301
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Worpenberg L, Paolantoni C, Roignant JY. Functional interplay within the epitranscriptome: Reality or fiction? Bioessays 2021; 44:e2100174. [PMID: 34873719 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202100174] [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: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
RNA modifications have recently emerged as an important regulatory layer of gene expression. The most prevalent and reversible modification on messenger RNA (mRNA), N6-methyladenosine, regulates most steps of RNA metabolism and its dysregulation has been associated with numerous diseases. Other modifications such as 5-methylcytosine and N1-methyladenosine have also been detected on mRNA but their abundance is lower and still debated. Adenosine to inosine RNA editing is widespread on coding and non-coding RNA and can alter mRNA decoding as well as protect against autoimmune diseases. 2'-O-methylation of the ribose and pseudouridine are widespread on ribosomal and transfer RNA and contribute to proper RNA folding and stability. While the understanding of the individual role of RNA modifications has now reached an unprecedented stage, still little is known about their interplay in the control of gene expression. In this review we discuss the examples where such interplay has been observed and speculate that with the progress of mapping technologies more of those will rapidly accumulate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Worpenberg
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Chiara Paolantoni
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Yves Roignant
- Center for Integrative Genomics, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
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302
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Wang E, Li Y, Ming R, Wei J, Du P, Zhou P, Zong S, Xiao H. The Prognostic Value and Immune Landscapes of a m 6A/m 5C/m 1A-Related LncRNAs Signature in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:718974. [PMID: 34917609 PMCID: PMC8670092 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.718974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: N6-methyladenosine (m6A), 5-methylcytosine (m5C) and N1-methyladenosine (m1A) are the main RNA methylation modifications involved in the progression of cancer. However, it is still unclear whether m6A/m5C/m1A-related long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) affect the prognosis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Methods: We summarized 52 m6A/m5C/m1A-related genes, downloaded 44 normal samples and 501 HNSCC tumor samples with RNA-seq data and clinical information from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, and then searched for m6A/m5C/m1A-related genes co-expressed lncRNAs. We adopt the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression to obtain m6A/m5C/m1A-related lncRNAs to construct a prognostic signature of HNSCC. Results: This prognostic signature is based on six m6A/m5C/m1A-related lncRNAs (AL035587.1, AC009121.3, AF131215.5, FMR1-IT1, AC106820.5, PTOV1-AS2). It was found that the high-risk subgroup has worse overall survival (OS) than the low-risk subgroup. Moreover, the results showed that most immune checkpoint genes were significantly different between the two risk groups (p < 0.05). Immunity microenvironment analysis showed that the contents of NK cell resting, macrophages M2, and neutrophils in samples of low-risk group were significantly lower than those of high-risk group (p < 0.05), while the contents of B cells navie, plasma cells, and T cells regulatory (Tregs) were on the contrary (p < 0.05). In addition, patients with high tumor mutational burden (TMB) had the worse overall survival than those with low tumor mutational burden. Conclusion: Our study elucidated how m6A/m5C/m1A-related lncRNAs are related to the prognosis, immune microenvironment, and TMB of HNSCC. In the future, these m6A/m5C/m1A-related lncRNAs may become a new choice for immunotherapy of HNSCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enhao Wang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Stomatology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruijie Ming
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiahui Wei
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Peiyu Du
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Peng Zhou
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shimin Zong
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongjun Xiao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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303
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Wang DO. Epitranscriptomic regulation of cognitive development and decline. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 129:3-13. [PMID: 34857470 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Functional genomics and systems biology have opened new doors to previously inaccessible genomic information and holistic approaches to study complex networks of genes and proteins in the central nervous system. The advances are revolutionizing our understanding of the genetic underpinning of cognitive development and decline by facilitating identifications of novel molecular regulators and physiological pathways underlying brain function, and by associating polymorphism and mutations to cognitive dysfunction and neurological diseases. However, our current understanding of these complex gene regulatory mechanisms has yet lacked sufficient mechanistic resolution for further translational breakthroughs. Here we review recent findings from the burgeoning field of epitranscriptomics in association of cognitive functions with a special focus on the epitranscritomic regulation in subcellular locations such as chromosome, synapse, and mitochondria. Although there are important gaps in knowledge, current evidence is suggesting that this layer of RNA regulation may be of particular interest for the spatiotemporally coordinated regulation of gene networks in developing and maintaining brain function that underlie cognitive changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Ohtan Wang
- Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, RIKEN, 2-2-3 Minatojima-minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan; Graduate School of Biostudies, Kyoto University, Yoshida Hon-machi, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan.
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304
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Liang Z, Zhang L, Chen H, Huang D, Song B. m6A-Maize: Weakly supervised prediction of m 6A-carrying transcripts and m 6A-affecting mutations in maize (Zea mays). Methods 2021; 203:226-232. [PMID: 34843978 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2021.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
With the rapid development of high-throughput sequencing techniques nowadays, extensive attention has been paid to epitranscriptomics, which covers more than 150 distinct chemical modifications to date. Among that, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification has the most abundant existence, and it is also significantly related to varieties of biological processes. Meanwhile, maize is the most important food crop and cultivated throughout the world. Therefore, the study of m6A modification in maize has both economic and academic value. In this research, we proposed a weakly supervised learning model to predict the situation of m6A modification in maize. The proposed model learns from low-resolution epitranscriptome datasets (e.g., MeRIP-seq), which predicts the m6A methylation status of given fragments or regions. By taking advantage of our prediction model, we further identified traits-associated SNPs that may affect (add or remove) m6A modifications in maize, which may provide potential regulatory mechanisms at epitranscriptome layer. Additionally, a centralized online-platform was developed for m6A study in maize, which contains 58,838 experimentally validated maize m6A-containing regions including training and testing datasets, and a database for 2,578 predicted traits-associated m6A-affecting maize mutations. Furthermore, the online web server based on proposed weakly supervised model is available for predicting putative m6A sites from user-uploaded maize sequences, as well as accessing the epitranscriptome impact of user-interested maize SNPs on m6A modification. In all, our work provided a useful resource for the study of m6A RNA methylation in maize species. It is freely accessible at www.xjtlu.edu.cn/biologicalsciences/maize.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhanmin Liang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China.
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China.
| | - Haoting Chen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China.
| | - Daiyun Huang
- Department of Biological Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China; Department of Computer Science, University of Liverpool, L69 7ZB Liverpool, United Kingdom.
| | - Bowen Song
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China; Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, L69 7ZB Liverpool, United Kingdom.
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305
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Pauli C, Kienhöfer M, Göllner S, Müller-Tidow C. Epitranscriptomic modifications in acute myeloid leukemia: m 6A and 2'- O-methylation as targets for novel therapeutic strategies. Biol Chem 2021; 402:1531-1546. [PMID: 34634841 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2021-0286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Modifications of RNA commonly occur in all species. Multiple enzymes are involved as writers, erasers and readers of these modifications. Many RNA modifications or the respective enzymes are associated with human disease and especially cancer. Currently, the mechanisms how RNA modifications impact on a large number of intracellular processes are emerging and knowledge about the pathogenetic role of RNA modifications increases. In Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), the N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification has emerged as an important modulator of leukemogenesis. The writer proteins METTL3 and METTL14 are both involved in AML pathogenesis and might be suitable therapeutic targets. Recently, close links between 2'-O-methylation (2'-O-me) of ribosomal RNA and leukemogenesis were discovered. The AML1-ETO oncofusion protein which specifically occurs in a subset of AML was found to depend on induction of snoRNAs and 2'-O-me for leukemogenesis. Also, NPM1, an important tumor suppressor in AML, was associated with altered snoRNAs and 2'-O-me. These findings point toward novel pathogenetic mechanisms and potential therapeutic interventions. The current knowledge and the implications are the topic of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cornelius Pauli
- Department of Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Kienhöfer
- Department of Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Göllner
- Department of Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Carsten Müller-Tidow
- Department of Medicine V, Hematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Molecular Medicine Partnership Unit, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL)-Heidelberg University Hospital, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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306
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Yang WQ, Xiong QP, Ge JY, Li H, Zhu WY, Nie Y, Lin X, Lv D, Li J, Lin H, Liu RJ. THUMPD3-TRMT112 is a m2G methyltransferase working on a broad range of tRNA substrates. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:11900-11919. [PMID: 34669960 PMCID: PMC8599901 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-transcriptional modifications affect tRNA biology and are closely associated with human diseases. However, progress on the functional analysis of tRNA modifications in metazoans has been slow because of the difficulty in identifying modifying enzymes. For example, the biogenesis and function of the prevalent N2-methylguanosine (m2G) at the sixth position of tRNAs in eukaryotes has long remained enigmatic. Herein, using a reverse genetics approach coupled with RNA-mass spectrometry, we identified that THUMP domain-containing protein 3 (THUMPD3) is responsible for tRNA: m2G6 formation in human cells. However, THUMPD3 alone could not modify tRNAs. Instead, multifunctional methyltransferase subunit TRM112-like protein (TRMT112) interacts with THUMPD3 to activate its methyltransferase activity. In the in vitro enzymatic assay system, THUMPD3-TRMT112 could methylate all the 26 tested G6-containing human cytoplasmic tRNAs by recognizing the characteristic 3'-CCA of mature tRNAs. We also showed that m2G7 of tRNATrp was introduced by THUMPD3-TRMT112. Furthermore, THUMPD3 is widely expressed in mouse tissues, with an extremely high level in the testis. THUMPD3-knockout cells exhibited impaired global protein synthesis and reduced growth. Our data highlight the significance of the tRNA: m2G6/7 modification and pave a way for further studies of the role of m2G in sperm tRNA derived fragments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Qing Yang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Qing-Ping Xiong
- CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Jian-Yang Ge
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Hao Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Wen-Yu Zhu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Yan Nie
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Xiuying Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Daizhu Lv
- Analysis and Testing Center, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Haikou 571101, China
| | - Jing Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Huan Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Resource Utilization in South China Sea, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Ru-Juan Liu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
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307
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Barros-Silva D, Klavert J, Jenster G, Jerónimo C, Lafontaine DLJ, Martens-Uzunova ES. The role of OncoSnoRNAs and Ribosomal RNA 2'-O-methylation in Cancer. RNA Biol 2021; 18:61-74. [PMID: 34775914 PMCID: PMC8677010 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2021.1991167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Ribosomes are essential nanomachines responsible for all protein production in cells. Ribosome biogenesis and function are energy costly processes, they are tightly regulated to match cellular needs. In cancer, major pathways that control ribosome biogenesis and function are often deregulated to ensure cell survival and to accommodate the continuous proliferation of tumour cells. Ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs) are abundantly modified with 2'-O-methylation (Nm, ribomethylation) being one of the most common modifications. In eukaryotic ribosomes, ribomethylation is performed by the methyltransferase Fibrillarin guided by box C/D small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs). Accumulating evidences indicate that snoRNA expression and ribosome methylation profiles are altered in cancer. Here we review our current knowledge on differential snoRNA expression and rRNA 2ʹ-O methylation in the context of human malignancies, and discuss the consequences and opportunities for cancer diagnostics, prognostics, and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Barros-Silva
- Department of Urology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal
| | - Jonathan Klavert
- Department of Urology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Guido Jenster
- Department of Urology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP) / RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto) / Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (Icbas-up), Porto, Portugal
| | - Denis L J Lafontaine
- Rna Molecular Biology, Fonds De La Recherche Scientifique (F.r.s./fnrs), Université Libre De Bruxelles (Ulb), BioPark Campus, Gosselies, Belgium
| | - Elena S Martens-Uzunova
- Department of Urology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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308
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Cui C, Wu X, Zhou Y. GlyinsRNA: a webserver for predicting glycosylation sites on small RNAs. RNA Biol 2021; 18:600-603. [PMID: 34559595 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2021.1982574] [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: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Versatile RNA modifications play important roles in post-transcriptional regulations of gene expression, among which glycosylation modifications on small RNAs emerge as a novel clade whose characteristics need further interrogations. Here, we demonstrated that the sequence pattern around RNA glycosylation sites was not random and could be exploited for glycosylation site prediction. A machine learning predictor, GlyinsRNA, which integrated multiple RNA sequence representation encodings, was established. GlyinsRNA achieved AUROC (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve) of 0.7933 and 0.7979 in five-fold cross-validation and independent tests, respectively. GlyinsRNA was implemented as an online webserver, where both the predicted glycosylation sites and the overrepresented RNA-binding protein (RBP)-related motifs were annotated to facilitate the users. GlyinsRNA webserver is freely available at http://www.rnanut.net/glyinsrna.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunmei Cui
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Moe Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaobin Wu
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Moe Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Zhou
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, Moe Key Lab of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
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309
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Martinez Campos C, Tsai K, Courtney DG, Bogerd HP, Holley CL, Cullen BR. Mapping of pseudouridine residues on cellular and viral transcripts using a novel antibody-based technique. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2021; 27:1400-1411. [PMID: 34376564 PMCID: PMC8522693 DOI: 10.1261/rna.078940.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Pseudouridine (Ψ) is the most common noncanonical ribonucleoside present on mammalian noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), including rRNAs, tRNAs, and snRNAs, where it contributes ∼7% of the total uridine level. However, Ψ constitutes only ∼0.1% of the uridines present on mRNAs and its effect on mRNA function remains unclear. Ψ residues have been shown to inhibit the detection of exogenous RNA transcripts by host innate immune factors, thus raising the possibility that viruses might have subverted the addition of Ψ residues to mRNAs by host pseudouridine synthase (PUS) enzymes as a way to inhibit antiviral responses in infected cells. Here, we describe and validate a novel antibody-based Ψ mapping technique called photo-crosslinking-assisted Ψ sequencing (PA-Ψ-seq) and use it to map Ψ residues on not only multiple cellular RNAs but also on the mRNAs and genomic RNA encoded by HIV-1. We describe 293T-derived cell lines in which human PUS enzymes previously reported to add Ψ residues to human mRNAs, specifically PUS1, PUS7, and TRUB1/PUS4, were inactivated by gene editing. Surprisingly, while this allowed us to assign several sites of Ψ addition on cellular mRNAs to each of these three PUS enzymes, Ψ sites present on HIV-1 transcripts remained unaffected. Moreover, loss of PUS1, PUS7, or TRUB1 function did not significantly reduce the level of Ψ residues detected on total human mRNA below the ∼0.1% level seen in wild-type cells, thus implying that the PUS enzyme(s) that adds the bulk of Ψ residues to human mRNAs remains to be defined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Martinez Campos
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Kevin Tsai
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - David G Courtney
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Hal P Bogerd
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Christopher L Holley
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Bryan R Cullen
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
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310
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jordan L Meier
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA.
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311
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Dai W, Li A, Yu NJ, Nguyen T, Leach RW, Wühr M, Kleiner RE. Activity-based RNA-modifying enzyme probing reveals DUS3L-mediated dihydrouridylation. Nat Chem Biol 2021; 17:1178-1187. [PMID: 34556860 PMCID: PMC8551019 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-021-00874-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Epitranscriptomic RNA modifications can regulate RNA activity; however, there remains a major gap in our understanding of the RNA chemistry present in biological systems. Here we develop RNA-mediated activity-based protein profiling (RNABPP), a chemoproteomic strategy that relies on metabolic RNA labeling, mRNA interactome capture and quantitative proteomics, to investigate RNA-modifying enzymes in human cells. RNABPP with 5-fluoropyrimidines allowed us to profile 5-methylcytidine (m5C) and 5-methyluridine (m5U) methyltransferases. Further, we uncover a new mechanism-based crosslink between 5-fluorouridine (5-FUrd)-modified RNA and the dihydrouridine synthase (DUS) homolog DUS3L. We investigate the mechanism of crosslinking and use quantitative nucleoside liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis and 5-FUrd-based crosslinking and immunoprecipitation (CLIP) sequencing to map DUS3L-dependent dihydrouridine (DHU) modifications across the transcriptome. Finally, we show that DUS3L-knockout (KO) cells have compromised protein translation rates and impaired cellular proliferation. Taken together, our work provides a general approach for profiling RNA-modifying enzyme activity in living cells and reveals new pathways for epitranscriptomic RNA regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Dai
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA,These authors contributed equally
| | - Ang Li
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA,These authors contributed equally
| | - Nathan J. Yu
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Thao Nguyen
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA,Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA,Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Robert W. Leach
- Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Martin Wühr
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA,Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Ralph E. Kleiner
- Department of Chemistry, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA,
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312
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Zhu LR, Ni WJ, Cai M, Dai WT, Zhou H. Advances in RNA Epigenetic Modifications in Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Potential Targeted Intervention Strategies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:777007. [PMID: 34778277 PMCID: PMC8586511 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.777007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The current interventions for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are not satisfactory, and more precise targets and promising strategies need to be explored. Recent research has demonstrated the non-negligible roles of RNA epigenetic modifications such as N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and 5-methylcytosine (m5C) in various cancers, including HCC. However, the specific targeting mechanisms are not well elucidated. In this review, we focus on the occurrence and detailed physiopathological roles of multiple RNA modifications on diverse RNAs closely related to the HCC process. In particular, we highlight fresh insights into the impact mechanisms of these posttranscriptional modifications on the whole progression of HCC. Furthermore, we analyzed the possibilities and significance of these modifications and regulators as potential therapeutic targets in HCC treatment, which provides the foundation for exploring targeted intervention strategies. This review will propel the identification of promising therapeutic targets and novel strategies that can be translated into clinical applications for HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Ran Zhu
- Anhui Provincial Children’s Hospital, Anhui Institute of Pediatric Research, Hefei, China
| | - Wei-Jian Ni
- The Key Laboratory of Anti-inflammatory of Immune Medicines, Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Pharmacy, Ministry of Education, Anhui Institute of Innovative Drugs, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Anhui Provincial Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Ming Cai
- Department of Pharmacy, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Wen-Tao Dai
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicinal Formula Research, Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Hong Zhou
- Department of Pharmacy, Anhui Provincial Cancer Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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313
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Emerging Roles of N6-Methyladenosine Modification in Neurodevelopment and Neurodegeneration. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102694. [PMID: 34685675 PMCID: PMC8534826 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102694] [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: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most abundant modification in messenger RNAs (mRNAs), is deposited by methyltransferases ("writers") Mettl3 and Mettl14 and erased by demethylases ("erasers") Fto and Alkbh5. m6A can be recognized by m6A-binding proteins ("readers"), such as Yth domain family proteins (Ythdfs) and Yth domain-containing protein 1 (Ythdc1). Previous studies have indicated that m6A plays an essential function in various fundamental biological processes, including neurogenesis and neuronal development. Dysregulated m6A modification contributes to neurological disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about the roles of m6A machinery, including writers, erasers, and readers, in regulating gene expression and the function of m6A in neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration. We also discuss the perspectives for studying m6A methylation.
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314
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Mesnage R, Mahmud N, Mein CA, Antoniou MN. Alterations in small RNA profiles in liver following a subchronic exposure to a low-dose pesticide mixture in Sprague-Dawley rats. Toxicol Lett 2021; 353:20-26. [PMID: 34626815 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2021.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Small RNAs have emerged as a promising new type of biomarker to monitor health status and track the development of diseases. Here we report changes in the levels of small RNAs in the liver of rats exposed to a mixture of six pesticides frequently detected in foodstuffs (azoxystrobin, boscalid, chlorpyrifos, glyphosate, imidacloprid and thiabendazole). Multivariate analysis with OPLS-DA methods showed that small RNA profiles can discriminate samples from pesticide treated rats from their concurrent controls. A total of 9 miRNAs were found to have their levels altered in the liver of the pesticide-treated rats in comparison to the controls, which included 7 that were downregulated (miR-22-5p, miR-193a-3p, miR-32-5p, miR-33-5p, miR-122-5p, miR-22-3p, miR-130a-3p) and 2 that were upregulated (miR-486-5p, miR-146a-5p). These miRNAs were predicted to regulate genes, which were found to have their expression altered by the pesticide mixture and have known health implications in the regulation of hepatic metabolism. This supports and extends our recent conclusions that high- throughput 'omics' analyses can reveal molecular perturbations, which can potentially act as sensitive and accurate markers of health risks arising from exposure to environmental pollutants such as pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin Mesnage
- Gene Expression and Therapy Group, King's College London, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Guy's Hospital, London, SE1 9RT, United Kingdom
| | - Nadiya Mahmud
- Genome Centre, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Blizard Institute, London, E1 2AT, United Kingdom
| | - Charles A Mein
- Genome Centre, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Blizard Institute, London, E1 2AT, United Kingdom
| | - Michael N Antoniou
- Gene Expression and Therapy Group, King's College London, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, Department of Medical and Molecular Genetics, Guy's Hospital, London, SE1 9RT, United Kingdom.
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315
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Guimarães-Teixeira C, Barros-Silva D, Lobo J, Soares-Fernandes D, Constâncio V, Leite-Silva P, Silva-Santos R, Braga I, Henrique R, Miranda-Gonçalves V, Jerónimo C. Deregulation of N6-Methyladenosine RNA Modification and Its Erasers FTO/ALKBH5 among the Main Renal Cell Tumor Subtypes. J Pers Med 2021; 11:996. [PMID: 34683137 PMCID: PMC8538585 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11100996] [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: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Methylation of N6-adenosine (m6A) is the most abundant messenger RNA (mRNA) modification in eukaryotes. We assessed the expression profiles of m6A regulatory proteins in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and their clinical relevance, namely, as potential biomarkers. (2) Methods: In silico analysis of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset was use for evaluating the expression of the m6A regulatory proteins among RCC subtypes and select the most promising candidates for further validation. ALKBH5 and FTO transcript and protein expression were evaluated in a series of primary RCC (n = 120) and 40 oncocytomas selected at IPO Porto. (3) Results: In silico analysis of TCGA dataset disclosed altered expression of the major m6A demethylases among RCC subtypes, particularly FTO and ALKBH5. Furthermore, decreased FTO mRNA levels associated with poor prognosis in ccRCC and pRCC. In IPO Porto's cohort, FTO and ALKBH5 transcript levels discriminated ccRCC from oncocytomas. Furthermore, FTO and ALKBH5 immunoexpression differed among RCC subtypes, with higher expression levels found in ccRCC comparatively to the other RCC subtypes and oncocytomas. (4) Conclusion: We conclude that altered expression of m6A RNA demethylases is common in RCC and seems to be subtype specific. Specifically, FTO and ALKBH5 might constitute new candidate biomarkers for RCC patient management, aiding in differential diagnosis of renal masses and prognostication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina Guimarães-Teixeira
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (C.G.-T.); (D.B.-S.); (J.L.); (D.S.-F.); (V.C.); (R.H.); (V.M.-G.)
- PhD Programme in Pathology & Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, nº 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Daniela Barros-Silva
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (C.G.-T.); (D.B.-S.); (J.L.); (D.S.-F.); (V.C.); (R.H.); (V.M.-G.)
- PhD Programme in Pathology & Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, nº 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - João Lobo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (C.G.-T.); (D.B.-S.); (J.L.); (D.S.-F.); (V.C.); (R.H.); (V.M.-G.)
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, nº 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Diana Soares-Fernandes
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (C.G.-T.); (D.B.-S.); (J.L.); (D.S.-F.); (V.C.); (R.H.); (V.M.-G.)
| | - Vera Constâncio
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (C.G.-T.); (D.B.-S.); (J.L.); (D.S.-F.); (V.C.); (R.H.); (V.M.-G.)
| | - Pedro Leite-Silva
- Cancer Epidemiology, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), R. Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Rui Silva-Santos
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Isaac Braga
- Department of Urology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Rui Henrique
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (C.G.-T.); (D.B.-S.); (J.L.); (D.S.-F.); (V.C.); (R.H.); (V.M.-G.)
- Department of Pathology, Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPOP), Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal;
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, nº 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Vera Miranda-Gonçalves
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (C.G.-T.); (D.B.-S.); (J.L.); (D.S.-F.); (V.C.); (R.H.); (V.M.-G.)
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, nº 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Carmen Jerónimo
- Cancer Biology and Epigenetics Group, Research Center of IPO Porto (CI-IPOP)/RISE@CI-IPOP (Health Research Network), Portuguese Oncology Institute of Porto (IPO Porto)/Porto Comprehensive Cancer Center (Porto.CCC), Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal; (C.G.-T.); (D.B.-S.); (J.L.); (D.S.-F.); (V.C.); (R.H.); (V.M.-G.)
- Department of Pathology and Molecular Immunology, School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, nº 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
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316
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Wang X, Ma R, Zhang X, Cui L, Ding Y, Shi W, Guo C, Shi Y. Crosstalk between N6-methyladenosine modification and circular RNAs: current understanding and future directions. Mol Cancer 2021; 20:121. [PMID: 34560891 PMCID: PMC8461955 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-021-01415-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a prevalent internal modification in eukaryotic RNAs regulated by the so-called "writers", "erasers", and "readers". m6A has been demonstrated to exert critical molecular functions in modulating RNA maturation, localization, translation and metabolism, thus playing an essential role in cellular, developmental, and disease processes. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs with covalently closed single-stranded structures generated by back-splicing. CircRNAs also participate in physiological and pathological processes through unique mechanisms. Despite their discovery several years ago, m6A and circRNAs has drawn increased research interest due to advances in molecular biology techniques these years. Recently, several scholars have investigated the crosstalk between m6A and circRNAs. In this review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge of m6A and circRNAs, as well as summarize the crosstalk between these molecules based on existing research. In addition, we present some suggestions for future research perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 1278 Baode Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai, 200443, China.,Institute of Psoriasis, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Rui Ma
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xilin Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 1278 Baode Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai, 200443, China.,Institute of Psoriasis, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lian Cui
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 1278 Baode Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai, 200443, China.,Institute of Psoriasis, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yangfeng Ding
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 1278 Baode Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai, 200443, China.,Institute of Psoriasis, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Weimin Shi
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunyuan Guo
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 1278 Baode Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai, 200443, China. .,Institute of Psoriasis, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yuling Shi
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai Skin Disease Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, 1278 Baode Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai, 200443, China. .,Institute of Psoriasis, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.
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317
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Helm M, Schmidt-Dengler MC, Weber M, Motorin Y. General Principles for the Detection of Modified Nucleotides in RNA by Specific Reagents. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2021; 5:e2100866. [PMID: 34535986 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202100866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Epitranscriptomics heavily rely on chemical reagents for the detection, quantification, and localization of modified nucleotides in transcriptomes. Recent years have seen a surge in mapping methods that use innovative and rediscovered organic chemistry in high throughput approaches. While this has brought about a leap of progress in this young field, it has also become clear that the different chemistries feature variegated specificity and selectivity. The associated error rates, e.g., in terms of false positives and false negatives, are in large part inherent to the chemistry employed. This means that even assuming technically perfect execution, the interpretation of mapping results issuing from the application of such chemistries are limited by intrinsic features of chemical reactivity. An important but often ignored fact is that the huge stochiometric excess of unmodified over-modified nucleotides is not inert to any of the reagents employed. Consequently, any reaction aimed at chemical discrimination of modified versus unmodified nucleotides has optimal conditions for selectivity that are ultimately anchored in relative reaction rates, whose ratio imposes intrinsic limits to selectivity. Here chemical reactivities of canonical and modified ribonucleosides are revisited as a basis for an understanding of the limits of selectivity achievable with chemical methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Helm
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität, Staudingerweg 5, D-55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Martina C Schmidt-Dengler
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität, Staudingerweg 5, D-55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Marlies Weber
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität, Staudingerweg 5, D-55128, Mainz, Germany
| | - Yuri Motorin
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, INSERM, UMS2008/US40 IBSLor, EpiRNA-Seq Core facility, Nancy, F-54000, France.,Université de Lorraine, CNRS, UMR7365 IMoPA, Nancy, F-54000, France
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318
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Demircan T, Yavuz M, Akgül S. m 6A Pathway Regulators Are Frequently Mutated in Breast Invasive Carcinoma and May Play an Important Role in Disease Pathogenesis. OMICS-A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2021; 25:660-678. [PMID: 34520276 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2021.0114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Breast invasive carcinoma (BIC) is one of the most commonly observed and the deadliest cancer among women. Studies examining the role of epigenetics and regulation of gene expression stand to make important strides in clinical management of BIC. In this context, messenger-RNA (mRNA) modification by regulatory proteins is noteworthy. Methylation of the adenosine base on the sixth nitrogen position is termed as N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification, and this is the most abundant mRNA modification in mammals. Using several publicly available datasets, we report, in this study, comprehensive analyses and new findings on the impact of epitranscriptome regulatory factors and genetic alterations in m6A pathway genes on BIC. Accordingly, mutation frequency, type, and expression levels were determined. Importantly, we found that VIRMA, METTL14, RBM15B, EIF3B, YTHDF1, and YTHDF3 genes hold potential significance as prognostic biomarker candidates as evidenced in particular by the overall survival analysis. Enrichment of gene ontology (GO) terms and KEGG pathways for the tumor samples with genetic alterations in the epitranscriptome regulatory pathways were investigated. Dysregulation of regulatory factors in breast cancer was associated with cell division, and survival-related pathways such as "nuclear division," and "chromosome segregation." Hence, the gained overactivity of these pathways may account for BIC's poor prognosis. In conclusion, these data underscore that m6A pathway regulators are frequently mutated in BIC and likely play a significant role in disease pathogenesis. Epitranscriptome pathway genes warrant further research attention as regulators of cancer growth and biological targets in BIC, and with an eye to personalized medicine in clinical oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Turan Demircan
- Medical Biology Department, School of Medicine, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla, Turkey.,Department of Bioinformatics, Institute of Natural Sciences, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla, Turkey
| | - Mervenur Yavuz
- Medical Biology, Institute of Health Sciences, Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, Muğla, Turkey
| | - Sıddıka Akgül
- Biophysics, Institute of Health Sciences, Adnan Menderes University, Aydın, Turkey
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319
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Marchand V, Bourguignon-Igel V, Helm M, Motorin Y. Analysis of pseudouridines and other RNA modifications using HydraPsiSeq protocol. Methods 2021; 203:383-391. [PMID: 34481083 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2021.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Detection of RNA modified nucleotides using deep sequencing can be performed by several approaches, including antibody-driven enrichment and natural or chemically induced RT signatures. However, only very few RNA modified nucleotides generate natural RT signatures and antibody-driven enrichment heavily depends on the quality of antibodies used and may be highly biased. Thus, the use of chemically-induced RT signatures is now considered as the most trusted experimental approach. In addition, the use of chemical reagents allows inclusion of simple "mock-treated" controls, to exclude spontaneous RT arrests, SNPs and other misincorporation-prone sites. Hydrazine is a well-known RNA-specific reagent, already extensively used in the past for RNA sequencing and structural probing. Hydrazine is highly reactive to U and shows low reaction rates with ψ residues, allowing their distinction by deep sequencing-based protocols. However, other modified RNA residues also show particular behavior upon hydrazine treatment. Here we present methodological developments allowing to use HydraPsiSeq for precise quantification of RNA pseudouridylation and also detection and quantification of some other RNA modifications, in addition to ψ residues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginie Marchand
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, INSERM, UMS2008/US40 IBSLor, EpiRNA-Seq Core facility, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Valérie Bourguignon-Igel
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, INSERM, UMS2008/US40 IBSLor, EpiRNA-Seq Core facility, F-54000 Nancy, France; Université de Lorraine, CNRS, UMR7365 IMoPA, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Mark Helm
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität, Staudingerweg 5, D-55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Yuri Motorin
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, INSERM, UMS2008/US40 IBSLor, EpiRNA-Seq Core facility, F-54000 Nancy, France; Université de Lorraine, CNRS, UMR7365 IMoPA, F-54000 Nancy, France.
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320
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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: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [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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321
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Tao W, Tian G, Xu S, Li J, Zhang Z, Li J. NAT10 as a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for HNSCC. Cancer Cell Int 2021; 21:413. [PMID: 34362389 PMCID: PMC8344148 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-021-02124-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Increasing evidence has demonstrated the critical roles of mRNA modification regulators on multiple types of cancers. However, it is still poorly known about the prognostic and therapeutic value of mRNA modification regulators in HNSCC. Methods The gene expression profile of 36 mRNA modification regulators and their corresponding clinical data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Stepwise regression in R with both directions was used to construct a model for the prognosis of HNSCC. Univariate Cox regression survival analysis was performed to identify the most significant risk gene. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was applied to determine the cancer-associated pathways with NAT10. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining was performed to evaluate the expression of NAT10 in formalin fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples of HNSCC. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression survival analysis performed to identify the independent risk factors associated with the OS of patients with HNSCC. HNSCC cell lines (Cal-27, FaDu, and Detroit-562) were transfected with short interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting NAT10 or treated with Remodelin, a small-molecule inhibitor of NAT10. Knockdown efficiency of siRNA was assessed by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blotting. In addition, CCK-8 assay, scratch assay and transwell assay were used to examine the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of the three HNSCC cell lines after NAT10 was inhibited genetically and pharmaceutically. Cell cycle and cell apoptosis assays were performed by flow cytometry. Finally, the therapeutic value of Remodelin in HNSCC was evaluated via a patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model. The statistical analysis was performed with SPSS 23.0. Results A risk prediction model containing 10 mRNA modification regulators was constructed and showed prognostic value in HNSCC. NAT10 was further identified as a key risk gene and independent prognostic factor in TCGA HNSCC dataset. The GSEA analysis suggested that high NAT10 expression was associated with MYC, E2F, G2M checkpoint, mTORC1, DNA repair and oxidative phosphorylation pathways. NAT10 protein expression was significantly up-regulated in tumour cells compared to normal epithelial cells in FFPE samples and increased NAT10 protein expression was correlated with poor overall survival of 267 HNSCC patients. Genetic depletion of NAT10 using siRNA or chemical inhibition of NAT10 using Remodelin resulted in reduced cell proliferation, migration and invasion abilities in Cal-27, FaDu and Detroit-562 cells. Knockdown of NAT10 using siRNA significantly increased cell cycle arrest in S/G2-phase. Remodelin significantly inhibited tumour growth and tumour cell proliferation in the PDX model of HNSCC. Conclusions NAT10 could be a potential prognostic marker and a therapeutic target for HNSCC. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12935-021-02124-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjie Tao
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Research Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Guocai Tian
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Research Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Shengming Xu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Research Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiayi Li
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.,Research Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiyuan Zhang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial-Head Neck Oncology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, College of Stomatology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai, People's Republic of China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, People's Republic of China. .,Research Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jiang Li
- National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases, Shanghai, People's Republic of China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Stomatology & Shanghai Research Institute of Stomatology, Shanghai, People's Republic of China. .,Research Unit of Oral and Maxillofacial Regenerative Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China. .,Department of Oral Pathology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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322
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Manavski N, Vicente A, Chi W, Meurer J. The Chloroplast Epitranscriptome: Factors, Sites, Regulation, and Detection Methods. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12081121. [PMID: 34440296 PMCID: PMC8394491 DOI: 10.3390/genes12081121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Modifications in nucleic acids are present in all three domains of life. More than 170 distinct chemical modifications have been reported in cellular RNAs to date. Collectively termed as epitranscriptome, these RNA modifications are often dynamic and involve distinct regulatory proteins that install, remove, and interpret these marks in a site-specific manner. Covalent nucleotide modifications-such as methylations at diverse positions in the bases, polyuridylation, and pseudouridylation and many others impact various events in the lifecycle of an RNA such as folding, localization, processing, stability, ribosome assembly, and translational processes and are thus crucial regulators of the RNA metabolism. In plants, the nuclear/cytoplasmic epitranscriptome plays important roles in a wide range of biological processes, such as organ development, viral infection, and physiological means. Notably, recent transcriptome-wide analyses have also revealed novel dynamic modifications not only in plant nuclear/cytoplasmic RNAs related to photosynthesis but especially in chloroplast mRNAs, suggesting important and hitherto undefined regulatory steps in plastid functions and gene expression. Here we report on the latest findings of known plastid RNA modifications and highlight their relevance for the post-transcriptional regulation of chloroplast gene expression and their role in controlling plant development, stress reactions, and acclimation processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolay Manavski
- Plant Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Großhaderner Street 2-4, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; (N.M.); (A.V.)
| | - Alexandre Vicente
- Plant Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Großhaderner Street 2-4, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; (N.M.); (A.V.)
| | - Wei Chi
- Photosynthesis Research Center, Key Laboratory of Photobiology, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100093, China;
| | - Jörg Meurer
- Plant Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Großhaderner Street 2-4, 82152 Planegg-Martinsried, Germany; (N.M.); (A.V.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-89-218074556
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323
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Bartee D, Thalalla Gamage S, Link CN, Meier JL. Arrow pushing in RNA modification sequencing. Chem Soc Rev 2021; 50:9482-9502. [PMID: 34259263 DOI: 10.1039/d1cs00214g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Methods to accurately determine the location and abundance of RNA modifications are critical to understanding their functional role. In this review, we describe recent efforts in which chemical reactivity and next-generation sequencing have been integrated to detect modified nucleotides in RNA. For eleven exemplary modifications, we detail chemical, enzymatic, and metabolic labeling protocols that can be used to differentiate them from canonical nucleobases. By emphasizing the molecular rationale underlying these detection methods, our survey highlights new opportunities for chemistry to define the role of RNA modifications in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Bartee
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 538 Chandler St, Frederick, MD 21702, USA.
| | - Supuni Thalalla Gamage
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 538 Chandler St, Frederick, MD 21702, USA.
| | - Courtney N Link
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 538 Chandler St, Frederick, MD 21702, USA.
| | - Jordan L Meier
- Chemical Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, 538 Chandler St, Frederick, MD 21702, USA.
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324
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Mukherjee P, Raghava Kurup R, Hundley HA. RNA immunoprecipitation to identify in vivo targets of RNA editing and modifying enzymes. Methods Enzymol 2021; 658:137-160. [PMID: 34517945 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2021.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The past decade has seen an exponential increase in the identification of individual nucleobases that undergo base conversion and/or modification in transcriptomes. While the enzymes that catalyze these types of changes have been identified, the global interactome of these modifiers is still largely unknown. Furthermore, in some instances, redundancy among a family of enzymes leads to an inability to pinpoint the protein responsible for modifying a given transcript merely from high-throughput sequencing data. This chapter focuses on a method for global identification of transcripts recognized by an RNA modification/editing enzyme via capture of the RNAs that are bound in vivo, a method referred as RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP). We provide a guide of the major issues to consider when designing a RIP experiment, a detailed experimental protocol as well as troubleshooting advice. The RIP protocol presented here can be readily applied to any organism or cell line of interest as well as both RNA modification enzymes and RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) that regulate RNA modification levels. As mentioned at the end of the protocol, the RIP assay can be coupled to high-throughput sequencing to globally identify bound targets. For more quantitative investigations, such as how binding of an RNA modification enzyme/regulator to a given target changes during development/in specific tissues or assessing how the presence or absence of RNA modification affects transcript recognition by a particular RBP (irrespective of a role for the RBP in modulating modification levels); the RIP assay should be coupled to quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR).
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Mukherjee
- Medical Sciences Program, Indiana University School of Medicine-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | | | - Heather A Hundley
- Medical Sciences Program, Indiana University School of Medicine-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, United States.
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325
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Marchand V, Bourguignon-Igel V, Helm M, Motorin Y. Mapping of 7-methylguanosine (m 7G), 3-methylcytidine (m 3C), dihydrouridine (D) and 5-hydroxycytidine (ho 5C) RNA modifications by AlkAniline-Seq. Methods Enzymol 2021; 658:25-47. [PMID: 34517949 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2021.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Precise and reliable mapping of modified nucleotides in RNA is a challenging task in epitranscriptomics analysis. Only deep sequencing-based methods are able to provide both, a single-nucleotide resolution and sufficient selectivity and sensitivity. A number of protocols employing specific chemical reagents to distinguish modified RNA nucleotides from canonical parental residues have already proven their performance. We developed a deep-sequencing analytical pipeline for simultaneous detection of several modified nucleotides of different nature (methylation, hydroxylation, reduction) in RNA. The AlkAniline-Seq protocol uses intrinsic fragility of the N-glycosidic bond present in certain modified residues (7-methylguanosine (m7G), 3-methylcytidine (m3C), dihydrouridine (D) and 5-hydroxycytidine (ho5C)) to induce cleavage under heat combined with alkaline conditions. The resulting RNA abasic site is decomposed by aniline-driven β-elimination and creates a 5'-phosphate (5'-P) at the adjacent N+1 residue. This 5'-P is the crucial entry point for a highly selective ligation of sequencing adapters during the subsequent Illumina library preparation protocol. AlkAniline-Seq protocol has a very low background, and is both highly sensitive and specific. Applications of AlkAniline-Seq include mapping of m7G, m3C, D, and ho5C in variety of cellular RNAs, including in particular rRNAs and tRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginie Marchand
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, INSERM, UMS2008/US40 IBSLor, EpiRNA-Seq Core facility, Nancy, France
| | - Valérie Bourguignon-Igel
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, INSERM, UMS2008/US40 IBSLor, EpiRNA-Seq Core facility, Nancy, France; Université de Lorraine, CNRS, UMR7365 IMoPA, Nancy, France
| | - Mark Helm
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität, Mainz, Germany
| | - Yuri Motorin
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS, INSERM, UMS2008/US40 IBSLor, EpiRNA-Seq Core facility, Nancy, France; Université de Lorraine, CNRS, UMR7365 IMoPA, Nancy, France.
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326
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Xia P, Zhang H, Xu K, Jiang X, Gao M, Wang G, Liu Y, Yao Y, Chen X, Ma W, Zhang Z, Yuan Y. MYC-targeted WDR4 promotes proliferation, metastasis, and sorafenib resistance by inducing CCNB1 translation in hepatocellular carcinoma. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:691. [PMID: 34244479 PMCID: PMC8270967 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03973-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide. However, there still remains a lack of effective diagnostic and therapeutic targets for this disease. Increasing evidence demonstrates that RNA modifications play an important role in the progression of HCC, but the role of the N7-methylguanosine (m7G) methylation modification in HCC has not been properly evaluated. Thus, the goal of the present study was to investigate the function and mechanism of the m7G methyltransferase WD repeat domain 4 (WDR4) in HCC as well as its clinical relevance and potential value. We first verified the high expression of WDR4 in HCC and observed that upregulated WDR4 expression increased the m7G methylation level in HCC. WDR4 promoted HCC cell proliferation by inducing the G2/M cell cycle transition and inhibiting apoptosis in addition to enhancing metastasis and sorafenib resistance through epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Furthermore, we observed that c-MYC (MYC) can activate WDR4 transcription and that WDR4 promotes CCNB1 mRNA stability and translation to enhance HCC progression. Mechanistically, we determined that WDR4 enhances CCNB1 translation by promoting the binding of EIF2A to CCNB1 mRNA. Furthermore, CCNB1 was observed to promote PI3K and AKT phosphorylation in HCC and reduce P53 protein expression by promoting P53 ubiquitination. In summary, we elucidated the MYC/WDR4/CCNB1 signalling pathway and its impact on PI3K/AKT and P53. Furthermore, the result showed that the m7G methyltransferase WDR4 is a tumour promoter in the development and progression of HCC and may act as a candidate therapeutic target in HCC treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Xia
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Kequan Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiang Jiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Gao
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Ganggang Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingyi Liu
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Ye Yao
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Weijie Ma
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhonglin Zhang
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yufeng Yuan
- Department of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
- Clinical Medicine Research Center for Minimally Invasive Procedure of Hepatobiliary & Pancreatic Diseases of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430062, Hubei, People's Republic of China.
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327
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Satterwhite ER, Mansfield KD. RNA methyltransferase METTL16: Targets and function. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2021; 13:e1681. [PMID: 34227247 PMCID: PMC9286414 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methyltransferase METTL16 is an emerging player in the RNA modification landscape of the human cell. Originally thought to be a ribosomal RNA methyltransferase, it has now been shown to bind and methylate the MAT2A messenger RNA (mRNA) and U6 small nuclear RNA (snRNA). It has also been shown to bind the MALAT1 long noncoding RNA and several other RNAs. METTL16's methyltransferase domain contains the Rossmann-like fold of class I methyltransferases and uses S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) as the methyl donor. It has an RNA methylation consensus sequence of UACAGARAA (modified A underlined), and structural requirements for its known RNA interactors. In addition to the methyltransferase domain, METTL16 protein has two other RNA binding domains, one of which resides in a vertebrate conserved region, and a putative nuclear localization signal. The role of METTL16 in the cell is still being explored, however evidence suggests it is essential for most cells. This is currently hypothesized to be due to its role in regulating the splicing of MAT2A mRNA in response to cellular SAM levels. However, one of the more pressing questions remaining is what role METTL16's methylation of U6 snRNA plays in splicing and potentially cellular survival. METTL16 also has several other putative coding and noncoding RNA interactors but the definitive methylation status of those RNAs and the role METTL16 plays in their life cycle is yet to be determined. Overall, METTL16 is an intriguing RNA binding protein and methyltransferase whose important functions in the cell are just beginning to be understood. This article is categorized under: RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA-Protein Complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R Satterwhite
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kyle D Mansfield
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA
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328
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Xu W, Tian X, Liu W, Anwaier A, Su J, Zhu W, Wan F, Shi G, Wei G, Qu Y, Zhang H, Ye D. m 6A Regulator-Mediated Methylation Modification Model Predicts Prognosis, Tumor Microenvironment Characterizations and Response to Immunotherapies of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2021; 11:709579. [PMID: 34295828 PMCID: PMC8290143 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.709579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aims to establish an N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation regulators-mediated methylation model and explore its role in predicting prognostic accuracy of immune contexture and characterizations of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). METHODS The m6A modification subclasses (m6AMS) were identified by unsupervised cluster analysis and three clusters were determined by consensus clustering algorithm in a discovering cohort. Testing and real-world validation cohorts were used to identify predictive responses for immune checkpoint therapies (ICTs) of m6AMS. RESULTS Prognostic implications landscape of m6A regulators in cancers and its differential expression levels in ccRCC patients were identified. Based on discovering cohort, ccRCC were automatically divided into three m6AMS, and cluster 3 showed significant worse survival than cluster 1/2. Importantly, it was found that the immune checkpoint molecules expression was significantly elevated in cluster 3. Besides, m6A scoreLow group (cluster 1&2) have significantly elevated TIDE score compared with m6A scoreHigh group (cluster 3). There was conspicuous tertiary lymphoid tissue, aggressive phenotype, elevated glycolysis, expression of PD-L1, abundance of CD8+ T cells, CD4+ FOXP3+ Treg cells and TCRn immune cells infiltration in the high m6A score group. Interestingly, there are significantly increased patients with clinical benefit in m6A scoreHigh group in 368 patients receiving ICTs from testing IMvigor210 (n = 292) and validation FUSCC (n = 55) cohorts. CONCLUSION Our discovery highlights the relationship between tumor epigenetic heterogeneity and immune contexture. Immune-rejection cluster 3 has pro-tumorigenic immune infiltration, and shows significant clinical benefits for ccRCC patients receiving ICTs, enabling patient selection for future clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Xu
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Tian
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wangrui Liu
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Aihetaimujiang Anwaier
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaqi Su
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenkai Zhu
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fangning Wan
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guohai Shi
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Gaomeng Wei
- Department of Urology, Affiliated Hospital of Youjiang Medical College for Nationalities, Baise, China
| | - Yuanyuan Qu
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hailiang Zhang
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dingwei Ye
- Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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329
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De Paolis V, Lorefice E, Orecchini E, Carissimi C, Laudadio I, Fulci V. Epitranscriptomics: A New Layer of microRNA Regulation in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3372. [PMID: 34282776 PMCID: PMC8268402 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs are pervasive regulators of gene expression at the post-transcriptional level in metazoan, playing key roles in several physiological and pathological processes. Accordingly, these small non-coding RNAs are also involved in cancer development and progression. Furthermore, miRNAs represent valuable diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in malignancies. In the last twenty years, the role of RNA modifications in fine-tuning gene expressions at several levels has been unraveled. All RNA species may undergo post-transcriptional modifications, collectively referred to as epitranscriptomic modifications, which, in many instances, affect RNA molecule properties. miRNAs are not an exception, in this respect, and they have been shown to undergo several post-transcriptional modifications. In this review, we will summarize the recent findings concerning miRNA epitranscriptomic modifications, focusing on their potential role in cancer development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Claudia Carissimi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.D.P.); (E.L.); (E.O.); (V.F.)
| | - Ilaria Laudadio
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare, Sapienza Università di Roma, 00161 Rome, Italy; (V.D.P.); (E.L.); (E.O.); (V.F.)
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330
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The METTL3-m 6A Epitranscriptome: Dynamic Regulator of Epithelial Development, Differentiation, and Cancer. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12071019. [PMID: 34209046 PMCID: PMC8303600 DOI: 10.3390/genes12071019] [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] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Dynamic modifications on RNA, frequently termed both, “RNA epigenetics” and “epitranscriptomics”, offer one of the most exciting emerging areas of gene regulation and biomedicine. Similar to chromatin-based epigenetic mechanisms, writers, readers, and erasers regulate both the presence and interpretation of these modifications, thereby adding further nuance to the control of gene expression. In particular, the most abundant modification on mRNAs, N6-methyladenosine (m6A), catalyzed by methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) has been shown to play a critical role in self-renewing somatic epithelia, fine-tuning the balance between development, differentiation, and cancer, particularly in the case of squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs), which in aggregate, outnumber all other human cancers. Along with the development of targeted inhibitors of epitranscriptomic modulators (e.g., METTL3) now entering clinical trials, the field holds significant promise for treating these abundant cancers. Here, we present the most current summary of this work, while also highlighting the therapeutic potential of these discoveries.
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331
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Gao Y, Wang H, Li H, Ye X, Xia Y, Yuan S, Lu J, Xie X, Wang L, Zhang J. Integrated analyses of m 1A regulator-mediated modification patterns in tumor microenvironment-infiltrating immune cells in colon cancer. Oncoimmunology 2021; 10:1936758. [PMID: 34221700 PMCID: PMC8224220 DOI: 10.1080/2162402x.2021.1936758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence has revealed the crucial role of transcriptional RNA methyladenosine modification in immune response. However, the potential role of RNA N1-methyladenosine (m1A) modification of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME) still remains unclear. In this study, we identified three distinct m1A modification patterns based on the integrated analyses of nine m1A regulators, which are significantly related to Relapse-free survival (RFS), Overall survival (OS), and TME infiltration cells in colon cancer patients. Furthermore, the m1AScore was generated by using principal components analysis (PCA) of expression of the 71 m1A-related genes to further demonstrate the characteristics of m1A patterns in colon cancer. In summary, a low m1AScore could be characterized by lower EMT, pan-F TBRS, and TNM stages, as well as less presence of lymphatic invasion, and, hence, good prognosis. At the same time, a low m1AScore could also be linked to CD8 + T effector proliferation, in addition to high microsatellite instability (MSI), neoantigen burden and PD-L1 expression, showing prolonged survival and better response after undergoing an anti-PD-L1 immunotherapy regimen in the public immunotherapy cohort. Our work reveals that m1A modification patterns play a key role in the formation of TME complexity and diversity in the context of immune cell infiltration. Accordingly, this m1AScore system provides an efficient method by which to identify and characterize TME immune cell infiltration, thereby allowing for more personalized and effective antitumor immunotherapy strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhen Gao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Biomedical Research Center, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Institution of Gastroenterology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Huiming Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xinxin Ye
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yan Xia
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Biomedical Research Center, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shijin Yuan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Biomedical Research Center, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jie Lu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Biomedical Research Center, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xinyou Xie
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Biomedical Research Center, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liangjing Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Institution of Gastroenterology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.,Biomedical Research Center, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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332
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Flemmich L, Heel S, Moreno S, Breuker K, Micura R. A natural riboswitch scaffold with self-methylation activity. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3877. [PMID: 34162884 PMCID: PMC8222354 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24193-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Methylation is a prevalent post-transcriptional modification encountered in coding and non-coding RNA. For RNA methylation, cells use methyltransferases and small organic substances as methyl-group donors, such as S-adenosylmethionine (SAM). SAM and other nucleotide-derived cofactors are viewed as evolutionary leftovers from an RNA world, in which riboswitches have regulated, and ribozymes have catalyzed essential metabolic reactions. Here, we disclose the thus far unrecognized direct link between a present-day riboswitch and its inherent reactivity for site-specific methylation. The key is O6-methyl pre-queuosine (m6preQ1), a potentially prebiotic nucleobase which is recognized by the native aptamer of a preQ1 class I riboswitch. Upon binding, the transfer of the ligand’s methyl group to a specific cytidine occurs, installing 3-methylcytidine (m3C) in the RNA pocket under release of pre-queuosine (preQ1). Our finding suggests that nucleic acid-mediated methylation is an ancient mechanism that has offered an early path for RNA epigenetics prior to the evolution of protein methyltransferases. Furthermore, our findings may pave the way for the development of riboswitch-descending methylation tools based on rational design as a powerful alternative to in vitro selection approaches. In humans, protein methyltransferase is responsible for RNA methylation using S-adenosylmethionine as a methyl group donor. Here the authors report a self-methylation activity of a bacterial riboswitch.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurin Flemmich
- University of Innsbruck, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences (CMBI), Innrain 80-82, Innsbruck, 6020, Austria
| | - Sarah Heel
- University of Innsbruck, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences (CMBI), Innrain 80-82, Innsbruck, 6020, Austria
| | - Sarah Moreno
- University of Innsbruck, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences (CMBI), Innrain 80-82, Innsbruck, 6020, Austria
| | - Kathrin Breuker
- University of Innsbruck, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences (CMBI), Innrain 80-82, Innsbruck, 6020, Austria
| | - Ronald Micura
- University of Innsbruck, Institute of Organic Chemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences (CMBI), Innrain 80-82, Innsbruck, 6020, Austria.
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333
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van den Akker GGH, Zacchini F, Housmans BAC, van der Vloet L, Caron MMJ, Montanaro L, Welting TJM. Current Practice in Bicistronic IRES Reporter Use: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5193. [PMID: 34068921 PMCID: PMC8156625 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Bicistronic reporter assays have been instrumental for transgene expression, understanding of internal ribosomal entry site (IRES) translation, and identification of novel cap-independent translational elements (CITE). We observed a large methodological variability in the use of bicistronic reporter assays and data presentation or normalization procedures. Therefore, we systematically searched the literature for bicistronic IRES reporter studies and analyzed methodological details, data visualization, and normalization procedures. Two hundred fifty-seven publications were identified using our search strategy (published 1994-2020). Experimental studies on eukaryotic adherent cell systems and the cell-free translation assay were included for further analysis. We evaluated the following methodological details for 176 full text articles: the bicistronic reporter design, the cell line or type, transfection methods, and time point of analyses post-transfection. For the cell-free translation assay, we focused on methods of in vitro transcription, type of translation lysate, and incubation times and assay temperature. Data can be presented in multiple ways: raw data from individual cistrons, a ratio of the two, or fold changes thereof. In addition, many different control experiments have been suggested when studying IRES-mediated translation. In addition, many different normalization and control experiments have been suggested when studying IRES-mediated translation. Therefore, we also categorized and summarized their use. Our unbiased analyses provide a representative overview of bicistronic IRES reporter use. We identified parameters that were reported inconsistently or incompletely, which could hamper data reproduction and interpretation. On the basis of our analyses, we encourage adhering to a number of practices that should improve transparency of bicistronic reporter data presentation and improve methodological descriptions to facilitate data replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guus Gijsbertus Hubert van den Akker
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Maastricht University, Medical Center+, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (G.G.H.v.d.A.); (B.A.C.H.); (L.v.d.V.); (M.M.J.C.)
| | - Federico Zacchini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Bologna University, I-40138 Bologna, Italy; (F.Z.); (L.M.)
- Centro di Ricerca Biomedica Applicata—CRBA, Bologna University, Policlinico di Sant’Orsola, I-40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Bas Adrianus Catharina Housmans
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Maastricht University, Medical Center+, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (G.G.H.v.d.A.); (B.A.C.H.); (L.v.d.V.); (M.M.J.C.)
| | - Laura van der Vloet
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Maastricht University, Medical Center+, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (G.G.H.v.d.A.); (B.A.C.H.); (L.v.d.V.); (M.M.J.C.)
| | - Marjolein Maria Johanna Caron
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Maastricht University, Medical Center+, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (G.G.H.v.d.A.); (B.A.C.H.); (L.v.d.V.); (M.M.J.C.)
| | - Lorenzo Montanaro
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Bologna University, I-40138 Bologna, Italy; (F.Z.); (L.M.)
- Centro di Ricerca Biomedica Applicata—CRBA, Bologna University, Policlinico di Sant’Orsola, I-40138 Bologna, Italy
- Programma Dipartimentale in Medicina di Laboratorio, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Via Albertoni 15, I-40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Tim Johannes Maria Welting
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Maastricht University, Medical Center+, 6229 ER Maastricht, The Netherlands; (G.G.H.v.d.A.); (B.A.C.H.); (L.v.d.V.); (M.M.J.C.)
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334
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Wu Y, Zhan S, Xu Y, Gao X. RNA modifications in cardiovascular diseases, the potential therapeutic targets. Life Sci 2021; 278:119565. [PMID: 33965380 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
More than one hundred RNA modifications decorate the chemical and topological properties of these ribose nucleotides, thereby executing their biological functions through post-transcriptional regulation. In cardiovascular diseases, a wide range of RNA modifications including m6A (N6-adenosine methylation), m5C (5-methylcytidin), Nm (2'-O-ribose-methylation), Ψ (pseudouridine), m7G (N7-methylguanosine), and m1A (N1-adenosine methylation) have been found in tRNA, rRNA, mRNA and other noncoding RNA, which can function as a novel mechanism in metabolic syndrome, heart failure, coronary heart disease, and hypertension. In this review, we will summarize the current understanding of the regulatory roles and significance of several types of RNA modifications in CVDs (cardiovascular diseases) and the interplay between RNA modifications and noncoding RNA, epigenetics. Finally, we will focus on the potential therapeutic strategies by using RNA modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yirong Wu
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310006 Zhejiang, China
| | - Siyao Zhan
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310006 Zhejiang, China
| | - Yizhou Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 310006 Zhejiang, China.
| | - Xiangwei Gao
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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335
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Fazi F, Fatica A. Regulation of Ribosome Function by RNA Modifications in Hematopoietic Development and Leukemia: It Is Not Only a Matter of m 6A. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094755. [PMID: 33946178 PMCID: PMC8125340 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Growth and maturation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are largely controlled at both transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. In particular, hematopoietic development requires a tight control of protein synthesis. Furthermore, translational deregulation strongly contributes to hematopoietic malignancies. Researchers have recently identified a new layer of gene expression regulation that consists of chemical modification of RNA species, which led to the birth of the epitranscriptomics field. RNA modifications provide an additional level of control in hematopoietic development by acting as post-transcriptional regulators of lineage-specific genetic programs. Other reviews have already described the important role of the N6-methylation of adenosine (m6A) within mRNA species in regulating hematopoietic differentiation and diseases. The aim of this review is to summarize the current status of the role of RNA modifications in the regulation of ribosome function, beyond m6A. In particular, we discuss the importance of RNA modifications in tRNA and rRNA molecules. By balancing translational rate and fidelity, they play an important role in regulating normal and malignant hematopoietic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Fazi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic & Orthopedic Sciences, Section of Histology & Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, 00165 Rome, Italy
- Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (F.F.); (A.F.)
| | - Alessandro Fatica
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology ‘Charles Darwin’, Sapienza University of Rome, 00165 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: (F.F.); (A.F.)
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336
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McMahon M, Forester C, Buffenstein R. Aging through an epitranscriptomic lens. NATURE AGING 2021; 1:335-346. [PMID: 37117595 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-021-00058-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
The mechanistic causes of aging, the time-related decline in function and good health that leads to increased mortality, remain poorly understood. Here we propose that age-dependent alteration of the epitranscriptome, encompassing more than 150 chemically distinct post-transcriptional modifications or editing events, warrants exploration as an important modulator of aging. The epitranscriptome is a potent regulator of RNA function, diverse cellular processes and tissue regenerative capacity. To date, only a few studies link alterations in the epitranscriptome to molecular and physiological changes during aging; however, epitranscriptome dysfunction is associated with and underlies several age-associated pathologies, including cancer and neurodegenerative, cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases. For example, changes in RNA modifications (such as N6-methyladenosine and inosine) impact cardiac physiology and are linked to cardiac fibrosis. Although an uncharted research focus, mapping epitranscriptome alterations in the context of aging may elucidate novel predictors of both health and lifespan, and may identify therapeutic targets for attenuating aging and abrogating age-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary McMahon
- Calico Life Sciences LLC, South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Craig Forester
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, USA
- Children's Hospital Colorado, Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology/Bone Marrow Transplant, Colorado, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
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337
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Wardowska A. m6A RNA Methylation in Systemic Autoimmune Diseases-A New Target for Epigenetic-Based Therapy? Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2021; 14:ph14030218. [PMID: 33807762 PMCID: PMC8001529 DOI: 10.3390/ph14030218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The general background of autoimmune diseases is a combination of genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors, that lead to defective immune reactions. This erroneous immune cell activation results in an excessive production of autoantibodies and prolonged inflammation. During recent years epigenetic mechanisms have been extensively studied as potential culprits of autoreactivity. Alike DNA and proteins, also RNA molecules are subjected to an extensive repertoire of chemical modifications. N6-methyladenosine is the most prevalent form of internal mRNA modification in eukaryotic cells and attracts increasing attention due to its contribution to human health and disease. Even though m6A is confirmed as an essential player in immune response, little is known about its role in autoimmunity. Only few data have been published up to date in the field of RNA methylome. Moreover, only selected autoimmune diseases have been studied in respect of m6A role in their pathogenesis. In this review, I attempt to present all available research data regarding m6A alterations in autoimmune disorders and appraise its role as a potential target for epigenetic-based therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Wardowska
- Department of Embryology, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-210 Gdansk, Poland
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338
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Morais P, Adachi H, Yu YT. Spliceosomal snRNA Epitranscriptomics. Front Genet 2021; 12:652129. [PMID: 33737950 PMCID: PMC7960923 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.652129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) are critical components of the spliceosome that catalyze the splicing of pre-mRNA. snRNAs are each complexed with many proteins to form RNA-protein complexes, termed as small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs), in the cell nucleus. snRNPs participate in pre-mRNA splicing by recognizing the critical sequence elements present in the introns, thereby forming active spliceosomes. The recognition is achieved primarily by base-pairing interactions (or nucleotide-nucleotide contact) between snRNAs and pre-mRNA. Notably, snRNAs are extensively modified with different RNA modifications, which confer unique properties to the RNAs. Here, we review the current knowledge of the mechanisms and functions of snRNA modifications and their biological relevance in the splicing process.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hironori Adachi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Yi-Tao Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
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339
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Schaefer MR. The Regulation of RNA Modification Systems: The Next Frontier in Epitranscriptomics? Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12030345. [PMID: 33652758 PMCID: PMC7996938 DOI: 10.3390/genes12030345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA modifications, long considered to be molecular curiosities embellishing just abundant and non-coding RNAs, have now moved into the focus of both academic and applied research. Dedicated research efforts (epitranscriptomics) aim at deciphering the underlying principles by determining RNA modification landscapes and investigating the molecular mechanisms that establish, interpret and modulate the information potential of RNA beyond the combination of four canonical nucleotides. This has resulted in mapping various epitranscriptomes at high resolution and in cataloguing the effects caused by aberrant RNA modification circuitry. While the scope of the obtained insights has been complex and exciting, most of current epitranscriptomics appears to be stuck in the process of producing data, with very few efforts to disentangle cause from consequence when studying a specific RNA modification system. This article discusses various knowledge gaps in this field with the aim to raise one specific question: how are the enzymes regulated that dynamically install and modify RNA modifications? Furthermore, various technologies will be highlighted whose development and use might allow identifying specific and context-dependent regulators of epitranscriptomic mechanisms. Given the complexity of individual epitranscriptomes, determining their regulatory principles will become crucially important, especially when aiming at modifying specific aspects of an epitranscriptome both for experimental and, potentially, therapeutic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias R Schaefer
- Centre for Anatomy & Cell Biology, Division of Cell-and Developmental Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Schwarzspanierstrasse 17, Haus C, 1st Floor, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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340
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Analysis of RNA Modifications by Second- and Third-Generation Deep Sequencing: 2020 Update. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12020278. [PMID: 33669207 PMCID: PMC7919787 DOI: 10.3390/genes12020278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The precise mapping and quantification of the numerous RNA modifications that are present in tRNAs, rRNAs, ncRNAs/miRNAs, and mRNAs remain a major challenge and a top priority of the epitranscriptomics field. After the keystone discoveries of massive m6A methylation in mRNAs, dozens of deep sequencing-based methods and protocols were proposed for the analysis of various RNA modifications, allowing us to considerably extend the list of detectable modified residues. Many of the currently used methods rely on the particular reverse transcription signatures left by RNA modifications in cDNA; these signatures may be naturally present or induced by an appropriate enzymatic or chemical treatment. The newest approaches also include labeling at RNA abasic sites that result from the selective removal of RNA modification or the enhanced cleavage of the RNA ribose-phosphate chain (perhaps also protection from cleavage), followed by specific adapter ligation. Classical affinity/immunoprecipitation-based protocols use either antibodies against modified RNA bases or proteins/enzymes, recognizing RNA modifications. In this survey, we review the most recent achievements in this highly dynamic field, including promising attempts to map RNA modifications by the direct single-molecule sequencing of RNA by nanopores.
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