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Zhigalova NA, Oleynikova KY, Ruzov AS, Ermakov AS. The Functions of N 6-Methyladenosine in Nuclear RNAs. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2024; 89:159-172. [PMID: 38467552 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297924010103] [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: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is one of the most common modifications in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic mRNAs. It has been experimentally confirmed that m6A methylation is involved in the regulation of stability and translation of various mRNAs. Until recently, the majority of m6A-related studies have been focused on the cytoplasmic functions of this modification. Here, we review new data on the role of m6A in several key biological processes taking place in the cell nucleus, such as transcription, chromatin organization, splicing, nuclear-cytoplasmic transport, and R-loop metabolism. Based on analysis of these data, we suggest that m6A methylation of nuclear RNAs is another level of gene expression regulation which, together with DNA methylation and histone modifications, controls chromatin structure and functioning in various biological contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadezhda A Zhigalova
- Institute of Bioengineering, Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia
| | - Katerina Yu Oleynikova
- Institute of Bioengineering, Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia
| | - Alexey S Ruzov
- Institute of Bioengineering, Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia
| | - Alexander S Ermakov
- Institute of Bioengineering, Research Center of Biotechnology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 119071, Russia.
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, 119991, Russia
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2
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Ramsoomair CK, Ceccarelli M, Heiss JD, Shah AH. The epitranscriptome of high-grade gliomas: a promising therapeutic target with implications from the tumor microenvironment to endogenous retroviruses. J Transl Med 2023; 21:893. [PMID: 38071304 PMCID: PMC10709919 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04725-z] [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: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) comprises 45.6% of all primary malignant brain cancers and is one of the most common and aggressive intracranial tumors in adults. Intratumoral heterogeneity with a wide range of proteomic, genetic, and epigenetic dysregulation contributes to treatment resistance and poor prognosis, thus demanding novel therapeutic approaches. To date, numerous clinical trials have been developed to target the proteome and epigenome of high-grade gliomas with promising results. However, studying RNA modifications, or RNA epitranscriptomics, is a new frontier within neuro-oncology. RNA epitranscriptomics was discovered in the 1970s, but in the last decade, the extent of modification of mRNA and various non-coding RNAs has emerged and been implicated in transposable element activation and many other oncogenic processes within the tumor microenvironment. This review provides background information and discusses the therapeutic potential of agents modulating epitranscriptomics in high-grade gliomas. A particular emphasis will be placed on how combination therapies that include immune agents targeting hERV-mediated viral mimicry could improve the treatment of GBM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian K Ramsoomair
- Section of Virology and Immunotherapy, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1095 NW 14Th Terrace, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1095 NW 14Th Terrace, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
| | - Michele Ceccarelli
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, 1550 N.W. 10Th Avenue, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - John D Heiss
- Surgical Neurology Branch, Disorders and Stroke, National Institute of Neurological, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Ashish H Shah
- Section of Virology and Immunotherapy, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1095 NW 14Th Terrace, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
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3
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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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4
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Jaguri A, Steinhoff M, Ahmad A. Epigenetic m6A RNA Modification Reader YTHDF1 in Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4075. [PMID: 37627103 PMCID: PMC10452270 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15164075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive neuroendocrine cutaneous malignancy that commonly affects older individuals with a high mortality rate [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Aayami Jaguri
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha 24811, Qatar; (A.J.); (M.S.)
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
| | - Martin Steinhoff
- Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar, Doha 24811, Qatar; (A.J.); (M.S.)
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
- Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
- Department of Dermatology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10065, USA
- School of Medicine, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar
- School of Life Sciences, Hamad-Bin-Khalifa University, Doha 34110, Qatar
| | - Aamir Ahmad
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
- Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha 3050, Qatar
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5
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Wang Y, Zhou X. N 6-methyladenosine and Its Implications in Viruses. GENOMICS, PROTEOMICS & BIOINFORMATICS 2023; 21:695-706. [PMID: 35835441 PMCID: PMC10787122 DOI: 10.1016/j.gpb.2022.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
N6-methyladenine (m6A) is the most abundant RNA modification in mammalian messenger RNAs (mRNAs), which participates in and regulates many important biological activities, such as tissue development and stem cell differentiation. Due to an improved understanding of m6A, researchers have discovered that the biological function of m6A can be linked to many stages of mRNA metabolism and that m6A can regulate a variety of complex biological processes. In addition to its location on mammalian mRNAs, m6A has been identified on viral transcripts. m6A also plays important roles in the life cycle of many viruses and in viral replication in host cells. In this review, we briefly introduce the detection methods of m6A, the m6A-related proteins, and the functions of m6A. We also summarize the effects of m6A-related proteins on viral replication and infection. We hope that this review provides researchers with some insights for elucidating the complex mechanisms of the epitranscriptome related to viruses, and provides information for further study of the mechanisms of other modified nucleobases acting on processes such as viral replication. We also anticipate that this review can stimulate collaborative research from different fields, such as chemistry, biology, and medicine, and promote the development of antiviral drugs and vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yafen Wang
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
| | - Xiang Zhou
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China
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6
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Piperi C, Markouli M, Gargalionis AN, Papavassiliou KA, Papavassiliou AG. Deciphering glioma epitranscriptome: focus on RNA modifications. Oncogene 2023:10.1038/s41388-023-02746-y. [PMID: 37322070 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-023-02746-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Gliomas are highly malignant tumors accounting for the majority of brain neoplasms. They are characterized by nuclear atypia, high mitotic rate and cellular polymorphism that often contributes to aggressiveness and resistance to standard therapy. They often associate with challenging treatment approaches and poor outcomes. New treatment strategies or regimens to improve the efficacy of glioma treatment require a deeper understanding of glioma occurrence and development as well as elucidation of their molecular biological characteristics. Recent studies have revealed RNA modifications as a key regulatory mechanism involved in tumorigenesis, tumor progression, immune regulation, and response to therapy. The present review discusses research advances on several RNA modifications involved in glioma progression and tumor microenvironment (TME) immunoregulation as well as in the development of adaptive drug resistance, summarizing current progress on major RNA modification targeting strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Piperi
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| | - Mariam Markouli
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Antonios N Gargalionis
- Department of Biopathology, 'Eginition' Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Kostas A Papavassiliou
- First University Department of Respiratory Medicine, 'Sotiria' Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios G Papavassiliou
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
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7
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Yang D, Zhao G, Zhang HM. m 6A reader proteins: the executive factors in modulating viral replication and host immune response. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1151069. [PMID: 37325513 PMCID: PMC10266107 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1151069] [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: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) modification is the most abundant covalent modification of RNA. It is a reversible and dynamic process induced by various cellular stresses including viral infection. Many m6A methylations have been discovered, including on the genome of RNA viruses and on RNA transcripts of DNA viruses, and these methylations play a positive or negative role on the viral life cycle depending on the viral species. The m6A machinery, including the writer, eraser, and reader proteins, achieves its gene regulatory role by functioning in an orchestrated manner. Notably, data suggest that the biological effects of m6A on target mRNAs predominantly depend on the recognition and binding of different m6A readers. These readers include, but are not limited to, the YT521-B homology (YTH) domain family, heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (HNRNPs), insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding proteins (IGF2BPs), and many others discovered recently. Indeed, m6A readers have been recognized not only as regulators of RNA metabolism but also as participants in a variety of biological processes, although some of these reported roles are still controversial. Here, we will summarize the recent advances in the discovery, classification, and functional characterization of m6A reader proteins, particularly focusing on their roles and mechanisms of action in RNA metabolism, gene expression, and viral replication. In addition, we also briefly discuss the m6A-associated host immune responses in viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Decheng Yang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Guangze Zhao
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Huifang Mary Zhang
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul’s Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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8
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Perzanowska O, Smietanski M, Jemielity J, Kowalska J. Chemically Modified Poly(A) Analogs Targeting PABP: Structure Activity Relationship and Translation Inhibitory Properties. Chemistry 2022; 28:e202201115. [PMID: 35575378 PMCID: PMC9400960 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202201115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Poly(A)‐binding protein (PABP) is an essential element of cellular translational machinery. Recent studies have revealed that poly(A) tail modifications can modulate mRNA stability and translational potential, and that oligoadenylate‐derived PABP ligands can act as effective translational inhibitors with potential applications in pain management. Although extensive research has focused on protein‐RNA and protein‐protein interactions involving PABPs, further studies are required to examine the ligand specificity of PABP. In this study, we developed a microscale thermophoresis‐based assay to probe the interactions between PABP and oligoadenylate analogs containing different chemical modifications. Using this method, we evaluated oligoadenylate analogs modified with nucleobase, ribose, and phosphate moieties to identify modification hotspots. In addition, we determined the susceptibility of the modified oligos to CNOT7 to identify those with the potential for increased cellular stability. Consequently, we selected two enzymatically stable oligoadenylate analogs that inhibit translation in rabbit reticulocyte lysates with a higher potency than a previously reported PABP ligand. We believe that the results presented in this study and the implemented methodology can be capitalized upon in the future development of RNA‐based biological tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Perzanowska
- Division of Biophysics Faculty of Physics University of Warsaw Ludwika Pasteura 5 02-093 Warsaw Poland
- Centre of New Technologies University of Warsaw Stefana Banacha 2c 02-097 Warsaw Poland
| | - Miroslaw Smietanski
- Centre of New Technologies University of Warsaw Stefana Banacha 2c 02-097 Warsaw Poland
| | - Jacek Jemielity
- Centre of New Technologies University of Warsaw Stefana Banacha 2c 02-097 Warsaw Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalska
- Division of Biophysics Faculty of Physics University of Warsaw Ludwika Pasteura 5 02-093 Warsaw Poland
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9
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Abstract
The chemical modification of ribonucleotides plays an integral role in the biology of diverse viruses and their eukaryotic host cells. Mapping the precise identity, location, and abundance of modified ribonucleotides remains a key goal of many studies aimed at characterizing the function and importance of a given modification. While mapping of specific RNA modifications through short-read sequencing approaches has powered a wealth of new discoveries in the past decade, this approach is limited by inherent biases and an absence of linkage information. Moreover, in viral contexts, the challenge is increased due to the compact nature of viral genomes giving rise to many overlapping transcript isoforms that cannot be adequately resolved using short-read sequencing approaches. The recent emergence of nanopore sequencing, specifically the ability to directly sequence native RNAs from virus-infected host cells, provides not just a new methodology for mapping modified ribonucleotides but also a new conceptual framework for what can be derived from the resulting sequencing data. In this minireview, we provide a detailed overview of how nanopore direct RNA sequencing works, the computational approaches applied to identify modified ribonucleotides, and the core concepts underlying both. We further highlight recent studies that have applied this approach to interrogating viral biology and finish by discussing key experimental considerations and how we predict that these methodologies will continue to evolve.
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Rajendren S, Karijolich J. The Impact of RNA modifications on the Biology of DNA Virus Infection. Eur J Cell Biol 2022; 101:151239. [PMID: 35623231 PMCID: PMC9549750 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2022.151239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 170 RNA modifications have been identified and these are critical for determining the fate and function of cellular RNAs. Similar to human transcripts, viral RNAs possess an extensive RNA modification landscape. While initial efforts largely focused on investigating the RNA modification landscape in the context of RNA virus infection, a growing body of work has explored the impact of RNA modifications on DNA virus biology. These studies have revealed roles for RNA modifications in DNA virus infection, including gene regulation and viral pathogenesis. In this review, we will discuss the current knowledge on how RNA modifications impact DNA virus biology.
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Yue J, Wei Y, Zhao M. The Reversible Methylation of m6A Is Involved in Plant Virus Infection. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11020271. [PMID: 35205137 PMCID: PMC8869485 DOI: 10.3390/biology11020271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most prevalent modification in the mRNAs of many eukaryotic species. The abundance and effects of m6A are determined by dynamic interactions between its methyltransferases (“writers”), demethylases (“erasers”), and binding proteins (“readers”). It has been indicated that there is a strong correlation between m6A and virus infection in mammals. In the case of plant virus infection, it appears that m6A plays a dual role. On the one hand, m6A acts as a plant immune response induced by virus infection, inhibiting viral replication or translation through methylation of viral genome RNAs. On the other hand, m6A acts as part of an infection strategy employed by plant viruses to overcome the host immune system by interacting with m6A-related proteins. We proposed that antagonists of m6A-related proteins might be used to design new strategies for plant virus control in the future. Abstract In recent years, m6A RNA methylation has attracted broad interest and is becoming a hot research topic. It has been demonstrated that there is a strong association between m6A and viral infection in the human system. The life cycles of plant RNA viruses are often coordinated with the mechanisms of their RNA modification. Here, we reviewed recent advances in m6A methylation in plant viruses. It appears that m6A methylation plays a dual role during viral infection in plants. On the one hand, m6A methylation acts as an antiviral immune response induced by virus infection, which inhibits viral replication or translation through the methylation of viral genome RNAs. On the other hand, plant viruses could disrupt the m6A methylation through interacting with the key proteins of the m6A pathway to avoid modification. Those plant viruses containing ALKB domain are discussed as well. Based on this mechanism, we propose that new strategies for plant virus control could be designed with competitive antagonists of m6A-associated proteins.
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12
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Li N, Rana TM. Regulation of antiviral innate immunity by chemical modification of viral RNA. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2022; 13:e1720. [PMID: 35150188 PMCID: PMC9786758 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 01/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
More than 100 chemical modifications of RNA, termed the epitranscriptome, have been described, most of which occur in prokaryotic and eukaryotic ribosomal, transfer, and noncoding RNA and eukaryotic messenger RNA. DNA and RNA viruses can modify their RNA either directly via genome-encoded enzymes or by hijacking the host enzymatic machinery. Among the many RNA modifications described to date, four play particularly important roles in promoting viral infection by facilitating viral gene expression and replication and by enabling escape from the host innate immune response. Here, we discuss our current understanding of the mechanisms by which the RNA modifications such as N6 -methyladenosine (m6A), N6 ,2'-O-dimethyladenosine (m6Am), 5-methylcytidine (m5C), N4-acetylcytidine (ac4C), and 2'-O-methylation (Nm) promote viral replication and/or suppress recognition by innate sensors and downstream activation of the host antiviral response. This article is categorized under: RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease RNA Structure and Dynamics > Influence of RNA Structure in Biological Systems RNA Evolution and Genomics > RNA and Ribonucleoprotein Evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Li
- Division of Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Program in ImmunologyInstitute for Genomic MedicineLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Tariq M. Rana
- Division of Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, Program in ImmunologyInstitute for Genomic MedicineLa JollaCaliforniaUSA
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13
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Li M, Zhong X, Zhao Z, Zeng Z, Yuan Q, Xiao X, Zu X, Liu J. The expression of m6A enzymes in the hippocampus of diabetic cognitive impairment mice and the possible improvement of YTHDF1. Brain Res 2021; 1777:147766. [PMID: 34953798 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2021.147766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive impairment is a severe diabetes-related complication and seriously challenges the demand for future health resources. However, the potential therapeutic targets and mechanisms are not fully understood. Herein, we investigated the expression of the m6A enzyme in the hippocampus of mice with diabetes-induced cognitive impairment and possible improvement with overexpression of YTHDF1. A type 1 diabetes (T1D) mouse model was established by streptozotocin (STZ) intraperitoneal injection. Diabetic mice showed significant cognitive dysfunction, which was detected by novel object recognition tests and novel place recognition tests. Western blot analysis showed that compared with the control group, the protein levels of YTHDC2 and ALKBH5 were significantly upregulated in the hippocampus in the STZ group, while the expression of YTHDF1, YTHDF3 and WTAP was significantly downregulated. Furthermore, overexpression of YTHDF1 by AAV-YTHDF1 injection in the hippocampus significantly improved STZ-induced diabetic cognitive dysfunction. These results indicate that the m6A enzyme may play a key role in the cognitive dysfunction induced by diabetes, and YTHDF1 may be a promising therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menglin Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, 421001 Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaolin Zhong
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, 421001 Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Zhibo Zhao
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, 421001 Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Zhaolin Zeng
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, 421001 Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Qing Yuan
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, 421001 Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Xinhua Xiao
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, 421001 Hengyang, Hunan, China
| | - Xuyu Zu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, 421001 Hengyang, Hunan, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Clinical Medicine Center, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, 421001 Hengyang, Hunan, China.
| | - Jinghua Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, 421001 Hengyang, Hunan, China.
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14
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Gong R, Wang X, Li H, Liu S, Jiang Z, Zhao Y, Yu Y, Han Z, Yu Y, Dong C, Li S, Xu B, Zhang W, Wang N, Li X, Gao X, Yang F, Bamba D, Ma W, Liu Y, Cai B. Loss of m 6A methyltransferase METTL3 promotes heart regeneration and repair after myocardial injury. Pharmacol Res 2021; 174:105845. [PMID: 34428587 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
AIMS N6-Methyladenosine (m6A), one of the important epigenitic modifications, is very commom in messenger RNAs (mRNAs) of eukaryotes, and has been involved in various diseases. However, the role of m6A modification in heart regeneration after injury remains unclear. The study was conducted to investigate whether targeting methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3) could replenish the loss of cardiomyocytes (CMs) and improve cardiac function after myocardial infarction (MI). METHODS AND RESULTS METTL3 knockout mouse line was generated. A series of functional experiments were carried out and the molecular mechanism was further explored. We identified that METTL3, a methyltransferase of m6A methylation, is upregulated in mouse hearts after birth, which is the opposite of the changes in CMs proliferation. Furthermore, both METTL3 heterozygous knockout mice and administration of METTL3 shRNA adenovirus in mice exhibited CMs cell cycle re-entered, infract size decreased and cardiac function improved after MI. Mechanically, the silencing of METTL3 promoted CMs proliferation by reducing primary miR-143 (pri-miR-143) m6A modificaiton, thereby inhibiting the pri-miR-143 into mature miR-143-3p. Moreover, we found that miR-143-3p has targeting effects on Yap and Ctnnd1 so as to regulate CMs proliferation. CONCLUSION METTL3 deficiency contributes to heart regeneration after MI via METTL3-pri-miR-143-(miR-143)-Yap/Ctnnd1 axis. This study provides new insights into the significance of RNA m6A modification in heart regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Gong
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Xiuxiu Wang
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Hanjing Li
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Shenzhen Liu
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Zuke Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Yiming Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, the Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Zhenbo Han
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Ying Yu
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Chaorun Dong
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Shuainan Li
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Binbin Xu
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Wenwen Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Ning Wang
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Xingda Li
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Xinlu Gao
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Djibril Bamba
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Wenya Ma
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Fourth Hospital, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150001, China.
| | - Benzhi Cai
- Department of Pharmacy at The Second Affiliated Hospital, and Department of Pharmacology at College of Pharmacy (the Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Medicine Research, Ministry of Education), Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China; Institute of Clinical Pharmacy, the Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China.
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15
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Yu PL, Cao SJ, Wu R, Zhao Q, Yan QG. Regulatory effect of m 6 A modification on different viruses. J Med Virol 2021; 93:6100-6115. [PMID: 34329499 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.27246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
N6 -methyladenosine (m6 A) modification is the most common and reversible posttranscriptional modification of RNA in eukaryotes, which is mainly regulated by methyltransferase, demethylase, and specific binding protein. The replication of the virus and host immune response to the virus are affected by m6 A modification. In different kinds of viruses, m6 A modification has two completely opposite regulatory functions. This paper reviews the regulatory effects of m6 A modification on different viruses and provides a reference for studying the regulatory effects of RNA epitranscriptomic modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Lun Yu
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Swine Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - San-Jie Cao
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Swine Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Rui Wu
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Swine Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Qin Zhao
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Swine Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Qi-Gui Yan
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Swine Disease Research Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, PR China
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16
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Liu X, Khan A, Li H, Wang S, Chen X, Huang H. Ascorbic acid in epigenetic reprogramming. Curr Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 17:13-25. [PMID: 34264189 DOI: 10.2174/1574888x16666210714152730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that ascorbic acid (vitamin C) enhances the reprogramming process by multiple mechanisms. This is primarily due to its cofactor role in Fe(II) and 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases, including the DNA demethylases Ten Eleven Translocase (TET) and histone demethylases. Epigenetic variations have been shown to play a critical role in somatic cell reprogramming. DNA methylation and histone methylation are extensively recognized as barriers to somatic cell reprogramming. N6-methyladenosine (m6A), known as RNA methylation, is an epigenetic modification of mRNAs and has also been shown to play a role in regulating cellular reprogramming. Multiple cofactors are reported to promote the activity of demethylases, including vitamin C. This review focuses on examining the evidence and mechanism of vitamin C in DNA and histone demethylation and highlights its potential involvement in regulating m6A demethylation. It also shows the significant contribution of vitamin C in epigenetic regulation and the affiliation of demethylases with vitamin C-facilitated epigenetic reprogramming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinhui Liu
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Aamir Khan
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Huan Li
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Shensen Wang
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Xuechai Chen
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
| | - Hua Huang
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China
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17
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Selberg S, Žusinaite E, Herodes K, Seli N, Kankuri E, Merits A, Karelson M. HIV Replication Is Increased by RNA Methylation METTL3/METTL14/WTAP Complex Activators. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:15957-15963. [PMID: 34179640 PMCID: PMC8223420 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c01626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modifications in both viral and host cell RNAs play an important role in HIV-1 virus genome transcription and virus replication. We demonstrate here that activators of the METTL3/METTL14/WTAP RNA methyltransferase complex enhance the production of virus particles in cells harboring HIV-1 provirus. In parallel, the amount of m6A residues in the host cell mRNA was increased in the presence of these activator compounds. Importantly, the m6A methylation of the HIV-1 RNA was also enhanced significantly (about 18%). The increase of virus replication by the small-molecule activators of the METTL3/METTL14/WTAP complex excludes them as potential anti-HIV-1 drug candidates. However, the compounds may be of large interest as activators for the latent HIV-1 provirus copies deposited in host cells' genome and the subsequent virus eradication by an antiviral compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Selberg
- Institute
of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
| | - Eva Žusinaite
- Institute
of Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
| | - Koit Herodes
- Institute
of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
| | | | - Esko Kankuri
- Faculty
of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00014, Finland
| | - Andres Merits
- Institute
of Technology, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
- Email
| | - Mati Karelson
- Institute
of Chemistry, University of Tartu, Tartu 50411, Estonia
- Email
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18
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Nakagawa N, Sonohara F, Tanaka K, Sunagawa Y, Inokawa Y, Takami H, Hayashi M, Yamada S, Kanda M, Tanaka C, Nakayama G, Koike M, Kodera Y. Novel prognostic implications of YTH domain family 2 in resected hepatocellular carcinoma. Oncol Lett 2021; 22:538. [PMID: 34084217 PMCID: PMC8161462 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2021.12799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most abundant internal RNA modification, serves a critical role in cancer development. However, the clinical implications of m6A in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unclear. The present study sought to reveal the potential roles of m6A readers, which recognize m6A, in HCC. A total of 177 HCC and paired non-cancerous liver tissues from patients who underwent hepatectomy were analysed using quantitative PCR for the expression of m6A readers: YT521-B homology domain family 1 (YTHDF1) and YT521-B homology domain family 2 (YTHDF2). The expression levels of both YTHDF1 and YTHDF2 were not significantly different between tumour and non-cancerous tissues (P=0.93 and P=0.7, respectively). Analysis of the association between clinical features and m6A reader expression revealed that YTHDF1 expression was associated with formation of capsule (P=0.02), whereas low YTHDF2 expression was associated with septal formation (P=0.02). Furthermore, high YTHDF1 expression and high YTHDF2 expression were significantly associated with shorter recurrence-free survival (RFS) [YTHDF1: Mean survival time (MST), 34.0 vs. 19.0 months, P=0.014; YTHDF2: MST, 30.1 vs. 12.9 months, P=0.0032], whereas YTHDF1 and YTHDF2 expression was not significantly associated with overall survival (OS) (YTHDF1: MST, 99.4 vs. 70.2 months, P=0.74; YTHDF2: MST, 98.4 vs. 64.1 months, P=0.28). According to multivariate analysis, serosal invasion [hazard ratio (HR), 2.39; 95% CI 1.30–4.42; P=0.005), portal vein or hepatic vein invasion (HR, 2.82; 95% CI 1.26–6.28; P=0.01) and YTHDF2 expression in HCC tissues (HR, 1.85; 95% CI 1.09–3.15; P=0.02) were identified as significant independent prognostic factors for RFS. α-fetoprotein (HR, 1.79; 95% CI 1.10–2.92; P=0.02), serosal invasion (HR, 1.99; 95% CI 1.17–3.34; P=0.01) and portal vein or hepatic vein invasion (HR, 3.02; 95% CI 1.38–6.61; P=0.006) were identified as significant independent prognostic factors for OS. In conclusion, the present study revealed that high YTHDF2 expression, an m6A reader, in HCC tissues was associated with cancer recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuhiko Nakagawa
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8550, Japan
| | - Fuminori Sonohara
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8550, Japan
| | - Katsuhito Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8550, Japan
| | - Yuki Sunagawa
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8550, Japan
| | - Yoshikuni Inokawa
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8550, Japan
| | - Hideki Takami
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8550, Japan
| | - Masamichi Hayashi
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8550, Japan
| | - Suguru Yamada
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8550, Japan
| | - Mitsuro Kanda
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8550, Japan
| | - Chie Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8550, Japan
| | - Goro Nakayama
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8550, Japan
| | - Masahiko Koike
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8550, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Kodera
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 466-8550, Japan
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19
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Rasheed M, Liang J, Wang C, Deng Y, Chen Z. Epigenetic Regulation of Neuroinflammation in Parkinson's Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4956. [PMID: 34066949 PMCID: PMC8125491 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is one of the most significant factors involved in the initiation and progression of Parkinson's disease. PD is a neurodegenerative disorder with a motor disability linked with various complex and diversified risk factors. These factors trigger myriads of cellular and molecular processes, such as misfolding defective proteins, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neurotoxic substances that induce selective neurodegeneration of dopamine neurons. This neuronal damage activates the neuronal immune system, including glial cells and inflammatory cytokines, to trigger neuroinflammation. The transition of acute to chronic neuroinflammation enhances the susceptibility of inflammation-induced dopaminergic neuron damage, forming a vicious cycle and prompting an individual to PD development. Epigenetic mechanisms recently have been at the forefront of the regulation of neuroinflammatory factors in PD, proposing a new dawn for breaking this vicious cycle. This review examined the core epigenetic mechanisms involved in the activation and phenotypic transformation of glial cells mediated neuroinflammation in PD. We found that epigenetic mechanisms do not work independently, despite being coordinated with each other to activate neuroinflammatory pathways. In this regard, we attempted to find the synergic correlation and contribution of these epigenetic modifications with various neuroinflammatory pathways to broaden the canvas of underlying pathological mechanisms involved in PD development. Moreover, this study highlighted the dual characteristics (neuroprotective/neurotoxic) of these epigenetic marks, which may counteract PD pathogenesis and make them potential candidates for devising future PD diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Zixuan Chen
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China; (M.R.); (J.L.); (C.W.); (Y.D.)
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20
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Liu XM, Zhou J. Multifaceted regulation of translation by the epitranscriptomic modification N 6-methyladenosine. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 56:137-148. [PMID: 33412937 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2020.1869174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Translation occurring on cytoplasmic mRNA is precisely governed at three consecutive stages, including initiation, elongation and termination. A growing body of evidence has revealed that an emerging epitranscriptomic code N6-methyladenosine (m6A), asymmetrically present in a large subset of coding and non-coding transcripts, is crucially required for mediating the translatomic stability. Through recruiting translation machinery proteins, serving as a physical barrier, or directing RNA structural rearrangement and mRNA looping formation, m6A has been decoded to modulate translational dynamics through potentially influencing the progress of different stages, thereby forming an additional layer of complexity to the regulation of translation. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of how m6A guides mRNA translation under normal and stress conditions, highlighting the divergent molecular mechanisms of multifarious regulation of m6A-mediated translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Min Liu
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Zhou
- School of Life Science and Technology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China.,State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, China
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21
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Ma Z, Gao X, Shuai Y, Xing X, Ji J. The m6A epitranscriptome opens a new charter in immune system logic. Epigenetics 2020; 16:819-837. [PMID: 33070685 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2020.1827722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most prevalent RNA internal modification, is present in most eukaryotic species and prokaryotes. Studies have highlighted an intricate network architecture by which m6A epitranscriptome impacts on immune response and function. However, it was only until recently that the mechanisms underlying the involvement of m6A modification in immune system were uncovered. Here, we systematically review the m6A involvement in the regulation of innate and adaptive immune cells. Further, the interplay between m6A modification and anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and anti-tumour immunity is also comprehensively summarized. Finally, we focus on the future prospects of m6A modification in immune modulation. A better understanding of the crosstalk between m6A modification and immune system is of great significance to reveal new pathogenic pathways and to develop promising therapeutic targets of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonghua Ma
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Division of Gastrointestinal Cancer Translational Research Laboratory, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangyu Gao
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Division of Gastrointestinal Cancer Translational Research Laboratory, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, China
| | - You Shuai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaofang Xing
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Division of Gastrointestinal Cancer Translational Research Laboratory, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, China
| | - Jiafu Ji
- Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis and Translational Research (Ministry of Education), Division of Gastrointestinal Cancer Translational Research Laboratory, Peking University Cancer Hospital and Institute, Beijing, China
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22
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Shi H, Chai P, Jia R, Fan X. Novel insight into the regulatory roles of diverse RNA modifications: Re-defining the bridge between transcription and translation. Mol Cancer 2020; 19:78. [PMID: 32303268 PMCID: PMC7164178 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-020-01194-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA modifications can be added or removed by a variety of enzymes that catalyse the necessary reactions, and these modifications play roles in essential molecular mechanisms. The prevalent modifications on mRNA include N6-methyladenosine (m6A), N1-methyladenosine (m1A), 5-methylcytosine (m5C), 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (hm5C), pseudouridine (Ψ), inosine (I), uridine (U) and ribosemethylation (2’-O-Me). Most of these modifications contribute to pre-mRNA splicing, nuclear export, transcript stability and translation initiation in eukaryotic cells. By participating in various physiological processes, RNA modifications also have regulatory roles in the pathogenesis of tumour and non-tumour diseases. We discussed the physiological roles of RNA modifications and associated these roles with disease pathogenesis. Functioning as the bridge between transcription and translation, RNA modifications are vital for the progression of numerous diseases and can even regulate the fate of cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanhan Shi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 20025, P.R. China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 20025, People's Republic of China
| | - Peiwei Chai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 20025, P.R. China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 20025, People's Republic of China
| | - Renbing Jia
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 20025, P.R. China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 20025, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xianqun Fan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 20025, P.R. China. .,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orbital Diseases and Ocular Oncology, Shanghai, 20025, People's Republic of China.
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23
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Oncogenic Role of an Epigenetic Reader of m 6A RNA Modification: YTHDF1 in Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12010202. [PMID: 31947544 PMCID: PMC7016651 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12010202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Revised: 01/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma is a deadly skin cancer, which in the majority of cases is caused by the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). The viral small T antigen is regarded as the dominant oncoprotein expressed in the tumor cells. We used genomic screening of copy number aberrations along with transcriptomic analysis to investigate regions with amplification that harbor differentially expressed genes. We identified YTHDF1, a protein that is a reader of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA modifications, to have high copy gains and to be highly expressed in Merkel cell carcinoma. Importantly, we identified the presence of m6A on small T antigen mRNA suggesting a relation between YTHDF1 amplification and MCPyV gene expression. Interestingly, knockdown of YTHDF1 in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) cell lines negatively affected the translation initiation factor eIF3 and reduced proliferation and clonogenic capacity in vitro. Furthermore, analysis of survival data revealed worse overall survival in YTHDF1high MCC patients compared to YTHDF1low patients. Our findings indicate a novel oncogenic role of YTHDF1 through m6A machinery in the tumorigenesis of MCC.
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24
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Netzband R, Pager CT. Epitranscriptomic marks: Emerging modulators of RNA virus gene expression. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2019; 11:e1576. [PMID: 31694072 PMCID: PMC7169815 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Epitranscriptomics, the study of posttranscriptional chemical moieties placed on RNA, has blossomed in recent years. This is due in part to the emergence of high‐throughput detection methods as well as the burst of discoveries showing biological function of select chemical marks. RNA modifications have been shown to affect RNA structure, localization, and functions such as alternative splicing, stabilizing transcripts, nuclear export, cap‐dependent and cap‐independent translation, microRNA biogenesis and binding, RNA degradation, and immune regulation. As such, the deposition of chemical marks on RNA has the unique capability to spatially and temporally regulate gene expression. The goal of this article is to present the exciting convergence of the epitranscriptomic and virology fields, specifically the deposition and biological impact of N7‐methylguanosine, ribose 2′‐O‐methylation, pseudouridine, inosine, N6‐methyladenosine, and 5‐methylcytosine epitranscriptomic marks on gene expression of RNA viruses. This article is categorized under:RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein–RNA Interactions: Functional Implications
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Netzband
- Department of Biological Sciences, The RNA Institute, University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, New York
| | - Cara T Pager
- Department of Biological Sciences, The RNA Institute, University at Albany-SUNY, Albany, New York
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25
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Williams GD, Gokhale NS, Horner SM. Regulation of Viral Infection by the RNA Modification N6-Methyladenosine. Annu Rev Virol 2019; 6:235-253. [PMID: 31283446 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-virology-092818-015559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, the RNA modification N6-methyladenosine (m6A) has been found to play a role in the life cycles of numerous viruses and also in the cellular response to viral infection. m6A has emerged as a regulator of many fundamental aspects of RNA biology. Here, we highlight recent advances in techniques for the study of m6A, as well as advances in our understanding of the cellular machinery that controls the addition, removal, recognition, and functions of m6A. We then summarize the many newly discovered roles of m6A during viral infection, including how it regulates innate and adaptive immune responses to infection. Overall, the goals of this review are to summarize the roles of m6A on both cellular and viral RNAs and to describe future directions for uncovering new functions of m6A during infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham D Williams
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA; , ,
| | - Nandan S Gokhale
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA; , ,
| | - Stacy M Horner
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA; , , .,Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
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26
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Chen X, Yu C, Guo M, Zheng X, Ali S, Huang H, Zhang L, Wang S, Huang Y, Qie S, Wang J. Down-Regulation of m6A mRNA Methylation Is Involved in Dopaminergic Neuronal Death. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:2355-2363. [PMID: 30835997 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) is the most prevalent internal modification that occurs in the mRNA of eukaryotes and plays a vital role in the post-transcriptional regulation. Recent studies highlighted the biological significance of m6A modification in the nervous system, and its dysregulation has been shown to be related to degenerative and neurodevelopmental diseases. Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common age-related neurological disorder with its pathogenesis still not fully elucidated. Reports have shown that epigenetic mechanisms including DNA methylation and histone acetylation, which alter gene expression, are associated with PD. In this study, we found that global m6A modification of mRNAs is down-regulated in 6-OHDA-induced PC12 cells and the striatum of PD rat brain. To further explore the relationship between m6A mRNA methylation and molecular mechanism of PD, we decreased m6A in dopaminergic cells by overexpressing a nucleic acid demethylase, FTO, or by m6A inhibitor. The results showed that m6A reduction could induce the expression of N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor 1, and elevate oxidative stress and Ca2+ influx, resulting in dopaminergic neuron apoptosis. Collectively, m6A modification may play a vital role in the death of dopaminergic neuron, which provides a novel view of mRNA methylation to understand the epigenetic regulation of Parkinson's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuechai Chen
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, 100 Pingleyuan, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100122, China
| | - Chunyu Yu
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, 100 Pingleyuan, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100122, China
| | - Minjun Guo
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, 100 Pingleyuan, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100122, China
| | - Xiaotong Zheng
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, 100 Pingleyuan, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100122, China
| | - Sakhawat Ali
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, 100 Pingleyuan, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100122, China
| | - Hua Huang
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, 100 Pingleyuan, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100122, China
| | - Lihua Zhang
- Beijing Municipal Center for Food Safety Monitoring and Risk Assessment, 64 Shixing Street, Shijingshan District, Beijing 100041, China
| | - Shensen Wang
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, 100 Pingleyuan, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100122, China
| | - Yinghui Huang
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, 100 Pingleyuan, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100122, China
| | - Shuyan Qie
- Department of Rehabilitation, Beijing Rehabilitation Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University, Xixiazhuang, Badachu Road, Shijingshan
District, Beijing 100144, China
| | - Juan Wang
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology, 100 Pingleyuan, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100122, China
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27
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Castellanos-Rubio A, Santin I, Olazagoitia-Garmendia A, Romero-Garmendia I, Jauregi-Miguel A, Legarda M, Bilbao JR. A novel RT-QPCR-based assay for the relative quantification of residue specific m6A RNA methylation. Sci Rep 2019; 9:4220. [PMID: 30862814 PMCID: PMC6414506 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-40018-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common and abundant RNA modification. Recent studies have shown its importance in the regulation of several biological processes, including the immune response, and different approaches have been developed in order to map and quantify m6A marks. However, site specific detection of m6A methylation has been technically challenging, and existing protocols are long and tedious and often involve next-generation sequencing. Here, we describe a simple RT-QPCR based approach for the relative quantification of candidate m6A regions that takes advantage of the diminished capacity of BstI enzyme to retrotranscribe m6A residues. Using this technique, we have been able to confirm the recently described m6A methylation in the 3′UTR of SOCS1 and SOCS3 transcripts. Moreover, using the method presented here, we have also observed alterations in the relative levels of m6A in specific motifs of SOCS genes in celiac disease patients and in pancreatic β-cells exposed to inflammatory stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ainara Castellanos-Rubio
- Department of Genetics, Physical Anthropology and Animal Physiology, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), Biocruces-Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Leioa, Spain. .,IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain. .,Spanish Biomedical Research Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Izortze Santin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), Endocrinology and Diabetes Research Group, Biocruces-Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Leioa, Spain.,Spanish Biomedical Research Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ane Olazagoitia-Garmendia
- Department of Genetics, Physical Anthropology and Animal Physiology, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), Biocruces-Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Leioa, Spain
| | - Irati Romero-Garmendia
- Department of Genetics, Physical Anthropology and Animal Physiology, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), Biocruces-Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Leioa, Spain
| | - Amaia Jauregi-Miguel
- Department of Genetics, Physical Anthropology and Animal Physiology, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), Biocruces-Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Leioa, Spain
| | - Maria Legarda
- Pediatric Gastroenterology Unit, Cruces University Hospital, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), Barakaldo, Spain
| | - Jose Ramon Bilbao
- Department of Genetics, Physical Anthropology and Animal Physiology, University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU), Biocruces-Bizkaia Health Research Institute, Leioa, Spain. .,Spanish Biomedical Research Center in Diabetes and Associated Metabolic Disorders (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain.
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28
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Lesbirel S, Wilson SA. The m 6A‑methylase complex and mRNA export. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2019; 1862:319-328. [PMID: 30290229 PMCID: PMC6414750 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2018.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
During synthesis, mRNA undergoes a number of modifications such as capping, splicing and polyadenylation. These processes are coupled with the orderly deposition of the TREX complex on the mRNA and subsequent recruitment of the NXF1-P15 heterodimer which stimulates the nuclear export of mature mRNAs. mRNAs also undergo a number of internal modifications, the most common of which is the N6‑methyladenosine (m6A) modification. In this review we discuss the recent evidence of coupling between the m6A modification, RNA processing and export.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Lesbirel
- Sheffield Institute For Nucleic Acids (SInFoNiA), Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Sheffield, Firth Court Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Stuart A Wilson
- Sheffield Institute For Nucleic Acids (SInFoNiA), Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Sheffield, Firth Court Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK.
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29
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Yang J, Wang H, Zhang W. Regulation of Virus Replication and T Cell Homeostasis by N 6-Methyladenosine. Virol Sin 2019; 34:22-29. [PMID: 30671921 DOI: 10.1007/s12250-018-0075-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA modifications are abundant in eukaryotes, bacteria, and archaea. N6-methyladenosine (m6A), a type of RNA modification mainly found in messenger RNA (mRNA), has significant effects on the metabolism and function of mRNAs. This modification is governed by three types of proteins, namely methyltransferases as "writers", demethylases as "erasers", and specific m6A-binding proteins (YTHDF1-3) as "readers". Further, it is important for the regulation of cell fate and has a critical function in many biological processes including virus replication, stem cell differentiation, and cancer development, and exerts its effect by controlling gene expression. Herein, we summarize recent advances in research on m6A in virus replication and T cell regulation, which is a rapidly emerging field that will facilitate the development of antiviral therapies and the study of innate immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Hong Wang
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China.
| | - Wenyan Zhang
- Institute of Virology and AIDS Research, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China.
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30
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Fu Y, Zorman B, Sumazin P, Sanna PP, Repunte-Canonigo V. Epitranscriptomics: Correlation of N6-methyladenosine RNA methylation and pathway dysregulation in the hippocampus of HIV transgenic rats. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0203566. [PMID: 30653517 PMCID: PMC6336335 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Internal RNA modifications have been known for decades, however their roles in mRNA regulation have only recently started to be elucidated. Here we investigated the most abundant mRNA modification, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) in transcripts from the hippocampus of HIV transgenic (Tg) rats. The distribution of m6A peaks within HIV transcripts in HIV Tg rats largely corresponded to the ones observed for HIV transcripts in cell lines and T cells. Host transcripts were found to be differentially m6A methylated in HIV Tg rats. The functional roles of the differentially m6A methylated pathways in HIV Tg rats is consistent with a key role of RNA methylation in the regulation of the brain transcriptome in chronic HIV disease. In particular, host transcripts show significant differential m6A methylation of genes involved in several pathways related to neural function, suggestive of synaptodendritic injury and neurodegeneration, inflammation and immune response, as well as RNA processing and metabolism, such as splicing. Changes in m6A methylation were usually positively correlated with differential expression, while differential m6A methylation of pathways involved in RNA processing were more likely to be negatively correlated with gene expression changes. Thus, sets of differentially m6A methylated, functionally-related transcripts appear to be involved in coordinated transcriptional responses in the context of chronic HIV. Altogether, our results support that m6A methylation represents an additional layer of regulation of HIV and host gene expression in vivo that contributes significantly to the transcriptional effects of chronic HIV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Fu
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology and Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Barry Zorman
- Department of Pediatrics, Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Pavel Sumazin
- Department of Pediatrics, Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Pietro Paolo Sanna
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology and Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
- * E-mail: (PPS); (VRC)
| | - Vez Repunte-Canonigo
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology and Department of Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
- * E-mail: (PPS); (VRC)
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31
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Hao H, Hao S, Chen H, Chen Z, Zhang Y, Wang J, Wang H, Zhang B, Qiu J, Deng F, Guan W. N6-methyladenosine modification and METTL3 modulate enterovirus 71 replication. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 47:362-374. [PMID: 30364964 PMCID: PMC6326802 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gky1007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) constitutes one of the most abundant internal RNA modifications and is critical for RNA metabolism and function. It has been previously reported that viral RNA contains internal m6A modifications; however, only recently the function of m6A modification in viral RNAs has been elucidated during infections of HIV, hepatitis C virus and Zika virus. In the present study, we found that enterovirus 71 (EV71) RNA undergoes m6A modification during viral infection, which alters the expression and localization of the methyltransferase and demethylase of m6A, and its binding proteins. Moreover, knockdown of m6A methyltransferase resulted in decreased EV71 replication, whereas knockdown of the demethylase had the opposite effect. Further study showed that the m6A binding proteins also participate in the regulation of viral replication. In particular, two m6A modification sites were identified in the viral genome, of which mutations resulted in decreased virus replication, suggesting that m6A modification plays an important role in EV71 replication. Notably, we found that METTL3 interacted with viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase 3D and induced enhanced sumoylation and ubiquitination of the 3D polymerase that boosted viral replication. Taken together, our findings demonstrated that the host m6A modification complex interacts with viral proteins to modulate EV71 replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haojie Hao
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Sujuan Hao
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Honghe Chen
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, China
| | - Zhen Chen
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, China
| | - Yanfang Zhang
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, China
| | - Hanzhong Wang
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, China
| | - Jianming Qiu
- Department of Microbiology, Molecular Genetics and Immunology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Fei Deng
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, China
| | - Wuxiang Guan
- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, China
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32
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Abstract
N6-Methylation of adenosine (m6A) in viral RNA was first identified in Rous sarcoma virus, influenza virus, and SV40 virus several decades ago. More recently, human immunodeficiency virus-1, hepatitis C virus, and Zika virus (ZIKV) RNAs have also been reported to be modified by m6A, highlighting the significance of this posttranscriptional RNA modification. Nevertheless, the functions of m6A and their roles in the context of viral infections are not completely understood. Similarly, the mechanisms by which viral infections may alter the dynamics of the host RNA methylome have yet to be elucidated. Here, we describe an experimental protocol to obtain m6A profiles of ZIKV RNA and the host cell mRNA using methylated RNA immunoprecipitation-sequencing (MeRIP-Seq).
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33
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Malla S, Melguizo-Sanchis D, Aguilo F. Steering pluripotency and differentiation with N 6-methyladenosine RNA modification. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2018; 1862:394-402. [PMID: 30412796 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2018.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2018] [Revised: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/27/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Chemical modifications of RNA provide a direct and rapid way to modulate the existing transcriptome, allowing the cells to adapt rapidly to the changing environment. Among these modifications, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) has recently emerged as a widely prevalent mark of messenger RNA in eukaryotes, linking external stimuli to an intricate network of transcriptional, post-transcriptional and translational processes. m6A modification modulates a broad spectrum of biochemical processes, including mRNA decay, translation and splicing. Both m6A modification and the enzymes that control m6A metabolism are essential for normal development. In this review, we summarized the most recent findings on the role of m6A modification in maintenance of the pluripotency of embryonic stem cells (ESCs), cell fate specification, the reprogramming of somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and differentiation of stem and progenitor cells. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: mRNA modifications in gene expression control edited by Dr. Soller Matthias and Dr. Fray Rupert.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandhya Malla
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine (WCMM), Umeå University, SE-90185 Umeå, Sweden; Department of Medical Biosciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Dario Melguizo-Sanchis
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine (WCMM), Umeå University, SE-90185 Umeå, Sweden; Department of Medical Biosciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden
| | - Francesca Aguilo
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine (WCMM), Umeå University, SE-90185 Umeå, Sweden; Department of Medical Biosciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå, Sweden.
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34
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Tan B, Gao SJ. RNA epitranscriptomics: Regulation of infection of RNA and DNA viruses by N 6 -methyladenosine (m 6 A). Rev Med Virol 2018; 28:e1983. [PMID: 29698584 PMCID: PMC6339815 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.1983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Revised: 03/24/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
N6 -methyladenosine (m6 A) was discovered 4 decades ago. However, the functions of m6 A and the cellular machinery that regulates its changes have just been revealed in the last few years. m6 A is an abundant internal mRNA modification on cellular RNA and is implicated in diverse cellular functions. Recent works have demonstrated the presence of m6 A in the genomes of RNA viruses and transcripts of a DNA virus with either a proviral or antiviral role. Here, we first summarize what is known about the m6 A "writers," "erasers," "readers," and "antireaders" as well as the role of m6 A in mRNA metabolism. We then review how the replications of numerous viruses are enhanced and restricted by m6 A with emphasis on the oncogenic DNA virus, Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), whose m6 A epitranscriptome was recently mapped. In the context of KSHV, m6 A and the reader protein YTHDF2 acts as an antiviral mechanism during viral lytic replication. During viral latency, KSHV alters m6 A on genes that are implicated in cellular transformation and viral latency. Lastly, we discuss future studies that are important to further delineate the functions of m6 A in KSHV latent and lytic replication and KSHV-induced oncogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon Tan
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Shou-Jiang Gao
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Laboratory of Human Virology and Oncology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China
- Department of Microbiology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
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35
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Covelo-Molares H, Bartosovic M, Vanacova S. RNA methylation in nuclear pre-mRNA processing. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2018; 9:e1489. [PMID: 29921017 PMCID: PMC6221173 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Revised: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Eukaryotic RNA can carry more than 100 different types of chemical modifications. Early studies have been focused on modifications of highly abundant RNA, such as ribosomal RNA and transfer RNA, but recent technical advances have made it possible to also study messenger RNA (mRNA). Subsequently, mRNA modifications, namely methylation, have emerged as key players in eukaryotic gene expression regulation. The most abundant and widely studied internal mRNA modification is N6‐methyladenosine (m6A), but the list of mRNA chemical modifications continues to grow as fast as interest in this field. Over the past decade, transcriptome‐wide studies combined with advanced biochemistry and the discovery of methylation writers, readers, and erasers revealed roles for mRNA methylation in the regulation of nearly every aspect of the mRNA life cycle and in diverse cellular, developmental, and disease processes. Although large parts of mRNA function are linked to its cytoplasmic stability and regulation of its translation, a number of studies have begun to provide evidence for methylation‐regulated nuclear processes. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in RNA methylation research and highlight how these new findings have contributed to our understanding of methylation‐dependent RNA processing in the nucleus. This article is categorized under:
RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification RNA Processing > Splicing Regulation/Alternative Splicing RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein–RNA Interactions: Functional Implications
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36
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m6A RNA Methylation Controls Neural Development and Is Involved in Human Diseases. Mol Neurobiol 2018; 56:1596-1606. [DOI: 10.1007/s12035-018-1138-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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37
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Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A), the most prevalent internal methylation in messenger RNA (mRNA) that is deposited by m6A methyltransferases, removed by m6A demethylases and recognized by different RNA-binding proteins, distinguishes the transcripts through multilayer interactions with mRNA processing, export, degradation and translation machineries. m6A plays an important role in regulation of gene expression for fundamental cellular processes and diverse physiological functions. Aberrant m6A decorations lead to cancer but also have the potential to yield new therapies. This review outlines the evolution of the m6A field, formation of key concepts, important open questions and also discusses the molecular basis of mRNA m6A modification and its effect in cancer, highlighting the potential of demethylase as a therapeutic target for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sicong Zhang
- The Rockefeller University, Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 1230 York Avenue, Box 166, New York, NY 10065, United States.
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38
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Wang Z, Tang K, Zhang D, Wan Y, Wen Y, Lu Q, Wang L. High-throughput m6A-seq reveals RNA m6A methylation patterns in the chloroplast and mitochondria transcriptomes of Arabidopsis thaliana. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0185612. [PMID: 29131848 PMCID: PMC5683568 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0185612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2017] [Accepted: 09/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This study is the first to comprehensively characterize m6A patterns in the Arabidopsis chloroplast and mitochondria transcriptomes based on our open accessible data deposited in NCBI's Gene Expression Omnibus with GEO Series accession number of GSE72706. Over 86% of the transcripts were methylated by m6A in the two organelles. Over 550 and 350 m6A sites were mapped, with ~5.6 to ~5.8 and ~4.6 to ~4.9 m6A sites per transcript, to the chloroplast and mitochondria genome, respectively. The overall m6A methylation extent in the two organelles was greatly higher than that in the nucleus. The m6A motif sequences in the transcriptome of two organelles were similar to the nuclear motifs, suggesting that selection of the m6A motifs for RNA methylation was conserved between the nucleus and organelle transcriptomes. The m6A patterns of rRNAs and tRNAs in the organelle were similar to those in the nucleus. However, the m6A patterns in coding RNAs were distinct between the nucleus and the organelle, suggesting that that regulation of the m6A methylation patterns may be different between the nuclei and the organelles. The extensively methylated transcripts in the two organelles were mainly associated with rRNA, ribosomal proteins, photosystem reaction proteins, tRNA, NADH dehydrogenase and redox. On average, 64% and 79% of the transcripts in the two organelles showed differential m6A methylation across three organs of the leaves, flowers and roots. The m6A methylation extent in the chloroplast was higher than that in the mitochondria. This study provides deep insights into the m6A methylation topology and differentiation in the plant organelle transcriptomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zegang Wang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Kai Tang
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, China
- Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Dayong Zhang
- Institute of Biotechnology, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, China
| | - Yizhen Wan
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, China
- Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Yan Wen
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, China
- Sericultural Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Quanyou Lu
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, China
- Sericultural Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Lei Wang
- School of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, China
- Sericultural Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhenjiang, China
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39
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Abstract
One of the most prevalent forms of post-transcritpional RNA modification is the conversion of adenosine nucleosides to inosine (A-to-I), mediated by the ADAR family of enzymes. The functional requirement and regulatory landscape for the majority of A-to-I editing events are, at present, uncertain. Recent studies have identified key in vivo functions of ADAR enzymes, informing our understanding of the biological importance of A-to-I editing. Large-scale studies have revealed how editing is regulated both in cis and in trans. This review will explore these recent studies and how they broaden our understanding of the functions and regulation of ADAR-mediated RNA editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl R Walkley
- St Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, Victoria, 3065, Australia. .,Department of Medicine, St Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, Victoria, 3065, Australia.
| | - Jin Billy Li
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA.
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40
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Abstract
RNA contains over 150 types of chemical modifications. Although many of these chemical modifications were discovered several decades ago, their functions were not immediately apparent. Discoveries of RNA demethylases, along with advances in mass spectrometry and high-throughput sequencing techniques, have caused research into RNA modifications to progress at an accelerated rate. Post-transcriptional RNA modifications make up an epitranscriptome that extensively regulates gene expression and biological processes. Here, we present an overview of recent advances in the field that are shaping our understanding of chemical modifications, their impact on development and disease, and the dynamic mechanisms through which they regulate gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip J Hsu
- Department of Chemistry and Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.,Medical Scientist Training Program and Committee on Immunology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Hailing Shi
- Department of Chemistry and Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | - Chuan He
- Department of Chemistry and Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA. .,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
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41
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Roundtree IA, Luo GZ, Zhang Z, Wang X, Zhou T, Cui Y, Sha J, Huang X, Guerrero L, Xie P, He E, Shen B, He C. YTHDC1 mediates nuclear export of N 6-methyladenosine methylated mRNAs. eLife 2017; 6:31311. [PMID: 28984244 PMCID: PMC5648532 DOI: 10.7554/elife.31311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 772] [Impact Index Per Article: 110.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant internal modification of eukaryotic messenger RNA (mRNA) and plays critical roles in RNA biology. The function of this modification is mediated by m6A-selective ‘reader’ proteins of the YTH family, which incorporate m6A-modified mRNAs into pathways of RNA metabolism. Here, we show that the m6A-binding protein YTHDC1 mediates export of methylated mRNA from the nucleus to the cytoplasm in HeLa cells. Knockdown of YTHDC1 results in an extended residence time for nuclear m6A-containing mRNA, with an accumulation of transcripts in the nucleus and accompanying depletion within the cytoplasm. YTHDC1 interacts with the splicing factor and nuclear export adaptor protein SRSF3, and facilitates RNA binding to both SRSF3 and NXF1. This role for YTHDC1 expands the potential utility of chemical modification of mRNA, and supports an emerging paradigm of m6A as a distinct biochemical entity for selective processing and metabolism of mammalian mRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian A Roundtree
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,University of Chicago Medical Scientist Training Program, Chicago, United States
| | - Guan-Zheng Luo
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States
| | - Zijie Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States
| | - Tao Zhou
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiquang Cui
- Department of Histology and Embryology, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiahao Sha
- Department of Histology and Embryology, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xingxu Huang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Laura Guerrero
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States
| | - Phil Xie
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States
| | - Emily He
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States
| | - Bin Shen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chuan He
- Department of Chemistry, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States
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42
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Aguilo F, Walsh MJ. The N 6-Methyladenosine RNA modification in pluripotency and reprogramming. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2017; 46:77-82. [PMID: 28683341 PMCID: PMC5626584 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2017.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2017] [Revised: 04/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Chemical modifications of RNA provide a direct and rapid way to manipulate the existing transcriptome, allowing rapid responses to the changing environment further enriching the regulatory capacity of RNA. N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) has been identified as the most abundant internal modification of messenger RNA in eukaryotes, linking external stimuli to an intricate network of transcriptional, post-transcriptional and translational processes. M6A modification affects a broad spectrum of cellular functions, including maintenance of the pluripotency of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and the reprogramming of somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). In this review, we summarize the most recent findings on m6A modification with special focus on the different studies describing how m6A is implicated in ESC self-renewal, cell fate specification and iPSC generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Aguilo
- Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine (WCMM), Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå , Sweden,Department of Medical Biosciences, Umeå University, SE-901 85 Umeå , Sweden
| | - Martin J. Walsh
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA,Department of Pediatrics, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA,Department of Structural and Chemical Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
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43
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Brocard M, Ruggieri A, Locker N. m6A RNA methylation, a new hallmark in virus-host interactions. J Gen Virol 2017; 98:2207-2214. [PMID: 28869001 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.000910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of m6A methylation of RNA has remained elusive for decades, but recent technological advances are now allowing the mapping of the m6A methylation landscape at nucleotide level. This has spurred an explosion in our understanding of the role played by RNA epigenetics in RNA biology. m6A modifications have been tied to almost every aspect of the mRNA life cycle and it is now clear that RNA virus genomes are subject to m6A methylation. These modifications play various roles in the viral replication cycle. This review will summarize recent breakthroughs concerning m6A RNA modification and their implications for cellular and viral RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michèle Brocard
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Alessia Ruggieri
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Molecular Virology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nicolas Locker
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Biosciences and Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
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44
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Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus Utilizes and Manipulates RNA N 6-Adenosine Methylation To Promote Lytic Replication. J Virol 2017; 91:JVI.00466-17. [PMID: 28592530 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00466-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
N6-adenosine methylation (m6A) is the most common posttranscriptional RNA modification in mammalian cells. We found that most transcripts encoded by the Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) genome undergo m6A modification. The levels of m6A-modified mRNAs increased substantially upon stimulation for lytic replication. The blockage of m6A inhibited splicing of the pre-mRNA encoding the replication transcription activator (RTA), a key KSHV lytic switch protein, and halted viral lytic replication. We identified several m6A sites in RTA pre-mRNA crucial for splicing through interactions with YTH domain containing 1 (YTHDC1), an m6A nuclear reader protein, in conjunction with serine/arginine-rich splicing factor 3 (SRSF3) and SRSF10. Interestingly, RTA induced m6A and enhanced its own pre-mRNA splicing. Our results not only demonstrate an essential role of m6A in regulating RTA pre-mRNA splicing but also suggest that KSHV has evolved a mechanism to manipulate the host m6A machinery to its advantage in promoting lytic replication.IMPORTANCE KSHV productive lytic replication plays a pivotal role in the initiation and progression of Kaposi's sarcoma tumors. Previous studies suggested that the KSHV switch from latency to lytic replication is primarily controlled at the chromatin level through histone and DNA modifications. The present work reports for the first time that KSHV genome-encoded mRNAs undergo m6A modification, which represents a new mechanism at the posttranscriptional level in the control of viral replication.
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45
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Guo M, Liu X, Zheng X, Huang Y, Chen X. m 6A RNA Modification Determines Cell Fate by Regulating mRNA Degradation. Cell Reprogram 2017; 19:225-231. [PMID: 28682669 DOI: 10.1089/cell.2016.0041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that epitranscriptional modifications influence multiple cellular processes. N6-methyladenosine (m6A), as the most abundant reversible methylation of mRNA, has also been reported to play critical roles in modulating embryonic stem cell differentiation and somatic cell reprogramming by regulating gene expression. This review examined the characteristics of m6A, including the distribution profile and currently discovered "writer," "eraser," and "reader" proteins. Moreover, the hypothesis is proposed that m6A could influence cell fate determination, and the underlying mechanisms are due to the related mRNA degradation, causing weakening of previous cell characteristics and eventually leading them to develop into the reverse direction (pluripotency or differentiation state). Accordingly, m6A modifications presented its potential role in cell fate determination, which provides new insights into understanding the mechanisms of various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minjun Guo
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology , Beijing, China
| | - Xinhui Liu
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology , Beijing, China
| | - Xiaotong Zheng
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology , Beijing, China
| | - Yinghui Huang
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology , Beijing, China
| | - Xuechai Chen
- College of Life Science and Bioengineering, Beijing University of Technology , Beijing, China
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46
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Roundtree IA, Evans ME, Pan T, He C. Dynamic RNA Modifications in Gene Expression Regulation. Cell 2017; 169:1187-1200. [PMID: 28622506 PMCID: PMC5657247 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2017.05.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2041] [Impact Index Per Article: 291.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Revised: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Over 100 types of chemical modifications have been identified in cellular RNAs. While the 5' cap modification and the poly(A) tail of eukaryotic mRNA play key roles in regulation, internal modifications are gaining attention for their roles in mRNA metabolism. The most abundant internal mRNA modification is N6-methyladenosine (m6A), and identification of proteins that install, recognize, and remove this and other marks have revealed roles for mRNA modification in nearly every aspect of the mRNA life cycle, as well as in various cellular, developmental, and disease processes. Abundant noncoding RNAs such as tRNAs, rRNAs, and spliceosomal RNAs are also heavily modified and depend on the modifications for their biogenesis and function. Our understanding of the biological contributions of these different chemical modifications is beginning to take shape, but it's clear that in both coding and noncoding RNAs, dynamic modifications represent a new layer of control of genetic information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian A Roundtree
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, 929 East 57(th) Street, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Medical Scientist Training Program, The University of Chicago, 924 East 57(th) Street, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Molly E Evans
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, 929 East 57(th) Street, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Tao Pan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, 929 East 57(th) Street, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
| | - Chuan He
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, The University of Chicago, 929 East 57(th) Street, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Department of Chemistry, The University of Chicago, 929 East 57(th) Street, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The University of Chicago, 929 East 57(th) Street, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
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47
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Batista PJ. The RNA Modification N 6-methyladenosine and Its Implications in Human Disease. GENOMICS PROTEOMICS & BIOINFORMATICS 2017; 15:154-163. [PMID: 28533023 PMCID: PMC5487527 DOI: 10.1016/j.gpb.2017.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 03/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Impaired gene regulation lies at the heart of many disorders, including developmental diseases and cancer. Furthermore, the molecular pathways that control gene expression are often the target of cellular parasites, such as viruses. Gene expression is controlled through multiple mechanisms that are coordinated to ensure the proper and timely expression of each gene. Many of these mechanisms target the life cycle of the RNA molecule, from transcription to translation. Recently, another layer of regulation at the RNA level involving RNA modifications has gained renewed interest of the scientific community. The discovery that N6-methyladenosine (m6A), a modification present in mRNAs and long noncoding RNAs, can be removed by the activity of RNA demethylases, launched the field of epitranscriptomics; the study of how RNA function is regulated through the addition or removal of post-transcriptional modifications, similar to strategies used to regulate gene expression at the DNA and protein level. The abundance of RNA post-transcriptional modifications is determined by the activity of writer complexes (methylase) and eraser (RNA demethylase) proteins. Subsequently, the effects of RNA modifications materialize as changes in RNA structure and/or modulation of interactions between the modified RNA and RNA binding proteins or regulatory RNAs. Disruption of these pathways impairs gene expression and cellular function. This review focuses on the links between the RNA modification m6A and its implications in human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro J Batista
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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48
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Wei W, Ji X, Guo X, Ji S. Regulatory Role of N 6 -methyladenosine (m 6 A) Methylation in RNA Processing and Human Diseases. J Cell Biochem 2017; 118:2534-2543. [PMID: 28256005 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.25967] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
N6 -methyladenosine (m6 A) modification is an abundant and conservative RNA modification in bacterial and eukaryotic cells. m6 A modification mainly occurs in the 3' untranslated regions (UTRs) and near the stop codons of mRNA. Diverse strategies have been developed for identifying m6 A sites in single nucleotide resolution. Dynamic regulation of m6 A is found in metabolism, embryogenesis, and developmental processes, indicating a possible epigenetic regulation role along RNA processing and exerting biological functions. It has been known that m6 A editing involves in nuclear RNA export, mRNA degradation, protein translation, and RNA splicing. Deficiency of m6 A modification will lead to kinds of diseases, such as obesity, cancer, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), infertility, and developmental arrest. Some specific inhibitors against methyltransferase and demethylase have been developed to selectively regulate m6 A modification, which may be advantageous for treatment of m6 A related diseases. J. Cell. Biochem. 118: 2534-2543, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqiang Wei
- Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Basic Medical School of Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China.,Department of Medical Microbiology, Basic Medical School of Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
| | - Xinying Ji
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Basic Medical School of Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
| | - Xiangqian Guo
- Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Basic Medical School of Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China
| | - Shaoping Ji
- Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction, Basic Medical School of Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, 475004, China.,Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University, Kaifeng, 475001, China
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49
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Affiliation(s)
- Nandan S. Gokhale
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Stacy M. Horner
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
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50
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Lichinchi G, Zhao BS, Wu Y, Lu Z, Qin Y, He C, Rana TM. Dynamics of Human and Viral RNA Methylation during Zika Virus Infection. Cell Host Microbe 2016; 20:666-673. [PMID: 27773536 PMCID: PMC5155635 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2016.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 275] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Revised: 09/26/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Infection with the flavivirus Zika (ZIKV) causes neurological, immunological, and developmental defects through incompletely understood mechanisms. We report that ZIKV infection affects viral and human RNAs by altering the topology and function of N6-adenosine methylation (m6A), a modification affecting RNA structure and function. m6A nucleosides are abundant in ZIKV RNA, with twelve m6A peaks identified across full-length ZIKV RNA. m6A in ZIKV RNA is controlled by host methyltransferases METTL3 and METTL14 and demethylases ALKBH5 and FTO, and knockdown of methyltransferases increases, while silencing demethylases decreases, ZIKV production. YTHDF family proteins, which regulate the stability of m6A-modified RNA, bind to ZIKV RNA, and their silencing increases ZIKV replication. Profiling of the m6A methylome of host mRNAs reveals that ZIKV infection alters m6A location in mRNAs, methylation motifs, and target genes modified by methyltransferases. Our results identify a mechanism by which ZIKV interacts with and alters host cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluigi Lichinchi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Program for RNA Biology and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, 10901 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Boxuan Simen Zhao
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Yinga Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Program for RNA Biology and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, 10901 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Zhike Lu
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Yue Qin
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Chuan He
- Department of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Institute for Biophysical Dynamics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL 60637, USA
| | - Tariq M Rana
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Program for RNA Biology and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, 10901 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA; Institute for Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
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