201
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Wei J, Harada BT, Lu D, Ma R, Gao B, Xu Y, Montauti E, Mani N, Chaudhuri SM, Gregory S, Weinberg SE, Zhang DD, Green R, He C, Fang D. HRD1-mediated METTL14 degradation regulates m 6A mRNA modification to suppress ER proteotoxic liver disease. Mol Cell 2021; 81:5052-5065.e6. [PMID: 34847358 PMCID: PMC8751812 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2021.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Accumulation of unfolded or misfolded proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) lumen triggers an unfolded protein response (UPR) for stress adaptation, the failure of which induces cell apoptosis and tissue/organ damage. The molecular switches underlying how the UPR selects for stress adaptation over apoptosis remain unknown. Here, we discovered that accumulation of unfolded/misfolded proteins selectively induces N6-adenosine-methyltransferase-14 (METTL14) expression. METTL14 promotes C/EBP-homologous protein (CHOP) mRNA decay through its 3' UTR N6-methyladenosine (m6A) to inhibit its downstream pro-apoptotic target gene expression. UPR induces METTL14 expression by competing against the HRD1-ER-associated degradation (ERAD) machinery to block METTL14 ubiquitination and degradation. Therefore, mice with liver-specific METTL14 deletion are highly susceptible to both acute pharmacological and alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency-induced ER proteotoxic stress and liver injury. Further hepatic CHOP deletion protects METTL14 knockout mice from ER-stress-induced liver damage. Our study reveals a crosstalk between ER stress and mRNA m6A modification pathways, termed the ERm6A pathway, for ER stress adaptation to proteotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juncheng Wei
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
| | - Bryan T Harada
- Department of Chemistry and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Dan Lu
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Ruihua Ma
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Beixue Gao
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Yanan Xu
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Elena Montauti
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Nikita Mani
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Shuvam M Chaudhuri
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Shana Gregory
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Samuel E Weinberg
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Donna D Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Richard Green
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Chuan He
- Department of Chemistry and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Deyu Fang
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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202
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Wang N, Yao F, Liu D, Jiang H, Xia X, Xiong S. RNA N6-methyladenosine in nonocular and ocular disease. J Cell Physiol 2021; 237:1686-1710. [PMID: 34913163 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30652] [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: 02/20/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
N6 -methyladenosine (m6 A), the sixth N methylation of adenylate (A) in RNA, is the most abundant transcriptome modification in eukaryotic messenger RNA (mRNAs). m6 A modification exists in both coding mRNA and noncoding RNAs, and its functions are controlled by methyltransferase, demethylase, and m6 A reading proteins. Methylation modification of m6 A can regulate RNA cleavage, transport, stability, and expression. This review summarizes the enzymes involved in RNA m6 A methylation and the commonly used detection methods. The role of m6 A modification in physiological processes is described, and its impact on tumorigenesis, viral infection, and diabetes is further highlighted. Moreover, up-to-date knowledge of the implications of RNA m6 A modification in ocular diseases such as uveal melanoma and diabetic retinopathy is introduced. Clarifying the mechanism of RNA m6 A methylation will help elucidate the pathogenesis of various diseases, providing options for subsequent treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Wang
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Opthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fei Yao
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Opthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Die Liu
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Opthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Haibo Jiang
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Opthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaobo Xia
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Opthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Siqi Xiong
- Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.,Hunan Key Laboratory of Opthalmology, Central South University, Changsha, China
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203
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The multifaceted effects of YTHDC1-mediated nuclear m 6A recognition. Trends Genet 2021; 38:325-332. [PMID: 34920906 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2021.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine or m6A modification to mRNAs is now recognised as a key regulator of gene expression and protein translation. The fate of m6A-modified mRNAs is decoded by m6A readers, mostly found in the cytoplasm, except for the nuclear-localised YTHDC1. While earlier studies have implicated YTHDC1-m6A functions in alternative splicing and mRNA export, recent literature has expanded its close association to the chromatin-associated, noncoding and regulatory RNAs to fine-tune transcription and gene expression in cells. Here, we summarise current progress in the study of YTHDC1 function in cells, highlighting its multiple modes of action in regulating gene expression, and propose the formation of YTHDC1 nuclear condensates as a general mechanism that underlies its diverse functions in the nucleus.
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204
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Tomé-Carneiro J, de Las Hazas MCL, Boughanem H, Böttcher Y, Cayir A, Macias González M, Dávalos A. Up-to-date on the evidence linking miRNA-related epitranscriptomic modifications and disease settings. Can these modifications affect cross-kingdom regulation? RNA Biol 2021; 18:586-599. [PMID: 34843412 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2021.2002003] [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
The field of epitranscriptomics is rapidly developing. Several modifications (e.g. methylations) have been identified for different RNA types. Current evidence shows that chemical RNA modifications can influence the whole molecule's secondary structure, translatability, functionality, stability, and degradation, and some are dynamically and reversibly modulated. miRNAs, in particular, are not only post-transcriptional modulators of gene expression but are themselves submitted to regulatory mechanisms. Understanding how these modifications are regulated and the resulting pathological consequences when dysregulation occurs is essential for the development of new therapeutic targets. In humans and other mammals, dietary components have been shown to affect miRNA expression and may also induce chemical modifications in miRNAs. The identification of chemical modifications in miRNAs (endogenous and exogenous) that can impact host gene expression opens up an alternative way to select new specific therapeutic targets.Hence, the aim of this review is to briefly address how RNA epitranscriptomic modifications can affect miRNA biogenesis and to summarize the existing evidence showing the connection between the (de)regulation of these processes and disease settings. In addition, we hypothesize on the potential effect certain chemical modifications could have on the potential cross-kingdom journey of dietary plant miRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Tomé-Carneiro
- Laboratory of Functional Foods, Madrid Institute for Advanced Studies (IMDEA)-food, CEI UAM + CSIM, Spain
| | | | - Hatim Boughanem
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (Ibima), Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Endocrinología Y Nutrición Del Hospital Virgen de La Victoria, Málaga, Spain.,Instituto de Salud Carlos Iii (Isciii), Consorcio Ciber, M.p. Fisiopatología de La Obesidad Y Nutrición (Ciberobn), Madrid, Spain.,Vocational Health College, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Canakkale, Turkey
| | - Yvonne Böttcher
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Department of Clinical Molecular Biology (EpiGen), University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Department of Medical Services and Techniques (EpiGen), Akershus Universitetssykehus, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Akin Cayir
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Department of Clinical Molecular Biology (EpiGen), University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.,Vocational Health College, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Canakkale, Turkey
| | - Manuel Macias González
- Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (Ibima), Unidad de Gestión Clínica de Endocrinología Y Nutrición Del Hospital Virgen de La Victoria, Málaga, Spain.,Instituto de Salud Carlos Iii (Isciii), Consorcio Ciber, M.p. Fisiopatología de La Obesidad Y Nutrición (Ciberobn), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alberto Dávalos
- Laboratory of Epigenetics of Lipid Metabolism, Madrid Institute for Advanced Studies (IMDEA)-food, CEI UAM + CSIC, Spain
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205
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Yang S, Wang N, Guo S. How does m 6A regulation affect the differentiation and fate of embryonic stem cells? Epigenomics 2021; 13:1787-1789. [PMID: 34751035 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2021-0334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shude Yang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning Province, PR China.,Liaoning Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, School of Stomatology & Department of Oral Pathology, School of Stomatology, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning Province, PR China
| | - Ning Wang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning Province, PR China
| | - Shu Guo
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning Province, PR China
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206
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m6A-Mediated Tumor Invasion and Methylation Modification in Breast Cancer Microenvironment. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2021; 2021:9987376. [PMID: 34745261 PMCID: PMC8566073 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9987376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Background We analyzed the n6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification patterns of immune cells infiltrating the tumor microenvironment of breast cancer (BC) to provide a new perspective for the early diagnosis and treatment of BC. Methods Based on 23 m6A regulatory factors, we identified m6A-related gene characteristics and m6A modification patterns in BC through unsupervised cluster analysis. To examine the differences in biological processes among various m6A modification modes, we performed genomic variation analysis. We then quantified the relative infiltration levels of different immune cell subpopulations in the tumor microenvironment of BC using the CIBERSORT algorithm and single-sample gene set enrichment analysis. Univariate Cox analysis was used to screen for m6A characteristic genes related to prognosis. Finally, we evaluated the m6A modification pattern of patients with a single BC by constructing the m6Ascore based on principal component analysis. Results We identified three different m6A modification patterns in 2128 BC samples. A higher abundance of the immune infiltration of the m6Acluster C was indicated by the results of CIBERSORT and the single-sample gene set enrichment analysis. Based on the m6A characteristic genes obtained through screening, the m6Ascore was determined. The BC patients were segregated into m6Ascore groups of low and high categories, which revealed significant survival benefits among patients with low m6Ascores. Additionally, the high-m6Ascore group had a higher mutation frequency and was associated with low PD-L1 expression, and the m6Ascore and tumor mutation burden showed a positive correlation. In addition, treatment effects were better in patients in the high-m6Ascore group. Conclusions In case of a single patient with BC, the immune cell infiltration characteristics of the tumor microenvironment and the m6A methylation modification pattern could be evaluated using the m6Ascore. Our results provide a foundation for improving personalized immunotherapy of BC.
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207
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Zhang Z, Wei W, Wang H, Dong J. N6-Methyladenosine-Sculpted Regulatory Landscape of Noncoding RNA. Front Oncol 2021; 11:743990. [PMID: 34722298 PMCID: PMC8554331 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.743990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The exploration of dynamic N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification in mammalian cells has attracted great interest in recent years. M6A modification plays pivotal roles in multiple biological and pathological processes, including cellular reprogramming, fertility, senescence, and tumorigenesis. In comparison with growing research unraveling the effects of m6A modifications on eukaryotic messenger RNAs, reports of the association between noncoding RNAs and m6A modification are relatively limited. Noncoding RNAs that undergo m6A modification are capable of regulating gene expression and also play an important role in epigenetic regulation. Moreover, the homeostasis of m6A modification can be affected by noncoding RNAs across a broad spectrum of biological activities. Importantly, fine-tuning and interaction between these processes are responsible for cell development, as well as the initiation and progression of the disease. Hence, in this review, we provide an account of recent developments, revealing biological interactions between noncoding RNAs and m6A modification, and discuss the potential clinical applications of interfering with m6A modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyuan Zhang
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of the University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui Provincial Cancer Hospital, Hefei, China
| | - Wei Wei
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of the University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of the University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Jiangning Dong
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of the University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui Provincial Cancer Hospital, Hefei, China
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208
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Bataclan M, Leoni C, Monticelli S. RNA-binding proteins and RNA methylation in myeloid cells. Immunol Rev 2021; 304:51-61. [PMID: 34523134 PMCID: PMC7615035 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13025] [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: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) regulate all aspects of the life of mRNA transcripts. They are critically important in regulating immune responses, most notably by restraining excessive inflammation that can potentially lead to tissue damage. RBPs are also crucial for pathogen sensing, for instance for the recognition of viral nucleic acids. Concordant with these central regulatory roles, the dysregulated activity of many RBPs can give rise to disease. The expression and function of RBPs are therefore highly controlled by an elaborate network of transcriptional, post-transcriptional and post-translational mechanisms, including the ability of different RBPs to cross-regulate each other's expression. With an emphasis on macrophages and mast cells, we review current knowledge on the role of selected RBPs that have been shown to directly impact the expression of inflammatory transcripts. By focusing specifically on proteins of the Regnase and ZFP36 family, as well as on factors involved in N6 -methyladenosine (m6 A) deposition and recognition, we discuss mechanism of action, regulatory feedback, and impact of these selected proteins on immune responses. Finally, we include examples of the role of m6 A and RBPs in the recognition of viral RNAs. Overall, we provide a general overview of the impact of selected RBPs on the myeloid compartment, followed by a discussion of outstanding questions and challenges for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marian Bataclan
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università della Svizzera italiana, Via Vincenzo Vela 6, CH-6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Cristina Leoni
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università della Svizzera italiana, Via Vincenzo Vela 6, CH-6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Silvia Monticelli
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università della Svizzera italiana, Via Vincenzo Vela 6, CH-6500 Bellinzona, Switzerland
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209
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Xiao S, Guo S, Han J, Sun Y, Wang M, Chen Y, Fang X, Yang F, Mu Y, Zhang L, Ding Y, Zhang N, Jiang H, Chen K, Zhao K, Luo C, Chen S. High-Throughput-Methyl-Reading (HTMR) assay: a solution based on nucleotide methyl-binding proteins enables large-scale screening for DNA/RNA methyltransferases and demethylases. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 50:e9. [PMID: 34718755 PMCID: PMC8789064 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic therapy has significant potential for cancer treatment. However, few small potent molecules have been identified against DNA or RNA modification regulatory proteins. Current approaches for activity detection of DNA/RNA methyltransferases and demethylases are time-consuming and labor-intensive, making it difficult to subject them to high-throughput screening. Here, we developed a fluorescence polarization-based ‘High-Throughput Methyl Reading’ (HTMR) assay to implement large-scale compound screening for DNA/RNA methyltransferases and demethylases-DNMTs, TETs, ALKBH5 and METTL3/METTL14. This assay is simple to perform in a mix-and-read manner by adding the methyl-binding proteins MBD1 or YTHDF1. The proteins can be used to distinguish FAM-labelled substrates or product oligonucleotides with different methylation statuses catalyzed by enzymes. Therefore, the extent of the enzymatic reactions can be coupled with the variation of FP binding signals. Furthermore, this assay can be effectively used to conduct a cofactor competition study. Based on the assay, we identified two natural products as candidate compounds for DNMT1 and ALKBH5. In summary, this study outlines a powerful homogeneous approach for high-throughput screening and evaluating enzymatic activity for DNA/RNA methyltransferases and demethylases that is cheap, easy, quick, and highly sensitive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Senhao Xiao
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Siqi Guo
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Pharmacy, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jie Han
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yanli Sun
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education; Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Mingchen Wang
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yantao Chen
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Xueyu Fang
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Feng Yang
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Yajuan Mu
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yiluan Ding
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.,Analytical Research Center for Organic and Biological Molecules, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Naixia Zhang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.,Analytical Research Center for Organic and Biological Molecules, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China
| | - Hualiang Jiang
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kaixian Chen
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kehao Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Evaluation (Yantai University), Ministry of Education; Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Drug Delivery System and Biotech Drugs in Universities of Shandong, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China
| | - Cheng Luo
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Shijie Chen
- The Center for Chemical Biology, Drug Discovery and Design Center, State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 201203, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310024, China
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210
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Terkelsen T, Brasch-Andersen C, Illum N, Busa T, Missirian C, Chandler K, Holden ST, Jensen UB, Fagerberg CR. Mono-allelic loss of YTHDF3 and neurodevelopmental disorder: clinical features of four individuals with 8q12.3 deletions. Clin Genet 2021; 101:208-213. [PMID: 34708403 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The YTH domain family member 3 gene (YTHDF3) encodes a reader of the abundant N6-methyladenosine (m6 A) modification of eukaryotic mRNA, which plays an essential role in regulating mRNA stability and is necessary to achieve normal development of the central nervous system in animal models. YTHDF3 has not previously been implicated in Mendelian disease despite a high probability of loss of function intolerance and statistical evidence of enrichment for gene-disruptive de novo variants in large-scale studies of individuals with intellectual disability and/or developmental delay. We report four individuals with deletion of 8q12.3, deletion size 1.38-2.60 Mb, encompassing YTHDF3, three of them were de novo, and in one case, the inheritance was unknown. Common features of the individuals (age range, 4-22 years) were developmental delay and/or intellectual disability. Two individuals underwent squint surgery. We suggest that haploinsufficiency of YTHDF3 causes a neurodevelopmental disorder with developmental delay and intellectual disability of variable degree.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thorkild Terkelsen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Charlotte Brasch-Andersen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,Human Genetics, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Niels Illum
- H. C. Andersen Children's Hospital, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Tiffany Busa
- Département de Génétique Médicale, CHU de Marseille-Hôpital de la Timone, Marseille, France
| | - Chantal Missirian
- Département de Génétique Médicale, CHU de Marseille-Hôpital de la Timone, Marseille, France
| | - Kate Chandler
- Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Simon T Holden
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Uffe Birk Jensen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Christina R Fagerberg
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,Affiliated Member of European Reference Network, ERN-ITHACA
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211
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Lee B, Lee S, Shim J. YTHDF2 Suppresses Notch Signaling through Post-transcriptional Regulation on Notch1. Int J Biol Sci 2021; 17:3776-3785. [PMID: 34671198 PMCID: PMC8495403 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.61573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
YTH domain family 2 (YTHDF2) is an N6-methyladenosine (m6A) binding protein promoting mRNA degradation in various biological processes. Despite its essential roles, the role of YTHDF2 in determining cell fates has not been fully elucidated. Notch signaling plays a vital role in determining cell fates, such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. We investigated the effect of YTHDF2 on Notch signaling. Our results show that YTHDF2 inhibits Notch signaling by downregulating the Notch1, HES1, and HES5 mRNA levels. Analyzing YTHDF2 deletion mutants indicates that the YTH domain is critical in regulating the Notch signal by directly binding m6A of Notch1 mRNA. Recently, YTHDF2 nuclear translocation was reported under heat shock conditions, but its physiological function is unknown. In our study, the YTH domain is required for YTHDF2 nuclear translocation. In addition, under heat shock stress, the Notch signal was significantly restored due to the increased expression of the Notch1 targets. These results suggest that YTHDF2 in the cytoplasm may act as an intrinsic suppressor in Notch signaling by promoting Notch1 mRNA degradation under normal cellular conditions. Conversely, upon the extracellular stress such as heat shock, YTHDF2 nuclear translocation resulting in reduced Notch1 mRNA decay may contribute to the increasing of Notch intracellular domain (NICD) regulating the survival-related target genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byongsun Lee
- Department of Bioresources Engineering, Sejong University, Seoul 05006, Republic of Korea
| | - Seungjae Lee
- Department of Bioresources Engineering, Sejong University, Seoul 05006, Republic of Korea
| | - Jaekyung Shim
- Department of Bioresources Engineering, Sejong University, Seoul 05006, Republic of Korea
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212
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Yang B, Wang JQ, Tan Y, Yuan R, Chen ZS, Zou C. RNA methylation and cancer treatment. Pharmacol Res 2021; 174:105937. [PMID: 34648969 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
To this date, over 100 different types of RNA modification have been identified. Methylation of different RNA species has emerged as a critical regulator of transcript expression. RNA methylation and its related downstream signaling pathways are involved in plethora biological processes, including cell differentiation, sex determination and stress response, and others. It is catalyzed by the RNA methyltransferases, is demethylated by the demethylases (FTO and ALKBH5) and read by methylation binding protein (YTHDF1 and IGF2BP1). Increasing evidence indicates that this process closely connected to cancer cell proliferation, cellular stress, metastasis, immune response. And RNA methylation related protein has been becoming a promising targets of cancer therapy. This review outlines the relationship between different types of RNA methylation and cancer, and some FTO inhibitors in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baochen Yang
- Department of Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), The First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong, PR China; University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong, PR China; Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine Postdoctoral Research Station, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Jing-Quan Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, New York, USA
| | - Yao Tan
- Shenzhen Aier Eye Hospital Affiliated to Jinan University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, PR China
| | - Runzhu Yuan
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, PR China
| | - Zhe-Sheng Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, St. John's University, Queens, New York, USA.
| | - Chang Zou
- Department of Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), The First Affiliated Hospital of Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong, PR China; Shenzhen Public Service Platform on Tumor Precision Medicine and Molecular Diagnosis, The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen, Guangdong, PR China; School of Life and Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Kong Hong, Shenzhen, PR China.
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213
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Arribas-Hernández L, Rennie S, Köster T, Porcelli C, Lewinski M, Dr Dorothee Staiger P, Andersson R, Brodersen P. Principles of mRNA targeting via the Arabidopsis m 6A-binding protein ECT2. eLife 2021; 10:72375. [PMID: 34591015 PMCID: PMC8796052 DOI: 10.7554/elife.72375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Specific recognition of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) in mRNA by RNA-binding proteins containing a YT521-B homology (YTH) domain is important in eukaryotic gene regulation. The Arabidopsis YTH domain protein ECT2 is thought to bind to mRNA at URU(m6A)Y sites, yet RR(m6A)CH is the canonical m6A consensus site in all eukaryotes and ECT2 functions require m6A-binding activity. Here, we apply iCLIP (individual nucleotide resolution crosslinking and immunoprecipitation) and HyperTRIBE (targets of RNA-binding proteins identified by editing) to define high-quality target sets of ECT2 and analyze the patterns of enriched sequence motifs around ECT2 crosslink sites. Our analyses show that ECT2 does in fact bind to RR(m6A)CH. Pyrimidine-rich motifs are enriched around, but not at m6A sites, reflecting a preference for N6-adenosine methylation of RRACH/GGAU islands in pyrimidine-rich regions. Such motifs, particularly oligo-U and UNUNU upstream of m6A sites, are also implicated in ECT2 binding via its intrinsically disordered region (IDR). Finally, URUAY-type motifs are enriched at ECT2 crosslink sites, but their distinct properties suggest function as sites of competition between binding of ECT2 and as yet unidentified RNA-binding proteins. Our study provides coherence between genetic and molecular studies of m6A-YTH function in plants and reveals new insight into the mode of RNA recognition by YTH domain-containing proteins. Genes are strings of genetic code that contain instructions for producing a cell’s proteins. Active genes are copied from DNA into molecules called mRNAs, and mRNA molecules are subsequently translated to create new proteins. However, the number of proteins produced by a cell is not only limited by the number of mRNA molecules produced by copying DNA. Cells use a variety of methods to control the stability of mRNA molecules and their translation efficiency to regulate protein production. One of these methods involves adding a chemical tag, a methyl group, onto mRNA while it is being created. These methyl tags can then be used as docking stations by RNA-binding proteins that help regulate protein translation. Most eukaryotic species – which include animals, plants and fungi – use the same system to add methyl tags to mRNA molecules. One methyl tag in particular, known as m6A, is a well-characterised docking site for a particular type of RNA-binding protein that goes by the name of ECT2 in plants. However, in the flowering plant Arabidopsis thaliana, ECT2 was thought to bind to an mRNA sequence different from the one normally carrying the chemical tag, creating obvious confusion about how the system works in plants. Arribas-Hernández, Rennie et al. investigated this question using advanced large-scale biochemical techniques, and discovered that conventional m6A methyl tags are indeed used by ECT2 in Arabidopsis thaliana. The confusion likely arose because the sequence ECT2 was thought bind is often located in close proximity to the m6A tags, possibly acting as docking stations for proteins that can influence the ability of ECT2 to bind mRNA. Arribas-Hernández, Rennie et al. also uncovered additional mRNA sequences that directly interact with parts of ECT2 previously unknown to participate in mRNA binding. These findings provide new insights into how chemical labels in mRNA control gene activity. They have broad implications that extend beyond plants into other eukaryotic species, including humans. Since this chemical labelling system has a major role in controlling plant growth, these findings could be leveraged in biotechnology applications to improve crop yields and enhance plant-based food production.
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214
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Arribas-Hernández L, Rennie S, Schon M, Porcelli C, Enugutti B, Andersson R, Nodine MD, Brodersen P. The YTHDF proteins ECT2 and ECT3 bind largely overlapping target sets and influence target mRNA abundance, not alternative polyadenylation. eLife 2021; 10:72377. [PMID: 34591013 PMCID: PMC8789314 DOI: 10.7554/elife.72377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Gene regulation via N6-methyladenosine (m6A) in mRNA involves RNA-binding proteins that recognize m6A via a YT521-B homology (YTH) domain. The plant YTH domain proteins ECT2 and ECT3 act genetically redundantly in stimulating cell proliferation during organogenesis, but several fundamental questions regarding their mode of action remain unclear. Here, we use HyperTRIBE (targets of RNA-binding proteins identified by editing) to show that most ECT2 and ECT3 targets overlap, with only a few examples of preferential targeting by either of the two proteins. HyperTRIBE in different mutant backgrounds also provides direct views of redundant, ectopic, and specific target interactions of the two proteins. We also show that contrary to conclusions of previous reports, ECT2 does not accumulate in the nucleus. Accordingly, inactivation of ECT2, ECT3, and their surrogate ECT4 does not change patterns of polyadenylation site choice in ECT2/3 target mRNAs, but does lead to lower steady-state accumulation of target mRNAs. In addition, mRNA and microRNA expression profiles show indications of stress response activation in ect2/ect3/ect4 mutants, likely via indirect effects. Thus, previous suggestions of control of alternative polyadenylation by ECT2 are not supported by evidence, and ECT2 and ECT3 act largely redundantly to regulate target mRNA, including its abundance, in the cytoplasm.
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215
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Kumari K, Groza P, Aguilo F. Regulatory roles of RNA modifications in breast cancer. NAR Cancer 2021; 3:zcab036. [PMID: 34541538 PMCID: PMC8445368 DOI: 10.1093/narcan/zcab036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 08/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Collectively referred to as the epitranscriptome, RNA modifications play important roles in gene expression control regulating relevant cellular processes. In the last few decades, growing numbers of RNA modifications have been identified not only in abundant ribosomal (rRNA) and transfer RNA (tRNA) but also in messenger RNA (mRNA). In addition, many writers, erasers and readers that dynamically regulate the chemical marks have also been characterized. Correct deposition of RNA modifications is prerequisite for cellular homeostasis, and its alteration results in aberrant transcriptional programs that dictate human disease, including breast cancer, the most frequent female malignancy, and the leading cause of cancer-related death in women. In this review, we emphasize the major RNA modifications that are present in tRNA, rRNA and mRNA. We have categorized breast cancer-associated chemical marks and summarize their contribution to breast tumorigenesis. In addition, we describe less abundant tRNA modifications with related pathways implicated in breast cancer. Finally, we discuss current limitations and perspectives on epitranscriptomics for use in therapeutic strategies against breast and other cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanchan Kumari
- Department of Molecular Biology, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Paula Groza
- Department of Molecular Biology, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Francesca Aguilo
- Department of Molecular Biology, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
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216
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Wang S, Xie X, Li C, Jia J, Chen C. Integrative network analysis of N 6 methylation-related genes reveal potential therapeutic targets for spinal cord injury. MATHEMATICAL BIOSCIENCES AND ENGINEERING : MBE 2021; 18:8174-8187. [PMID: 34814294 DOI: 10.3934/mbe.2021405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The diagnosis of the severity of spinal cord injury (SCI) and the revelation of potential therapeutic targets are crucial for urgent clinical care and improved patient outcomes. Here, we analyzed the overall gene expression data in peripheral blood leukocytes during the acute injury phase collected from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and identified six m6A regulators specifically expressed in SCI compared to normal samples. LncRNA-mRNA network analysis identified AKT2/3 and PIK3R1 related to m6A methylation as potential therapeutic targets for SCI and constructed a classifier to identify patients of SCI to assist clinical diagnosis. Moreover, FTO (eraser) and RBMX (reader) were found to be significantly down-regulated in SCI and the functional gene co-expressed with them was found to be involved in the signal transduction of multiple pathways related to nerve injury. Through the construction of the drug-target gene network, eight key genes were identified as drug targets and it was emphasized that fostamatinib can be used as a potential drug for the treatment of SCI. Taken together, our study characterized the pathogenesis and identified a potential therapeutic target of SCI providing theoretical support for the development of precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanzheng Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao Road, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xinhui Xie
- Department of Orthopaedics, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao Road, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Chao Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School of Southeast University, 87 Dingjiaqiao Road, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jun Jia
- Department of Orthopaedics, The 904th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, PLA, 101 Xingyuan North Road, Wuxi 214000, China
| | - Changhong Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, Jiangyin Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, 130 Renmin Middle Road, Jiangyin 214400, China
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217
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Loh D, Reiter RJ. Melatonin: Regulation of Biomolecular Condensates in Neurodegenerative Disorders. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:1483. [PMID: 34573116 PMCID: PMC8465482 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10091483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomolecular condensates are membraneless organelles (MLOs) that form dynamic, chemically distinct subcellular compartments organizing macromolecules such as proteins, RNA, and DNA in unicellular prokaryotic bacteria and complex eukaryotic cells. Separated from surrounding environments, MLOs in the nucleoplasm, cytoplasm, and mitochondria assemble by liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) into transient, non-static, liquid-like droplets that regulate essential molecular functions. LLPS is primarily controlled by post-translational modifications (PTMs) that fine-tune the balance between attractive and repulsive charge states and/or binding motifs of proteins. Aberrant phase separation due to dysregulated membrane lipid rafts and/or PTMs, as well as the absence of adequate hydrotropic small molecules such as ATP, or the presence of specific RNA proteins can cause pathological protein aggregation in neurodegenerative disorders. Melatonin may exert a dominant influence over phase separation in biomolecular condensates by optimizing membrane and MLO interdependent reactions through stabilizing lipid raft domains, reducing line tension, and maintaining negative membrane curvature and fluidity. As a potent antioxidant, melatonin protects cardiolipin and other membrane lipids from peroxidation cascades, supporting protein trafficking, signaling, ion channel activities, and ATPase functionality during condensate coacervation or dissolution. Melatonin may even control condensate LLPS through PTM and balance mRNA- and RNA-binding protein composition by regulating N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications. There is currently a lack of pharmaceuticals targeting neurodegenerative disorders via the regulation of phase separation. The potential of melatonin in the modulation of biomolecular condensate in the attenuation of aberrant condensate aggregation in neurodegenerative disorders is discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris Loh
- Independent Researcher, Marble Falls, TX 78654, USA
| | - Russel J. Reiter
- Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, UT Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
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218
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Quan C, Belaydi O, Hu J, Li H, Yu A, Liu P, Yi Z, Qiu D, Ren W, Ma H, Gong G, Ou Z, Chen M, Sun Y, Chen J, Zu X. N 6-Methyladenosine in Cancer Immunotherapy: An Undervalued Therapeutic Target. Front Immunol 2021; 12:697026. [PMID: 34526985 PMCID: PMC8436617 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.697026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
N6-methylation of adenosine (m6A), a post-transcriptional regulatory mechanism, is the most abundant nucleotide modification in almost all types of RNAs. The biological function of m6A in regulating the expression of oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes has been widely investigated in various cancers. However, recent studies have addressed a new role of m6A modification in the anti-tumor immune response. By modulating the fate of targeted RNA, m6A affects tumor-associated immune cell activation and infiltration in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In addition, m6A-targeting is found to affect the efficacy of classical immunotherapy, which makes m6A a potential target for immunotherapy. Although m6A modification together with its regulators may play the exact opposite role in different tumor types, targeting m6A regulators has been shown to have wide implications in several cancers. In this review, we discussed the link between m6A modification and tumor with an emphasis on the importance of m6A in anti-tumor immune response and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Quan
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Othmane Belaydi
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiao Hu
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Huihuang Li
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Anze Yu
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Center for Inflammation and Epigenetics, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Peihua Liu
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhenglin Yi
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Dongxu Qiu
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wenbiao Ren
- George Whipple Lab for Cancer Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Hongzhi Ma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Guanghui Gong
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhenyu Ou
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Minfeng Chen
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yin Sun
- George Whipple Lab for Cancer Research, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Jinbo Chen
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiongbing Zu
- Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
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219
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Iaiza A, Tito C, Ianniello Z, Ganci F, Laquintana V, Gallo E, Sacconi A, Masciarelli S, De Angelis L, Aversa S, Diso D, Anile M, Petrozza V, Facciolo F, Melis E, Pescarmona E, Venuta F, Marino M, Blandino G, Fontemaggi G, Fatica A, Fazi F. METTL3-dependent MALAT1 delocalization drives c-Myc induction in thymic epithelial tumors. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:173. [PMID: 34530916 PMCID: PMC8447796 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01159-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thymic epithelial tumors (TETs) are rare neoplasms, originating from epithelial thymic cells. The oncogenic potential of these rare neoplasms is still largely undefined, and a deeper molecular characterization could result in a relevant advance in their management, greatly improving diagnosis, prognosis and treatment choice. Deregulation of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification, catalyzed by the METTL3/METTL14 methyltransferase complex, is emerging as a relevant event in cell differentiation and carcinogenesis. Various studies have reported that altered expression of METTL3 is associated with an aggressive malignant phenotype and favors migration and invasiveness, but its role in Thymic Tumors remains unknown. RESULTS In this study, we characterized that METTL3 contributes to Thymic Epithelial Tumor phenotype. We evidenced that METTL3 is overexpressed in tumor tissue compared to normal counterpart. Silencing of METTL3 expression in thymic carcinoma cells results in reduced cell proliferation and overall translation rate. Of note, METTL3 is responsible for the induction of c-MYC expression in TET cells. Specifically, high expression of c-MYC protein is enabled by lncRNA MALAT1, which is methylated and delocalized by METTL3. Interestingly, blocking of c-MYC by using JQ1 inhibitor cooperates with METTL3 depletion in the inhibition of proliferation and induction of cell death. CONCLUSION This study highlighted METTL3 as a tumor promoter in Thymic tumors and c-MYC as a promising target to be exploited for the treatment of TET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Iaiza
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Via A. Scarpa, 14-16, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Claudia Tito
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Via A. Scarpa, 14-16, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Zaira Ianniello
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology 'Charles Darwin', Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro, 5, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Federica Ganci
- Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute - IFO, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Laquintana
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Enzo Gallo
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Sacconi
- Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute - IFO, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Masciarelli
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Via A. Scarpa, 14-16, 00161, Rome, Italy
- Histology and Embryology Section, Department of Life Science and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Luciana De Angelis
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Via A. Scarpa, 14-16, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara Aversa
- Pathology Unit, ICOT, Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Daniele Diso
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Anile
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Petrozza
- Pathology Unit, ICOT, Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Francesco Facciolo
- Thoracic Surgery, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute - IFO, Rome, Italy
| | - Enrico Melis
- Thoracic Surgery, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute - IFO, Rome, Italy
| | - Edoardo Pescarmona
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Federico Venuta
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mirella Marino
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Blandino
- Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute - IFO, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulia Fontemaggi
- Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute - IFO, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandro Fatica
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology 'Charles Darwin', Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro, 5, 00185, Rome, Italy.
| | - Francesco Fazi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Laboratory Affiliated to Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Via A. Scarpa, 14-16, 00161, Rome, Italy.
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220
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Gao M, Zhang Q, Feng XH, Liu J. Synthetic modified messenger RNA for therapeutic applications. Acta Biomater 2021; 131:1-15. [PMID: 34133982 PMCID: PMC8198544 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic modified messenger RNA (mRNA) has manifested great potentials for therapeutic applications such as vaccines and gene therapies, with the recent mRNA vaccines for global pandemic COVID-19 (corona virus disease 2019) attracting the tremendous attention. The chemical modifications and delivery vehicles of synthetic mRNAs are the two key factors for their in vivo therapeutic applications. Chemical modifications like nucleoside methylation endow the synthetic mRNAs with high stability and reduced stimulation of innate immunity. The development of scalable production of synthetic mRNA and efficient mRNA formulation and delivery strategies in recent years have remarkably advanced the field. It is worth noticing that we had limited knowledge on the roles of mRNA modifications in the past. However, the last decade has witnessed not only new discoveries of several naturally occurring mRNA modifications but also substantial advances in understanding their roles on regulating gene expression. It is highly necessary to reconsider the therapeutic system made by synthetic modified mRNAs and delivery vectors. In this review, we will mainly discuss the roles of various chemical modifications on synthetic mRNAs, briefly summarize the progresses of mRNA delivery strategies, and highlight some latest mRNA therapeutics applications including infectious disease vaccines, cancer immunotherapy, mRNA-based genetic reprogramming and protein replacement, mRNA-based gene editing. Statement of significance The development of synthetic mRNA drug holds great promise but lies behind small molecule and protein drugs largely due to the challenging issues regarding its stability, immunogenicity and potency. In the last 15 years, these issues have beensubstantially addressed by synthesizing chemically modified mRNA and developing powerful delivery systems; the mRNA therapeutics has entered an exciting new era begun with the approved mRNA vaccines for the COVID-19 infection disease. Here, we provide recent progresses in understanding the biological roles of various RNA chemical modifications, in developing mRNA delivery systems, and in advancing the emerging mRNA-based therapeutic applications, with the purpose to inspire the community to spawn new ideas for curing diseases.
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221
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Wang S, Zhang J, Wu X, Lin X, Liu XM, Zhou J. Differential roles of YTHDF1 and YTHDF3 in embryonic stem cell-derived cardiomyocyte differentiation. RNA Biol 2021; 18:1354-1363. [PMID: 33295243 PMCID: PMC8354591 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2020.1850628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) has emerged as a crucial epitranscriptomic mark which regulates a broad spectrum of physiological processes including stem cell differentiation. m6A-binding YTHDF proteins have recently been proposed to mediate differentiation of leukemia cell in a redundant manner. However, whether these proteins play semblable roles in pluripotent stem cell remain largely unknown. Here, we showed the differential functions of YTHDF1 and YTHDF3 in controlling the differentiation of embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Depletion of YTHDF3 in ESCs resulted in loss of pluripotency with accelerated expressions of marker genes involved in formation of three germ layers. Phenotypic and transcriptomic analyses revealed that loss of YTHDF1 led to dramatic impairment of cardiomyocytes (CMs) differentiation, accompanied by downregulated CM-specific genes. While, knockdown of YTHDF3 accelerated differentiation through facilitating the expressions of CM-specific gene. Notably, YTHDF3 appears to modulate cellular differentiation partially through suppression of YTHDF1, supporting the distinguishable but interrelated roles of YTHDF1 and YTHDF3 in cell fate determination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen Wang
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiang Wu
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xianrong Lin
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiao-Min Liu
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Zhou
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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Mosca P, Robert A, Alberto JM, Meyer M, Kundu U, Hergalant S, Umoret R, Coelho D, Guéant JL, Leheup B, Dreumont N. Vitamin B 12 Deficiency Dysregulates m6A mRNA Methylation of Genes Involved in Neurological Functions. Mol Nutr Food Res 2021; 65:e2100206. [PMID: 34291881 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.202100206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vitamin B12 deficiency presents various neurological manifestations, such as cognitive dysfunction, mental retardation, or memory impairment. However, the involved molecular mechanisms remain to date unclear. Vitamin B12 is essential for synthesizing S-adenosyl methionine (SAM), the methyl group donor used for almost all transmethylation reactions. Here, we investigate the m6A methylation of mRNAs and their related gene expression in models of vitamin B12 deficiency. METHODS AND RESULTS This study observes two cellular models deficient in vitamin B12 and hippocampi of mice knock-out for the CD320 receptor. The decrease in SAM levels resulting from vitamin B12 deficiency is associated with m6 A reduced levels in mRNAs. This is also potentially mediated by the overexpression of the eraser FTO. We further investigate mRNA methylation of some genes involved in neurological functions targeted by the m6A reader YTH proteins. We notably observe a m6A hypermethylation of Prkca mRNA and a consistently increased expression of PKCα, a kinase involved in brain development and neuroplasticity, in the two cellular models. CONCLUSION Our data show that m6A methylation in mRNA could be one of the contributing mechanisms that underlie the neurological manifestations produced by vitamin B12 deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Mosca
- Université de Lorraine, Inserm, NGERE, Nancy, F-54000, France
| | - Aurélie Robert
- Université de Lorraine, Inserm, NGERE, Nancy, F-54000, France
| | | | - Marie Meyer
- Université de Lorraine, Inserm, NGERE, Nancy, F-54000, France
| | - Urbi Kundu
- Université de Lorraine, Inserm, NGERE, Nancy, F-54000, France
| | | | - Rémy Umoret
- Université de Lorraine, Inserm, NGERE, Nancy, F-54000, France
| | - David Coelho
- Université de Lorraine, Inserm, NGERE, Nancy, F-54000, France
| | | | - Bruno Leheup
- Université de Lorraine, Inserm, NGERE, Nancy, F-54000, France
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223
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Li F, Chen S, Yu J, Gao Z, Sun Z, Yi Y, Long T, Zhang C, Li Y, Pan Y, Qin C, Long W, Liu Q, Zhao W. Interplay of m 6 A and histone modifications contributes to temozolomide resistance in glioblastoma. Clin Transl Med 2021; 11:e553. [PMID: 34586728 PMCID: PMC8441140 DOI: 10.1002/ctm2.553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the development of new treatment protocols for glioblastoma (GBM), temozolomide (TMZ) resistance remains a primary hindrance. Previous studies, including our study, have shown that aberrant N6-methyladenosine (m6 A) modification is implicated in GBM pathobiology. However, the roles and precise mechanisms of m6 A modification in the regulation of TMZ resistance in GBM remain unclear. METHODS m6 A individual-nucleotide-resolution cross-linking and immunoprecipitation sequencing (miCLIP-seq) was performed to identify m6 A modification of transcripts in TMZ-resistant and -sensitive tumors. To explore the role of METTL3 in TMZ resistance, TMZ-resistant GBM cells were transfected with METTL3 shRNA or overexpression lentivirus and then assessed by cell viability, tumor sphere formation, and apoptosis assays. An intracranial GBM xenograft model was developed to verify the effect of METTL3 depletion during TMZ treatment in vivo. ATAC-seq, ChIP-qPCR, and dual-luciferase reporter assays were carried out to verify the role of SOX4/EZH2 in the modulation of METTL3 expression upon TMZ treatment. RESULTS We demonstrated that TMZ treatment upregulated the expression of the m6 A methyltransferase METTL3, thereby increasing m6 A modification of histone modification-related gene transcripts. METTL3 is required to maintain the features of GBM stem cells. When combined with TMZ, METTL3 silencing suppressed orthotopic TMZ-resistant xenograft growth in a cooperative manner. Mechanistically, TMZ induced a SOX4-mediated increase in chromatin accessibility at the METTL3 locus by promoting H3K27ac levels and recruiting RNA polymerase II. Moreover, METTL3 depletion affected the deposition of m6 A on histone modification-related gene transcripts, such as EZH2, leading to nonsense-mediated mRNA decay. We revealed an important role of EZH2 in the regulation of METTL3 expression, which was via an H3K27me3 modification-independent manner. CONCLUSIONS Our findings uncover the fundamental mechanisms underlying the interplay of m6 A RNA modification and histone modification in TMZ resistance and emphasize the therapeutic potential of targeting the SOX4/EZH2/METTL3 axis in the treatment of TMZ-resistant GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuxi Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic CenterSun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouChina
- Guangdong Provincial People's HospitalGuangdong Academy of Medical SciencesGuangzhouChina
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Sun Yat‐Sen University, Ministry of EducationGuangzhouChina
| | - Siyun Chen
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Sun Yat‐Sen University, Ministry of EducationGuangzhouChina
| | - Jiaming Yu
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Sun Yat‐Sen University, Ministry of EducationGuangzhouChina
| | - Zhuoxing Gao
- Guangdong Provincial People's HospitalGuangdong Academy of Medical SciencesGuangzhouChina
| | - Zhangyi Sun
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Sun Yat‐Sen University, Ministry of EducationGuangzhouChina
| | - Yang Yi
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Sun Yat‐Sen University, Ministry of EducationGuangzhouChina
| | - Teng Long
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Sun Yat‐Sen University, Ministry of EducationGuangzhouChina
| | - Chuanxia Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial People's HospitalGuangdong Academy of Medical SciencesGuangzhouChina
| | - Yuzhe Li
- Neurosurgery Department, Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Yimin Pan
- Neurosurgery Department, Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Chaoying Qin
- Neurosurgery Department, Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Wenyong Long
- Neurosurgery Department, Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Qing Liu
- Neurosurgery Department, Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangshaChina
| | - Wei Zhao
- Guangdong Provincial People's HospitalGuangdong Academy of Medical SciencesGuangzhouChina
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224
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Ngwa CJ, Farrukh A, Pradel G. Zinc finger proteins of Plasmodium falciparum. Cell Microbiol 2021; 23:e13387. [PMID: 34418264 DOI: 10.1111/cmi.13387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Zinc finger proteins (ZFPs) are a large diverse family of proteins with one or more zinc finger domains in which zinc is important in stabilising the domain. ZFPs can interact with DNA, RNA, lipids or even other proteins and therefore contribute to diverse cellular processes including transcriptional regulation, ubiquitin-mediated protein degradation, mRNA decay and stability. In this review, we provide the first comprehensive classification of ZFPs of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum and provide a state of knowledge on the main ZFPs in the parasite, which include the C2H2, CCCH, RING finger and the PHD finger proteins. TAKE AWAYS: The Plasmodium falciparum genome encodes 170 putative Zinc finger proteins (ZFPs). The C2H2, CCCH, RING finger and PHD finger subfamilies of ZFPs are most represented. Known ZFP functions include the regulation of mRNA metabolism and proteostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Che Julius Ngwa
- Division of Cellular and Applied Infection Biology, Institute of Zoology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Afia Farrukh
- Division of Cellular and Applied Infection Biology, Institute of Zoology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Gabriele Pradel
- Division of Cellular and Applied Infection Biology, Institute of Zoology, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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225
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Tsuchiya K, Yoshimura K, Inoue Y, Iwashita Y, Yamada H, Kawase A, Watanabe T, Tanahashi M, Ogawa H, Funai K, Shinmura K, Suda T, Sugimura H. YTHDF1 and YTHDF2 are associated with better patient survival and an inflamed tumor-immune microenvironment in non-small-cell lung cancer. Oncoimmunology 2021; 10:1962656. [PMID: 34408926 PMCID: PMC8366544 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2021.1962656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The human YTH domain family (YTHDF) proteins are RNA-binding proteins that recognize N6-methyladenosine (m6A), facilitating various biological processes via m6A RNA modification. How these molecules associate with non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) molecular mechanisms remain unclear. The protein expression levels of YTHDF1 and YTHDF2 in 603 cases of resected NSCLC were evaluated using immunohistochemistry. We analyzed the associations of these attributes with patient characteristics and survival. We also assessed four subsets of lymphocytes (PD-1+, CD8+, Foxp3+, and CD45RO+) as tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in the tumor nest and in the surrounding stroma separately. In addition, we investigated differentially expressed genes and the expression of PD-L1 in YTHDF1– and YTHDF2-deprived lung cancer cells. The expressions of both YTHDF1 and YTHDF2 were less in the advanced-stage tumors than in the early-stage tumors. The expressions of both YTHDF1 and YTHDF2 were also independent favorable prognostic factors for recurrence-free survival (HR, 0.745; 95% CI, 0.562–0.984 for YTHDF1; HR, 0.683; 95% CI, 0.503–0.928 for YTHDF2). The TIL densities of almost all four lymphocyte subsets in the stroma were significantly higher in the tumors with high YTHDF1 and YTHDF2 expression. In vitro, YTHDF1 and YTHDF2 knockdown in cells upregulated tumor PD-L1 expression and altered multiple immune-related genes. High expressions of both YTHDF1 and YTHDF2 are associated with a favorable prognostic outcome of NSCLC patients, a greater amount of TILs, and downregulation of PD-L1. YTHDF1 and YTHDF2 could be novel prognostic and druggable targets related to the tumor-immune microenvironment in lung cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuo Tsuchiya
- Department of Tumor Pathology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan.,Second Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Katsuhiro Yoshimura
- Department of Tumor Pathology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan.,Second Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Yusuke Inoue
- Department of Tumor Pathology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan.,Second Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Yuji Iwashita
- Department of Tumor Pathology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Yamada
- Department of Tumor Pathology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Akikazu Kawase
- First Department of Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Takuya Watanabe
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Respiratory Disease Center, Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Masayuki Tanahashi
- Division of Thoracic Surgery, Respiratory Disease Center, Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ogawa
- Department of Pathology, Seirei Mikatahara General Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Kazuhito Funai
- First Department of Surgery, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Kazuya Shinmura
- Department of Tumor Pathology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Takafumi Suda
- Second Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Sugimura
- Department of Tumor Pathology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
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226
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Gokhale NS, Smith JR, Van Gelder RD, Savan R. RNA regulatory mechanisms that control antiviral innate immunity. Immunol Rev 2021; 304:77-96. [PMID: 34405416 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
From the initial sensing of viral nucleotides by pattern recognition receptors, through the induction of type I and III interferons (IFN), upregulation of antiviral effector proteins, and resolution of the inflammatory response, each step of innate immune signaling is under tight control. Though innate immunity is often associated with broad regulation at the level of gene transcription, RNA-centric post-transcriptional processes have emerged as critical mechanisms for ensuring a proper antiviral response. Here, we explore the diverse RNA regulatory mechanisms that modulate the innate antiviral immune response, with a focus on RNA sensing by RIG-I-like receptors (RLR), interferon (IFN) and IFN signaling pathways, viral pathogenesis, and host genetic variation that contributes to these processes. We address the post-transcriptional interactions with RNA-binding proteins, non-coding RNAs, transcript elements, and modifications that control mRNA stability, as well as alternative splicing events that modulate the innate immune antiviral response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandan S Gokhale
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Julian R Smith
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Rachel D Van Gelder
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Ram Savan
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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227
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Malovic E, Ealy A, Kanthasamy A, Kanthasamy AG. Emerging Roles of N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) Epitranscriptomics in Toxicology. Toxicol Sci 2021; 181:13-22. [PMID: 33616673 PMCID: PMC8599717 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfab021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Epitranscriptomics, the study of chemically modified RNAs, is a burgeoning field being explored in a variety of scientific disciplines. Of the currently known epitranscriptomic modifications, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation is the most abundant. The m6A modification is predominantly regulated by 3 tiers of protein modulators classified as writers, erasers, and readers. Depending upon cellular needs, these proteins function to deposit, remove, or read the methyl modifications on cognate mRNAs. Many environmental chemicals including heavy metals, pesticides, and other toxic pollutants, are all known to perturb transcription and translation machinery to exert their toxic responses. As such, we herein review how the m6A modification may be affected under different toxicological paradigms. Furthermore, we discuss how toxicants can affect the 3 tiers of regulation directly, and how these effects influence the m6A-modified mRNAs. Lastly, we highlight the disparities between published findings and theories, especially those concerning the m6A reader tier of regulation. In the far-reaching field of toxicology, m6A epitranscriptomics provides another enticing avenue to explore new mechanisms and therapies for a diverse range of environmentally linked disorders and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emir Malovic
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Parkinson's Disorder Research Program, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011
| | - Alyssa Ealy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Parkinson's Disorder Research Program, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011
| | - Arthi Kanthasamy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Parkinson's Disorder Research Program, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011
| | - Anumantha G Kanthasamy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Parkinson's Disorder Research Program, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011
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228
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Han T, Xu D, Zhu J, Li J, Liu L, Deng Y. Identification of a robust signature for clinical outcomes and immunotherapy response in gastric cancer: based on N6-methyladenosine related long noncoding RNAs. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:432. [PMID: 34399770 PMCID: PMC8365962 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02146-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastric cancer (GC) is a globally prevalent cancer, ranking fifth for incidence and fourth for mortality worldwide. The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) related long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) were widely investigated in recent studies. Nevertheless, the underlying prognostic implication and tumor immune mechanism of m6A-related lncRNA in GC remain unknown. METHODS We systematically assessed the m6A modification expression of 407 GC clinical samples based on 23 m6A regulators and comprehensively associated these genes with lncRNAs. Then, we constructed a m6A-related lncRNA prognostic signature (m6A-LPS) to evaluate both status and prognosis of the disease. Immune-related mechanisms were explored via dissecting tumor-infiltrating cells as well as applying tumor immune dysfunction and the exclusion algorithm. Furthermore, we validated the latent regulative mechanism of m6A-related lncRNA in GC cell lines. RESULTS The m6A-LPS containing nine hub lncRNAs was built, which possessed a superior capability to predict the outcomes of GC patients. Meanwhile, we found an intimate correlation between the m6A-LPS and tumor infiltrating cells, and that the low-risk group had a higher expression of immune checkpoints and responsed more to immunotherapy than the high-risk group. Clinically, these crucial lncRNAs expression levels were verified in ten pairs of GC samples. In in vitro experiments, the abilities of migration and proliferation were significantly enhanced via downregulating the lncRNA AC026691.1. Both migrative and proliferative capabilities of tumor cells were significantly enhanced via downregulating the lncRNA AC026691.1. in vitro. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, the m6A-LPS could provide a novel prediction insight into the prognosis of GC patients and serve as an independent clinical factor for GC. These m6A-related lncRNAs might remodel the tumor microenvironment and affect the anti-cancer ability of immune checkpoint blockers. Importantly, lncRNA AC026691.1 could inhibit both migration and proliferation of GC by means of FTO regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tenghui Han
- Xijing Hospital, Airforce Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Dong Xu
- School of Clinical Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Jun Zhu
- Xijing Hospital, Airforce Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Jipeng Li
- Xijing Hospital, Airforce Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China
| | - Lei Liu
- Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, 400042, China
| | - Yanchun Deng
- Xijing Hospital, Airforce Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, China.
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229
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N6-methyladenosine modification of HCV RNA genome regulates cap-independent IRES-mediated translation via YTHDC2 recognition. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2022024118. [PMID: 33649237 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2022024118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections are associated with the risk of progression to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The HCV RNA genome is translated by an internal ribosome entry site (IRES)-dependent mechanism. The structure and function of the HCV IRES have been investigated by both biological and biophysical criteria. Recently, the role of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) in cellular RNA and viral transcripts has been intensely investigated. The HCV RNA genome is m6A-methylated, and this modification regulates the viral life cycle. In this study, we investigated the role of m6A modification of the HCV genome in the IRES-dependent translation function by mutating m6A consensus motifs (DRACH) within the IRES element in stem-loop III and IV regions and studied their effect on translation initiation. There are several DRACH motifs within the IRES element. Of these, the DRACH motif at nucleotide (nt) 329-333, located about 7 nt upstream of initiator AUG (iAUG) codon, regulates IRES-mediated translation initiation. Mutational analysis showed that m6A methylation of the adenosine at nt 331 is essential for the IRES-dependent translation. m6A reader protein YTHDC2, containing the RNA helicase domain, recognizes m6A-methylated adenosine at nt 331 and, in concert with the cellular La antigen, supports HCV IRES-dependent translation. The RNA helicase dead YTHDC2 (E332Q) mutant failed to stimulate HCV translation initiation. This report highlights the functional roles of m6A modification and YTHDC2 in the HCV IRES-dependent translation initiation, thus offering alternative therapeutic avenues to interfere with the infectious process.
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230
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Sanderson MR, Fahlman RP, Wevrick R. The N-terminal domain of the Schaaf-Yang syndrome protein MAGEL2 likely has a role in RNA metabolism. J Biol Chem 2021; 297:100959. [PMID: 34265304 PMCID: PMC8350409 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
MAGEL2 encodes the L2 member of the melanoma-associated antigen gene (MAGE) protein family, truncating mutations of which can cause Schaaf-Yang syndrome, an autism spectrum disorder. MAGEL2 is also inactivated in Prader-Willi syndrome, which overlaps clinically and mechanistically with Schaaf-Yang syndrome. Studies to date have only investigated the C-terminal portion of the MAGEL2 protein, containing the MAGE homology domain that interacts with RING-E3 ubiquitin ligases and deubiquitinases to form protein complexes that modify protein ubiquitination. In contrast, the N-terminal portion of the MAGEL2 protein has never been studied. Here, we find that MAGEL2 has a low-complexity intrinsically disordered N-terminus rich in Pro-Xn-Gly motifs that is predicted to mediate liquid-liquid phase separation to form biomolecular condensates. We used proximity-dependent biotin identification (BioID) and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry to identify MAGEL2-proximal proteins, then clustered these proteins into functional networks. We determined that coding mutations analogous to disruptive mutations in other MAGE proteins alter these networks in biologically relevant ways. Proteins identified as proximal to the N-terminal portion of MAGEL2 are primarily involved in mRNA metabolic processes and include three mRNA N 6-methyladenosine (m6A)-binding YTHDF proteins and two RNA interference-mediating TNRC6 proteins. We found that YTHDF2 coimmunoprecipitates with MAGEL2, and coexpression of MAGEL2 reduces the nuclear accumulation of YTHDF2 after heat shock. We suggest that the N-terminal region of MAGEL2 may have a role in RNA metabolism and in particular the regulation of mRNAs modified by m6A methylation. These results provide mechanistic insight into pathogenic MAGEL2 mutations associated with Schaaf-Yang syndrome and related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthea R Sanderson
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Richard P Fahlman
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Department of Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Rachel Wevrick
- Department of Medical Genetics, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
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231
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Wang Q, Liang Y, Luo X, Liu Y, Zhang X, Gao L. N6-methyladenosine RNA modification: A promising regulator in central nervous system injury. Exp Neurol 2021; 345:113829. [PMID: 34339678 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2021.113829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In addition to DNA methylation, reversible epigenetic modification occurring in RNA has been discovered recently. The most abundant type of RNA methylation is N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification, which is dynamically regulated by methylases ("writers"), demethylases ("erasers") and m6A-binding proteins ("readers"). As an essential posttranscriptional regulator, m6A can control mRNA splicing, processing, stability, export and translation. Recent studies have revealed that m6A modification has the strongest tissue specificity for brain tissue and plays crucial roles in central nervous system (CNS) injures by affecting its downstream target genes or non-coding RNAs. This review focuses on the expression and function of m6A regulatory proteins in CNS trauma in vitro and in vivo. We also highlight the latest insights into the molecular mechanisms of pathological damage in the CNS. Understanding m6A dynamics, functions, and machinery will yield an opportunity for designing and developing novel therapeutic agents for CNS injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Wang
- Laboratory of Molecular Translational Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, PR China; Department of Immunology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, PR China
| | - Yundan Liang
- Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Chengdu Medical College, Chengdu, Sichuan 610500, PR China
| | - Xiaolei Luo
- Laboratory of Molecular Translational Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, PR China
| | - Yuqing Liu
- Laboratory of Metabolomics and Gynecological Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Xiaoli Zhang
- Laboratory of Metabolomics and Gynecological Disease Research, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, PR China
| | - Linbo Gao
- Laboratory of Molecular Translational Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610041, PR China.
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232
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Li L, Xie R, Wei Q. Network analysis of miRNA targeting m6A-related genes in patients with esophageal cancer. PeerJ 2021; 9:e11893. [PMID: 34395102 PMCID: PMC8325912 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.11893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background We investigated the miRNA-m6A related gene network and identified a miRNA-based prognostic signature in patients with esophageal cancer using integrated genomic analysis. Methods We obtained expression data for m6A-related genes and miRNAs from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets. Survival analysis was conducted to identify potential prognostic biomarkers. LASSO Cox regression was performed to construct the overall survival (OS) associated prediction signature. We used the Kaplan-Meier (K-M) curve and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to explore the signature's efficiency and accuracy. Interactions between the m6A-related genes and miRNAs were identified in starBase3.0 and used to construct the miRNA-m6A related gene network. Results We found that HNRNPC, YTHDF, ZC3H13, YTHDC2, and METTL14 were dysregulated in esophageal cancer tissues. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that HNRNPC may be an independent risk factor for OS. Five hundred twenty-two potential upstream miRNAs were obtained from starBase3.0. Four miRNAs (miR-186, miR-320c, miR-320d, and miR-320b) were used to construct a prognostic signature, which could serve as a prognostic predictor independent from routine clinicopathological features. Finally, we constructed a key miRNA-m6A related gene network and used one m6A-related gene and four miRNAs associated with the prognosis. The results of our bioinformatics analysis were successfully validated in the human esophageal carcinoma cell lines KYSE30 and TE-1. Conclusion Our study identified a 4-miRNA prognostic signature and established a key miRNA-m6A related gene network. These tools may reliably assist with esophageal cancer patient prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Rongrong Xie
- Department of Medical Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Qichun Wei
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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233
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Srinivas KP, Depledge DP, Abebe JS, Rice SA, Mohr I, Wilson AC. Widespread remodeling of the m 6A RNA-modification landscape by a viral regulator of RNA processing and export. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:e2104805118. [PMID: 34282019 PMCID: PMC8325250 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2104805118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant internal messenger RNA (mRNA) modification, contributing to the processing, stability, and function of methylated RNAs. Methylation occurs in the nucleus during pre-mRNA synthesis and requires a core methyltransferase complex consisting of METTL3, METTL14, and WTAP. During herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) infection, cellular gene expression is profoundly suppressed, allowing the virus to monopolize the host transcription and translation apparatus and antagonize antiviral responses. The extent to which HSV-1 uses or manipulates the m6A pathway is not known. Here, we show that, in primary fibroblasts, HSV-1 orchestrates a striking redistribution of the nuclear m6A machinery that progresses through the infection cycle. METTL3 and METTL14 are dispersed into the cytoplasm, whereas WTAP remains nuclear. Other regulatory subunits of the methyltransferase complex, along with the nuclear m6A-modified RNA binding protein YTHDC1 and nuclear demethylase ALKBH5, are similarly redistributed. These changes require ICP27, a viral regulator of host mRNA processing that mediates the nucleocytoplasmic export of viral late mRNAs. Viral gene expression is initially reduced by small interfering RNA (siRNA)-mediated inactivation of the m6A methyltransferase but becomes less impacted as the infection advances. Redistribution of the nuclear m6A machinery is accompanied by a wide-scale reduction in the installation of m6A and other RNA modifications on both host and viral mRNAs. These results reveal a far-reaching mechanism by which HSV-1 subverts host gene expression to favor viral replication.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel P Depledge
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY 10016
| | - Jonathan S Abebe
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY 10016
| | - Stephen A Rice
- Department of Microbiology, University of Minnesota Medical School, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455
| | - Ian Mohr
- Department of Microbiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY 10016
| | - Angus C Wilson
- Department of Microbiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York University, New York, NY 10016;
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234
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Ju W, Liu K, Ouyang S, Liu Z, He F, Wu J. Changes in N6-Methyladenosine Modification Modulate Diabetic Cardiomyopathy by Reducing Myocardial Fibrosis and Myocyte Hypertrophy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:702579. [PMID: 34368154 PMCID: PMC8334868 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.702579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to systematically profile global RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification patterns in a mouse model of diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM). Patterns of m6A in DCM and normal hearts were analyzed via m6A-specific methylated RNA immunoprecipitation followed by high-throughput sequencing (MeRIP-seq) and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). m6A-related mRNAs were validated by quantitative real-time PCR analysis of input and m6A immunoprecipitated RNA samples from DCM and normal hearts. A total of 973 new m6A peaks were detected in DCM samples and 984 differentially methylated sites were selected for further study, including 295 hypermethylated and 689 hypomethylated m6A sites (fold change (FC) > 1.5, P < 0.05). Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) Pathway analyses indicated that unique m6A-modified transcripts in DCM were closely linked to cardiac fibrosis, myocardial hypertrophy, and myocardial energy metabolism. Total m6A levels were higher in DCM, while levels of the fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) protein were downregulated. Overexpression of FTO in DCM model mice improved cardiac function by reducing myocardial fibrosis and myocyte hypertrophy. Overall, m6A modification patterns were altered in DCM, and modification of epitranscriptomic processes, such as m6A, is a potentially interesting therapeutic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Ju
- Graduate School, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China.,Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Beijing, China
| | - Kai Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China.,Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Beijing, China.,Department of Biochemistry & Immunology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics-Peking University Teaching Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shengrong Ouyang
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China.,Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuo Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China.,Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Beijing, China
| | - Feng He
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China.,Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Beijing, China
| | - Jianxin Wu
- Graduate School, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.,Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Capital Institute of Pediatrics, Beijing, China.,Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Child Development and Nutriomics, Beijing, China.,Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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235
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Kan RL, Chen J, Sallam T. Crosstalk between epitranscriptomic and epigenetic mechanisms in gene regulation. Trends Genet 2021; 38:182-193. [PMID: 34294427 PMCID: PMC9093201 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2021.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications occur on genomic DNA and histones to influence gene expression. More recently, the discovery that mRNA undergoes similar chemical modifications that powerfully impact transcript turnover and translation adds another layer of dynamic gene regulation. Central to precise and synchronized regulation of gene expression is intricate crosstalk between multiple checkpoints involved in transcript biosynthesis and processing. There are more than 100 internal modifications of RNA in mammalian cells. The most common is N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation. Although m6A is established to influence RNA stability dynamics and translation efficiency, rapidly accumulating evidence shows significant crosstalk between RNA methylation and histone/DNA epigenetic mechanisms. These interactions specify transcriptional outputs, translation, recruitment of chromatin modifiers, as well as the deployment of the m6A methyltransferase complex (MTC) at target sites. In this review, we dissect m6A-orchestrated feedback circuits that regulate histone modifications and the activity of regulatory RNAs, such as long noncoding (lnc)RNA and chromosome-associated regulatory RNA. Collectively, this body of evidence suggests that m6A acts as a versatile checkpoint that can couple different layers of gene regulation with one another.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan L Kan
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Molecular Biology Interdepartmental Program, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jianjun Chen
- Department of Systems Biology, Beckman Research Institute of City of Hope, Monrovia, CA, USA; City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Tamer Sallam
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Molecular Biology Interdepartmental Program, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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236
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Farhat DC, Bowler MW, Communie G, Pontier D, Belmudes L, Mas C, Corrao C, Couté Y, Bougdour A, Lagrange T, Hakimi MA, Swale C. A plant-like mechanism coupling m6A reading to polyadenylation safeguards transcriptome integrity and developmental gene partitioning in Toxoplasma. eLife 2021; 10:68312. [PMID: 34263725 PMCID: PMC8313237 DOI: 10.7554/elife.68312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Correct 3’end processing of mRNAs is one of the regulatory cornerstones of gene expression. In a parasite that must adapt to the regulatory requirements of its multi-host life style, there is a need to adopt additional means to partition the distinct transcriptional signatures of the closely and tandemly arranged stage-specific genes. In this study, we report our findings in T. gondii of an m6A-dependent 3’end polyadenylation serving as a transcriptional barrier at these loci. We identify the core polyadenylation complex within T. gondii and establish CPSF4 as a reader for m6A-modified mRNAs, via a YTH domain within its C-terminus, a feature which is shared with plants. We bring evidence of the specificity of this interaction both biochemically, and by determining the crystal structure at high resolution of the T. gondii CPSF4-YTH in complex with an m6A-modified RNA. We show that the loss of m6A, both at the level of its deposition or its recognition is associated with an increase in aberrantly elongated chimeric mRNAs emanating from impaired transcriptional termination, a phenotype previously noticed in the plant model Arabidopsis thaliana. Nanopore direct RNA sequencing shows the occurrence of transcriptional read-through breaching into downstream repressed stage-specific genes, in the absence of either CPSF4 or the m6A RNA methylase components in both T. gondii and A. thaliana. Taken together, our results shed light on an essential regulatory mechanism coupling the pathways of m6A metabolism directly to the cleavage and polyadenylation processes, one that interestingly seem to serve, in both T. gondii and A. thaliana, as a guardian against aberrant transcriptional read-throughs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dayana C Farhat
- IAB,Team Host-Pathogen Interactions & Immunity to Infection, INSERMU1209, CNRSUMR5309, Grenoble Alpes University, Grenoble, France
| | | | | | - Dominique Pontier
- Laboratoire Génome et Développement des Plantes (LGDP), UMR5096, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Université de Perpignan via Domitia (UPVD), Perpignan, France
| | - Lucid Belmudes
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, INSERM, CEA, UMR BioSanté U1292, CNRS, CEA, Grenoble, France
| | - Caroline Mas
- Integrated Structural Biology Grenoble (ISBG) CNRS, CEA, Université Grenoble Alpes, EMBL, Grenoble, France
| | - Charlotte Corrao
- IAB,Team Host-Pathogen Interactions & Immunity to Infection, INSERMU1209, CNRSUMR5309, Grenoble Alpes University, Grenoble, France
| | - Yohann Couté
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, INSERM, CEA, UMR BioSanté U1292, CNRS, CEA, Grenoble, France
| | - Alexandre Bougdour
- IAB,Team Host-Pathogen Interactions & Immunity to Infection, INSERMU1209, CNRSUMR5309, Grenoble Alpes University, Grenoble, France
| | - Thierry Lagrange
- Laboratoire Génome et Développement des Plantes (LGDP), UMR5096, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Université de Perpignan via Domitia (UPVD), Perpignan, France
| | - Mohamed-Ali Hakimi
- IAB,Team Host-Pathogen Interactions & Immunity to Infection, INSERMU1209, CNRSUMR5309, Grenoble Alpes University, Grenoble, France
| | - Christopher Swale
- IAB,Team Host-Pathogen Interactions & Immunity to Infection, INSERMU1209, CNRSUMR5309, Grenoble Alpes University, Grenoble, France
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237
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Lv X, Liu X, Zhao M, Wu H, Zhang W, Lu Q, Chen X. RNA Methylation in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:696559. [PMID: 34307373 PMCID: PMC8292951 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.696559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease with complicated clinical manifestations. Although our understanding of the pathogenesis of SLE has greatly improved, the understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of SLE is still limited by disease heterogeneity, and targeted therapy is still unavailable. Substantial evidence shows that RNA methylation plays a vital role in the mechanisms of the immune response, prompting speculation that it might also be related to the occurrence and development of SLE. RNA methylation has been a hot topic in the field of epigenetics in recent years. In addition to revealing the modification process, relevant studies have tried to explore the relationship between RNA methylation and the occurrence and development of various diseases. At present, some studies have provided evidence of a relationship between RNA methylation and SLE pathogenesis, but in-depth research and analysis are lacking. This review will start by describing the specific mechanism of RNA methylation and its relationship with the immune response to propose an association between RNA methylation and SLE pathogenesis based on existing studies and then discuss the future direction of this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Lv
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiaomin Liu
- Department of Nephrology, First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Nephrology Institute of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Beijing Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease Research, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Zhao
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Haijing Wu
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wuiguang Zhang
- Department of Nephrology, First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Nephrology Institute of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Beijing Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease Research, Beijing, China
| | - Qianjin Lu
- Hunan Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenomics, Department of Dermatology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xiangmei Chen
- Department of Nephrology, First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Nephrology Institute of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, State Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Kidney Diseases, Beijing Key Laboratory of Kidney Disease Research, Beijing, China
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238
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Genetic drivers of m 6A methylation in human brain, lung, heart and muscle. Nat Genet 2021; 53:1156-1165. [PMID: 34211177 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-021-00890-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The most prevalent post-transcriptional mRNA modification, N6-methyladenosine (m6A), plays diverse RNA-regulatory roles, but its genetic control in human tissues remains uncharted. Here we report 129 transcriptome-wide m6A profiles, covering 91 individuals and 4 tissues (brain, lung, muscle and heart) from GTEx/eGTEx. We integrate these with interindividual genetic and expression variation, revealing 8,843 tissue-specific and 469 tissue-shared m6A quantitative trait loci (QTLs), which are modestly enriched in, but mostly orthogonal to, expression QTLs. We integrate m6A QTLs with disease genetics, identifying 184 GWAS-colocalized m6A QTL, including brain m6A QTLs underlying neuroticism, depression, schizophrenia and anxiety; lung m6A QTLs underlying expiratory flow and asthma; and muscle/heart m6A QTLs underlying coronary artery disease. Last, we predict novel m6A regulators that show preferential binding in m6A QTLs, protein interactions with known m6A regulators and expression correlation with the m6A levels of their targets. Our results provide important insights and resources for understanding both cis and trans regulation of epitranscriptomic modifications, their interindividual variation and their roles in human disease.
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239
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Yin S, Ao Q, Tan C, Yang Y. Genome-wide identification and characterization of YTH domain-containing genes, encoding the m 6A readers, and their expression in tomato. PLANT CELL REPORTS 2021; 40:1229-1245. [PMID: 34081180 DOI: 10.1007/s00299-021-02716-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
9 YTH genes in tomato were identified and cloned, and their expression patterns were comprehensively analyzed, which reveal potential multiple roles in development and fruit ripening. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is an abundant and pervasive post-transcriptional modification in eukaryotic mRNAs. The YTH domain-containing proteins act as m6A readers to read m6A marks and transduce their downstream regulatory effects by altering m6A-mRNA metabolism processes. Identification of YTH proteins is essential for understanding the regulatory mechanisms of m6A in physiological processes, but little is known about YTH proteins in tomato, a model system for fruit development. Here, we report that tomato genomes contain a total of 9 SlYTH genes. While YTH proteins of both tomato and Arabidopsis can be classified into two subfamilies, the member distributions in subfamilies are very different between the two species. Homology modeling exhibited the similar three-dimensional structures of SlYTH proteins to human YTHDF1 or YTHDC1. Multiple hormone-response elements locating on the promoters of SlYTH genes indicate that they are involved in the physiological processes related to phytohormone. SlYTH genes are ubiquitous and spatiotemporal dynamic expression in tomato. Eight SlTYH genes have the strongest expression in stamens among the parts of flowers. Throughout fruit ontogeny, most of the SlYTH genes display obvious high mRNA levels during the developmental phases (4 dpa to mature green); moreover, SlYTH1 and SlYTH2 have absolute predominant expressions demonstrated by RNA-seq. The results lay a foundation for future characterizations on the functions of YTH proteins and m6A regulatory mechanism in tomato.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangqin Yin
- Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Qiujing Ao
- Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Caiyun Tan
- Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China
| | - Yingwu Yang
- Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, China.
- Key Laboratory of Plant Hormones and Development Regulation of Chongqing, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 401331, China.
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240
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Hu Y, Zhao X. Role of m6A in osteoporosis, arthritis and osteosarcoma (Review). Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:926. [PMID: 34306195 PMCID: PMC8281110 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA modification is a type of post-transcriptional modification that regulates important cellular pathways, such as the processing and metabolism of RNA. The most abundant form of methylation modification is RNA N6-methyladenine (m6A), which plays various post-transcriptional regulatory roles in cellular biological functions, including cell differentiation, embryonic development and disease occurrence. Bones play a pivotal role in the skeletal system as they support and protect muscles and other organs, facilitate movement and ensure haematopoiesis. The development and remodelling of bones require a delicate and accurate regulation of gene expression by epigenetic mechanisms that involve modifications of histone, DNA and RNA. The present review discusses the enzymes and proteins involved in mRNA m6A methylation modification and summarises current research progress and the mechanisms of mRNA m6A methylation in common orthopaedic diseases, including osteoporosis, arthritis and osteosarcoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yibo Hu
- Department of Orthopaedic Trauma, The Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai 810000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaohui Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedic Trauma, The Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai 810000, P.R. China
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241
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Liu E, Lv L, Zhan Y, Ma Y, Feng J, He Y, Wen Y, Zhang Y, Pu Q, Ji F, Yang X, Wen JG. METTL3/N6-methyladenosine/ miR-21-5p promotes obstructive renal fibrosis by regulating inflammation through SPRY1/ERK/NF-κB pathway activation. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:7660-7674. [PMID: 34164910 PMCID: PMC8358893 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Renal fibrosis induced by urinary tract obstruction is a common clinical occurrence; however, effective treatment is lacking, and a deeper understanding of the mechanism of renal fibrosis is needed. Previous studies have revealed that miR-21 impacts liver and lung fibrosis progression by activating the SPRY1/ERK/NF-kB signalling pathway. However, whether miR-21 mediates obstructive renal fibrosis through the same signalling pathway has not been determined. Additionally, studies have shown that N6-methyladenosine (m6 A) modification-dependent primary microRNA (pri-microRNA) processing is essential for maturation of microRNAs, but its role in the maturation of miR-21 in obstructive renal fibrosis has not yet been investigated in detail. To address these issues, we employed a mouse model of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) in which the left ureters were ligated for 3, 7 and 14 days to simulate the fibrotic process. In vitro, human renal proximal tubular epithelial (HK-2) cells were transfected with plasmids containing the corresponding sequence of METTL3, miR-21-5p mimic or miR-21-5p inhibitor. We found that the levels of miR-21-5p and m6 A modification in the UUO model groups increased significantly, and as predicted, the SPRY1/ERK/NF-kB pathway was activated by miR-21-5p, confirming that miR-21-5p plays an important role in obstructive renal fibrosis by enhancing inflammation. METTL3 was found to play a major catalytic role in m6 A modification in UUO mice and drove obstructive renal fibrosis development by promoting miR-21-5p maturation. Our research is the first to demonstrate the role of the METTL3-m6 A-miR-21-5p-SPRY1/ERK/NF-kB axis in obstructive renal fibrosis and provides a deeper understanding of renal fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erpeng Liu
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Urodynamics Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Joint International Pediatric Urodynamic Laboratory, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lei Lv
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Urodynamics Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Joint International Pediatric Urodynamic Laboratory, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yonghao Zhan
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yuan Ma
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Urodynamics Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Joint International Pediatric Urodynamic Laboratory, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jinjin Feng
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yulin He
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yibo Wen
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yanping Zhang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Urodynamics Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Joint International Pediatric Urodynamic Laboratory, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qingsong Pu
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Urodynamics Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Joint International Pediatric Urodynamic Laboratory, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Fengping Ji
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Urodynamics Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Joint International Pediatric Urodynamic Laboratory, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xinghuan Yang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Urodynamics Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Joint International Pediatric Urodynamic Laboratory, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jian Guo Wen
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Urodynamics Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Henan Joint International Pediatric Urodynamic Laboratory, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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242
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Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a major epitranscriptomic mark exerting crucial diverse roles in RNA metabolisms, including RNA stability, mRNA translation, and RNA structural rearrangement. m6A modifications at different RNA regions may have distinct molecular effects. Here, we describe a CRISPR-Cas9-based approach that enables targeted m6A addition or removal on endogenous RNA molecules without altering the nucleotide sequence. By fusing a catalytically inactive Cas9 with engineered m6A modification enzymes, the programmable m6A editors are capable of achieving RNA methylation and demethylation at desired sites, facilitating dissection of regional effects of m6A and diversifying the toolkits for RNA manipulation.
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243
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Selberg S, Žusinaite E, Herodes K, Seli N, Kankuri E, Merits A, Karelson M. HIV Replication Is Increased by RNA Methylation METTL3/METTL14/WTAP Complex Activators. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:15957-15963. [PMID: 34179640 PMCID: PMC8223420 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c01626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications in both viral and host cell RNAs play an important role in HIV-1 virus genome transcription and virus replication. We demonstrate here that activators of the METTL3/METTL14/WTAP RNA methyltransferase complex enhance the production of virus particles in cells harboring HIV-1 provirus. In parallel, the amount of m6A residues in the host cell mRNA was increased in the presence of these activator compounds. Importantly, the m6A methylation of the HIV-1 RNA was also enhanced significantly (about 18%). The increase of virus replication by the small-molecule activators of the METTL3/METTL14/WTAP complex excludes them as potential anti-HIV-1 drug candidates. However, the compounds may be of large interest as activators for the latent HIV-1 provirus copies deposited in host cells' genome and the subsequent virus eradication by an antiviral compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Selberg
- Institute
of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
| | - Eva Žusinaite
- Institute
of Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
| | - Koit Herodes
- Institute
of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
| | | | - Esko Kankuri
- Faculty
of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | - Andres Merits
- Institute
of Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
- Email
| | - Mati Karelson
- Institute
of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
- Email
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244
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Zhao K, Yang CX, Li P, Sun W, Kong XQ. Epigenetic role of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation in the cardiovascular system. J Zhejiang Univ Sci B 2021; 21:509-523. [PMID: 32633106 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.b1900680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
As the most prevalent and abundant transcriptional modification in the eukaryotic genome, the continuous and dynamic regulation of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) has been shown to play a vital role in physiological and pathological processes of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), such as ischemic heart failure (HF), myocardial hypertrophy, myocardial infarction (MI), and cardiomyogenesis. Regulation is achieved by modulating the expression of m6A enzymes and their downstream cardiac genes. In addition, this process has a major impact on different aspects of internal biological metabolism and several other external environmental effects associated with the development of CVDs. However, the exact molecular mechanism of m6A epigenetic regulation has not been fully elucidated. In this review, we outline recent advances and discuss potential therapeutic strategies for managing m6A in relation to several common CVD-related metabolic disorders and external environmental factors. Note that an appropriate understanding of the biological function of m6A in the cardiovascular system will pave the way towards exploring the mechanisms responsible for the development of other CVDs and their associated symptoms. Finally, it can provide new insights for the development of novel therapeutic agents for use in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Chuan-Xi Yang
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Xiang-Qing Kong
- Department of Cardiology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
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245
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Lu Y, Li Z, Lin C, Zhang J, Shen Z. Translation role of circRNAs in cancers. J Clin Lab Anal 2021; 35:e23866. [PMID: 34097315 PMCID: PMC8275004 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.23866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) constitute a class of covalently closed RNA molecules. With the continuous advancement of high‐throughput sequencing technology and bioinformatics tools, many circRNAs have been identified in various human tissues and cell lines. Notably, recent studies have indicated that some circRNAs have translational functions. Internal ribosome entry sites and the N6‐methyladenosine modification mediate cap‐independent translation. This review describes these two translation mechanisms and verification methods at the molecular level. Databases (including ORF Finder, Pfam, BLASTp, CircRNADb, CircBase, CircPro, CircCode, IRESite, IRESbase) were used to analyze whether circRNAs have the structural characteristic of translation. CircRNA minigene reporter system containing green fluorescent protein (GFP) confirmed the translation potential of circRNAs. Also, we briefly summarize the roles of proteins/peptides encoded by circRNAs (circFBXW7, circFNDC3B, circLgr4, circPPP1R12A, circMAPK1, circβ‐catenin, circGprc5a, circ‐SHPRH, circPINTexon2, circAKT3) that have been verified thus far in human cancers (triple‐negative breast cancer, colon cancer, gastric cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, bladder cancer, glioblastoma). Those findings suggest circRNAs have a great implication in translation of the human genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqin Lu
- Ningbo University School of MedicineNingboChina
| | - Zhe Li
- Ningbo University School of MedicineNingboChina
| | - Chen Lin
- Ningbo University School of MedicineNingboChina
| | - Jian Zhang
- Li Huili Hospital Affiliated to Ningbo University SchoolNingboChina
| | - Zhisen Shen
- Li Huili Hospital Affiliated to Ningbo University SchoolNingboChina
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246
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Kazimierczyk M, Wrzesinski J. Long Non-Coding RNA Epigenetics. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:6166. [PMID: 34200507 PMCID: PMC8201194 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22116166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs exceeding a length of 200 nucleotides play an important role in ensuring cell functions and proper organism development by interacting with cellular compounds such as miRNA, mRNA, DNA and proteins. However, there is an additional level of lncRNA regulation, called lncRNA epigenetics, in gene expression control. In this review, we describe the most common modified nucleosides found in lncRNA, 6-methyladenosine, 5-methylcytidine, pseudouridine and inosine. The biosynthetic pathways of these nucleosides modified by the writer, eraser and reader enzymes are important to understanding these processes. The characteristics of the individual methylases, pseudouridine synthases and adenine-inosine editing enzymes and the methods of lncRNA epigenetics for the detection of modified nucleosides, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of these methods, are discussed in detail. The final sections are devoted to the role of modifications in the most abundant lncRNAs and their functions in pathogenic processes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jan Wrzesinski
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Noskowskiego 12/14, 61-704 Poznań, Poland;
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Duda KJ, Ching RW, Jerabek L, Shukeir N, Erikson G, Engist B, Onishi-Seebacher M, Perrera V, Richter F, Mittler G, Fritz K, Helm M, Knuckles P, Bühler M, Jenuwein T. m6A RNA methylation of major satellite repeat transcripts facilitates chromatin association and RNA:DNA hybrid formation in mouse heterochromatin. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:5568-5587. [PMID: 33999208 PMCID: PMC8191757 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Heterochromatin has essential functions in maintaining chromosome structure, in protecting genome integrity and in stabilizing gene expression programs. Heterochromatin is often nucleated by underlying DNA repeat sequences, such as major satellite repeats (MSR) and long interspersed nuclear elements (LINE). In order to establish heterochromatin, MSR and LINE elements need to be transcriptionally competent and generate non-coding repeat RNA that remain chromatin associated. We explored whether these heterochromatic RNA, similar to DNA and histones, may be methylated, particularly for 5-methylcytosine (5mC) or methyl-6-adenosine (m6A). Our analysis in mouse ES cells identifies only background level of 5mC but significant enrichment for m6A on heterochromatic RNA. Moreover, MSR transcripts are a novel target for m6A RNA modification, and their m6A RNA enrichment is decreased in ES cells that are mutant for Mettl3 or Mettl14, which encode components of a central RNA methyltransferase complex. Importantly, MSR transcripts that are partially deficient in m6A RNA methylation display impaired chromatin association and have a reduced potential to form RNA:DNA hybrids. We propose that m6A modification of MSR RNA will enhance the functions of MSR repeat transcripts to stabilize mouse heterochromatin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna J Duda
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg 79108, Germany
| | - Reagan W Ching
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg 79108, Germany
| | - Lisa Jerabek
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg 79108, Germany
| | - Nicholas Shukeir
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg 79108, Germany
| | - Galina Erikson
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg 79108, Germany
| | - Bettina Engist
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg 79108, Germany
| | | | - Valentina Perrera
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg 79108, Germany
| | - Florian Richter
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg 79108, Germany
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg – University, Mainz 55128, Germany
| | - Gerhard Mittler
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg 79108, Germany
| | - Katharina Fritz
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg – University, Mainz 55128, Germany
| | - Mark Helm
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg – University, Mainz 55128, Germany
| | - Philip Knuckles
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, 4058, Switzerland and University of Basel, Basel 4051, Switzerland
| | - Marc Bühler
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, Basel, 4058, Switzerland and University of Basel, Basel 4051, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Jenuwein
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg 79108, Germany
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248
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Yu D, Horton JR, Yang J, Hajian T, Vedadi M, Sagum CA, Bedford MT, Blumenthal RM, Zhang X, Cheng X. Human MettL3-MettL14 RNA adenine methyltransferase complex is active on double-stranded DNA containing lesions. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:11629-11642. [PMID: 34086966 PMCID: PMC8599731 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
MettL3-MettL14 methyltransferase complex has been studied widely for its role in RNA adenine methylation. This complex is also recruited to UV- and X-ray exposed DNA damaged sites, and its methyltransfer activity is required for subsequent DNA repair, though in theory this could result from RNA methylation of short transcripts made at the site of damage. We report here that MettL3-MettL14 is active in vitro on double-stranded DNA containing a cyclopyrimidine dimer – a major lesion of UV radiation-induced products – or an abasic site or mismatches. Furthermore, N6-methyladenine (N6mA) decreases misincorporation of 8-oxo-guanine (8-oxoG) opposite to N6mA by repair DNA polymerases. When 8-oxoG is nevertheless incorporated opposite N6mA, the methylation inhibits N6mA excision from the template (correct) strand by the adenine DNA glycosylase (MYH), implying that the methylation decreases inappropriate misrepair. Finally, we observed that the N6mA reader domain of YTHDC1, which is also recruited to sites of DNA damage, binds N6mA that is located across from a single-base gap between two canonical DNA helices. This YTHDC1 complex with a gapped duplex is structurally similar to DNA complexes with FEN1 and GEN1 – two members of the nuclease family that act in nucleotide excision repair, mismatch repair and homologous recombination, and which incise distinct non-B DNA structures. Together, the parts of our study provide a plausible mechanism for N6mA writer and reader proteins acting directly on lesion-containing DNA, and suggest in vivo experiments to test the mechanisms involving methylation of adenine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Yu
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - John R Horton
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Taraneh Hajian
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Masoud Vedadi
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Cari A Sagum
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Mark T Bedford
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Robert M Blumenthal
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, and Program in Bioinformatics, The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Toledo, OH 43614, USA
| | - Xing Zhang
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xiaodong Cheng
- Department of Epigenetics and Molecular Carcinogenesis, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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249
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Wei Q, Yang D, Liu X, Zhao H, Yang Y, Xu J, Liu T, Yi P. Exploration of the Role of m 6 A RNA Methylation Regulators in Malignant Progression and Clinical Prognosis of Ovarian Cancer. Front Genet 2021; 12:650554. [PMID: 34149801 PMCID: PMC8209520 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.650554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer is the most deadly gynecologic malignancy worldwide and it is warranted to dissect the critical gene regulatory network in ovarian cancer. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation, as the most prevalent RNA modification, is orchestrated by the m6A RNA methylation regulators and has been implicated in malignant progression of various cancers. In this study, we investigated the genetic landscape and expression profile of the m6A RNA methylation regulators in ovarian cancer and found that several m6A RNA methylation regulators were frequently amplified and up-regulated in ovarian cancer. Utilizing consensus cluster analysis, we stratified ovarian cancer samples into four clusters with distinct m6A methylation patterns and patients in these subgroups displayed the different clinical outcomes. Moreover, multivariate Cox proportional hazard model was used to screen the key m6A regulators associated with the prognosis of ovarian cancer and the last absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression was used to construct the gene signature for prognosis prediction. The survival analysis exhibited the risk-gene signature could be used as independent prognostic markers for ovarian cancer. In conclusion, m6A RNA methylation regulators are associated with the malignant progression of ovarian cancer and could be a potential in prognostic prediction for ovarian cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinglv Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoyi Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongyan Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yu Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ping Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Wang Y, Su X, Zhao M, Xu M, Chen Y, Li Z, Zhuang W. Importance of N 6-methyladenosine RNA modification in lung cancer (Review). Mol Clin Oncol 2021; 14:128. [PMID: 33981432 PMCID: PMC8108057 DOI: 10.3892/mco.2021.2290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is the most common mRNA modification in eukaryotes and exerts biological functions by affecting RNA metabolism. The m6A modification is installed by m6A methyltransferases, removed by demethylases and recognized by m6A-binding proteins. The interaction between these three elements maintains the dynamic equilibrium of m6A in cells. Accumulating evidence indicates that m6A RNA methylation has a significant impact on RNA metabolism and is involved in the pathogenesis of cancer. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The treatment options for lung cancer have developed considerably over the past few years; however, the survival rate of patients with lung cancer still remains very low. Although diagnostic methods and targeted therapies have been rapidly developed in recent years, the underlying mechanism and importance of m6A RNA methylation in the pathogenesis of lung cancer remains ambiguous. The current review summarized the biological functions of m6A modification and considers the potential roles of m6A regulators in the occurrence and development of lung cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueyang Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology Test Technique, College of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin 132000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoming Su
- Department of Molecular Biology Test Technique, College of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin 132000, P.R. China
| | - Mingyao Zhao
- Department of Molecular Biology Test Technique, College of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin 132000, P.R. China
| | - Mingchen Xu
- Department of Molecular Biology Test Technique, College of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin 132000, P.R. China
| | - Yueqi Chen
- Department of Molecular Biology Test Technique, College of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin 132000, P.R. China
| | - Zhengyi Li
- Department of Clinical Examination Basis, Laboratory Academy, Jilin Medical University, Jilin 132000, P.R. China
| | - Wenyue Zhuang
- Department of Molecular Biology Test Technique, College of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin 132000, P.R. China
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