Transcription factors and splice factors - interconnected regulators of stem cell differentiation

Unlocking the brain's code: The crucial role of post-translational modifications in neurodevelopment and neurological function

Post-translational modifications (PTMs) represent a crucial regulatory mechanism in the brain, influencing various processes, including neurodevelopment and neurological function. This review discusses the effects of PTMs, such as phosphorylation, ubiquitination, acetylation, and glycosylation, on neurodevelopment and central nervous system functionality. Although neurodevelopmental processes linked to PTMs are complex, proteins frequently converge within shared pathways. These pathways encompass neurodevelopmental processes, signaling mechanisms, neuronal migration, and synaptic connection formation, where PTMs act as dynamic regulators, ensuring the precise execution of brain functions. A detailed investigation of the fundamental mechanisms governing these pathways will contribute to a deeper understanding of nervous system functions and facilitate the identification of potential therapeutic targets. A thorough examination of the PTM landscape holds significant potential, not only in advancing knowledge but also in developing treatments for various neurological disorders.

Lamin B1 regulates RNA splicing factor expression by modulating the spatial positioning and chromatin interactions of the ETS1 gene locus

Lamin B1, a crucial component of the nuclear lamina, plays a pivotal role in chromatin organization and transcriptional regulation in eukaryotic cells. While recent studies have highlighted the connection between Lamin B1 and RNA splicing regulation, the precise molecular mechanisms remain elusive. In this study, we demonstrate that Lamin B1 depletion leads to a global reduction in splicing factor expression, as evidenced by analysis of multiple RNA-seq datasets. Motif analysis suggests that members of the ETS transcription factor family likely bind to the promoter regions of these splicing factors. Further analysis using transcription factor databases and ChIP-seq data identified ETS1 as a key regulator of splicing factor expression. Hi-C sequencing revealed that the loss of Lamin B1 disrupts inter-LAD chromatin interactions near the ETS1 gene locus, resulting in its downregulation. These findings suggest that Lamin B1 indirectly regulates RNA splicing by sustaining proper ETS1 expression, uncovering a novel link between nuclear architecture, gene regulation, and RNA splicing.

RNA binding proteins in cardiovascular development and disease

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common birth defect affecting>1.35 million newborn babies worldwide. CHD can lead to prenatal, neonatal, postnatal lethality or life-long cardiac complications. RNA binding protein (RBP) mutations or variants are emerging as contributors to CHDs. RBPs are wizards of gene regulation and are major contributors to mRNA and protein landscape. However, not much is known about RBPs in the developing heart and their contributions to CHD. In this chapter, we will discuss our current knowledge about specific RBPs implicated in CHDs. We are in an exciting era to study RBPs using the currently available and highly successful RNA-based therapies and methodologies. Understanding how RBPs shape the developing heart will unveil their contributions to CHD. Identifying their target RNAs in the embryonic heart will ultimately lead to RNA-based treatments for congenital heart disease.