int 2023; 23:226. [PMID: 37779183 PMCID: PMC10544176 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-023-03066-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine(m6A), is the most abundant post-transcriptional modification of mRNA in biology. When the first nucleotide after the m7G cap is adenosine, it is methylated at the N6 position to form N6,2-O-dimethyladenosine (m6Am). m6Am is a reversible modification located at the first transcribed nucleotide, which is present in about 30% of cellular mRNAs, thus m6Am can have a significant impact on gene expression in the transcriptome. Phosphorylated CTD interaction factor 1(PCIF1), the unique and specific methyltransferase of m6Am, has been shown to affect mRNA stability, transcription, and translation. Several studies have shown that PCIF1 is clearly associated with tumor, viral, and endocrine diseases. Moreover, PCIF1 may be related to the tumor microenvironment, immune cell typing, and programmed cell death protein 1(PD-1) drug resistance. Here, we summarize the mechanism of PCIF1 involvement in mRNA modifications, and outline m6Am modifications and diseases in which PCIF1 is involved. We also summarized the role of PCIF1 in immune and immune checkpoint blockade(ICB) treatment, and predicted the possibility of PCIF1 as a biomarker and therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xi Pu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Sihui Wu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yiran Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shengqiao Fu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institute of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haowen Tang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institute of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xu Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institute of Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Min Xu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu, China.
- Digestive Disease Research Institute of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212001, Jiangsu, China.
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16
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Breger K, Kunkler CN, O'Leary NJ, Hulewicz JP, Brown JA. Ghost authors revealed: The structure and function of human N 6 -methyladenosine RNA methyltransferases. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2023; 15:e1810. [PMID: 37674370 PMCID: PMC10915109 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Despite the discovery of modified nucleic acids nearly 75 years ago, their biological functions are still being elucidated. N6 -methyladenosine (m6 A) is the most abundant modification in eukaryotic messenger RNA (mRNA) and has also been detected in non-coding RNAs, including long non-coding RNA, ribosomal RNA, and small nuclear RNA. In general, m6 A marks can alter RNA secondary structure and initiate unique RNA-protein interactions that can alter splicing, mRNA turnover, and translation, just to name a few. Although m6 A marks in human RNAs have been known to exist since 1974, the structures and functions of methyltransferases responsible for writing m6 A marks have been established only recently. Thus far, there are four confirmed human methyltransferases that catalyze the transfer of a methyl group from S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) to the N6 position of adenosine, producing m6 A: methyltransferase-like protein (METTL) 3/METTL14 complex, METTL16, METTL5, and zinc-finger CCHC-domain-containing protein 4. Though the methyltransferases have unique RNA targets, all human m6 A RNA methyltransferases contain a Rossmann fold with a conserved SAM-binding pocket, suggesting that they utilize a similar catalytic mechanism for methyl transfer. For each of the human m6 A RNA methyltransferases, we present the biological functions and links to human disease, RNA targets, catalytic and kinetic mechanisms, and macromolecular structures. We also discuss m6 A marks in human viruses and parasites, assigning m6 A marks in the transcriptome to specific methyltransferases, small molecules targeting m6 A methyltransferases, and the enzymes responsible for hypermodified m6 A marks and their biological functions in humans. Understanding m6 A methyltransferases is a critical steppingstone toward establishing the m6 A epitranscriptome and more broadly the RNome. This article is categorized under: RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Recognition RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA-Protein Complexes RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Interactions: Functional Implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurtis Breger
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Charlotte N Kunkler
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Nathan J O'Leary
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Jacob P Hulewicz
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Jessica A Brown
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
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17
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Zhang J, Liu Y, Li C, Xiao Q, Zhang D, Chen Y, Rosenecker J, Ding X, Guan S. Recent Advances and Innovations in the Preparation and Purification of In Vitro-Transcribed-mRNA-Based Molecules. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2182. [PMID: 37765153 PMCID: PMC10536309 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15092182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic poses a disruptive impact on public health and the global economy. Fortunately, the development of COVID-19 vaccines based on in vitro-transcribed messenger RNA (IVT mRNA) has been a breakthrough in medical history, benefiting billions of people with its high effectiveness, safety profile, and ease of large-scale production. This success is the result of decades of continuous RNA research, which has led to significant improvements in the stability and expression level of IVT mRNA through various approaches such as sequence optimization and improved preparation processes. IVT mRNA sequence optimization has been shown to have a positive effect on enhancing the mRNA expression level. The innovation of IVT mRNA purification technology is also indispensable, as the purity of IVT mRNA directly affects the success of downstream vaccine preparation processes and the potential for inducing unwanted side effects in therapeutic applications. Despite the progress made, challenges related to IVT mRNA sequence design and purification still require further attention to enhance the quality of IVT mRNA in the future. In this review, we discuss the latest innovative progress in IVT mRNA design and purification to further improve its clinical efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center of Immunological Products, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; (J.Z.); (Y.L.); (C.L.); (Q.X.); (D.Z.); (Y.C.)
| | - Yuheng Liu
- National Engineering Research Center of Immunological Products, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; (J.Z.); (Y.L.); (C.L.); (Q.X.); (D.Z.); (Y.C.)
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Chao Li
- National Engineering Research Center of Immunological Products, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; (J.Z.); (Y.L.); (C.L.); (Q.X.); (D.Z.); (Y.C.)
| | - Qin Xiao
- National Engineering Research Center of Immunological Products, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; (J.Z.); (Y.L.); (C.L.); (Q.X.); (D.Z.); (Y.C.)
| | - Dandan Zhang
- National Engineering Research Center of Immunological Products, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; (J.Z.); (Y.L.); (C.L.); (Q.X.); (D.Z.); (Y.C.)
| | - Yang Chen
- National Engineering Research Center of Immunological Products, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; (J.Z.); (Y.L.); (C.L.); (Q.X.); (D.Z.); (Y.C.)
| | - Joseph Rosenecker
- Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilians University of Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany;
| | - Xiaoyan Ding
- Department of Pediatrics, Ludwig-Maximilians University of Munich, 80337 Munich, Germany;
| | - Shan Guan
- National Engineering Research Center of Immunological Products, Third Military Medical University, Chongqing 400038, China; (J.Z.); (Y.L.); (C.L.); (Q.X.); (D.Z.); (Y.C.)
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18
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Ye Z, Harmon J, Ni W, Li Y, Wich D, Xu Q. The mRNA Vaccine Revolution: COVID-19 Has Launched the Future of Vaccinology. ACS NANO 2023; 17:15231-15253. [PMID: 37535899 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c12584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, mRNA (mRNA) vaccines emerged as leading vaccine candidates in a record time. Nonreplicating mRNA (NRM) and self-amplifying mRNA (SAM) technologies have been developed into high-performing and clinically viable vaccines against a range of infectious agents, notably SARS-CoV-2. mRNA vaccines demonstrate efficient in vivo delivery, long-lasting stability, and nonexistent risk of infection. The stability and translational efficiency of in vitro transcription (IVT)-mRNA can be further increased by modulating its structural elements. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the recent advances, key applications, and future challenges in the field of mRNA-based vaccinology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongfeng Ye
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| | - Joseph Harmon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| | - Wei Ni
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, United States
| | - Yamin Li
- Department of Pharmacology, State University of New York Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York 13210, United States
| | - Douglas Wich
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
| | - Qiaobing Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts 02155, United States
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19
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Huang YS, Mendez R, Fernandez M, Richter JD. CPEB and translational control by cytoplasmic polyadenylation: impact on synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory. Mol Psychiatry 2023; 28:2728-2736. [PMID: 37131078 PMCID: PMC10620108 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-023-02088-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The late 1990s were banner years in molecular neuroscience; seminal studies demonstrated that local protein synthesis, at or near synapses, was necessary for synaptic plasticity, the underlying cellular basis of learning and memory [1, 2]. The newly made proteins were proposed to "tag" the stimulated synapse, distinguishing it from naive synapses, thereby forming a cellular memory [3]. Subsequent studies demonstrated that the transport of mRNAs from soma to dendrite was linked with translational unmasking at synapses upon synaptic stimulation. It soon became apparent that one prevalent mechanism governing these events is cytoplasmic polyadenylation, and that among the proteins that control this process, CPEB, plays a central role in synaptic plasticity, and learning and memory. In vertebrates, CPEB is a family of four proteins, all of which regulate translation in the brain, that have partially overlapping functions, but also have unique characteristics and RNA binding properties that make them control different aspects of higher cognitive function. Biochemical analysis of the vertebrate CPEBs demonstrate them to respond to different signaling pathways whose output leads to specific cellular responses. In addition, the different CPEBs, when their functions go awry, result in pathophysiological phenotypes resembling specific human neurological disorders. In this essay, we review key aspects of the vertebrate CPEB proteins and cytoplasmic polyadenylation within the context of brain function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Shuian Huang
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Raul Mendez
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), 08010, Barcelona, Spain.
| | | | - Joel D Richter
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
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20
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Lukaszewicz M, Mrozek AF, Bojarska E, Stelmach J, Stepinski J, Darzynkiewicz E. Contribution of Nudt12 enzyme to differentially methylated dinucleotides of 5'RNA cap structure. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2023:130400. [PMID: 37301333 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2023.130400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Recent findings have substantially broadened our knowledge about the diversity of modifications of the 5'end of RNAs, an issue generally attributed to mRNA cap structure (m7GpppN). Nudt12 is one of the recently described new enzymatic activities involved in cap metabolism. However, in contrast to its roles in metabolite-cap turnover (e.g., NAD-cap) and NADH/NAD metabolite hydrolysis, little is known regarding its hydrolytic activity towards dinucleotide cap structures. In order to gain further insight into this Nudt12 activity, comprehensive analysis with a spectrum of cap-like dinucleotides was performed with respect to different nucleotide types adjacent to the (m7)G moiety and its methylation status. Among the tested compounds, GpppA, GpppAm, and Gpppm6Am were identified as novel potent Nudt12 substrates, with KM values in the same range as that of NADH. Interestingly, substrate inhibition of Nudt12 catalytic activity was detected in the case of the GpppG dinucleotide, a phenomenon not reported to date. Finally, comparison of Nudt12 with DcpS and Nud16, two other enzymes with known activity on dinucleotide cap structures, revealed their overlapping and more specific substrates. Altogether, these findings provide a basis for clarifying the role of Nudt12 in cap-like dinucleotide turnover.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maciej Lukaszewicz
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Aleksandra-Ferenc Mrozek
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Elzbieta Bojarska
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Stelmach
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Janusz Stepinski
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Edward Darzynkiewicz
- Department of Biophysics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
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21
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Inagaki M, Abe N, Li Z, Nakashima Y, Acharyya S, Ogawa K, Kawaguchi D, Hiraoka H, Banno A, Meng Z, Tada M, Ishida T, Lyu P, Kokubo K, Murase H, Hashiya F, Kimura Y, Uchida S, Abe H. Cap analogs with a hydrophobic photocleavable tag enable facile purification of fully capped mRNA with various cap structures. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2657. [PMID: 37169757 PMCID: PMC10175277 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38244-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Starting with the clinical application of two vaccines in 2020, mRNA therapeutics are currently being investigated for a variety of applications. Removing immunogenic uncapped mRNA from transcribed mRNA is critical in mRNA research and clinical applications. Commonly used capping methods provide maximum capping efficiency of around 80-90% for widely used Cap-0- and Cap-1-type mRNAs. However, uncapped and capped mRNA possesses almost identical physicochemical properties, posing challenges to their physical separation. In this work, we develop hydrophobic photocaged tag-modified cap analogs, which separate capped mRNA from uncapped mRNA by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography. Subsequent photo-irradiation recovers footprint-free native capped mRNA. This approach provides 100% capping efficiency even in Cap-2-type mRNA with versatility applicable to 650 nt and 4,247 nt mRNA. We find that the Cap-2-type mRNA shows up to 3- to 4-fold higher translation activity in cultured cells and animals than the Cap-1-type mRNA prepared by the standard capping method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahito Inagaki
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Naoko Abe
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Zhenmin Li
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Yuko Nakashima
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
- Research Center for Materials Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Susit Acharyya
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Kazuya Ogawa
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Daisuke Kawaguchi
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Haruka Hiraoka
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Ayaka Banno
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Zheyu Meng
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Mizuki Tada
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Tatsuma Ishida
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Pingxue Lyu
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Kengo Kokubo
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Murase
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Fumitaka Hashiya
- Research Center for Materials Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Yasuaki Kimura
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan
| | - Satoshi Uchida
- Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 1-5 Shimogamohangi-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-0823, Japan
- Innovation Center of NanoMedicine (iCONM), Kawasaki Institute of Industrial Promotion, 3-25-14 Tonomachi, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki, 210-0821, Japan
- Medical Research Institute, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8510, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Abe
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan.
- Research Center for Materials Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8602, Japan.
- CREST, Japan Science and Technology Agency, 7, Gobancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 102-0076, Japan.
- Institute for Glyco-core Research (iGCORE), Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, 464-8601, Japan.
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22
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Liang S, Almohammed R, Cowling VH. The RNA cap methyltransferases RNMT and CMTR1 co-ordinate gene expression during neural differentiation. Biochem Soc Trans 2023:233029. [PMID: 37145036 DOI: 10.1042/bst20221154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Regulation of RNA cap formation has potent impacts on gene regulation, controlling which transcripts are expressed, processed and translated into protein. Recently, the RNA cap methyltransferases RNA guanine-7 methyltransferase (RNMT) and cap-specific mRNA (nucleoside-2'-O-)-methyltransferase 1 (CMTR1) have been found to be independently regulated during embryonic stem (ES) cell differentiation controlling the expression of overlapping and distinct protein families. During neural differentiation, RNMT is repressed and CMTR1 is up-regulated. RNMT promotes expression of the pluripotency-associated gene products; repression of the RNMT complex (RNMT-RAM) is required for repression of these RNAs and proteins during differentiation. The predominant RNA targets of CMTR1 encode the histones and ribosomal proteins (RPs). CMTR1 up-regulation is required to maintain the expression of histones and RPs during differentiation and to maintain DNA replication, RNA translation and cell proliferation. Thus the co-ordinate regulation of RNMT and CMTR1 is required for different aspects of ES cell differentiation. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms by which RNMT and CMTR1 are independently regulated during ES cell differentiation and explore how this influences the co-ordinated gene regulation required of emerging cell lineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shang Liang
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, U.K
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1BD, U.K
| | - Rajaei Almohammed
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, U.K
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1BD, U.K
| | - Victoria H Cowling
- Cancer Research UK Beatson Institute, Glasgow, U.K
- School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1BD, U.K
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23
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Kozarski M, Drazkowska K, Bednarczyk M, Warminski M, Jemielity J, Kowalska J. Towards superior mRNA caps accessible by click chemistry: synthesis and translational properties of triazole-bearing oligonucleotide cap analogs. RSC Adv 2023; 13:12809-12824. [PMID: 37114020 PMCID: PMC10126820 DOI: 10.1039/d3ra00026e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA)-based gene delivery is a powerful strategy for the development of vaccines and therapeutics. Consequently, approaches that enable efficient synthesis of mRNAs with high purity and biological activity are in demand. Chemically modified 7-methylguanosine (m7G) 5' caps can augment the translational properties of mRNA; however, efficient synthesis of structurally complex caps, especially on a large scale, is challenging. Previously, we proposed a new strategy to assemble dinucleotide mRNA caps by replacing the traditional pyrophosphate bond formation by copper-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC). Here, we used CuAAC to synthesize 12 novel triazole-containing tri- and tetranucleotide cap analogs with the aim of exploring the chemical space around the first transcribed nucleotide in mRNA and overcoming some of the limitations previously reported for the triazole-containing dinucleotide analogs. We evaluated the efficiency of incorporation into RNA for these analogs and their influence on the translational properties of in vitro transcribed (IVT) mRNAs in rabbit reticulocyte lysate and JAWS II cultured cells. The incorporation of the triazole moiety within the 5',5'-oligophosphate of trinucleotide cap produced compounds that were well incorporated into RNA by T7 polymerase while replacing the 5',3'-phosphodiester bond with triazole impaired incorporation and translation efficiency, despite a neutral effect on the interaction with the translation initiation factor eIF4E. One of the compounds (m7Gppp-tr-C2H4pAmpG), had translational activity and other biochemical properties comparable to natural cap 1 structure, thus being a promising mRNA capping reagent for potential in cellulo and in vivo applications in the field of mRNA-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateusz Kozarski
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw Pasteura 5 02-093 Warsaw Poland
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw Banacha 2c 02-097 Warsaw Poland
| | - Karolina Drazkowska
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw Banacha 2c 02-097 Warsaw Poland
| | - Marcelina Bednarczyk
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw Pasteura 5 02-093 Warsaw Poland
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw Banacha 2c 02-097 Warsaw Poland
| | - Marcin Warminski
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw Pasteura 5 02-093 Warsaw Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw Banacha 2c 02-097 Warsaw Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw Pasteura 5 02-093 Warsaw Poland
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24
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You AB, Yang H, Lai CP, Lei W, Yang L, Lin JL, Liu SC, Ding N, Ye F. CMTR1 promotes colorectal cancer cell growth and immune evasion by transcriptionally regulating STAT3. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:245. [PMID: 37024465 PMCID: PMC10079662 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-05767-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
CMTR1, also called IFN-stimulated gene 95 kDa protein (ISG95), is elevated by viral infection in a variety of cells. However, the functions of CMTR1 in colorectal cancer (CRC), especially its roles in tumorigenesis and immune regulation, remain unclear. Here, we first identified CMTR1 as a novel oncogene in colorectal cancer. Based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database exploration and human tissue microarray (TMA) analysis, we found that CMTR1 expression was markedly higher in CRC tissues than in adjacent normal tissues. High CMTR1 expression was correlated with poor prognosis in CRC patients. Knockdown (KD) of CMTR1 significantly suppressed cell proliferation and tumorigenicity both in vitro and in vivo, whereas overexpression of CMTR1 resulted in the opposite effects. KEGG pathway analysis revealed differential enrichment in the JAK/STAT signaling pathway in colorectal cancer cells with CMTR1 KD. Mechanistically, suppression of CMTR1 expression inhibited RNAPII recruitment to the transcription start site (TSS) of STAT3 and suppressed STAT3 expression and activation. Furthermore, the efficacy of PD1 blockade immunotherapy was prominently enhanced in the presence of CMTR1 KD via increased infiltration of CD8 + T cells into the tumor microenvironment. Overall, it appears that CMTR1 plays a key role in regulating tumor cell proliferation and antitumor immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- A-Bin You
- Department of Medical Oncology, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Antitumor Drug Transformation Research, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Hu Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Antitumor Drug Transformation Research, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Chun-Ping Lai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Antitumor Drug Transformation Research, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Wen Lei
- Department of Medical Oncology, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Antitumor Drug Transformation Research, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Lu Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Antitumor Drug Transformation Research, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Jia-Lin Lin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Antitumor Drug Transformation Research, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, China
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, China
| | - Shun-Cui Liu
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, China.
- Department of Anesthesiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, China.
| | - Nan Ding
- Department of Medical Oncology, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Antitumor Drug Transformation Research, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, China.
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, China.
| | - Feng Ye
- Department of Medical Oncology, Xiamen Key Laboratory of Antitumor Drug Transformation Research, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361003, China.
- The Third Clinical Medical College, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350122, China.
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25
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Rzymski P, Szuster-Ciesielska A, Dzieciątkowski T, Gwenzi W, Fal A. mRNA vaccines: The future of prevention of viral infections? J Med Virol 2023; 95:e28572. [PMID: 36762592 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.28572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccines against COVID-19 are the first authorized biological preparations developed using this platform. During the pandemic, their administration has been proven to be a life-saving intervention. Here, we review the main advantages of using mRNA vaccines, identify further technological challenges to be met during the development of the mRNA platform, and provide an update on the clinical progress on leading mRNA vaccine candidates against different viruses that include influenza viruses, human immunodeficiency virus 1, respiratory syncytial virus, Nipah virus, Zika virus, human cytomegalovirus, and Epstein-Barr virus. The prospects and challenges of manufacturing mRNA vaccines in low-income countries are also discussed. The ongoing interest and research in mRNA technology are likely to overcome some existing challenges for this technology (e.g., related to storage conditions and immunogenicity of some components of lipid nanoparticles) and enhance the portfolio of vaccines against diseases for which classical formulations are already authorized. It may also open novel pathways of protection against infections and their consequences for which no safe and efficient immunization methods are currently available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Rzymski
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland.,Integrated Science Association (ISA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Poznań, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Szuster-Ciesielska
- Department of Virology and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | | | - Willis Gwenzi
- Alexander von Humboldt Fellow & Guest Professor, Grassland Science and Renewable Plant Resources, Faculty of Organic Agricultural Sciences, Universität Kassel, Witzenhausen, Germany.,Alexander von Humboldt Fellow & Guest Professor, Leibniz Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy (ATB), Potsdam, Germany
| | - Andrzej Fal
- Collegium Medicum, Warsaw Faculty of Medicine, Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski University, Warsaw, Poland.,Department of Public Health, Wrocław Medical University, Wrocław, Poland
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26
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A Comprehensive Review of mRNA Vaccines. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032700. [PMID: 36769023 PMCID: PMC9917162 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
mRNA vaccines have been demonstrated as a powerful alternative to traditional conventional vaccines because of their high potency, safety and efficacy, capacity for rapid clinical development, and potential for rapid, low-cost manufacturing. These vaccines have progressed from being a mere curiosity to emerging as COVID-19 pandemic vaccine front-runners. The advancements in the field of nanotechnology for developing delivery vehicles for mRNA vaccines are highly significant. In this review we have summarized each and every aspect of the mRNA vaccine. The article describes the mRNA structure, its pharmacological function of immunity induction, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), and the upstream, downstream, and formulation process of mRNA vaccine manufacturing. Additionally, mRNA vaccines in clinical trials are also described. A deep dive into the future perspectives of mRNA vaccines, such as its freeze-drying, delivery systems, and LNPs targeting antigen-presenting cells and dendritic cells, are also summarized.
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27
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Regulation of Gene Expression by m6Am RNA Modification. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032277. [PMID: 36768600 PMCID: PMC9916840 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The field of RNA modification, also referred to as "epitranscriptomics," is gaining more and more interest from the scientific community. More than 160 chemical modifications have been identified in RNA molecules, but the functional significance of most of them still needs to be clarified. In this review, we discuss the role of N6,2'-O-dimethyladenosine (m6Am) in gene expression regulation. m6Am is present in the first transcribed nucleotide close to the cap in many mRNAs and snRNAs in mammals and as internal modification in the snRNA U2. The writer and eraser proteins for these modifications have been recently identified and their deletions have been utilized to understand their contributions in gene expression regulation. While the role of U2 snRNA-m6Am in splicing regulation has been reported by different independent studies, conflicting data were found for the role of cap-associated m6Am in mRNA stability and translation. However, despite the open debate on the role of m6Am in mRNA expression, the modulation of regulators produced promising results in cancer cells. We believe that the investigation on m6Am will continue to yield relevant results in the future.
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28
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Muthmann N, Albers M, Rentmeister A. CAPturAM, a Chemo-Enzymatic Strategy for Selective Enrichment and Detection of Physiological CAPAM-Targets. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2023; 62:e202211957. [PMID: 36282111 PMCID: PMC10107118 DOI: 10.1002/anie.202211957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Modified nucleotides impact all aspects of eukaryotic mRNAs and contribute to regulation of gene expression at the transcriptional and translational level. At the 5' cap, adenosine as first transcribed nucleotide is often N6 -methyl-2'-O-methyl adenosine (m6 Am ). This modification is tissue dependent and reversible, pointing to a regulatory function. CAPAM was recently identified as methyltransferase responsible for m6 Am formation, however, the direct assignment of its target transcripts proves difficult. Antibodies do not discriminate between internal N6 -methyl adenosine (m6 A) and m6 Am . Here we present CAPturAM, an antibody-free chemical biology approach for direct enrichment and probing of physiological CAPAM-targets. We harness CAPAM's cosubstrate promiscuity to install propargyl groups on its targets. Subsequent functionalization with an affinity handle allows for their enrichment. Using wildtype and CAPAM-/- cells, we successfully applied CAPturAM to confirm or disprove CAPAM-targets, facilitating the verification and identification of CAPAM targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Muthmann
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry, University of Münster, Corrensstrasse 36, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Marvin Albers
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry, University of Münster, Corrensstrasse 36, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Andrea Rentmeister
- Department of Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry, University of Münster, Corrensstrasse 36, 48149, Münster, Germany
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29
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Yuan Y, Gao F, Chang Y, Zhao Q, He X. Advances of mRNA vaccine in tumor: a maze of opportunities and challenges. Biomark Res 2023; 11:6. [PMID: 36650562 PMCID: PMC9845107 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-023-00449-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
High-frequency mutations in tumor genomes could be exploited as an asset for developing tumor vaccines. In recent years, with the tremendous breakthrough in genomics, intelligence algorithm, and in-depth insight of tumor immunology, it has become possible to rapidly target genomic alterations in tumor cell and rationally select vaccine targets. Among a variety of candidate vaccine platforms, the early application of mRNA was limited by instability low efficiency and excessive immunogenicity until the successful development of mRNA vaccines against SARS-COV-2 broken of technical bottleneck in vaccine preparation, allowing tumor mRNA vaccines to be prepared rapidly in an economical way with good performance of stability and efficiency. In this review, we systematically summarized the classification and characteristics of tumor antigens, the general process and methods for screening neoantigens, the strategies of vaccine preparations and advances in clinical trials, as well as presented the main challenges in the current mRNA tumor vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Yuan
- grid.413247.70000 0004 1808 0969Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China ,grid.412793.a0000 0004 1799 5032Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fan Gao
- grid.413247.70000 0004 1808 0969Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China ,grid.412793.a0000 0004 1799 5032Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ying Chang
- grid.413247.70000 0004 1808 0969Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China ,grid.413247.70000 0004 1808 0969Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiu Zhao
- grid.413247.70000 0004 1808 0969Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China ,grid.413247.70000 0004 1808 0969Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
| | - Xingxing He
- grid.413247.70000 0004 1808 0969Department of Gastroenterology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China ,grid.412793.a0000 0004 1799 5032Department of Gastroenterology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China ,grid.413247.70000 0004 1808 0969Hubei Clinical Center and Key Laboratory of Intestinal and Colorectal Diseases, Wuhan, China
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Senthilvelan A, Vonderfecht T, Shanmugasundaram M, Potter J, Kore AR. Click-iT trinucleotide cap analog: Synthesis, mRNA translation, and detection. Bioorg Med Chem 2023; 77:117128. [PMID: 36516685 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2022.117128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The first example of the synthesis of a new trinucleotide cap analog containing propargyl group such as m7,3'-O-propargylG(5')PPP(5')AmpG is reported. The effect of the propargyl group in trinucleotide analog with a standard trinucleotide cap analog (GAG), m7G(5')ppp(5')AmpG was evaluated with respect to their capping efficiency, in vitro T7 RNA polymerase transcription efficiency, and translation activity using cultured A549 lung carcinoma epithelial cells. The new propargyl cap analog is a substrate for T7 RNA polymerase. Notably, the mRNA capped with the propargyl cap is translated ∼ 1.3 times more efficiently than the mRNA capped with the GAG cap. The most characteristic feature of the new propargyl cap analog is that the presence of the propargyl group allows further modification of the mRNA by chemical ligation of an azide-containing fluorescent-labeled substrate to the mRNA via click chemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annamalai Senthilvelan
- Life Sciences and Laboratory Products Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific, 2130, Woodward Street, Austin, TX 78744-1832, USA
| | - Tyson Vonderfecht
- Life Sciences and Laboratory Products Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific, 5781, Van Allen Way, Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA
| | - Muthian Shanmugasundaram
- Life Sciences and Laboratory Products Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific, 2130, Woodward Street, Austin, TX 78744-1832, USA
| | - Jason Potter
- Life Sciences and Laboratory Products Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific, 5781, Van Allen Way, Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA
| | - Anilkumar R Kore
- Life Sciences and Laboratory Products Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific, 2130, Woodward Street, Austin, TX 78744-1832, USA.
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31
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Graczyk A, Radzikowska-Cieciura E, Kaczmarek R, Pawlowska R, Chworos A. Modified Nucleotides for Chemical and Enzymatic Synthesis of Therapeutic RNA. Curr Med Chem 2023; 30:1320-1347. [PMID: 36239720 DOI: 10.2174/0929867330666221014111403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, RNA has emerged as a medium with a broad spectrum of therapeutic potential, however, for years, a group of short RNA fragments was studied and considered therapeutic molecules. In nature, RNA plays both functions, with coding and non-coding potential. For RNA, like any other therapeutic, to be used clinically, certain barriers must be crossed. Among them, there are biocompatibility, relatively low toxicity, bioavailability, increased stability, target efficiency and low off-target effects. In the case of RNA, most of these obstacles can be overcome by incorporating modified nucleotides into its structure. This may be achieved by both, in vitro and in vivo biosynthetic methods, as well as chemical synthesis. Some advantages and disadvantages of each approach are summarized here. The wide range of nucleotide analogues has been tested for their utility as monomers for RNA synthesis. Many of them have been successfully implemented, and a lot of pre-clinical and clinical studies involving modified RNA have been carried out. Some of these medications have already been introduced into clinics. After the huge success of RNA-based vaccines that were introduced into widespread use in 2020, and the introduction to the market of some RNA-based drugs, RNA therapeutics containing modified nucleotides appear to be the future of medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Graczyk
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363 Lodz, Poland
| | - Ewa Radzikowska-Cieciura
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363 Lodz, Poland
| | - Renata Kaczmarek
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363 Lodz, Poland
| | - Roza Pawlowska
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363 Lodz, Poland
| | - Arkadiusz Chworos
- Department of Bioorganic Chemistry, Centre of Molecular and Macromolecular Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences, Sienkiewicza 112, 90-363 Lodz, Poland
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32
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Senthilvelan A, Shanmugasundaram M, Kore AR. Solution‐Phase Chemical Synthesis of Modified RNA Dinucleotides. Curr Protoc 2022; 2:e583. [PMID: 36342272 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
This article describes a simple, reliable, efficient, and improved solution-phase method for the gram-scale chemical synthesis of RNA dinucleotides such as pAm pA, pAm pG, and pAm pU that utilizes phosphoramidite chemistry. The overall synthetic strategy involves three steps. The first step involves the coupling reaction between 5'-O-MMT protected nucleoside-3'-O-phosphoramidite and a protected nucleoside containing a free 5'-OH group in the presence of tetrazole, followed by the oxidation of phosphite triester using tert-butyl hydroperoxide to give the corresponding protected Nm pN. Next, the 5'-O-MMT is cleaved under 3% trichloroacetic acid in dichloromethane conditions. Finally, the 5'-hydroxyl group is phosphorylated by the use of an activated bis(2-cyanoethyl)-N,N-diisopropyl phosphoramidite using tetrazole, followed by the oxidation of trivalent to pentavalent phosphorus using tert-butyl hydroperoxide and subsequent deprotection using ammonium hydroxide to afford the corresponding RNA dinucleotide, pNm pN, in good yields with high purity (>99.5%). © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
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Wang L, Hu X, Liu X, Feng Y, Zhang Y, Han J, Liu X, Meng F. m7G regulator-mediated methylation modification patterns define immune cell infiltration and patient survival. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1022720. [DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1022720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have demonstrated the important roles of epigenetic modifications in tumorigenesis, progression and prognosis. However, in hepatocellular carcinoma, the potential link between N7-methylguanosine (m7G) modification and molecular heterogeneity and tumor microenvironment (TME) remains unclear.MethodWe performed a comprehensive evaluation of m7G modification patterns in 816 hepatocellular carcinoma samples based on 24 m7G regulatory factors, identified different m7G modification patterns, and made a systematic correlation of these modification patterns with the infiltration characteristics of immunocytes. Then, we built and validated a scoring tool called m7G score.ResultsIn this study, we revealed the presence of three distinct m7G modification patterns in liver cancer, with remarkable differences in the immunocyte infiltration characteristics of these three subtypes. The m7G scoring system of this study could assess m7G modification patterns in individual hepatocellular carcinoma patients, could predict TME infiltration characteristics, genetic variants and patient prognosis. We also found that the m7G scoring system may be useful in guiding patients’ clinical use of medications.ConclusionsThis study revealed that m7G methylation modifications exerted a significant role in formation of TME in hepatocellular carcinoma. Assessing the m7G modification patterns of single patients would help enhance our perception of TME infiltration characteristics and give significant insights into immunotherapy efficacy.
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Piao X, Yadav V, Wang E, Chang W, Tau L, Lindenmuth BE, Wang SX. Double-stranded RNA reduction by chaotropic agents during in vitro transcription of messenger RNA. MOLECULAR THERAPY - NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 29:618-624. [PMID: 36090758 PMCID: PMC9421179 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Drazkowska K, Tomecki R, Warminski M, Baran N, Cysewski D, Depaix A, Kasprzyk R, Kowalska J, Jemielity J, Sikorski P. 2'-O-Methylation of the second transcribed nucleotide within the mRNA 5' cap impacts the protein production level in a cell-specific manner and contributes to RNA immune evasion. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:9051-9071. [PMID: 36018811 PMCID: PMC9458431 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, m7G-adjacent nucleotides undergo extensive modifications. Ribose of the first or first and second transcribed nucleotides can be subjected to 2'-O-methylation to form cap1 or cap2, respectively. When the first transcribed nucleotide is 2'-O-methylated adenosine, it can be additionally modified to N6,2'-O-dimethyladenosine (m6Am). Recently, the crucial role of cap1 in distinguishing between 'self' and 'non-self' in mammalian cells during viral infection was revealed. Here, we attempted to understand the impact of cap methylations on RNA-related processes. Therefore, we synthesized tetranucleotide cap analogues and used them for RNA capping during in vitro transcription. Using this tool, we found that 2'-O-methylation of the second transcribed nucleotide within the mRNA 5' cap influences protein production levels in a cell-specific manner. This modification can strongly hamper protein biosynthesis or have no influence on protein production levels, depending on the cell line. Interestingly, 2'-O-methylation of the second transcribed nucleotide and the presence of m6Am as the first transcribed nucleotide serve as determinants that define transcripts as 'self' and contribute to transcript escape from the host innate immune response. Additionally, cap methylation status does not influence transcript affinity towards translation initiation factor eIF4E or in vitro susceptibility to decapping by DCP2; however, we observe the resistance of cap2-RNA to DXO (decapping exoribonuclease)-mediated decapping and degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Drazkowska
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Rafal Tomecki
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawinskiego 5a, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland,Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Pawinskiego 5a, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marcin Warminski
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Natalia Baran
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland,Department of Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology, Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Miecznikowa 1, 02-096 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dominik Cysewski
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawinskiego 5a, 02-106 Warsaw, Poland,Clinical Research Centre, Medical University of Bialystok, M. Sklodowskiej-Curie 24a, 15-276 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Anaïs Depaix
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Renata Kasprzyk
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Pawel J Sikorski
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +48 22 55 43775; Fax: +48 22 55 43771;
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Senthilvelan A, Shanmugasundaram M, Kore AR. Efficient and Improved Solution-Phase Synthesis of Modified RNA Dinucleotides: Versatile Synthons in Cap 1 mRNA Therapeutics. Org Process Res Dev 2022. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.oprd.2c00218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Annamalai Senthilvelan
- Life Sciences Solutions Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific, 2130 Woodward Street, Austin, Texas 78744-1832, United States
| | - Muthian Shanmugasundaram
- Life Sciences Solutions Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific, 2130 Woodward Street, Austin, Texas 78744-1832, United States
| | - Anilkumar R. Kore
- Life Sciences Solutions Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific, 2130 Woodward Street, Austin, Texas 78744-1832, United States
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Depaix A, Grudzien-Nogalska E, Fedorczyk B, Kiledjian M, Jemielity J, Kowalska J. Preparation of RNAs with non-canonical 5' ends using novel di- and trinucleotide reagents for co-transcriptional capping. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:854170. [PMID: 36060251 PMCID: PMC9437278 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.854170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Many eukaryotic and some bacterial RNAs are modified at the 5' end by the addition of cap structures. In addition to the classic 7-methylguanosine 5' cap in eukaryotic mRNA, several non-canonical caps have recently been identified, including NAD-linked, FAD-linked, and UDP-glucose-linked RNAs. However, studies of the biochemical properties of these caps are impaired by the limited access to in vitro transcribed RNA probes of high quality, as the typical capping efficiencies with NAD or FAD dinucleotides achieved in the presence of T7 polymerase rarely exceed 50%, and pyrimidine derivatives are not incorporated because of promoter sequence limitations. To address this issue, we developed a series of di- and trinucleotide capping reagents and in vitro transcription conditions to provide straightforward access to unconventionally capped RNAs with improved 5'-end homogeneity. We show that because of the transcription start site flexibility of T7 polymerase, R1ppApG-type structures (where R1 is either nicotinamide riboside or riboflavin) are efficiently incorporated into RNA during transcription from dsDNA templates containing both φ 6.5 and φ 2.5 promoters and enable high capping efficiencies (∼90%). Moreover, uridine-initiated RNAs are accessible by transcription from templates containing the φ 6.5 promoter performed in the presence of R2ppUpG-type initiating nucleotides (where R2 is a sugar or phosphate moiety). We successfully employed this strategy to obtain several nucleotide-sugar-capped and uncapped RNAs. The capping reagents developed herein provide easy access to chemical probes to elucidate the biological roles of non-canonical RNA 5' capping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaïs Depaix
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Grudzien-Nogalska
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, New York, NJ, United States
| | | | - Megerditch Kiledjian
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Rutgers University, New York, NJ, United States
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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Shanmugasundaram M, Senthilvelan A, Kore AR. Recent Advances in Modified Cap Analogs: Synthesis, Biochemical Properties, and mRNA Based Vaccines. CHEM REC 2022; 22:e202200005. [PMID: 35420257 PMCID: PMC9111249 DOI: 10.1002/tcr.202200005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The recent FDA approval of the mRNA vaccine for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) emphasizes the importance of mRNA as a powerful tool for therapeutic applications. The chemically modified mRNA cap analogs contain a unique cap structure, m7 G[5']ppp[5']N (where N=G, A, C or U), present at the 5'-end of many eukaryotic cellular and viral RNAs and several non-coding RNAs. The chemical modifications on cap analog influence orientation's nature, translational efficiency, nuclear stability, and binding affinity. The recent invention of a trinucleotide cap analog provides groundbreaking research in the area of mRNA analogs. Notably, trinucleotide cap analogs outweigh dinucleotide cap analogs in terms of capping efficiency and translational properties. This review focuses on the recent development in the synthesis of various dinucleotide cap analogs such as dinucleotide containing a triazole moiety, phosphorothiolate cap, biotinylated cap, cap analog containing N1 modification, cap analog containing N2 modification, dinucleotide containing fluorescence probe and TAT, bacterial caps, and trinucleotide cap analogs. In addition, the biological applications of these novel cap analogs are delineated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Annamalai Senthilvelan
- Life Sciences Solutions GroupThermo Fisher Scientific2130 Woodward StreetAustinTX 78744-1832US
| | - Anilkumar R. Kore
- Life Sciences Solutions GroupThermo Fisher Scientific2130 Woodward StreetAustinTX 78744-1832US
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del Valle-Morales D, Le P, Saviana M, Romano G, Nigita G, Nana-Sinkam P, Acunzo M. The Epitranscriptome in miRNAs: Crosstalk, Detection, and Function in Cancer. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13071289. [PMID: 35886072 PMCID: PMC9316458 DOI: 10.3390/genes13071289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The epitranscriptome encompasses all post-transcriptional modifications that occur on RNAs. These modifications can alter the function and regulation of their RNA targets, which, if dysregulated, result in various diseases and cancers. As with other RNAs, miRNAs are highly modified by epitranscriptomic modifications such as m6A methylation, 2′-O-methylation, m5C methylation, m7G methylation, polyuridine, and A-to-I editing. miRNAs are a class of small non-coding RNAs that regulates gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. miRNAs have gathered high clinical interest due to their role in disease, development, and cancer progression. Epitranscriptomic modifications alter the targeting, regulation, and biogenesis of miRNAs, increasing the complexity of miRNA regulation. In addition, emerging studies have revealed crosstalk between these modifications. In this review, we will summarize the epitranscriptomic modifications—focusing on those relevant to miRNAs—examine the recent crosstalk between these modifications, and give a perspective on how this crosstalk expands the complexity of miRNA biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel del Valle-Morales
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (D.d.V.-M.); (P.L.); (M.S.); (G.R.); (P.N.-S.)
| | - Patricia Le
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (D.d.V.-M.); (P.L.); (M.S.); (G.R.); (P.N.-S.)
| | - Michela Saviana
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (D.d.V.-M.); (P.L.); (M.S.); (G.R.); (P.N.-S.)
| | - Giulia Romano
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (D.d.V.-M.); (P.L.); (M.S.); (G.R.); (P.N.-S.)
| | - Giovanni Nigita
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA;
| | - Patrick Nana-Sinkam
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (D.d.V.-M.); (P.L.); (M.S.); (G.R.); (P.N.-S.)
| | - Mario Acunzo
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (D.d.V.-M.); (P.L.); (M.S.); (G.R.); (P.N.-S.)
- Correspondence:
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Ziemkiewicz K, Warminski M, Wojcik R, Kowalska J, Jemielity J. Quick Access to Nucleobase-Modified Phosphoramidites for the Synthesis of Oligoribonucleotides Containing Post-Transcriptional Modifications and Epitranscriptomic Marks. J Org Chem 2022; 87:10333-10348. [PMID: 35857285 PMCID: PMC9361293 DOI: 10.1021/acs.joc.2c01390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Herein, we report a straightforward one-step procedure
for modifying N-nucleophilic groups in the nucleobases
of commercially
available nucleoside phosphoramidites. This method involves the deprotonation
of amide groups under phase-transfer conditions and subsequent reaction
with electrophilic molecules such as alkyl halides or organic isocyanates.
Using this approach, we obtained 10 different classes of modified
nucleoside phosphoramidites suitable for the synthesis of oligonucleotides,
including several noncanonical nucleotides found in natural RNA or
DNA (e.g., m6A, i6A, m1A, g6A, m3C, m4C, m3U, m1G,
and m2G). Such modification of nucleobases is a common
mechanism for post-transcriptional regulation of RNA stability and
translational activity in various organisms. To better understand
this process, relevant cellular recognition partners (e.g., proteins)
must be identified and characterized. However, this step has been
impeded by limited access to molecular tools containing such modified
nucleotides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamil Ziemkiewicz
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, Warsaw 02-097, Poland
| | - Marcin Warminski
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, Warsaw 02-093, Poland
| | - Radoslaw Wojcik
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, Warsaw 02-097, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, Warsaw 02-093, Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, Warsaw 02-097, Poland
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41
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Liu A, Wang X. The Pivotal Role of Chemical Modifications in mRNA Therapeutics. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:901510. [PMID: 35912117 PMCID: PMC9326091 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.901510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
After over a decade of development, mRNA has recently matured into a potent modality for therapeutics. The advantages of mRNA therapeutics, including their rapid development and scalability, have been highlighted due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, in which the first two clinically approved mRNA vaccines have been spotlighted. These vaccines, as well as multiple other mRNA therapeutic candidates, are modified to modulate their immunogenicity, stability, and translational efficiency. Despite the importance of mRNA modifications for harnessing the full efficacy of mRNA drugs, the full breadth of potential modifications has yet to be explored clinically. In this review, we survey the field of mRNA modifications, highlighting their ability to tune the properties of mRNAs. These include cap and tail modifications, nucleoside substitutions, and chimeric mRNAs, each of which represents a component of mRNA that can be exploited for modification. Additionally, we cover clinical and preclinical trials of the modified mRNA platform not only to illustrate the promise of modified mRNAs but also to call attention to the room for diversifying future therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Liu
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: Xiao Wang,
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Abstract
The chemical modification of ribonucleotides plays an integral role in the biology of diverse viruses and their eukaryotic host cells. Mapping the precise identity, location, and abundance of modified ribonucleotides remains a key goal of many studies aimed at characterizing the function and importance of a given modification. While mapping of specific RNA modifications through short-read sequencing approaches has powered a wealth of new discoveries in the past decade, this approach is limited by inherent biases and an absence of linkage information. Moreover, in viral contexts, the challenge is increased due to the compact nature of viral genomes giving rise to many overlapping transcript isoforms that cannot be adequately resolved using short-read sequencing approaches. The recent emergence of nanopore sequencing, specifically the ability to directly sequence native RNAs from virus-infected host cells, provides not just a new methodology for mapping modified ribonucleotides but also a new conceptual framework for what can be derived from the resulting sequencing data. In this minireview, we provide a detailed overview of how nanopore direct RNA sequencing works, the computational approaches applied to identify modified ribonucleotides, and the core concepts underlying both. We further highlight recent studies that have applied this approach to interrogating viral biology and finish by discussing key experimental considerations and how we predict that these methodologies will continue to evolve.
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Abe N, Imaeda A, Inagaki M, Li Z, Kawaguchi D, Onda K, Nakashima Y, Uchida S, Hashiya F, Kimura Y, Abe H. Complete Chemical Synthesis of Minimal Messenger RNA by Efficient Chemical Capping Reaction. ACS Chem Biol 2022; 17:1308-1314. [PMID: 35608277 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.1c00996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Site-specific chemical modification of mRNA can improve its translational efficiency and stability. For this purpose, it is desirable to develop a complete chemical synthesis method for chemically modified mRNA. The key is a chemical reaction that introduces a cap structure into the chemically synthesized RNA. In this study, we developed a fast and quantitative chemical capping reaction between 5'-phosphorylated RNA and N7-methylated GDP imidazolide in the presence of 1-methylimidazole in the organic solvent dimethyl sulfoxide. It enabled quantitative preparation of capping RNA within 3 h. We prepared chemically modified 107-nucleotide mRNAs, including N6-methyladenosine, insertion of non-nucleotide linkers, and 2'-O-methylated nucleotides at the 5' end and evaluated their effects on translational activity in cultured HeLa cells. The results showed that mRNAs with non-nucleotide linkers in the untranslated regions were sufficiently tolerant to translation and that mRNAs with the Cap_2 structure had higher translational activity than those with the Cap_0 structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Abe
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8602, Japan
- Research Center for Materials Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8602, Japan
| | - Akihiro Imaeda
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8602, Japan
| | - Masahito Inagaki
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8602, Japan
| | - Zhenmin Li
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8602, Japan
| | - Daisuke Kawaguchi
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8602, Japan
| | - Kaoru Onda
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8602, Japan
| | - Yuko Nakashima
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8602, Japan
- Research Center for Materials Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8602, Japan
| | - Satoshi Uchida
- Graduate School of Medical Science, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 1-5 Shimogamohangi-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-0823, Japan
| | - Fumitaka Hashiya
- Research Center for Materials Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8602, Japan
| | - Yasuaki Kimura
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8602, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Abe
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8602, Japan
- Research Center for Materials Science, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8602, Japan
- CREST, Japan Science and Technology Agency, 7 Gobancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0076, Japan
- Institute for Glyco-core Research (iGCORE), Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 464-8601, Japan
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Bednarczyk M, Peters JK, Kasprzyk R, Starek J, Warminski M, Spiewla T, Mugridge JS, Gross JD, Jemielity J, Kowalska J. Fluorescence-Based Activity Screening Assay Reveals Small Molecule Inhibitors of Vaccinia Virus mRNA Decapping Enzyme D9. ACS Chem Biol 2022; 17:1460-1471. [PMID: 35576528 PMCID: PMC9207806 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.2c00049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Vaccinia virus (VACV) represents a family of poxviruses, which possess their own decapping machinery as a part of their strategy to eliminate host mRNAs and evade the innate immune response. D9 is one of the two encoded VACV decapping enzymes that is responsible for cap removal from the 5' end of both host mRNA transcripts and viral double-stranded RNAs. Little is known about the structural requirements for D9 inhibition by small molecules. Here, we identified a minimal D9 substrate and used it to develop a real-time fluorescence assay for inhibitor discovery and characterization. We screened a panel of nucleotide-derived substrate analogues and pharmacologically active candidates to identify several compounds with nano- and low micromolar IC50 values. m7GpppCH2p was the most potent nucleotide inhibitor (IC50 ∼ 0.08 μM), and seliciclib and CP-100356 were the most potent drug-like compounds (IC50 0.57 and 2.7 μM, respectively). The hits identified through screening inhibited D9-catalyzed decapping of 26 nt RNA substrates but were not active toward VACV D10 or human decapping enzyme, Dcp1/2. The inhibition mode for one of the compounds (CP-100356) was elucidated based on the X-ray cocrystal structure, opening the possibility for structure-based design of novel D9 inhibitors and binding probes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelina Bednarczyk
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, Warsaw 02-093, Poland
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2C, Warsaw 02-097, Poland
| | - Jessica K. Peters
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
| | - Renata Kasprzyk
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2C, Warsaw 02-097, Poland
| | - Jagoda Starek
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, Warsaw 02-093, Poland
| | - Marcin Warminski
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, Warsaw 02-093, Poland
| | - Tomasz Spiewla
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, Warsaw 02-093, Poland
| | - Jeffrey S. Mugridge
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19716, United States
| | - John D. Gross
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2C, Warsaw 02-097, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, Warsaw 02-093, Poland
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45
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Zuidhof HR, Calkhoven CF. Oncogenic and tumor-suppressive functions of the RNA demethylase FTO. Cancer Res 2022; 82:2201-2212. [PMID: 35303057 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-21-3710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The epitranscriptome represents the more than 140 types of chemically varying and reversable RNA modifications affecting RNA fate. Among these, the most relevant for this review are the mRNA-modifications N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and N6,2'-O-dimethyladenosine (m6Am). Epitranscriptomic mRNA biology involves RNA methyltransferases (so called "writers"), RNA demethylases ("erasers"), and RNA-binding proteins ("readers") that interact with methylation sites to determine the functional outcome of the modification. In this review, we discuss the role of a specific RNA demethylase encoded by the fat mass and obesity associated gene (FTO) in cancer. FTO initially became known as the strongest genetic link for human obesity. Only in 2010, 16 years after its discovery, was its enzymatic function as a demethylase clarified, and only recently has its role in the development of cancer been revealed. FTO functions are challenging to study and interpret because of its genome-wide effects on transcript turnover and translation. We review the discovery of FTO and its enzymatic function, the tumor-promoting and suppressive roles of FTO in selected cancer types, and its potential as a therapeutic target.
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46
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Abstract
In recent years, it has become clear that RNA molecules are involved in almost all vital cellular processes and pathogenesis of human disorders. The functional diversity of RNA comes from its structural richness. Although composed of only four nucleotides, RNA molecules present a plethora of secondary and tertiary structures critical for intra and intermolecular contacts with other RNAs and ligands (proteins, small metabolites, etc.). In order to fully understand RNA function it is necessary to define its spatial structure. Crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance and cryogenic electron microscopy have demonstrated considerable success in determining the structures of biologically important RNA molecules. However, these powerful methods require large amounts of sample. Despite their limitations, chemical synthesis and in vitro transcription are usually employed to obtain milligram quantities of RNA for structural studies, delivering simple and effective methods for large-scale production of homogenous samples. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of methods for large-scale RNA synthesis with emphasis on chemical synthesis and in vitro transcription. We also present our own results of testing the efficiency of these approaches in order to adapt the material acquisition strategy depending on the desired RNA construct.
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47
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Liang S, Silva JC, Suska O, Lukoszek R, Almohammed R, Cowling V. OUP accepted manuscript. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:2905-2922. [PMID: 35212377 PMCID: PMC8934662 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
CMTR1 (cap methyltransferase 1) catalyses methylation of the first transcribed nucleotide of RNAPII transcripts (N1 2′-O-Me), creating part of the mammalian RNA cap structure. In addition to marking RNA as self, N1 2′-O-Me has ill-defined roles in RNA expression and translation. Here, we investigated the gene specificity of CMTR1 and its impact on RNA expression in embryonic stem cells. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation, CMTR1 was found to bind to transcription start sites (TSS) correlating with RNAPII levels, predominantly binding at histone genes and ribosomal protein (RP) genes. Repression of CMTR1 expression resulted in repression of RNAPII binding at the TSS and repression of RNA expression, particularly of histone and RP genes. In correlation with regulation of histones and RP genes, CMTR1 repression resulted in repression of translation and induction of DNA replication stress and damage. Indicating a direct role for CMTR1 in transcription, addition of recombinant CMTR1 to purified nuclei increased transcription of the histone and RP genes. CMTR1 was found to be upregulated during neural differentiation and there was an enhanced requirement for CMTR1 for gene expression and proliferation during this process. We highlight the distinct roles of the cap methyltransferases RNMT and CMTR1 in target gene expression and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shang Liang
- Centre for Gene Regulation and Expression, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dow Street, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Joana C Silva
- Centre for Gene Regulation and Expression, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dow Street, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Olga Suska
- Centre for Gene Regulation and Expression, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dow Street, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Radoslaw Lukoszek
- Centre for Gene Regulation and Expression, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dow Street, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
- MRC Protein Phosphorylation and Ubiquitylation Unit, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dow Street, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Rajaei Almohammed
- Centre for Gene Regulation and Expression, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dow Street, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
| | - Victoria H Cowling
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +44 1382 386997; Fax: +44 1382 386997;
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48
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Tomecki R, Kobylecki K, Drazkowska K, Hyjek-Skladanowska M, Dziembowski A. Reproducible and efficient new method of RNA 3'-end labelling by CutA nucleotidyltransferase-mediated CC-tailing. RNA Biol 2021; 18:623-639. [PMID: 34766865 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2021.1999104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the development of non-radioactive DNA/RNA labelling methods, radiolabelled nucleic acids are commonly used in studies focused on the determination of RNA fate. Nucleic acid fragments with radioactive nucleotide analoguesincorporated into the body or at the 5' or 3' terminus of the molecule can serve as probes in hybridization-based analyses of in vivo degradation and processing of transcripts. Radiolabelled oligoribonucleotides are utilized as substrates in biochemical assays of various RNA metabolic enzymes, such as exo- and endoribonucleases, nucleotidyltransferases or helicases. In some applications, the placement of the label is not a concern, while in other cases it is required that the radioactive mark is located at the 5'- or 3'-end of the molecule. An unsurpassed method for 5'-end RNA labelling employs T4 polynucleotide kinase (PNK) and [γ-32P]ATP. In the case of 3'-end labelling, several different possibilities exist. However, they require the use of costly radionucleotide analogues. Previously, we characterized an untypical nucleotidyltransferase named CutA, which preferentially incorporates cytidines at the 3'-end of RNA substrates. Here, we demonstrate that this unusual feature can be used for the development of a novel, efficient, reproducible and economical method of RNA 3'-end labelling by CutA-mediated cytidine tailing. The labelling efficiency is comparable to that achieved with the most common method applied to date, i.e. [5'-32P]pCp ligation to the RNA 3'-terminus catalysed by T4 RNA ligase I. We show the utility of RNA substrates labelled using our new method in exemplary biochemical assays assessing directionality of two well-known eukaryotic exoribonucleases, namely Dis3 and Xrn1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafal Tomecki
- Laboratory of Rna Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland.,Faculty of Biology, Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kamil Kobylecki
- Laboratory of Rna Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | | | - Andrzej Dziembowski
- Faculty of Biology, Institute of Genetics and Biotechnology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland.,Laboratory of Rna Biology, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Warsaw, Poland
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49
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Depaix A, Mlynarska-Cieslak A, Warminski M, Sikorski PJ, Jemielity J, Kowalska J. RNA Ligation for Mono and Dually Labeled RNAs. Chemistry 2021; 27:12190-12197. [PMID: 34114681 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202101909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Labeled RNAs are invaluable probes for investigation of RNA function and localization. However, mRNA labeling remains challenging. Here, we developed an improved method for 3'-end labeling of in vitro transcribed RNAs. We synthesized novel adenosine 3',5'-bisphosphate analogues modified at the N6 or C2 position of adenosine with an azide-containing linker, fluorescent label, or biotin and assessed these constructs as substrates for RNA labeling directly by T4 ligase or via postenzymatic strain-promoted alkyne-azide cycloaddition (SPAAC). All analogues were substrates for T4 RNA ligase. Analogues containing bulky fluorescent labels or biotin showed better overall labeling yields than postenzymatic SPAAC. We successfully labeled uncapped RNAs, NAD-capped RNAs, and 5'-fluorescently labeled m7 Gp3 Am -capped mRNAs. The obtained highly homogenous dually labeled mRNA was translationally active and enabled fluorescence-based monitoring of decapping. This method will facilitate the use of various functionalized mRNA-based probes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaïs Depaix
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Mlynarska-Cieslak
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marcin Warminski
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Pawel J Sikorski
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, Banacha 2c, 02-097, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, Pasteura 5, 02-093, Warsaw, Poland
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50
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Structure and Sequence Requirements for RNA Capping at the Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis Virus RNA 5' End. J Virol 2021; 95:e0077721. [PMID: 34011549 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00777-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) is a reemerging arthropod-borne virus causing encephalitis in humans and domesticated animals. VEEV possesses a positive single-stranded RNA genome capped at its 5' end. The capping process is performed by the nonstructural protein nsP1, which bears methyl and guanylyltransferase activities. The capping reaction starts with the methylation of GTP. The generated m7GTP is complexed to the enzyme to form an m7GMP-nsP1 covalent intermediate. The m7GMP is then transferred onto the 5'-diphosphate end of the viral RNA. Here, we explore the specificities of the acceptor substrate in terms of length, RNA secondary structure, and/or sequence. Any diphosphate nucleosides but GDP can serve as acceptors of the m7GMP to yield m7GpppA, m7GpppC, or m7GpppU. We show that capping is more efficient on small RNA molecules, whereas RNAs longer than 130 nucleotides are barely capped by the enzyme. The structure and sequence of the short, conserved stem-loop, downstream to the cap, is an essential regulatory element for the capping process. IMPORTANCE The emergence, reemergence, and expansion of alphaviruses (genus of the family Togaviridae) are a serious public health and epizootic threat. Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) causes encephalitis in human and domesticated animals, with a mortality rate reaching 80% in horses. To date, no efficient vaccine or safe antivirals are available for human use. VEEV nonstructural protein 1 (nsP1) is the viral capping enzyme characteristic of the Alphavirus genus. nsP1 catalyzes methyltransferase and guanylyltransferase reactions, representing a good therapeutic target. In the present report, we provide insights into the molecular features and specificities of the cap acceptor substrate for the guanylylation reaction.
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