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Geng J, Chrabaszczewska M, Kurpiejewski K, Stankiewicz-Drogon A, Jankowska-Anyszka M, Darzynkiewicz E, Grzela R. Cap-related modifications of RNA regulate binding to IFIT proteins. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 30:1292-1305. [PMID: 39009378 PMCID: PMC11404448 DOI: 10.1261/rna.080011.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
All cells in our body are equipped with receptors to recognize pathogens and trigger a rapid defense response. As a result, foreign molecules are blocked, and cells are alerted to the danger. Among the many molecules produced in response to viral infection are interferon-induced proteins with tetratricopeptide repeats (IFITs). Their role is to recognize foreign mRNA and eliminate it from the translational pool of transcripts. In the present study, we used biophysical methods to characterize the interactions between the IFIT1 protein and its partners IFIT2 and IFIT3. IFIT1 interacts with IFIT3 with nanomolar binding affinity, which did not change significantly in the presence of the preformed IFIT2/3 complex. The interactions between IFIT2 and IFIT3 and IFIT1 and IFIT2 were one order of magnitude weaker. We also present kinetic data of the interactions between the IFIT protein complex and short RNA bearing various modifications at the 5' end. We show kinetic parameters for interaction between the IFIT complex and RNA with m6Am modification. The results show that the cap-adjacent m6Am modification is a stronger signature than cap1 alone. It blocks the formation of a complex between IFIT proteins and m7Gpppm6Am-RNA much more effectively than other cap modifications. In contrast, m6A in the 5'UTR is not recognized by IFIT proteins and does not contribute to translation repression by IFIT proteins. The data obtained are important for understanding the regulation of expression of genetic information. They indicate that 2'-O and m6Am modifications modulate the availability of mRNA molecules for proteins of innate immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingping Geng
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Chrabaszczewska
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Anna Stankiewicz-Drogon
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Edward Darzynkiewicz
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, Centre of New Technologies, University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Renata Grzela
- Division of Biophysics, Institute of Experimental Physics, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
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Deng T, Ma J. Structures and mechanisms of the RNA m 6A writer. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2024. [PMID: 39238441 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2024152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
N 6-methyladenosine (m 6A) is the most prevalent epigenetic modification found in eukaryotic mRNAs and plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression by influencing numerous aspects of mRNA metabolism. The m 6A writer for mRNAs and long non-coding RNAs consists of the catalytic subunit m 6A-METTL complex (MTC) (including METTL3/METTL14) and the regulatory subunit m 6A-METTL-associated complex (MACOM) (including HAKAI, WTAP, VIRMA, ZC3H13, and RBM15/15B). In this review, we focus on recent advances in our understanding of the structural and functional properties of m 6A writers and the possible mechanism by which they recognize RNA substrates and perform selective m 6A modifications.
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Tang H, Du Y, Tan Z, Li D, Xie J. METTL14-mediated HOXA5 m 6A modification alleviates osteoporosis via promoting WNK1 transcription to suppress NLRP3-dependent macrophage pyroptosis. J Orthop Translat 2024; 48:190-203. [PMID: 39280633 PMCID: PMC11393600 DOI: 10.1016/j.jot.2024.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Osteoporosis is a commonly diagnosed metabolic bone disease. NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pyroptosis are observed during osteoporosis. However, the mechanism by which NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis contributes to osteoporosis remains largely undefined. Methods Ovariectomized (OVX) mice were employed as an in vivo model of osteoclastogenesis. H&E staining and micro-CT detected the histological changes and bone parameters in the femur tissues. RANKL-treated macrophages were used as the in vitro model of osteoclastogenesis, and LPS/ATP treatment was used as the macrophage pyroptosis model. The cytotoxicity, cytokine secretion and caspase-1 activity were assessed by LDH release assay, ELISA and flow cytometry, respectively. The osteoclast formation ability was detected by TRAP staining. qRT-PCR, IHC and Western blotting detected the expression and localization of METTL14, pyroptosis-related or osteoclast-specific molecules in femur tissues or macrophages. Mechanistically, MeRIP assessed the m6A modification of HOXA5. Luciferase and ChIP assays were employed to detect the direct association between HOXA5 and WNK1 promoter in macrophages. Results METTL14, HOXA5 and WNK1 were decreased in OVX mice, which was associated with pyroptosis. METTL14 or HOXA5 overexpression suppressed macrophage-osteoclast differentiation and pyroptosis, along with the upregulation of WNK1. METTL14-mediated m6A modification stabilized HOXA5 mRNA and increased its expression, and HOXA5 regulated WNK1 expression via direct binding to its promoter. Functional studies showed that WNK1 knockdown counteracted METTL14- or HOXA5-suppressed pyroptosis and macrophage-osteoclast differentiation. In OVX mice, overexpression of METTL14 or HOXA5 alleviated osteoporosis via suppressing WNK1-dependent NLRP3 signaling. Conclusion METTL14-mediated HOXA5 m6A modification increased its expression, thereby inducing WNK1 expression and suppressing NLRP3-dependent pyroptosis to alleviate osteoporosis. The combination of METTL14 or HOXA5 agonist with pyroptosis targeted therapy may be a promising therapeutic approach for osteoporosis. The Translational Potential of this Article· •METTL14 or HOXA5 overexpression suppressed macrophage-osteoclast differentiation and pyroptosis in macrophages.·•METTL14-mediated m6A modification stabilized HOXA5 mRNA and increased its expression.•HOXA5 regulated WNK1 expression via direct binding to its promoter.•Silencing of WNK1 reversed METTL14- or HOXA5-suppressed pyroptosis and macrophageosteoclast differentiation.·•METTL14 or HOXA5 overexpression alleviated osteoporosis via suppressing WNK1-dependent NLRP3 signaling in OVX mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Tang
- Department of Spine Surgery and Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan Province, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan Province, China
| | - Yuxuan Du
- Department of Spine Surgery and Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan Province, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan Province, China
| | - Zejiu Tan
- Department of Spine Surgery and Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan Province, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan Province, China
| | - Dongpeng Li
- Department of Spine Surgery and Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan Province, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan Province, China
| | - Jiang Xie
- Department of Spine Surgery and Orthopaedics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan Province, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan Province, China
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Gao Z, Yang Q, Shen H, Guo P, Xie Q, Chen G, Hu Z. The knockout of SlMTC impacts tomato seed size and reduces resistance to salt stress in tomato. PLANT SCIENCE : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL PLANT BIOLOGY 2024; 349:112228. [PMID: 39218307 DOI: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2024.112228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2024] [Revised: 08/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Members of the MT-A70 family are key catalytic proteins involved in m6A methylation modifications in plants. They play diverse roles at the posttranscriptional level by regulating RNA secondary structure, selective splicing, stability, and translational efficiency, which collectively affect plant growth, development, and stress responses. In this study, we explored the function of the gene SlMTC, a Class C member of the MT-A70 family, in tomatoes by using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Compared with the wild-type (WT), the CR-slmtc mutants exhibited decreased seed size and slower growth rates during the seedling stage, along with weaker salt tolerance and significant downregulation of stress-related genes, such as PR1, PR5, and P5CS. The qRT-PCR results revealed that the expression levels of genes involved in auxin biosynthesis (FZY1, FZY3, and FZY4) and polar transport (PIN1, PIN4, and PIN8) were lower in CR-slmtc plants than in the WT plants. In addition, yeast two-hybrid assays showed that SlMTC could interact with SlMTA, a Class A member of the MT-A70 family, providing insights into the potential mode of action of SlMTC in tomatoes. Overall, our findings indicate the critical role of SlMTC in plant growth and development as well as in response to salt stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihan Gao
- Laboratory of molecular biology of tomato, Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Qingling Yang
- Laboratory of molecular biology of tomato, Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Hui Shen
- Laboratory of molecular biology of tomato, Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Pengyu Guo
- Laboratory of molecular biology of tomato, Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Qiaoli Xie
- Laboratory of molecular biology of tomato, Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Guoping Chen
- Laboratory of molecular biology of tomato, Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China.
| | - Zongli Hu
- Laboratory of molecular biology of tomato, Bioengineering College, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400030, China.
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Zhang J, Wu L, Mu L, Wang Y, Zhao M, Wang H, Li X, Zhao L, Lin C, Zhang H, Gu L. Evolution and post-transcriptional regulation insights of m 6A writers, erasers, and readers in plant epitranscriptome. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 39167634 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.16996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
As a dynamic and reversible post-transcriptional marker, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) plays an important role in the regulation of biological functions, which are mediated by m6A pathway components including writers (MT-A70, FIP37, VIR and HAKAI family), erasers (ALKBH family) and readers (YTH family). There is an urgent need for a comprehensive analysis of m6A pathway components across species at evolutionary levels. In this study, we identified 4062 m6A pathway components from 154 plant species including green algae, utilizing large-scale phylogenetic to explore their origin and evolution. We discovered that the copy number of writers was conserved among different plant lineages, with notable expansions in the ALKBH and YTH families. Synteny network analysis revealed conserved genomic contexts and lineage-specific transpositions. Furthermore, we used Direct RNA Sequencing (DRS) to reveal the Poly(A) length (PAL) and m6A ratio profiles in six angiosperms species, with a particular focus on the m6A pathway components. The ECT1/2-Poeaece4 sub-branches (YTH family) with unique genomic contexts exhibited significantly higher expression level than genes of other ECT1/2 poeaece sub-branches (ECT1/2-Poeaece1-3), accompanied by lower m6A modification and PAL. Besides, conserved m6A sites distributed in CDS and 3'UTR were detected in the ECT1/2-Poaceae4, and the dual-luciferase assay further demonstrated that these conserved m6A sites in the 3'UTR negatively regulated the expression of Firefly luciferase (LUC) gene. Finally, we developed transcription factor regulatory networks for m6A pathway components, using yeast one-hybrid assay demonstrated that PheBPC1 could interact with the PheECT1/2-5 promoter. Overall, this study presents a comprehensive evolutionary and functional analysis of m6A pathway components and their modifications in plants, providing a valuable resource for future functional analysis in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Haixia Applied Plant Systems Biology, College of Life Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Lin Wu
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Lele Mu
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Yuhua Wang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Haixia Applied Plant Systems Biology, College of Life Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Mengna Zhao
- Basic Forestry and Proteomics Research Center, School of Future Technology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Huiyuan Wang
- College of Forestry, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Xiangrong Li
- Basic Forestry and Proteomics Research Center, School of Future Technology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Liangzhen Zhao
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Haixia Applied Plant Systems Biology, College of Life Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Chentao Lin
- Basic Forestry and Proteomics Research Center, School of Future Technology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Hangxiao Zhang
- Basic Forestry and Proteomics Research Center, School of Future Technology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Lianfeng Gu
- Basic Forestry and Proteomics Research Center, School of Future Technology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
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He J, Hao F, Song S, Zhang J, Zhou H, Zhang J, Li Y. METTL Family in Healthy and Disease. MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE 2024; 5:33. [PMID: 39155349 PMCID: PMC11330956 DOI: 10.1186/s43556-024-00194-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Transcription, RNA splicing, RNA translation, and post-translational protein modification are fundamental processes of gene expression. Epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, RNA modifications, and protein modifications, play a crucial role in regulating gene expression. The methyltransferase-like protein (METTL) family, a constituent of the 7-β-strand (7BS) methyltransferase subfamily, is broadly distributed across the cell nucleus, cytoplasm, and mitochondria. Members of the METTL family, through their S-adenosyl methionine (SAM) binding domain, can transfer methyl groups to DNA, RNA, or proteins, thereby impacting processes such as DNA replication, transcription, and mRNA translation, to participate in the maintenance of normal function or promote disease development. This review primarily examines the involvement of the METTL family in normal cell differentiation, the maintenance of mitochondrial function, and its association with tumor formation, the nervous system, and cardiovascular diseases. Notably, the METTL family is intricately linked to cellular translation, particularly in its regulation of translation factors. Members represent important molecules in disease development processes and are associated with patient immunity and tolerance to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Moreover, future research directions could include the development of drugs or antibodies targeting its structural domains, and utilizing nanomaterials to carry miRNA corresponding to METTL family mRNA. Additionally, the precise mechanisms underlying the interactions between the METTL family and cellular translation factors remain to be clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiejie He
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, 810000, Qinghai Province, China
| | - Fengchen Hao
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, 810000, Qinghai Province, China
| | - Shiqi Song
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, 810000, Qinghai Province, China
| | - Junli Zhang
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, 810000, Qinghai Province, China
| | - Hongyu Zhou
- Department of Radiology, Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University, Xining, 810000, Qinghai Province, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Department of Urology Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University, No. 29, Tongren Road, West of the City, Xining, 810000, Qinghai Province, China.
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Qinghai University & Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Qinghai University, No. 29, Tongren Road, West of the City, Xining, 810000, Qinghai Province, China.
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7
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Liu D, Ren L, Liu J. METTL14 promotes chondrocyte ferroptosis in osteoarthritis via m6A modification of GPX4. Int J Rheum Dis 2024; 27:e15297. [PMID: 39175261 DOI: 10.1111/1756-185x.15297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ferroptosis is caused by iron-dependent peroxidation of membrane phospholipids and chondrocyte ferroptosis contributes to osteoarthritis (OA) progression. Glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) plays a master role in blocking ferroptosis. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is an epigenetic modification among mRNA post-transcriptional modifications. This study investigated the effect of methyltransferase-like 14 (METTL14), the key component of the m6A methyltransferase, on chondrocyte ferroptosis via m6A modification. METHODS An OA rat model was established through an intra-articular injection of monosodium iodoacetate in the right knee. OA cartilages in rat models were used for gene expression analysis. Primary mouse chondrocytes or ADTC5 cells were stimulated with IL-1β or erastin. The m6A RNA methylation quantification kit was used to measure m6A level. The effect of METTL14 and GPX4 on ECM degradation and ferroptosis was investigated through western blotting, fluorescence immunostaining, propidium iodide staining, and commercially available kits. The mechanism of METTL14 action was explored through MeRIP-qPCR assays. RESULTS METTL14 and m6A expression was upregulated in osteoarthritic cartilages and IL-1β-induced chondrocytes. METTL14 depletion repressed the IL-1β or erastin-stimulated ECM degradation and ferroptosis in mouse chondrocytes. METTL14 inhibited GPX4 gene through m6A methylation modification. GPX4 knockdown reversed the si-METTL14-mediated protection in IL-1β-induced chondrocytes. CONCLUSION METTL14 depletion inhibits ferroptosis and ECM degradation by suppressing GPX4 mRNA m6A modification in injured chondrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawei Liu
- Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
- Specialized Orthopedics Construction Office, Tianjin Nankai Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Liang Ren
- Department of Ultrasound medicine, Yichang Yiling People's Hospital, Yichang, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Knee-joint Department, Tianjin Hospital, Tianjin, China
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8
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Lax C, Mondo SJ, Osorio-Concepción M, Muszewska A, Corrochano-Luque M, Gutiérrez G, Riley R, Lipzen A, Guo J, Hundley H, Amirebrahimi M, Ng V, Lorenzo-Gutiérrez D, Binder U, Yang J, Song Y, Cánovas D, Navarro E, Freitag M, Gabaldón T, Grigoriev IV, Corrochano LM, Nicolás FE, Garre V. Symmetric and asymmetric DNA N6-adenine methylation regulates different biological responses in Mucorales. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6066. [PMID: 39025853 PMCID: PMC11258239 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50365-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
DNA N6-adenine methylation (6mA) has recently gained importance as an epigenetic modification in eukaryotes. Its function in lineages with high levels, such as early-diverging fungi (EDF), is of particular interest. Here, we investigated the biological significance and evolutionary implications of 6mA in EDF, which exhibit divergent evolutionary patterns in 6mA usage. The analysis of two Mucorales species displaying extreme 6mA usage reveals that species with high 6mA levels show symmetric methylation enriched in highly expressed genes. In contrast, species with low 6mA levels show mostly asymmetric 6mA. Interestingly, transcriptomic regulation throughout development and in response to environmental cues is associated with changes in the 6mA landscape. Furthermore, we identify an EDF-specific methyltransferase, likely originated from endosymbiotic bacteria, as responsible for asymmetric methylation, while an MTA-70 methylation complex performs symmetric methylation. The distinct phenotypes observed in the corresponding mutants reinforced the critical role of both types of 6mA in EDF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Lax
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Stephen J Mondo
- U.S. Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Department of Agricultural Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Macario Osorio-Concepción
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Anna Muszewska
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Pawinskiego 5A, 02-106, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Gabriel Gutiérrez
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Robert Riley
- U.S. Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Anna Lipzen
- U.S. Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Jie Guo
- U.S. Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Hope Hundley
- U.S. Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Mojgan Amirebrahimi
- U.S. Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Vivian Ng
- U.S. Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Damaris Lorenzo-Gutiérrez
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Ulrike Binder
- Institute of Hygiene and Medical Microbiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Junhuan Yang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Lingnan Normal University, Zhanjiang, 524048, China
| | - Yuanda Song
- Colin Ratledge Center for Microbial Lipids, School of Agricultural Engineering and Food Science, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, 255049, China
| | - David Cánovas
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Eusebio Navarro
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Michael Freitag
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Toni Gabaldón
- Barcelona Supercomputing Centre (BSC-CNS), Plaça Eusebi Güell, 1-3, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Baldiri Reixac, 10, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Igor V Grigoriev
- U.S. Department of Energy Joint Genome Institute, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Environmental Genomics and Systems Biology Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
| | - Luis M Corrochano
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain.
| | - Francisco E Nicolás
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain.
| | - Victoriano Garre
- Departamento de Genética y Microbiología, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia, Spain.
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Hasan M, Nishat ZS, Hasan MS, Hossain T, Ghosh A. Identification of m 6A RNA methylation genes in Oryza sativa and expression profiling in response to different developmental and environmental stimuli. Biochem Biophys Rep 2024; 38:101677. [PMID: 38511186 PMCID: PMC10950732 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2024.101677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Eukaryotic messenger RNAs (mRNAs) transcend their predominant function of protein encoding by incorporating auxiliary components that ultimately contribute to their processing, transportation, translation, and decay. In doing so, additional layers of modifications are incorporated in mRNAs at post-transcriptional stage. Among them, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most frequently found mRNA modification that plays crucial roles in plant development and stress response. In the overall mechanism of m6A methylation, key proteins classified based on their functions such as writers, readers, and erasers dynamically add, read, and subtract methyl groups respectively to deliver relevant functions in response to external stimuli. In this study, we identified 30 m6A regulatory genes (9 writers, 5 erasers, and 16 readers) in rice that encode 53 proteins (13 writers, 7 erasers, and 33 readers) where segmental duplication was found in one writer and four reader gene pairs. Reproductive cells such as sperm, anther and panicle showed high levels of expression for most of the m6A regulatory genes. Notably, writers like OsMTA, OsMTD, and OsMTC showed varied responses in different stress and infection contexts, with initial upregulation in response to early exposure followed by downregulation later. OsALKBH9A, a noteworthy eraser, displayed varied expression in response to different stresses at different time intervals, but upregulation in certain infections. Reader genes like OsECT5, OsCPSF30-L3, and OsECT8 showed continuous upregulation in exertion of all kinds of stress relevant here. Conversely, other reader genes along with OsECT11 and OsCPSF30-L2 were observed to be consistently downregulated. The apparent correlation between the expression patterns of m6A regulatory genes and stress modulation pathways in this study underscores the need for additional research to unravel their intricate regulatory mechanisms that could ultimately contribute to the substantial development of enhanced stress tolerance in rice through mRNA modification.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Md. Soyib Hasan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet 3114, Bangladesh
| | - Tanvir Hossain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet 3114, Bangladesh
| | - Ajit Ghosh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet 3114, Bangladesh
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10
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Zhao X, Lu J, Wu W, Li J. METTL14 inhibits the malignant processes of gastric cancer cells by promoting N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation of TAF10. Heliyon 2024; 10:e32014. [PMID: 38882361 PMCID: PMC11176857 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation mediates cancer development by regulating cell proliferation and metastasis. This study aimed to identify whether methyltransferase 14 (METTL14) affects gastric cancer (GC) cellular functions and its underlying mechanism. METTL14 and TATA-box binding protein associated factor 10 (TAF10) levels were examined using quantitative real-time PCR, immunohistochemical assay, and Western blot. Biological functions were assessed using cell counting kit-8, colony formation, and transwell assays. The interaction between METTL14 and TAF10 was analyzed using RNA immunoprecipitation, methylated RNA immunoprecipitation, and luciferase reporter assay. A xenograft tumor mouse model was established to assess the role of METTL14 in vivo. The results suggested that METTL14 was low expressed and TAF10 was highly expressed in GC tissues and cells. METTL14 overexpression inhibited GC cell viability, colony, migration, and invasion. TAF10 was predicted and confirmed to be negatively related to METTL14. METTL14 promoted m6A methylation of TAF10 and inhibited TAF10 stability. Moreover, TAF10 counteracted the cellular behaviors regulated by METTL14. Overexpression of METTL14 inhibited tumor growth and histopathology. In conclusion, METTL14 inhibits GC progression by attenuating GC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Mechanistically, METTL14 promoted m6A methylation of TAF10, suppressed the stability of TAF10, and thus downregulated the TAF10 levels, These results provide a new insight into GC therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhao
- Department of General Surgery, The 928th Hospital of the Joint Logistic Support Force of the People's Liberation Army, 100 Longkun South Road, Longhua District, Haikou, 570100, Hainan, China
| | - Jingfen Lu
- Department of Hemato-oncology, The 928th Hospital of the Joint Logistic Support Force of the People's Liberation Army, 100 Longkun South Road, Longhua District, Haikou, 570100, Hainan, China
| | - Weimin Wu
- Department of General Surgery, The 928th Hospital of the Joint Logistic Support Force of the People's Liberation Army, 100 Longkun South Road, Longhua District, Haikou, 570100, Hainan, China
| | - Jiahui Li
- Department of Medical Imaging, The 74th Military Medical Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army CN, 468 Xingang Middle Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, 510318, Guangdong, China
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11
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Hobble HV, Schaner Tooley CE. Intrafamily heterooligomerization as an emerging mechanism of methyltransferase regulation. Epigenetics Chromatin 2024; 17:5. [PMID: 38429855 PMCID: PMC10908127 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-024-00530-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Protein and nucleic acid methylation are important biochemical modifications. In addition to their well-established roles in gene regulation, they also regulate cell signaling, metabolism, and translation. Despite this high biological relevance, little is known about the general regulation of methyltransferase function. Methyltransferases are divided into superfamilies based on structural similarities and further classified into smaller families based on sequence/domain/target similarity. While members within superfamilies differ in substrate specificity, their structurally similar active sites indicate a potential for shared modes of regulation. Growing evidence from one superfamily suggests a common regulatory mode may be through heterooligomerization with other family members. Here, we describe examples of methyltransferase regulation through intrafamily heterooligomerization and discuss how this can be exploited for therapeutic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haley V Hobble
- Department of Biochemistry, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA
| | - Christine E Schaner Tooley
- Department of Biochemistry, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY, 14203, USA.
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12
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Pinello N, Song R, Lee Q, Calonne E, Larance M, Fuks F, Wong JJL. A multiomics dataset for the study of RNA modifications in human macrophage differentiation and polarisation. Sci Data 2024; 11:252. [PMID: 38418823 PMCID: PMC10902381 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-024-03076-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA modifications have emerged as central regulators of gene expression programs. Amongst RNA modifications are N6-methyladenosine (m6A) and RNA 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC). While m6A is established as a versatile regulator of RNA metabolism, the functions of RNA 5hmC are unclear. Despite some evidence linking RNA modifications to immunity, their implications in gene expression control in macrophage development and functions remain unclear. Here we present a multi-omics dataset capturing different layers of the gene expression programs driving macrophage differentiation and polarisation. We obtained mRNA-Seq, m6A-IP-Seq, 5hmC-IP-Seq, Polyribo-Seq and LC-MS/MS data from monocytes and resting-, pro- and anti-inflammatory-like macrophages. We present technical validation showing high quality and correlation between samples for all datasets, and evidence of biological consistency of modelled macrophages at the transcriptomic, epitranscriptomic, translational and proteomic levels. This multi-omics dataset provides a resource for the study of RNA m6A and 5hmC in the context of macrophage biology and spans the gene expression process from transcripts to proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Pinello
- Epigenetics and RNA Biology Program Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, 2050, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, 2050, Australia
| | - Renhua Song
- Epigenetics and RNA Biology Program Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, 2050, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, 2050, Australia
| | - Quintin Lee
- Epigenetics and RNA Biology Program Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, 2050, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, 2050, Australia
| | - Emilie Calonne
- Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Faculty of Medicine, ULB Cancer Research Center (U-CRC), Jules Bordet Institute, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mark Larance
- Charles Perkins Centre, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, 2050, New South Wales, Australia
| | - François Fuks
- Laboratory of Cancer Epigenetics, Faculty of Medicine, ULB Cancer Research Center (U-CRC), Jules Bordet Institute, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Justin J-L Wong
- Epigenetics and RNA Biology Program Centenary Institute, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, 2050, Australia.
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, 2050, Australia.
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13
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Liang J, Yi Q, Liu Y, Li J, Yang Z, Sun W, Sun W. Recent advances of m6A methylation in skeletal system disease. J Transl Med 2024; 22:153. [PMID: 38355483 PMCID: PMC10868056 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-04944-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Skeletal system disease (SSD) is defined as a class of chronic disorders of skeletal system with poor prognosis and causes heavy economic burden. m6A, methylation at the N6 position of adenosine in RNA, is a reversible and dynamic modification in posttranscriptional mRNA. Evidences suggest that m6A modifications play a crucial role in regulating biological processes of all kinds of diseases, such as malignancy. Recently studies have revealed that as the most abundant epigentic modification, m6A is involved in the progression of SSD. However, the function of m6A modification in SSD is not fully illustrated. Therefore, make clear the relationship between m6A modification and SSD pathogenesis might provide novel sights for prevention and targeted treatment of SSD. This article will summarize the recent advances of m6A regulation in the biological processes of SSD, including osteoporosis, osteosarcoma, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, and discuss the potential clinical value, research challenge and future prospect of m6A modification in SSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhui Liang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital/First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, 518035, Guangdong, China
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515000, China
| | - Qian Yi
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, 646099, Sichuan, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital/First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, 518035, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiachen Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital/First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, 518035, Guangdong, China
- Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, 515000, China
| | - Zecheng Yang
- Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital/First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, 518035, Guangdong, China
| | - Wei Sun
- Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital/First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, 518035, Guangdong, China.
| | - Weichao Sun
- Department of Orthopedics, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital/First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, 518035, Guangdong, China.
- The Central Laboratory, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital/First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, 518035, Guangdong, China.
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14
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Lu W, Yang X, Zhong W, Chen G, Guo X, Ye Q, Xu Y, Qi Z, Ye Y, Zhang J, Wang Y, Wang X, Wang S, Zhao Q, Zeng W, Huang J, Ma H, Xie J. METTL14-mediated m6A epitranscriptomic modification contributes to chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain by stabilizing GluN2A expression via IGF2BP2. J Clin Invest 2024; 134:e174847. [PMID: 38319733 PMCID: PMC10940092 DOI: 10.1172/jci174847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Epigenetics is a biological process that modifies and regulates gene expression, affects neuronal function, and contributes to pain. However, the mechanism by which epigenetics facilitates and maintains chronic pain is poorly understood. We aimed to determine whether N6-methyladenosine (m6A) specifically modified by methyltransferase-like 14 (METTL14) alters neuronal activity and governs pain by sensitizing the GluN2A subunit of the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons in a model of chemotherapy-induced neuropathic pain (CINP). Using dot blotting, immunofluorescence, gain/loss-of-function, and behavioral assays, we found that m6A levels were upregulated in L4-L6 DRG neurons in CINP in a DBP/METTL14-dependent manner, which was also confirmed in human DRGs. Blocking METTL14 reduced m6A methylation and attenuated pain hypersensitivity. Mechanistically, METTL14-mediated m6A modification facilitated the synaptic plasticity of DRG neurons by enhancing the GluN2A subunit of NMDAR, and inhibiting METTL14 blocked this effect. In contrast, overexpression of METTL14 upregulated m6A modifications, enhanced presynaptic NMDAR activity in DRG neurons, and facilitated pain sensation. Our findings reveal a previously unrecognized mechanism of METTL14-mediated m6A modification in DRG neurons to maintain neuropathic pain. Targeting these molecules may provide a new strategy for pain treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weicheng Lu
- Department of Anesthesiology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaohua Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Weiqiang Zhong
- Department of Anesthesiology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Guojun Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinqi Guo
- Department of Physiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Qingqing Ye
- Department of Anesthesiology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yixin Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhenhua Qi
- Department of Anesthesiology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yaqi Ye
- Department of Anesthesiology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jingyun Zhang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yuge Wang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xintong Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shu Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qiyue Zhao
- Department of Physiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Weian Zeng
- Department of Anesthesiology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Junting Huang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Huijie Ma
- Department of Physiology, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jingdun Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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15
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Gong C, Chakraborty D, Koudelka GB. A prophage encoded ribosomal RNA methyltransferase regulates the virulence of Shiga-toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC). Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:856-871. [PMID: 38084890 PMCID: PMC10810198 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad1150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Shiga toxin (Stx) released by Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC) causes life-threatening illness. Its production and release require induction of Stx-encoding prophage resident within the STEC genome. We identified two different STEC strains, PA2 and PA8, bearing Stx-encoding prophage whose sequences primarily differ by the position of an IS629 insertion element, yet differ in their abilities to kill eukaryotic cells and whose prophages differ in their spontaneous induction frequencies. The IS629 element in ϕPA2, disrupts an ORF predicted to encode a DNA adenine methyltransferase, whereas in ϕPA8, this element lies in an intergenic region. Introducing a plasmid expressing the methyltransferase gene product into ϕPA2 bearing-strains increases both the prophage spontaneous induction frequency and virulence to those exhibited by ϕPA8 bearing-strains. However, a plasmid bearing mutations predicted to disrupt the putative active site of the methyltransferase does not complement either of these defects. When complexed with a second protein, the methyltransferase holoenzyme preferentially uses 16S rRNA as a substrate. The second subunit is responsible for directing the preferential methylation of rRNA. Together these findings reveal a previously unrecognized role for rRNA methylation in regulating induction of Stx-encoding prophage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Gong
- Department of Biological Sciences University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA
| | | | - Gerald B Koudelka
- Department of Biological Sciences University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260, USA
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16
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Peng C, Xiong F, Pu X, Hu Z, Yang Y, Qiao X, Jiang Y, Han M, Wang D, Li X. m 6A methylation modification and immune cell infiltration: implications for targeting the catalytic subunit m 6A-METTL complex in gastrointestinal cancer immunotherapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1326031. [PMID: 38187373 PMCID: PMC10768557 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1326031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation modification is a ubiquitous RNA modification involved in the regulation of various cellular processes, including regulation of RNA stability, metabolism, splicing and translation. Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers are some of the world's most common and fatal cancers. Emerging evidence has shown that m6A modification is dynamically regulated by a complex network of enzymes and that the catalytic subunit m6A-METTL complex (MAC)-METTL3/14, a core component of m6A methyltransferases, participates in the development and progression of GI cancers. Furthermore, it has been shown that METTL3/14 modulates immune cell infiltration in an m6A-dependent manner in TIME (Tumor immune microenvironment), thereby altering the response of cancer cells to ICIs (Immune checkpoint inhibitors). Immunotherapy has emerged as a promising approach for treating GI cancers. Moreover, targeting the expression of METTL3/14 and its downstream genes may improve patient response to immunotherapy. Therefore, understanding the role of MAC in the pathogenesis of GI cancers and its impact on immune cell infiltration may provide new insights into the development of effective therapeutic strategies for GI cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Peng
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Fen Xiong
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xi Pu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhangmin Hu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yufei Yang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xuehan Qiao
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Yuchun Jiang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Miao Han
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Deqiang Wang
- Institute of Digestive Diseases, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Xiaoqin Li
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China
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17
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Breger K, Kunkler CN, O'Leary NJ, Hulewicz JP, Brown JA. Ghost authors revealed: The structure and function of human N 6 -methyladenosine RNA methyltransferases. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2023; 15:e1810. [PMID: 37674370 PMCID: PMC10915109 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Despite the discovery of modified nucleic acids nearly 75 years ago, their biological functions are still being elucidated. N6 -methyladenosine (m6 A) is the most abundant modification in eukaryotic messenger RNA (mRNA) and has also been detected in non-coding RNAs, including long non-coding RNA, ribosomal RNA, and small nuclear RNA. In general, m6 A marks can alter RNA secondary structure and initiate unique RNA-protein interactions that can alter splicing, mRNA turnover, and translation, just to name a few. Although m6 A marks in human RNAs have been known to exist since 1974, the structures and functions of methyltransferases responsible for writing m6 A marks have been established only recently. Thus far, there are four confirmed human methyltransferases that catalyze the transfer of a methyl group from S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) to the N6 position of adenosine, producing m6 A: methyltransferase-like protein (METTL) 3/METTL14 complex, METTL16, METTL5, and zinc-finger CCHC-domain-containing protein 4. Though the methyltransferases have unique RNA targets, all human m6 A RNA methyltransferases contain a Rossmann fold with a conserved SAM-binding pocket, suggesting that they utilize a similar catalytic mechanism for methyl transfer. For each of the human m6 A RNA methyltransferases, we present the biological functions and links to human disease, RNA targets, catalytic and kinetic mechanisms, and macromolecular structures. We also discuss m6 A marks in human viruses and parasites, assigning m6 A marks in the transcriptome to specific methyltransferases, small molecules targeting m6 A methyltransferases, and the enzymes responsible for hypermodified m6 A marks and their biological functions in humans. Understanding m6 A methyltransferases is a critical steppingstone toward establishing the m6 A epitranscriptome and more broadly the RNome. This article is categorized under: RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Recognition RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA-Protein Complexes RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Interactions: Functional Implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurtis Breger
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Charlotte N Kunkler
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Nathan J O'Leary
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Jacob P Hulewicz
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Jessica A Brown
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
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18
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Hu J, Lin H, Wang C, Su Q, Cao B. METTL14‑mediated RNA methylation in digestive system tumors. Int J Mol Med 2023; 52:86. [PMID: 37539726 PMCID: PMC10555478 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2023.5289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
N6‑methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation is one of the most common post‑transcriptional modification mechanism in eukaryotes. m6A is involved in almost all stages of the mRNA life cycle, specifically regulating its stability, splicing, export and translation. Methyltransferase‑like 14 (METTL14) is a particularly important m6A methylation 'writer' that can recognize RNA substrates. METTL14 has been documented to improve the activity and catalytic efficiency of METTL3. However, as individual proteins they can also regulate different biological processes. Malignancies in the digestive system are some of the most common malignancies found in humans, which are typically associated with poor prognoses with limited clinical solutions. METTL14‑mediated methylation has been implicated in both the potentiation and inhibition of digestive system tumor growth, cell invasion and metastasis, in addition to drug resistance. In the present review, the research progress and regulatory mechanisms of METTL14‑mediated methylation in digestive system malignancies were summarized. In addition, future research directions and the potential for its clinical application were examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiexuan Hu
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Haishan Lin
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Cong Wang
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Qiang Su
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
| | - Bangwei Cao
- Department of Oncology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, P.R. China
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19
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Qi YN, Liu Z, Hong LL, Li P, Ling ZQ. Methyltransferase-like proteins in cancer biology and potential therapeutic targeting. J Hematol Oncol 2023; 16:89. [PMID: 37533128 PMCID: PMC10394802 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-023-01477-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA modification has recently become a significant process of gene regulation, and the methyltransferase-like (METTL) family of proteins plays a critical role in RNA modification, methylating various types of RNAs, including mRNA, tRNA, microRNA, rRNA, and mitochondrial RNAs. METTL proteins consist of a unique seven-beta-strand domain, which binds to the methyl donor SAM to catalyze methyl transfer. The most typical family member METTL3/METTL14 forms a methyltransferase complex involved in N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification of RNA, regulating tumor proliferation, metastasis and invasion, immunotherapy resistance, and metabolic reprogramming of tumor cells. METTL1, METTL4, METTL5, and METTL16 have also been recently identified to have some regulatory ability in tumorigenesis, and the rest of the METTL family members rely on their methyltransferase activity for methylation of different nucleotides, proteins, and small molecules, which regulate translation and affect processes such as cell differentiation and development. Herein, we summarize the literature on METTLs in the last three years to elucidate their roles in human cancers and provide a theoretical basis for their future use as potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Nan Qi
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, P.R. China
| | - Zhu Liu
- Zhejiang Cancer Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, No.1 Banshan East Rd., Gongshu District, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, P.R. China
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310018, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Lian-Lian Hong
- Zhejiang Cancer Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, No.1 Banshan East Rd., Gongshu District, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, P.R. China
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310018, Zhejiang, P.R. China
| | - Pei Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, P.R. China.
| | - Zhi-Qiang Ling
- Zhejiang Cancer Institute, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, No.1 Banshan East Rd., Gongshu District, Hangzhou, 310022, Zhejiang, P.R. China.
- Hangzhou Institute of Medicine (HIM), Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310018, Zhejiang, P.R. China.
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20
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Park ZM, Sporer AJ, Kraft K, Lum KK, Blackman E, Belnap E, Yellman CM, Rose MD. Kar4, the yeast homolog of METTL14, is required for mRNA m6A methylation and meiosis. PLoS Genet 2023; 19:e1010896. [PMID: 37603553 PMCID: PMC10470960 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
KAR4, the yeast homolog of the mammalian mRNA N6A-methyltransferase complex component METTL14, is required for two disparate developmental programs in Saccharomyces cerevisiae: mating and meiosis. To understand KAR4's role in yeast mating and meiosis, we used a genetic screen to isolate 25 function-specific mutant alleles, which map to non-overlapping surfaces on a predicted structure of the Kar4 protein (Kar4p). Most of the mating-specific alleles (Mat-) abolish Kar4p's interaction with the transcription factor Ste12p, indicating that Kar4p's mating function is through Ste12p. In yeast, the mRNA methyltransferase complex was previously defined as comprising Ime4p (Kar4p's paralog and the homolog of mammalian METTL3), Mum2p (homolog of mammalian WTAP), and Slz1p (MIS), but not Kar4p. During meiosis, Kar4p interacts with Ime4p, Mum2p, and Slz1p. Moreover, cells lacking Kar4p have highly reduced levels of mRNA methylation during meiosis indicating that Kar4p is a key member of the methyltransferase complex, as it is in humans. Analysis of kar4Δ/Δ and 7 meiosis-specific alleles (Mei-) revealed that Kar4p is required early in meiosis, before initiation of S-phase and meiotic recombination. High copy expression of the meiotic transcriptional activator IME1 rescued the defect of these Mei- alleles. Surprisingly, Kar4p was also found to be required at a second step for the completion of meiosis and sporulation. Over-expression of IME1 in kar4Δ/Δ permits pre-meiotic S-phase, but most cells remained arrested with a monopolar spindle. Analysis of the function-specific mutants revealed that roughly half became blocked after premeiotic DNA synthesis and did not sporulate (Spo-). Loss of Kar4p's Spo function was suppressed by overexpression of RIM4, a meiotic translational regulator. Overexpression of IME1 and RIM4 together allowed sporulation of kar4Δ/Δ cells. Taken together, these data suggest that Kar4p regulates meiosis at multiple steps, presumably reflecting requirements for methylation in different stages of meiotic gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachory M. Park
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington DC, United States of America
| | - Abigail J. Sporer
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Katherine Kraft
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington DC, United States of America
| | - Krystal K. Lum
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Edith Blackman
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Ethan Belnap
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington DC, United States of America
| | | | - Mark D. Rose
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington DC, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, United States of America
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Park ZM, Remillard M, Belnap E, Rose MD. Kar4 is required for the normal pattern of meiotic gene expression. PLoS Genet 2023; 19:e1010898. [PMID: 37639444 PMCID: PMC10491391 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Kar4p, the yeast homolog of the mammalian methyltransferase subunit METTL14, is required for efficient mRNA m6A methylation, which regulates meiotic entry. Kar4p is also required for a second seemingly non-catalytic function during meiosis. Overexpression of the early meiotic transcription factor, IME1, can bypass the requirement for Kar4p in meiotic entry but the additional overexpression of the translational regulator, RIM4, is required to permit sporulation in kar4Δ/Δ. Using microarray analysis and RNA sequencing, we sought to determine the impact of removing Kar4p and consequently mRNA methylation on the early meiotic transcriptome in a strain background (S288c) that is sensitive to the loss of early meiotic regulators. We found that kar4Δ/Δ mutants have a largely wild type transcriptional profile with the exception of two groups of genes that show delayed and reduced expression: (1) a set of Ime1p-dependent early genes as well as IME1, and (2) a set of late genes dependent on the mid-meiotic transcription factor, Ndt80p. The early gene expression defect is likely the result of the loss of mRNA methylation and is rescued by overexpressing IME1, but the late defect is only suppressed by overexpression of both IME1 and RIM4. The requirement for RIM4 led us to predict that the non-catalytic function of Kar4p, like methyltransferase complex orthologs in other systems, may function at the level of translation. Mass spectrometry analysis identified several genes involved in meiotic recombination with strongly reduced protein levels, but with little to no reduction in transcript levels in kar4Δ/Δ after IME1 overexpression. The low levels of these proteins were rescued by overexpression of RIM4 and IME1, but not by the overexpression of IME1 alone. These data expand our understanding of the role of Kar4p in regulating meiosis and provide key insights into a potential mechanism of Kar4p's later meiotic function that is independent of mRNA methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachory M. Park
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington DC, United States of America
| | - Matthew Remillard
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Ethan Belnap
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington DC, United States of America
| | - Mark D. Rose
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington DC, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, United States of America
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22
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Ensinck I, Maman A, Albihlal WS, Lassandro M, Salzano G, Sideri T, Howell SA, Calvani E, Patel H, Bushkin G, Ralser M, Snijders AP, Skehel M, Casañal A, Schwartz S, van Werven FJ. The yeast RNA methylation complex consists of conserved yet reconfigured components with m6A-dependent and independent roles. eLife 2023; 12:RP87860. [PMID: 37490041 PMCID: PMC10393049 DOI: 10.7554/elife.87860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most abundant mRNA modification, is deposited in mammals/insects/plants by m6A methyltransferase complexes (MTC) comprising a catalytic subunit and at least five additional proteins. The yeast MTC is critical for meiosis and was known to comprise three proteins, of which two were conserved. We uncover three novel MTC components (Kar4/Ygl036w-Vir1/Dyn2). All MTC subunits, except for Dyn2, are essential for m6A deposition and have corresponding mammalian MTC orthologues. Unlike the mammalian bipartite MTC, the yeast MTC is unipartite, yet multifunctional. The mRNA interacting module, comprising Ime4, Mum2, Vir1, and Kar4, exerts the MTC's m6A-independent function, while Slz1 enables the MTC catalytic function in m6A deposition. Both functions are critical for meiotic progression. Kar4 also has a mechanistically separate role from the MTC during mating. The yeast MTC constituents play distinguishable m6A-dependent, MTC-dependent, and MTC-independent functions, highlighting their complexity and paving the path towards dissecting multi-layered MTC functions in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexander Maman
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Guy Bushkin
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical ResearchCambridgeUnited States
| | - Markus Ralser
- The Francis Crick InstituteLondonUnited Kingdom
- Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of BiochemistryBerlinGermany
| | | | - Mark Skehel
- The Francis Crick InstituteLondonUnited Kingdom
| | | | - Schraga Schwartz
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
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23
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Leoni C, Bataclan M, Ito-Kureha T, Heissmeyer V, Monticelli S. The mRNA methyltransferase Mettl3 modulates cytokine mRNA stability and limits functional responses in mast cells. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3862. [PMID: 37386028 PMCID: PMC10310798 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39614-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Mast cells are central players in allergy and asthma, and their dysregulated responses lead to reduced quality of life and life-threatening conditions such as anaphylaxis. The RNA modification N6-methyladenosine (m6A) has a prominent impact on immune cell functions, but its role in mast cells remains unexplored. Here, by optimizing tools to genetically manipulate primary mast cells, we reveal that the m6A mRNA methyltransferase complex modulates mast cell proliferation and survival. Depletion of the catalytic component Mettl3 exacerbates effector functions in response to IgE and antigen complexes, both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, deletion of Mettl3 or Mettl14, another component of the methyltransferase complex, lead to the enhanced expression of inflammatory cytokines. By focusing on one of the most affected mRNAs, namely the one encoding the cytokine IL-13, we find that it is methylated in activated mast cells, and that Mettl3 affects its transcript stability in an enzymatic activity-dependent manner, requiring consensus m6A sites in the Il13 3'-untranslated region. Overall, we reveal that the m6A machinery is essential in mast cells to sustain growth and to restrain inflammatory responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Leoni
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università della Svizzera italiana (USI), 6500, Bellinzona, Switzerland.
| | - Marian Bataclan
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università della Svizzera italiana (USI), 6500, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Taku Ito-Kureha
- Institute for Immunology, Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
| | - Vigo Heissmeyer
- Institute for Immunology, Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich, 82152, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany
- Research Unit Molecular Immune Regulation, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Silvia Monticelli
- Institute for Research in Biomedicine, Università della Svizzera italiana (USI), 6500, Bellinzona, Switzerland.
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24
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Li B, Hu P, Huang ZH, Yang JY, Wang J, Xie XZ, Wang YH, Li CC, Xu JP. RNA methyltransferase BmMettl3 and BmMettl14 in silkworm (Bombyx mori) and the regulation of silkworm embryonic development. ARCHIVES OF INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 113:e22005. [PMID: 36802092 DOI: 10.1002/arch.22005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a ubiquitous reversible epigenetic RNA modification that plays an important role in regulating many biological processes, especially embryonic development. However, regulation of m6A methylation during silkworm embryonic development and diapause remains to be investigated. In this study, we analyzed the phylogeny of subunits of methyltransferases BmMettl3 and BmMettl14, and detected the expression patterns of BmMettl3 and BmMettl14 in different tissues and at different developmental stages in silkworm. To investigate the function of m6A on the development of silkworm embryo, we analyzed the m6A/A ratio in diapause and diapause termination eggs. The results showed that BmMettl3 and BmMettl14 were highly expressed in gonads and eggs. Moreover, the expression of BmMettl3 and BmMettl14 and the m6A/A ratio were significantly increased in diapause termination eggs compared with diapause eggs in the early stage of silkworm embryonic development. Furthermore, in BmN cell cycle experiments, the percentage of cells in the S phase increased when lacking BmMettl3 or BmMettl14. This work contributes to understanding the role of m6A methylation during insect embryogenesis and gametogenesis. It also provides a research orientation to further analyze the role of m6A methylation in diapause initiation and termination during insect embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Li
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
- Institute of Sericulture, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Pei Hu
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
- Hangzhou Dongfang High School, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Hao Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
- Anhui International Joint Research and Developmental Centre of Sericulture Resources Utilization, Hefei, China
| | - Jia-Yue Yang
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
- Anhui International Joint Research and Developmental Centre of Sericulture Resources Utilization, Hefei, China
| | - Jie Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
- Institute of Sericulture, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Xiu-Zhi Xie
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Yu-Han Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
- Anhui International Joint Research and Developmental Centre of Sericulture Resources Utilization, Hefei, China
| | - Chen-Chen Li
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
- Anhui International Joint Research and Developmental Centre of Sericulture Resources Utilization, Hefei, China
| | - Jia-Ping Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
- Anhui International Joint Research and Developmental Centre of Sericulture Resources Utilization, Hefei, China
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25
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Yang J, Xu J, Wang W, Zhang B, Yu X, Shi S. Epigenetic regulation in the tumor microenvironment: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:210. [PMID: 37217462 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01480-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Over decades, researchers have focused on the epigenetic control of DNA-templated processes. Histone modification, DNA methylation, chromatin remodeling, RNA modification, and noncoding RNAs modulate many biological processes that are crucial to the development of cancers. Dysregulation of the epigenome drives aberrant transcriptional programs. A growing body of evidence suggests that the mechanisms of epigenetic modification are dysregulated in human cancers and might be excellent targets for tumor treatment. Epigenetics has also been shown to influence tumor immunogenicity and immune cells involved in antitumor responses. Thus, the development and application of epigenetic therapy and cancer immunotherapy and their combinations may have important implications for cancer treatment. Here, we present an up-to-date and thorough description of how epigenetic modifications in tumor cells influence immune cell responses in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and how epigenetics influence immune cells internally to modify the TME. Additionally, we highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting epigenetic regulators for cancer immunotherapy. Harnessing the complex interplay between epigenetics and cancer immunology to develop therapeutics that combine thereof is challenging but could yield significant benefits. The purpose of this review is to assist researchers in understanding how epigenetics impact immune responses in the TME, so that better cancer immunotherapies can be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianjun Yu
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Si Shi
- Department of Pancreatic Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China.
- Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Shanghai, China.
- Pancreatic Cancer Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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26
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Park ZM, Belnap E, Remillard M, Rose MD. Vir1p, the yeast homolog of virilizer, is required for mRNA m6A methylation and meiosis. Genetics 2023; 224:iyad043. [PMID: 36930734 PMCID: PMC10474941 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyad043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) is among the most abundant modifications of eukaryotic mRNAs. mRNA methylation regulates many biological processes including playing an essential role in meiosis. During meiosis in the budding yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, m6A levels peak early, before the initiation of the meiotic divisions. High-throughput studies suggested, and this work confirms that the uncharacterized protein Ygl036wp interacts with Kar4p, a component of the mRNA m6A-methyltransferase complex. Protein structure programs predict that Ygl036wp folds like VIRMA/Virilizer/VIR, which is involved in mRNA m6A-methylation in higher eukaryotes. In addition, Ygl036wp contains conserved motifs shared with VIRMA/Virilizer/VIR. Accordingly, we propose the name VIR1 for budding yeast ortholog of VIRMA/Virilizer/VIR 1. Vir1p interacts with all other members of the yeast methyltransferase complex and is itself required for mRNA m6A methylation and meiosis. In the absence of Vir1p proteins comprising the methyltransferase complex become unstable, suggesting that Vir1p acts as a scaffold for the complex. The vir1Δ/Δ mutant is defective for the premeiotic S-phase, which is suppressed by overexpression of the early meiotic transcription factor IME1; additional overexpression of the translational regulator RIM4 is required for sporulation. The vir1Δ/Δ mutant exhibits reduced levels of IME1 mRNA, as well as transcripts within Ime1p's regulon. Suppression by IME1 revealed an additional defect in the expression of the middle meiotic transcription factor, Ndt80p (and genes in its regulon), which is rescued by overexpression of RIM4. Together, these data suggest that Vir1p is required for cells to initiate the meiotic program and for progression through the meiotic divisions and spore formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachory M Park
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Ethan Belnap
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Matthew Remillard
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
| | - Mark D Rose
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA
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27
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Issahaku AR, Mncube SM, Agoni C, Kwofie SK, Alahmdi MI, Abo-Dya NE, Sidhom PA, Tawfeek AM, Ibrahim MAA, Mukelabai N, Soremekun O, Soliman MES. Multi-dimensional structural footprint identification for the design of potential scaffolds targeting METTL3 in cancer treatment from natural compounds. J Mol Model 2023; 29:122. [PMID: 36995499 DOI: 10.1007/s00894-023-05516-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT [Formula: see text]-adenosine-methyltransferase (METTL3) is the catalytic domain of the 'writer' proteins which is involved in the post modifications of [Formula: see text]-methyladinosine ([Formula: see text]). Though its activities are essential in many biological processes, it has been implicated in several types of cancer. Thus, drug developers and researchers are relentlessly in search of small molecule inhibitors that can ameliorate the oncogenic activities of METTL3. Currently, STM2457 is a potent, highly selective inhibitor of METTL3 but is yet to be approved. METHODS In this study, we employed structure-based virtual screening through consensus docking by using AutoDock Vina in PyRx interface and Glide virtual screening workflow of Schrodinger Glide. Thermodynamics via MM-PBSA calculations was further used to rank the compounds based on their total free binding energies. All atom molecular dynamics simulations were performed using AMBER 18 package. FF14SB force fields and Antechamber were used to parameterize the protein and compounds respectively. Post analysis of generated trajectories was analyzed with CPPTRAJ and PTRAJ modules incorporated in the AMBER package while Discovery studio and UCSF Chimera were used for visualization, and origin data tool used to plot all graphs. RESULTS Three compounds with total free binding energies higher than STM2457 were selected for extended molecular dynamics simulations. The compounds, SANCDB0370, SANCDB0867, and SANCDB1033, exhibited stability and deeper penetration into the hydrophobic core of the protein. They engaged in relatively stronger intermolecular interactions involving hydrogen bonds with resultant increase in stability, reduced flexibility, and decrease in the surface area of the protein available for solvent interactions suggesting an induced folding of the catalytic domain. Furthermore, in silico pharmacokinetics and physicochemical analysis of the compounds revealed good properties suggesting these compounds could serve as promising MEETL3 entry inhibitors upon modifications and optimizations as presented by natural compounds. Further biochemical testing and experimentations would aid in the discovery of effective inhibitors against the berserk activities of METTL3.
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28
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Xu P, Li X, Fan J, Wang C, Lin A, Lian H. Comprehensive Identification and Expression Analysis of the YTH Family of RNA-Binding Proteins in Strawberry. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:1449. [PMID: 37050075 PMCID: PMC10097400 DOI: 10.3390/plants12071449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Plant growth and development processes are tightly regulated at multiple levels, including transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels, and the RNA-binding protein YTH regulates gene expression during growth and development at the post-transcriptional level by regulating RNA splicing, processing, stability, and translation. We performed a systematic characterization of YTH genes in diploid forest strawberry and identified a total of nine YTH genes. With the help of phylogenetic analysis, these nine genes were found to belong to two different groups, YTHDC and YTHDF, with YTHDF being further subdivided into three subfamilies. Replication analysis showed that YTH3 and YTH4 are a gene pair generated by tandem repeat replication. These two genes have similarities in gene structure, number of motifs, and distribution patterns. Promoter analysis revealed the presence of multiple developmental, stress response, and hormone-response-related cis-elements. Analysis of available transcriptome data showed that the expression levels of most of the YTH genes were stable with no dramatic changes during development in different tissues. However, YTH3 maintained high expression levels in all tissues and during fruit development, and YTH4 was expressed at higher levels in tissues such as flowers, leaves, and seedlings, while it was significantly lower than YTH3 in white fruits and ripening fruits with little fluctuation. Taken together, our study provides insightful and comprehensive basic information for the study of YTH genes in strawberry.
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29
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Park ZM, Belnap E, Remillard M, Rose MD. Vir1p, the Yeast Homolog of Virilizer, is Required for mRNA m 6 A Methylation and Meiosis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.07.527493. [PMID: 36798303 PMCID: PMC9934557 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.07.527493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
N 6 -Methyladenosine (m 6 A) is one of the most abundant modifications found on eukaryotic mRNAs. mRNA methylation regulates a host of biological processes including meiosis, a specialized diploid cell division program that results in the formation of haploid cells (gametes). During budding yeast meiosis, m 6 A levels peak early, before the initiation of the meiotic divisions. High-throughput studies and work from our lab showed that Ygl036wp, a previously uncharacterized protein interacts with Kar4p, a meiotic protein required for mRNA m 6 A-methylation. Ygl036wp has no discernable domains except for several intrinsically disordered regions. However, protein folding prediction tools showed that Ygl036wp folds like VIRMA/Virilizer/VIR, which is involved in mRNA m 6 A-methylation in higher eukaryotes. In addition, Ygl036wp has several conserved motifs shared with VIRMA/Virilizer/VIR proteins. Accordingly, we propose to call the gene VIR1 for budding yeast ortholog of VIR MA/Virilizer/VIR 1 . In support, Vir1p interacts with all other members of the yeast methyltransferase complex and is required for mRNA m 6 A methylation and meiosis. Vir1p is required for the stability of proteins comprising the methyltransferase complex, suggesting that Vir1p acts as a scaffold to stabilize the complex. The vir1 Δ/Δ mutant is defective for premeiotic S-phase, which is suppressed by overexpression of the early meiotic transcription factor IME1; additional overexpression of the translational regulator RIM4 is required for sporulation. Consistent with IME1 suppression, vir1 Δ/Δ exhibits a defect in the abundance of IME1 mRNA, as well as transcripts within Ime1p's regulon. Suppression by IME1 revealed a defect in the expression of the middle meiotic transcription factor, Ndt80p (and genes in its regulon), which is rescued by additional overexpression of RIM4 . Together, these data suggest that Vir1p is required for cells to initiate the meiotic program and for progression through the meiotic divisions and spore formation. Author Summary Ygl036wp is a previously uncharacterized protein that we propose to name Vir1p (budding yeast ortholog of VIR MA/Virilizer/VIR 1 ). Work from our lab and others initially found an interaction between Vir1p and members of the yeast mRNA methyltransferase complex (Kar4p and Mum2p). We found that Vir1p interacts with all known members of the methyltransferase complex and is required for mRNA methylation. Vir1p is required early in meiosis; vir1 Δ/Δ mutants arrest due to the reduced expression of Ime1p. Lower levels of Ime1p cause severe disruption to the meiotic transcriptome in vir1 Δ/Δ. The vir1 Δ/Δ meiotic defect can be partially suppressed by the overexpression of IME1 ; full suppression requires overexpression of both IME1 and RIM4 . Using recent advances in protein folding predictions, we found that Vir1p is a remote homolog of VIRMA/Virilizer/VIR and shares conserved motifs with the protein from other organisms. Vir1p, like VIRMA/Virilizer/VIR, stabilizes the methyltransferase complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachory M. Park
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington DC, 20057, USA
| | - Ethan Belnap
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington DC, 20057, USA
| | - Matthew Remillard
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544
| | - Mark D. Rose
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington DC, 20057, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544
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30
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Chuong NN, Doan PPT, Wang L, Kim JH, Kim J. Current Insights into m 6A RNA Methylation and Its Emerging Role in Plant Circadian Clock. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:624. [PMID: 36771711 PMCID: PMC9920239 DOI: 10.3390/plants12030624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
N6-adenosine methylation (m6A) is a prevalent form of RNA modification found in the expressed transcripts of many eukaryotic organisms. Moreover, m6A methylation is a dynamic and reversible process that requires the functioning of various proteins and their complexes that are evolutionarily conserved between species and include methylases, demethylases, and m6A-binding proteins. Over the past decade, the m6A methylation process in plants has been extensively studied and the understanding thereof has drastically increased, although the regulatory function of some components relies on information derived from animal systems. Notably, m6A has been found to be involved in a variety of factors in RNA processing, such as RNA stability, alternative polyadenylation, and miRNA regulation. The circadian clock in plants is a molecular timekeeping system that regulates the daily and rhythmic activity of many cellular and physiological processes in response to environmental changes such as the day-night cycle. The circadian clock regulates the rhythmic expression of genes through post-transcriptional regulation of mRNA. Recently, m6A methylation has emerged as an additional layer of post-transcriptional regulation that is necessary for the proper functioning of the plant circadian clock. In this review, we have compiled and summarized recent insights into the molecular mechanisms behind m6A modification and its various roles in the regulation of RNA. We discuss the potential role of m6A modification in regulating the plant circadian clock and outline potential future directions for the study of mRNA methylation in plants. A deeper understanding of the mechanism of m6A RNA regulation and its role in plant circadian clocks will contribute to a greater understanding of the plant circadian clock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Nguyen Chuong
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Advanced Convergence Technology & Science, Jeju National University, Jeju 690756, Republic of Korea
| | - Phan Phuong Thao Doan
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Advanced Convergence Technology & Science, Jeju National University, Jeju 690756, Republic of Korea
| | - Lanshuo Wang
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Advanced Convergence Technology & Science, Jeju National University, Jeju 690756, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Hee Kim
- Subtropical Horticulture Research Institute, Jeju National University, Jeju 690756, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongsik Kim
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Advanced Convergence Technology & Science, Jeju National University, Jeju 690756, Republic of Korea
- Subtropical Horticulture Research Institute, Jeju National University, Jeju 690756, Republic of Korea
- Faculty of Science Education, Jeju National University, Jeju 690756, Republic of Korea
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Park ZM, Sporer A, Kraft K, Lum K, Blackman E, Belnap E, Yellman C, Rose MD. Kar4, the Yeast Homolog of METTL14, is Required for mRNA m 6 A Methylation and Meiosis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.29.526094. [PMID: 36747717 PMCID: PMC9900893 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.29.526094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
KAR4 , the yeast homolog of the mammalian mRNA N 6 A-methyltransferase complex component METTL14 , is required for two disparate developmental programs in Saccharomyces cerevisiae : mating and meiosis. To understand KAR4 's role in yeast mating and meiosis, we used a genetic screen to isolate 25 function-specific mutant alleles, which map to non-overlapping surfaces on a predicted structure of the Kar4 protein (Kar4p). Most of the mating-specific alleles (Mat - ) abolish Kar4p's interaction with the transcription factor Ste12p, indicating that Kar4p's mating function is through Ste12p. In yeast, the mRNA methyltransferase complex was previously defined as comprising Ime4p (Kar4p's paralog and the homolog of mammalian METTL3), Mum2p (homolog of mammalian WTAP), and Slz1p (MIS), but not Kar4p. During meiosis, Kar4p interacts with Ime4p, Mum2p, and Slz1p. Moreover, cells lacking Kar4p have highly reduced levels of mRNA methylation during meiosis indicating that Kar4p is a key member of the methyltransferase complex, as it is in humans. Analysis of kar4 Δ/Δ and 7 meiosis-specific alleles (Mei - ) revealed that Kar4p is required early in meiosis, before initiation of S-phase and meiotic recombination. High copy expression of the meiotic transcriptional activator IME1 rescued the defect of these Mei- alleles. Surprisingly, Kar4p was also found to be required at a second step for the completion of meiosis and sporulation. Over-expression of IME1 in kar4 Δ/Δ permits pre-meiotic S-phase, but most cells remained arrested with a monopolar spindle. Analysis of the function-specific mutants revealed that roughly half became blocked after premeiotic DNA synthesis and did not sporulate (Spo - ). Loss of Kar4p's Spo function was suppressed by overexpression of RIM4 , a meiotic translational regulator. Overexpression of IME1 and RIM4 together allowed sporulation of kar4 Δ/Δ cells. Taken together, these data suggest that Kar4p regulates meiosis at multiple steps, presumably reflecting requirements for methylation in different stages of meiotic gene expression. Author Summary In yeast, KAR4 is required for mating and meiosis. A genetic screen for function-specific mutations identified 25 alleles that map to different surfaces on a predicted structure of the Kar4 protein (Kar4p). The mating-specific alleles interfere with Kar4p's ability to interact with the transcription factor Ste12p, its known partner in mating. The meiosis-specific alleles revealed an independent function: Kar4p is required for entry into meiosis and initiation of S-phase. During meiosis, Kar4p interacts with all components of the mRNA methyltransferase complex and kar4 Δ/Δ mutants have greatly reduced levels of mRNA methylation. Thus, Kar4p is a member of the yeast methyltransferase complex. Overexpression of the meiotic transcriptional activator IME1 rescued the meiotic entry defect but did not lead to sporulation, implying that Kar4p has more than one meiotic function. Suppression by Ime1p overexpression led to arrest after premeiotic DNA synthesis, but before sporulation. Loss of Kar4's sporulation function can be suppressed by overexpression of a translation regulator, Rim4p. Overexpression of both IME1 and RIM4 allowed sporulation in kar4 Δ/Δ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachory M. Park
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington DC, 20057, USA
| | - Abigail Sporer
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544
| | - Katherine Kraft
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington DC, 20057, USA
| | - Krystal Lum
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544
| | - Edith Blackman
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544
| | - Ethan Belnap
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington DC, 20057, USA
| | | | - Mark D. Rose
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington DC, 20057, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544
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Park ZM, Remillard M, Rose MD. Kar4 is Required for the Normal Pattern of Meiotic Gene Expression. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.29.526097. [PMID: 36747654 PMCID: PMC9900936 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.29.526097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Kar4p, the yeast homolog of the mammalian methyltransferase subunit METTL14, is required for the initiation of meiosis and has at least two distinct functions in regulating the meiotic program. Cells lacking Kar4p can be driven to sporulate by co-overexpressing the master meiotic transcription factor, IME1 , and the translational regulator, RIM4 , suggesting that Kar4p functions at both the transcriptional and translational level to regulate meiosis. Using microarray analysis and RNA sequencing, we found that kar4 Δ/Δ mutants have a largely wild type transcriptional profile with the exception of two groups of genes that show delayed and reduced expression: (1) a set of Ime1p-dependent early genes as well as IME1 , and (2) a set of late genes dependent on the mid-meiotic transcription factor, Ndt80p. The early gene expression defect is rescued by overexpressing IME1 , but the late defect is only suppressed by overexpression of both IME1 and RIM4 . Mass spectrometry analysis identified several genes involved in meiotic recombination with strongly reduced protein levels, but with little to no reduction in transcript levels in kar4 Δ/Δ after IME1 overexpression. The low levels of these proteins were rescued by overexpression of RIM4 and IME1 , but not by the overexpression of IME1 alone. These data expand our understanding of the role of Kar4p in regulating meiosis and provide key insights into a potential mechanism of Kar4p's later meiotic function that is independent of mRNA methylation. Author Summary Kar4p is required at two stages during meiosis. Cells lacking Kar4p have a severe loss of mRNA methylation and arrest early in the meiotic program, failing to undergo either pre-meiotic DNA synthesis or meiotic recombination. The early block is rescued by overexpression of the meiotic transcription factor, IME1 . The kar4 Δ/Δ cells show delayed and reduced expression of a set of Ime1p-dependent genes expressed early in meiosis as well as a set of later genes that are largely Ndt80p-dependent. Overexpression of IME1 rescues the expression defect of these early genes and expedites the meiotic program in the wild type S288C strain background. However, IME1 overexpression is not sufficient to facilitate sporulation in kar4 Δ/Δ. Completion of meiosis and sporulation requires the additional overexpression of a translational regulator, RIM4 . Analysis of kar4 Δ/Δ's proteome during meiosis with IME1 overexpression revealed that proteins important for meiotic recombination have reduced levels that cannot be explained by equivalent reductions in transcript abundance. IME1 overexpression by itself rescues the defect associated with a catalytic mutant of Ime4p, implying that the early defect reflects mRNA methylation. The residual defects in protein levels likely reflect the loss of a non-catalytic function of Kar4p, and the methylation complex, which requires overexpression of RIM4 to suppress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachory M. Park
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington DC, 20057, USA
| | - Matthew Remillard
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544
| | - Mark D. Rose
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington DC, 20057, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544
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The Characterization and Differential Analysis of m 6A Methylation in Hycole Rabbit Muscle and Adipose Tissue and Prediction of Regulatory Mechanism about Intramuscular Fat. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13030446. [PMID: 36766336 PMCID: PMC9913852 DOI: 10.3390/ani13030446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) widely participates in various life processes of animals, including disease, memory, growth and development, etc. However, there is no report on m6A regulating intramuscular fat deposition in rabbits. In this study, m6A modification of Hycole rabbit muscle and adipose tissues were detected by MeRIP-Seq. In this case, 3 methylases and 12 genes modified by m6A were found to be significantly different between muscle and adipose tissues. At the same time, we found 3 methylases can regulate the expression of 12 genes in different ways and the function of 12 genes is related to fat deposition base on existing studies. 12 genes were modified by m6A methylase in rabbit muscle and adipose tissues. These results suggest that 3 methylases may regulate the expression of 12 genes through different pathways. In addition, the analysis of results showed that 6 of the 12 genes regulated eight signaling pathways, which regulated intramuscular fat deposition. RT-qPCR was used to validate the sequencing results and found the expression results of RT-qPCR and sequencing results are consistent. In summary, METTL4, ZC3H13 and IGF2BP2 regulated intramuscular fat by m6A modified gene/signaling pathways. Our work provided a new molecular basis and a new way to produce rabbit meat with good taste.
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Kisan A, Chhabra R. Modulation of gene expression by YTH domain family (YTHDF) proteins in human physiology and pathology. J Cell Physiol 2023; 238:5-31. [PMID: 36326110 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30907] [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: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The advent of high throughput techniques in the past decade has significantly advanced the field of epitranscriptomics. The internal chemical modification of the target RNA at a specific site is a basic feature of epitranscriptomics and is critical for its structural stability and functional property. More than 170 modifications at the transcriptomic level have been reported so far, among which m6A methylation is one of the more conserved internal RNA modifications, abundantly found in eukaryotic mRNAs and frequently involved in enhancing the target messenger RNA's (mRNA) stability and translation. m6A modification of mRNAs is essential for multiple physiological processes including stem cell differentiation, nervous system development and gametogenesis. Any aberration in the m6A modification can often result in a pathological condition. The deregulation of m6A methylation has already been described in inflammation, viral infection, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. The m6A modification is reversible in nature and is carried out by specialized m6A proteins including writers (m6A methyltransferases) that add methyl groups and erasers (m6A demethylases) that remove methyl groups selectively. The fate of m6A-modified mRNA is heavily reliant on the various m6A-binding proteins ("readers") which recognize and generate a functional signal from m6A-modified mRNA. In this review, we discuss the role of a family of reader proteins, "YT521-B homology domain containing family" (YTHDF) proteins, in human physiology and pathology. In addition, we critically evaluate the potential of YTHDF proteins as therapeutic targets in human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aju Kisan
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
| | - Ravindresh Chhabra
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, India
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Zhang L, Xia J. N6-Methyladenosine Methylation of mRNA in Cell Senescence. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2023; 43:27-36. [PMID: 34767142 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-021-01168-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Cell senescence is the growth arrest caused by the accumulation of irreparable cell damage, which is involved in physiological and pathological processes and regulated by the post-transcriptional level. This regulation is performed by transcriptional regulators and driven by aging-related small RNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and RNA-binding proteins. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common chemical modification in eukaryotic mRNA, which can enhance or reduce the binding of transcriptional regulators. Increasing studies have confirmed the crucial role of m6A in controlling mRNA in various physiological processes. Remarkably, recent reports have indicated that abnormal methylation of m6A-related RNA may affect cell senescence. In this review, we clarified the association between m6A modification and cell senescence and analyzed the limitations of the current research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Xia
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, People's Republic of China. .,Clinical Research Center for Cerebrovascular Disease of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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36
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Zou J, Liu H, Tan W, Chen YQ, Dong J, Bai SY, Wu ZX, Zeng Y. Dynamic regulation and key roles of ribonucleic acid methylation. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:1058083. [PMID: 36601431 PMCID: PMC9806184 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.1058083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Ribonucleic acid (RNA) methylation is the most abundant modification in biological systems, accounting for 60% of all RNA modifications, and affects multiple aspects of RNA (including mRNAs, tRNAs, rRNAs, microRNAs, and long non-coding RNAs). Dysregulation of RNA methylation causes many developmental diseases through various mechanisms mediated by N 6-methyladenosine (m6A), 5-methylcytosine (m5C), N 1-methyladenosine (m1A), 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (hm5C), and pseudouridine (Ψ). The emerging tools of RNA methylation can be used as diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic markers. Here, we review the accumulated discoveries to date regarding the biological function and dynamic regulation of RNA methylation/modification, as well as the most popularly used techniques applied for profiling RNA epitranscriptome, to provide new ideas for growth and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Zou
- Community Health Service Center, Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, School of Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Community Health Service Center, Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, School of Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Tan
- Community Health Service Center, Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi-qi Chen
- Community Health Service Center, Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, School of Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Dong
- Community Health Service Center, Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, School of Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shu-yuan Bai
- Community Health Service Center, Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, School of Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhao-xia Wu
- Community Health Service Center, Wuchang Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Zeng
- Community Health Service Center, Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,Brain Science and Advanced Technology Institute, School of Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,School of Public Health, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China,*Correspondence: Yan Zeng,
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Cao J, Huang C, Liu J, Li C, Liu X, Zheng Z, Hou L, Huang J, Wang L, Zhang Y, Shangguan X, Chen Z. Comparative Genomics and Functional Studies of Putative m 6A Methyltransferase (METTL) Genes in Cotton. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:14111. [PMID: 36430588 PMCID: PMC9694044 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modification plays important regulatory roles in plant development and adapting to the environment, which requires methyltransferases to achieve the methylation process. However, there has been no research regarding m6A RNA methyltransferases in cotton. Here, a systematic analysis of the m6A methyltransferase (METTL) gene family was performed on twelve cotton species, resulting in six METTLs identified in five allotetraploid cottons, respectively, and three to four METTLs in the seven diploid species. Phylogenetic analysis of protein-coding sequences revealed that METTL genes from cottons, Arabidopsis thaliana, and Homo sapiens could be classified into three clades (METTL3, METTL14, and METTL-like clades). Cis-element analysis predicated the possible functions of METTL genes in G. hirsutum. RNA-seq data revealed that GhMETTL14 (GH_A07G0817/GH_D07G0819) and GhMETTL3 (GH_A12G2586/GH_D12G2605) had high expressions in root, stem, leaf, torus, petal, stamen, pistil, and calycle tissues. GhMETTL14 also had the highest expression in 20 and 25 dpa fiber cells, implying a potential role at the cell wall thickening stage. Suppressing GhMETTL3 and GhMETTL14 by VIGS caused growth arrest and even death in G. hirsutum, along with decreased m6A abundance from the leaf tissues of VIGS plants. Overexpression of GhMETTL3 and GhMETTL14 produced distinct differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in A. thaliana, indicating their possible divergent functions after gene duplication. Overall, GhMETTLs play indispensable but divergent roles during the growth of cotton plants, which provides the basis for the systematic investigation of m6A in subsequent studies to improve the agronomic traits in cotton.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junfeng Cao
- Hainan Yazhou Bay Seed Laboratory, Sanya 572025, China
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology/CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
- Plant Biotechnology Research Center, Fudan-SJTU-Nottingham Plant Biotechnology R&D Center, Key Laboratory of Urban Agriculture (South), Ministry of Agriculture, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Chaochen Huang
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology/CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jun’e Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Chenyi Li
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology/CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xia Liu
- Esquel Group, 25 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zishou Zheng
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology/CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Lipan Hou
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology/CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jinquan Huang
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology/CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Lingjian Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology/CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yugao Zhang
- Esquel Group, 25 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong, China
| | - Xiaoxia Shangguan
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology/CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
- Institute of Cotton Research, Shanxi Agricultural University, Yuncheng 044099, China
| | - Zhiwen Chen
- Hainan Yazhou Bay Seed Laboratory, Sanya 572025, China
- National Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Genetics, Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology/CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200032, China
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Zhang L, Zhang Y, Zhang S, Qiu L, Zhang Y, Zhou Y, Han J, Xie J. Translational Regulation by eIFs and RNA Modifications in Cancer. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:2050. [PMID: 36360287 PMCID: PMC9690228 DOI: 10.3390/genes13112050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Translation is a fundamental process in all living organisms that involves the decoding of genetic information in mRNA by ribosomes and translation factors. The dysregulation of mRNA translation is a common feature of tumorigenesis. Protein expression reflects the total outcome of multiple regulatory mechanisms that change the metabolism of mRNA pathways from synthesis to degradation. Accumulated evidence has clarified the role of an increasing amount of mRNA modifications at each phase of the pathway, resulting in translational output. Translation machinery is directly affected by mRNA modifications, influencing translation initiation, elongation, and termination or altering mRNA abundance and subcellular localization. In this review, we focus on the translation initiation factors associated with cancer as well as several important RNA modifications, for which we describe their association with cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linzhu Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
- The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu, Clinical College of Southwest Jiao Tong University, Chengdu 610014, China
| | - Yaguang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Su Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lei Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Junhong Han
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jiang Xie
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
- The Third People’s Hospital of Chengdu, Clinical College of Southwest Jiao Tong University, Chengdu 610014, China
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Structural insights into molecular mechanism for N 6-adenosine methylation by MT-A70 family methyltransferase METTL4. Nat Commun 2022; 13:5636. [PMID: 36163360 PMCID: PMC9512776 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-33277-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
METTL4 belongs to a subclade of MT-A70 family members of methyltransferase (MTase) proteins shown to mediate N6-adenosine methylation for both RNA and DNA in diverse eukaryotes. Here, we report that Arabidopsis METTL4 functions as U2 snRNA MTase for N6-2'-O-dimethyladenosine (m6Am) in vivo that regulates flowering time, and specifically catalyzes N6-methylation of 2'-O-methyladenosine (Am) within a single-stranded RNA in vitro. The apo structures of full-length Arabidopsis METTL4 bound to S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) and the complex structure with an Am-containing RNA substrate, combined with mutagenesis and in vitro enzymatic assays, uncover a preformed L-shaped, positively-charged cavity surrounded by four loops for substrate binding and a catalytic center composed of conserved residues for specific Am nucleotide recognition and N6-methylation activity. Structural comparison of METTL4 with the mRNA m6A enzyme METTL3/METTL14 heterodimer and modeling analysis suggest a catalytic mechanism for N6-adenosine methylation by METTL4, which may be shared among MT-A70 family members.
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40
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Fan Y, Li X, Sun H, Gao Z, Zhu Z, Yuan K. Role of WTAP in Cancer: From Mechanisms to the Therapeutic Potential. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12091224. [PMID: 36139062 PMCID: PMC9496264 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Wilms' tumor 1-associating protein (WTAP) is required for N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation modifications, which regulate biological processes such as RNA splicing, cell proliferation, cell cycle, and embryonic development. m6A is the predominant form of mRNA modification in eukaryotes. WTAP exerts m6A modification by binding to methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) in the nucleus to form the METTL3-methyltransferase-like 14 (METTL14)-WTAP (MMW) complex, a core component of the methyltransferase complex (MTC), and localizing to the nuclear patches. Studies have demonstrated that WTAP plays a critical role in various cancers, both dependent and independent of its role in m6A modification of methyltransferases. Here, we describe the recent findings on the structural features of WTAP, the mechanisms by which WTAP regulates the biological functions, and the molecular mechanisms of its functions in various cancers. By summarizing the latest WTAP research, we expect to provide new directions and insights for oncology research and discover new targets for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongfei Fan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou 213003, China
- Heart and Lung Disease Laboratory, The Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou 213003, China
| | - Xinwei Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu 233000, China
| | - Huihui Sun
- Department of Radiotherapy, The Affiliated Changzhou No. 1 People’s Hospital of Suzhou University, Changzhou 213003, China
| | - Zhaojia Gao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou 213003, China
- Heart and Lung Disease Laboratory, The Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou 213003, China
| | - Zheng Zhu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou 213003, China
- Heart and Lung Disease Laboratory, The Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou 213003, China
| | - Kai Yuan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou 213003, China
- Heart and Lung Disease Laboratory, The Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou 213003, China
- Correspondence:
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41
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Jang KH, Heras CR, Lee G. m 6A in the Signal Transduction Network. Mol Cells 2022; 45:435-443. [PMID: 35748227 PMCID: PMC9260138 DOI: 10.14348/molcells.2022.0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
In response to environmental changes, signaling pathways rewire gene expression programs through transcription factors. Epigenetic modification of the transcribed RNA can be another layer of gene expression regulation. N6-adenosine methylation (m6A) is one of the most common modifications on mRNA. It is a reversible chemical mark catalyzed by the enzymes that deposit and remove methyl groups. m6A recruits effector proteins that determine the fate of mRNAs through changes in splicing, cellular localization, stability, and translation efficiency. Emerging evidence shows that key signal transduction pathways including TGFβ (transforming growth factor-β), ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase), and mTORC1 (mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1) regulate downstream gene expression through m6A processing. Conversely, m6A can modulate the activity of signal transduction networks via m6A modification of signaling pathway genes or by acting as a ligand for receptors. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of the crosstalk between m6A and signaling pathways and its implication for biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Hong Jang
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
| | - Chloe R. Heras
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
- School of Biological Sciences, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92697, USA
| | - Gina Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA 92617, USA
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42
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The Mettl3 epitranscriptomic writer amplifies p53 stress responses. Mol Cell 2022; 82:2370-2384.e10. [PMID: 35512709 PMCID: PMC9807187 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The p53 transcription factor drives anti-proliferative gene expression programs in response to diverse stressors, including DNA damage and oncogenic signaling. Here, we seek to uncover new mechanisms through which p53 regulates gene expression using tandem affinity purification/mass spectrometry to identify p53-interacting proteins. This approach identified METTL3, an m6A RNA-methyltransferase complex (MTC) constituent, as a p53 interactor. We find that METTL3 promotes p53 protein stabilization and target gene expression in response to DNA damage and oncogenic signals, by both catalytic activity-dependent and independent mechanisms. METTL3 also enhances p53 tumor suppressor activity in in vivo mouse cancer models and human cancer cells. Notably, METTL3 only promotes tumor suppression in the context of intact p53. Analysis of human cancer genome data further supports the notion that the MTC reinforces p53 function in human cancer. Together, these studies reveal a fundamental role for METTL3 in amplifying p53 signaling in response to cellular stress.
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43
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Miao Z, Wang G, Shen H, Wang X, Gabriel DW, Liang W. BcMettl4-Mediated DNA Adenine N6-Methylation Is Critical for Virulence of Botrytis cinerea. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:925868. [PMID: 35847085 PMCID: PMC9279130 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.925868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA adenine N6-methylation (6mA) plays a critical role in various biological functions, but its occurrence and functions in filamentous plant pathogens are largely unexplored. Botrytis cinerea is an important pathogenic fungus worldwide. A systematic analysis of 6mA in B. cinerea was performed in this study, revealing that 6mA is widely distributed in the genome of this fungus. The 2 kb regions flanking many genes, particularly the upstream promoter regions, were susceptible to methylation. The role of BcMettl4, a 6mA methyltransferase, in the virulence of B. cinerea was investigated. BcMETTL4 disruption and point mutations of its catalytic motif “DPPW” both resulted in significant 6mA reduction in the genomic DNA and in reduced virulence of B. cinerea. RNA-Seq analysis revealed a total of 13 downregulated genes in the disruption mutant ΔBcMettl4 in which methylation occurred at the promoter sites. These were involved in oxidoreduction, secretory pathways, autophagy and carbohydrate metabolism. Two of these genes, BcFDH and BcMFS2, were independently disrupted. Knockout of BcFDH led to reduced sclerotium formation, while disruption of BcMFS2 resulted in dramatically decreased conidium formation and pathogenicity. These observations indicated that 6mA provides potential epigenetic markers in B. cinerea and that BcMettl4 regulates virulence in this important plant pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengang Miao
- College of Plant Health and Medicine, Engineering Research Center for Precision Pest Management for Fruits and Vegetables of Qingdao, Shandong Engineering Research Center for Environment-Friendly Agricultural Pest Management, Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Applied Mycology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Guangyuan Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Applied Mycology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Heng Shen
- College of Plant Health and Medicine, Engineering Research Center for Precision Pest Management for Fruits and Vegetables of Qingdao, Shandong Engineering Research Center for Environment-Friendly Agricultural Pest Management, Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Applied Mycology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | - Xue Wang
- Yantai Agricultural Technology Extension Center, Yantai, China
| | - Dean W. Gabriel
- Department of Plant Pathology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Wenxing Liang
- College of Plant Health and Medicine, Engineering Research Center for Precision Pest Management for Fruits and Vegetables of Qingdao, Shandong Engineering Research Center for Environment-Friendly Agricultural Pest Management, Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Applied Mycology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
- *Correspondence: Wenxing Liang,
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44
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The Progression of N6-methyladenosine Study and Its Role in Neuropsychiatric Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23115922. [PMID: 35682599 PMCID: PMC9180340 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23115922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Epitranscriptomic modifications can affect every aspect of RNA biology, including stability, transport, splicing, and translation, participate in global intracellular mRNA metabolism, and regulate gene expression and a variety of biological processes. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) as the most prevalent modification contributes to normal embryonic brain development and memory formation. However, changes in the level of m6A modification and the expression of its related proteins cause abnormal nervous system functions, including brain tissue development retardation, axon regeneration disorders, memory changes, and neural stem cell renewal and differentiation disorders. Recent studies have revealed that m6A modification and its related proteins play key roles in the development of various neuropsychiatric disorders, such as depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. In this review, we summarize the research progresses of the m6A modification regulation mechanism in the central nervous system and discuss the effects of gene expression regulation mediated by m6A modification on the biological functions of the neuropsychiatric disorders, thereby providing some insight into new research targets and treatment directions for human diseases.
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45
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Wu X, Ye W, Gong Y. The Role of RNA Methyltransferase METTL3 in Normal and Malignant Hematopoiesis. Front Oncol 2022; 12:873903. [PMID: 35574332 PMCID: PMC9095908 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.873903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
m6A modification is the most common modification in eukaryotes. METTL3, as a core methyltransferase of m6A modification, plays a vital role in normal and malignant hematopoiesis. Recent studies have shown that METTL3 is required for normal and symmetric differentiation of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs). Moreover, METTL3 strongly impacts the process and development of hematological neoplasms, including the differentiation, apoptosis, proliferation, chemoresistance, and risk of tumors. Novel inhibitors of METTL3 have been identified and studied in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells. STM2457, a selective inhibitor of METTL3, has been identified to block proliferation and promote differentiation and apoptosis of AML cells without impacting normal hematopoiesis. Therefore, in our present review, we focus on the structure of METTL3, the role of METTL3 in both normal and malignant hematopoiesis, and the potential of METTL3 for treating hematological neoplasms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Wu
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wu Ye
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuping Gong
- Department of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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46
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Shen C, Wang K, Deng X, Chen J. DNA N 6-methyldeoxyadenosine in mammals and human disease. Trends Genet 2022; 38:454-467. [PMID: 34991904 PMCID: PMC9007851 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2021.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
N6-methyladenine (6mA) is the most prevalent DNA modification in prokaryotes. However, its presence and significance in eukaryotes remain elusive. Recently, with methodology advances in detection and sequencing of 6mA in eukaryotes, 6mA is back in the spotlight. Although multiple studies have reported that 6mA is an important epigenetic mark in eukaryotes and plays a regulatory role in DNA transcription, transposon activation, stress response, and other bioprocesses, there are some discrepancies in the current literature. We review the recent advances in 6mA research in eukaryotes, especially in mammals. In particular, we describe the abundance/distribution of 6mA, its potential role in regulating gene expression, identified regulators, and pathological roles in human diseases, especially in cancer. The limitations faced by the field and future perspectives in 6mA research are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Shen
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope, Monrovia 91007, USA
| | - Kitty Wang
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope, Monrovia 91007, USA
| | - Xiaolan Deng
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope, Monrovia 91007, USA
| | - Jianjun Chen
- Department of Systems Biology, City of Hope, Monrovia 91007, USA
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47
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Role of main RNA modifications in cancer: N 6-methyladenosine, 5-methylcytosine, and pseudouridine. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:142. [PMID: 35484099 PMCID: PMC9051163 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01003-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is one of the major diseases threatening human life and health worldwide. Epigenetic modification refers to heritable changes in the genetic material without any changes in the nucleic acid sequence and results in heritable phenotypic changes. Epigenetic modifications regulate many biological processes, such as growth, aging, and various diseases, including cancer. With the advancement of next-generation sequencing technology, the role of RNA modifications in cancer progression has become increasingly prominent and is a hot spot in scientific research. This review studied several common RNA modifications, such as N6-methyladenosine, 5-methylcytosine, and pseudouridine. The deposition and roles of these modifications in coding and noncoding RNAs are summarized in detail. Based on the RNA modification background, this review summarized the expression, function, and underlying molecular mechanism of these modifications and their regulators in cancer and further discussed the role of some existing small-molecule inhibitors. More in-depth studies on RNA modification and cancer are needed to broaden the understanding of epigenetics and cancer diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.
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48
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Wu Y, Wang Z, Shen J, Yan W, Xiang S, Liu H, Huang W. The role of m6A methylation in osteosarcoma biological processes and its potential clinical value. Hum Genomics 2022; 16:12. [PMID: 35436972 PMCID: PMC9017037 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-022-00384-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteosarcoma (OS) is the most common primary malignant bone tumor in children and young adults and has a poor prognosis. Recent developments in the field of high-throughput sequencing technology, particularly in methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq), have led to renewed interest in RNA methylation. Among the various RNA modifications, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications are the most common. Emerging evidence suggests that m6A methylation can affect the complexity of cancer progression by regulating biological functions related to cancer. In this review, we will shed light on recent findings regarding the biological function of m6A methylation in OS and discuss future research directions and potential clinical applications of RNA methyltransferases in OS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanjiao Wu
- Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), Foshan, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Biomechanics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhiyun Wang
- Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), Foshan, China
| | - Jianlin Shen
- The Precision Medicine Institute, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wei Yan
- Department of Anatomy, Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Shurong Xiang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Biomechanics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huan Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.
| | - Wenhua Huang
- Shunde Hospital, Southern Medical University (The First People's Hospital of Shunde), Foshan, China. .,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Biomechanics, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China. .,Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Translation of Medical 3D Printing Application, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China. .,Guangdong Innovation Platform for Translation of 3D Printing Application, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
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An Alternatively Spliced Variant of METTL3 Mediates Tumor Suppression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13040669. [PMID: 35456475 PMCID: PMC9031889 DOI: 10.3390/genes13040669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Many post-transcriptional mRNA processing steps play crucial roles in tumorigenesis and the progression of cancers, such as N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification and alternative splicing. Upregulation of methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3), the catalytic core of the m6A methyltransferase complex, increases m6A levels and results in significant effects on the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, alternative splicing of METTL3 has not been fully investigated, and the functions of its splice variants remain unclear. Here, we analyzed both our and online transcriptomic data, obtaining 13 splice variants of METTL3 in addition to canonical full-length METTL3-A in HCC cell lines and tissues. Validated by RT–qPCR and Western blotting, we found that METTL3-D, one of the splice variants expressing a truncated METTL3 protein, exhibits higher levels than METTL3-A in normal human livers but lower levels than METTL3-A in HCC tumor tissues and cell lines. Further functional assays demonstrated that METTL3-D expression decreased cellular m6A modification, inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of HCC cells, and was negatively associated with the malignancy of patient tumors, exhibiting functions opposite to those of full-length METTL3-A. This study demonstrates that the METTL3-D splice variant is a tumor suppressor that could potentially be used as a target for HCC therapy.
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Izadpanah A, Rappaport J, Datta PK. Epitranscriptomics of SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:849298. [PMID: 35465335 PMCID: PMC9032796 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.849298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies on the epitranscriptomic code of SARS-CoV-2 infection have discovered various RNA modifications, such as N6-methyladenosine (m6A), pseudouridine (Ψ), and 2′-O-methylation (Nm). The effects of RNA methylation on SARS-CoV-2 replication and the enzymes involved in this mechanism are emerging. In this review, we summarize the advances in this emerging field and discuss the role of various players such as readers, writers, and erasers in m6A RNA methylation, the role of pseudouridine synthase one and seven in epitranscriptomic modification Ψ, an isomer of uridine, and role of nsp16/nsp10 heterodimer in 2′-O-methylation of the ribose sugar of the first nucleotide of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA. We also discuss RNA expression levels of various enzymes involved in RNA modifications in blood cells of SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals and their impact on host mRNA modification. In conclusion, these observations will facilitate the development of novel strategies and therapeutics for targeting RNA modification of SARS-CoV-2 RNA to control SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Izadpanah
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Center, Covington, LA, United States
| | - Jay Rappaport
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Center, Covington, LA, United States
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Prasun K. Datta
- Division of Comparative Pathology, Tulane National Primate Center, Covington, LA, United States
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
- *Correspondence: Prasun K. Datta,
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