1
|
Ballesio F, Pepe G, Ausiello G, Novelletto A, Helmer-Citterich M, Gherardini PF. Human lncRNAs harbor conserved modules embedded in different sequence contexts. Noncoding RNA Res 2024; 9:1257-1270. [PMID: 39040814 PMCID: PMC11261117 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2024.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
We analyzed the structure of human long non-coding RNA (lncRNAs) genes to investigate whether the non-coding transcriptome is organized in modular domains, as is the case for protein-coding genes. To this aim, we compared all known human lncRNA exons and identified 340 pairs of exons with high sequence and/or secondary structure similarity but embedded in a dissimilar sequence context. We grouped these pairs in 106 clusters based on their reciprocal similarities. These shared modules are highly conserved between humans and the four great ape species, display evidence of purifying selection and likely arose as a result of recent segmental duplications. Our analysis contributes to the understanding of the mechanisms driving the evolution of the non-coding genome and suggests additional strategies towards deciphering the functional complexity of this class of molecules.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Ballesio
- PhD Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, Department of Biology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Gerardo Pepe
- Department of Biology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Ausiello
- Department of Biology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Novelletto
- Department of Biology, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lebherz MK, Fouks B, Schmidt J, Bornberg-Bauer E, Grandchamp A. DNA Transposons Favor De Novo Transcript Emergence Through Enrichment of Transcription Factor Binding Motifs. Genome Biol Evol 2024; 16:evae134. [PMID: 38934893 PMCID: PMC11264136 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evae134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
De novo genes emerge from noncoding regions of genomes via succession of mutations. Among others, such mutations activate transcription and create a new open reading frame (ORF). Although the mechanisms underlying ORF emergence are well documented, relatively little is known about the mechanisms enabling new transcription events. Yet, in many species a continuum between absent and very prominent transcription has been reported for essentially all regions of the genome. In this study, we searched for de novo transcripts by using newly assembled genomes and transcriptomes of seven inbred lines of Drosophila melanogaster, originating from six European and one African population. This setup allowed us to detect sample specific de novo transcripts, and compare them to their homologous nontranscribed regions in other samples, as well as genic and intergenic control sequences. We studied the association with transposable elements (TEs) and the enrichment of transcription factor motifs upstream of de novo emerged transcripts and compared them with regulatory elements. We found that de novo transcripts overlap with TEs more often than expected by chance. The emergence of new transcripts correlates with regions of high guanine-cytosine content and TE expression. Moreover, upstream regions of de novo transcripts are highly enriched with regulatory motifs. Such motifs are more enriched in new transcripts overlapping with TEs, particularly DNA TEs, and are more conserved upstream de novo transcripts than upstream their 'nontranscribed homologs'. Overall, our study demonstrates that TE insertion is important for transcript emergence, partly by introducing new regulatory motifs from DNA TE families.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Bertrand Fouks
- CEFE, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, Montpellier, France
- UMR AGAP Institut, Univ Montpellier, CIRAD, INRAE, Institut Agro, F-34398, Montpellier, France
- CIRAD, UMR AGAP Institut, F-34398, Montpellier, France
| | - Julian Schmidt
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Erich Bornberg-Bauer
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
- Department of Protein Evolution, Max Planck Institute for Biology, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Anna Grandchamp
- Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Skalon EK, Panyushev NV, Podgornaya OI, Smolyaninova AR, Solovyeva AI. Expression of Transposable Elements throughout the Fasciola hepatica Trematode Life Cycle. Noncoding RNA 2024; 10:39. [PMID: 39051373 PMCID: PMC11270206 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna10040039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transposable elements (TEs) are major components of eukaryotic genomes. The extensive body of evidence suggests that although they were once considered "genomic parasites", transposons and their transcripts perform specific functions, such as regulation of early embryo development. Understanding the role of TEs in such parasites as trematodes is becoming critically important. Fasciola hepatica, a parasite affecting humans and livestock, undergoes a complex life cycle in diverse environments and hosts, and knowledge about its life cycle regulation is scarce so far. METHODS We summarized the data regarding the repetitive elements in F. hepatica and conducted bulk RNA-seq analysis across its life cycle stages. TE expression profiles were analyzed, focusing on differential expression and potential homology with previously described long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs). RESULTS Differential expression analysis revealed stage-specific TE transcription patterns, notably peaking during egg and metacercariae stages. Some TEs showed homology with known lncRNAs and contained putative transcription factor binding sites. Interestingly, TE transcription levels were highest in eggs and metacercariae compared to adults, suggesting regulatory roles in trematode life cycle transitions. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that TEs may play roles in regulating trematode life cycle transitions. Moreover, TE homology with lncRNAs underscores their significance in gene regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizaveta K. Skalon
- Zoological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia;
| | | | - Olga I. Podgornaya
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 194064 St. Petersburg, Russia; (O.I.P.); (A.R.S.)
| | - Anastasia R. Smolyaninova
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 194064 St. Petersburg, Russia; (O.I.P.); (A.R.S.)
| | - Anna I. Solovyeva
- Zoological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia;
- Institute of Cytology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 194064 St. Petersburg, Russia; (O.I.P.); (A.R.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bhatt U, Cucchiarini A, Luo Y, Evans CW, Mergny JL, Iyer KS, Smith NM. Preferential formation of Z-RNA over intercalated motifs in long noncoding RNA. Genome Res 2024; 34:217-230. [PMID: 38355305 PMCID: PMC10984386 DOI: 10.1101/gr.278236.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Secondary structure is a principal determinant of lncRNA function, predominantly regarding scaffold formation and interfaces with target molecules. Noncanonical secondary structures that form in nucleic acids have known roles in regulating gene expression and include G-quadruplexes (G4s), intercalated motifs (iMs), and R-loops (RLs). In this paper, we used the computational tools G4-iM Grinder and QmRLFS-finder to predict the formation of each of these structures throughout the lncRNA transcriptome in comparison to protein-coding transcripts. The importance of the predicted structures in lncRNAs in biological contexts was assessed by combining our results with publicly available lncRNA tissue expression data followed by pathway analysis. The formation of predicted G4 (pG4) and iM (piM) structures in select lncRNA sequences was confirmed in vitro using biophysical experiments under near-physiological conditions. We find that the majority of the tested pG4s form highly stable G4 structures, and identify many previously unreported G4s in biologically important lncRNAs. In contrast, none of the piM sequences are able to form iM structures, consistent with the idea that RNA is unable to form stable iMs. Unexpectedly, these C-rich sequences instead form Z-RNA structures, which have not been previously observed in regions containing cytosine repeats and represent an interesting and underexplored target for protein-RNA interactions. Our results highlight the prevalence and potential structure-associated functions of noncanonical secondary structures in lncRNAs, and show G4 and Z-RNA structure formation in many lncRNA sequences for the first time, furthering the understanding of the structure-function relationship in lncRNAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Uditi Bhatt
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Anne Cucchiarini
- Laboratoire d'Optique et Biosciences, École Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91120 Palaiseau, France
| | - Yu Luo
- Laboratoire d'Optique et Biosciences, École Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91120 Palaiseau, France
| | - Cameron W Evans
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Jean-Louis Mergny
- Laboratoire d'Optique et Biosciences, École Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91120 Palaiseau, France
| | - K Swaminathan Iyer
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - Nicole M Smith
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia 6009, Australia;
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Le Breton A, Bettencourt MP, Gendrel AV. Navigating the brain and aging: exploring the impact of transposable elements from health to disease. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1357576. [PMID: 38476259 PMCID: PMC10927736 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1357576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs) are mobile genetic elements that constitute on average 45% of mammalian genomes. Their presence and activity in genomes represent a major source of genetic variability. While this is an important driver of genome evolution, TEs can also have deleterious effects on their hosts. A growing number of studies have focused on the role of TEs in the brain, both in physiological and pathological contexts. In the brain, their activity is believed to be important for neuronal plasticity. In neurological and age-related disorders, aberrant activity of TEs may contribute to disease etiology, although this remains unclear. After providing a comprehensive overview of transposable elements and their interactions with the host, this review summarizes the current understanding of TE activity within the brain, during the aging process, and in the context of neurological and age-related conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Anne-Valerie Gendrel
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pugacheva EM, Bhatt DN, Rivero-Hinojosa S, Tajmul M, Fedida L, Price E, Ji Y, Loukinov D, Strunnikov AV, Ren B, Lobanenkov VV. BORIS/CTCFL epigenetically reprograms clustered CTCF binding sites into alternative transcriptional start sites. Genome Biol 2024; 25:40. [PMID: 38297316 PMCID: PMC10832218 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-024-03175-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pervasive usage of alternative promoters leads to the deregulation of gene expression in carcinogenesis and may drive the emergence of new genes in spermatogenesis. However, little is known regarding the mechanisms underpinning the activation of alternative promoters. RESULTS Here we describe how alternative cancer-testis-specific transcription is activated. We show that intergenic and intronic CTCF binding sites, which are transcriptionally inert in normal somatic cells, could be epigenetically reprogrammed into active de novo promoters in germ and cancer cells. BORIS/CTCFL, the testis-specific paralog of the ubiquitously expressed CTCF, triggers the epigenetic reprogramming of CTCF sites into units of active transcription. BORIS binding initiates the recruitment of the chromatin remodeling factor, SRCAP, followed by the replacement of H2A histone with H2A.Z, resulting in a more relaxed chromatin state in the nucleosomes flanking the CTCF binding sites. The relaxation of chromatin around CTCF binding sites facilitates the recruitment of multiple additional transcription factors, thereby activating transcription from a given binding site. We demonstrate that the epigenetically reprogrammed CTCF binding sites can drive the expression of cancer-testis genes, long noncoding RNAs, retro-pseudogenes, and dormant transposable elements. CONCLUSIONS Thus, BORIS functions as a transcription factor that epigenetically reprograms clustered CTCF binding sites into transcriptional start sites, promoting transcription from alternative promoters in both germ cells and cancer cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena M Pugacheva
- Molecular Pathology Section, Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| | - Dharmendra Nath Bhatt
- Molecular Pathology Section, Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Samuel Rivero-Hinojosa
- Center for Cancer and Immunology Research, Children's National Research Institute, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Md Tajmul
- Molecular Pathology Section, Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Liron Fedida
- Molecular Pathology Section, Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Emma Price
- Molecular Pathology Section, Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Yon Ji
- Molecular Pathology Section, Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Dmitri Loukinov
- Molecular Pathology Section, Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Alexander V Strunnikov
- Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Molecular Epigenetics Laboratory, 190 Kai Yuan Avenue, Science Park, Guangzhou, 510530, China
| | - Bing Ren
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Center for Epigenomics, Moores Cancer Center and Institute of Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0653, USA
| | - Victor V Lobanenkov
- Molecular Pathology Section, Laboratory of Immunogenetics, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Hassan AH, Mokhtar MM, El Allali A. Transposable elements: multifunctional players in the plant genome. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 14:1330127. [PMID: 38239225 PMCID: PMC10794571 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1330127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs) are indispensable components of eukaryotic genomes that play diverse roles in gene regulation, recombination, and environmental adaptation. Their ability to mobilize within the genome leads to gene expression and DNA structure changes. TEs serve as valuable markers for genetic and evolutionary studies and facilitate genetic mapping and phylogenetic analysis. They also provide insight into how organisms adapt to a changing environment by promoting gene rearrangements that lead to new gene combinations. These repetitive sequences significantly impact genome structure, function and evolution. This review takes a comprehensive look at TEs and their applications in biotechnology, particularly in the context of plant biology, where they are now considered "genomic gold" due to their extensive functionalities. The article addresses various aspects of TEs in plant development, including their structure, epigenetic regulation, evolutionary patterns, and their use in gene editing and plant molecular markers. The goal is to systematically understand TEs and shed light on their diverse roles in plant biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa H. Hassan
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, College of Computing, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ben Guerir, Morocco
- Agricultural Genetic Engineering Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Morad M. Mokhtar
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, College of Computing, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ben Guerir, Morocco
- Agricultural Genetic Engineering Research Institute, Agriculture Research Center, Giza, Egypt
| | - Achraf El Allali
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, College of Computing, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, Ben Guerir, Morocco
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ali A, Khatoon A, Shao C, Murtaza B, Tanveer Q, Su Z. Therapeutic potential of natural antisense transcripts and various mechanisms involved for clinical applications and disease prevention. RNA Biol 2024; 21:1-18. [PMID: 38090817 PMCID: PMC10761088 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2023.2293335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Antisense transcription, a prevalent occurrence in mammalian genomes, gives rise to natural antisense transcripts (NATs) as RNA molecules. These NATs serve as agents of diverse transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms, playing crucial roles in various biological processes vital for cell function and immune response. However, when their normal functions are disrupted, they can contribute to human diseases. This comprehensive review aims to establish the molecular foundation linking NATs to the development of disorders like cancer, neurodegenerative conditions, and cardiovascular ailments. Additionally, we evaluate the potential of oligonucleotide-based therapies targeting NATs, presenting both their advantages and limitations, while also highlighting the latest advancements in this promising realm of clinical investigation.Abbreviations: NATs- Natural antisense transcripts, PRC1- Polycomb Repressive Complex 1, PRC2- Polycomb Repressive Complex 2, ADARs- Adenosine deaminases acting on RNA, BDNF-AS- Brain-derived neurotrophic factor antisense transcript, ASOs- Antisense oligonucleotides, SINEUPs- Inverted SINEB2 sequence-mediated upregulating molecules, PTBP1- Polypyrimidine tract binding protein-1, HNRNPK- heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K, MAPT-AS1- microtubule-associated protein tau antisense 1, KCNQ1OT- (KCNQ1 opposite strand/antisense transcript 1, ERK- extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1, USP14- ubiquitin-specific protease 14, EGF- Epidermal growth factor, LSD1- Lysine Specific Demethylase 1, ANRIL- Antisense Noncoding RNA in the INK4 Locus, BWS- Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, VEGFA- Vascular Endothelial Growth component A.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashiq Ali
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Aisha Khatoon
- Department of Pathology, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Chenran Shao
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Bilal Murtaza
- School of Bioengineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Qaisar Tanveer
- The Roslin Institute, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Zhongjing Su
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Drozdov A, Lebedev E, Adonin L. Comparative Analysis of Bivalve and Sea Urchin Genetics and Development: Investigating the Dichotomy in Bilateria. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:17163. [PMID: 38138992 PMCID: PMC10742642 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242417163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
This comprehensive review presents a comparative analysis of early embryogenesis in Protostomia and Deuterostomia, the first of which exhibit a mosaic pattern of development, where cells are fated deterministically, while Deuterostomia display a regulatory pattern of development, where the fate of cells is indeterminate. Despite these fundamental differences, there are common transcriptional mechanisms that underline their evolutionary linkages, particularly in the field of functional genomics. By elucidating both conserved and unique regulatory strategies, this review provides essential insights into the comparative embryology and developmental dynamics of these groups. The objective of this review is to clarify the shared and distinctive characteristics of transcriptional regulatory mechanisms. This will contribute to the extensive areas of functional genomics, evolutionary biology and developmental biology, and possibly lay the foundation for future research and discussion on this seminal topic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anatoliy Drozdov
- Zhirmunsky National Scientific Center of Marine Biology, Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 690041 Vladivostok, Russia
| | - Egor Lebedev
- Institute of Environmental and Agricultural Biology (X-BIO), Tyumen State University, 625003 Tyumen, Russia;
| | - Leonid Adonin
- Institute of Environmental and Agricultural Biology (X-BIO), Tyumen State University, 625003 Tyumen, Russia;
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, 119121 Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Kulski JK, Pfaff AL, Marney LD, Fröhlich A, Bubb VJ, Quinn JP, Koks S. Regulation of expression quantitative trait loci by SVA retrotransposons within the major histocompatibility complex. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2023; 248:2304-2318. [PMID: 38031415 PMCID: PMC10903234 DOI: 10.1177/15353702231209411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Genomic and transcriptomic studies of expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) revealed that SINE-VNTR-Alu (SVA) retrotransposon insertion polymorphisms (RIPs) within human genomes markedly affect the co-expression of many coding and noncoding genes by coordinated regulatory processes. This study examined the polymorphic SVA modulation of gene co-expression within the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genomic region where more than 160 coding genes are involved in innate and adaptive immunity. We characterized the modulation of SVA RIPs utilizing the genomic and transcriptomic sequencing data obtained from whole blood of 1266 individuals in the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) cohort that included an analysis of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-A regulation in a subpopulation of the cohort. The regulatory properties of eight SVAs located within the class I and class II MHC regions were associated with differential co-expression of 71 different genes within and 75 genes outside the MHC region. Some of the same genes were affected by two or more different SVA. Five SVA are annotated in the human genomic reference sequence GRCh38.p14/hg38, whereas the other three were novel insertions within individuals. We also examined and found distinct structural effects (long and short variants and the CT internal variants) for one of the SVA (R_SVA_24) insertions on the differential expression of the HLA-A gene within a subpopulation (550 individuals) of the PPMI cohort. This is the first time that many HLA and non-HLA genes (multilocus expression units) and splicing mechanisms have been shown to be regulated by eight structurally polymorphic SVA within the MHC genomic region by applying precise statistical analysis of RNA data derived from the blood samples of a human cohort population. This study shows that SVA within the MHC region are important regulators or rheostats of gene co-expression that might have potential roles in diversity, health, and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jerzy K Kulski
- Department of Molecular Life Sciences, School of Medicine, Tokai University, Isehara, Kanagawa 259–1193, Japan
- Health and Medical Science. Division of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Abigail L Pfaff
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Luke D Marney
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 3BX, UK
| | - Alexander Fröhlich
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 3BX, UK
| | - Vivien J Bubb
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 3BX, UK
| | - John P Quinn
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 3BX, UK
| | - Sulev Koks
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Qian J, Ibrahim HMM, Erz M, Kümmel F, Panstruga R, Kusch S. Long noncoding RNAs emerge from transposon-derived antisense sequences and may contribute to infection stage-specific transposon regulation in a fungal phytopathogen. Mob DNA 2023; 14:17. [PMID: 37964319 PMCID: PMC10648671 DOI: 10.1186/s13100-023-00305-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The genome of the obligate biotrophic phytopathogenic barley powdery mildew fungus Blumeria hordei is inflated due to highly abundant and possibly active transposable elements (TEs). In the absence of the otherwise common repeat-induced point mutation transposon defense mechanism, noncoding RNAs could be key for regulating the activity of TEs and coding genes during the pathogenic life cycle. RESULTS We performed time-course whole-transcriptome shotgun sequencing (RNA-seq) of total RNA derived from infected barley leaf epidermis at various stages of fungal pathogenesis and observed significant transcript accumulation and time point-dependent regulation of TEs in B. hordei. Using a manually curated consensus database of 344 TEs, we discovered phased small RNAs mapping to 104 consensus transposons, suggesting that RNA interference contributes significantly to their regulation. Further, we identified 5,127 long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) genome-wide in B. hordei, of which 823 originated from the antisense strand of a TE. Co-expression network analysis of lncRNAs, TEs, and coding genes throughout the asexual life cycle of B. hordei points at extensive positive and negative co-regulation of lncRNAs, subsets of TEs and coding genes. CONCLUSIONS Our work suggests that similar to mammals and plants, fungal lncRNAs support the dynamic modulation of transcript levels, including TEs, during pivotal stages of host infection. The lncRNAs may support transcriptional diversity and plasticity amid loss of coding genes in powdery mildew fungi and may give rise to novel regulatory elements and virulence peptides, thus representing key drivers of rapid evolutionary adaptation to promote pathogenicity and overcome host defense.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiangzhao Qian
- Unit of Plant Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Biology I, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 1, 52056, Aachen, Germany
| | - Heba M M Ibrahim
- Department of Biosystems, Division of Plant Biotechnics, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 3001, Leuven, Belgium
- Present address: Institute of Bio- and Geosciences IBG-2, Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425, Jülich, Germany
| | - Myriam Erz
- Unit of Plant Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Biology I, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 1, 52056, Aachen, Germany
| | - Florian Kümmel
- Unit of Plant Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Biology I, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 1, 52056, Aachen, Germany
- Present address: Department of Plant-Microbe Interactions, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Carl-Von-Linné-Weg 10, 50829, Cologne, Germany
| | - Ralph Panstruga
- Unit of Plant Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Biology I, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 1, 52056, Aachen, Germany
| | - Stefan Kusch
- Unit of Plant Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Biology I, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 1, 52056, Aachen, Germany.
- Present address: Institute of Bio- and Geosciences IBG-4, Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425, Jülich, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Gambelli A, Ferrando A, Boncristiani C, Schoeftner S. Regulation and function of R-loops at repetitive elements. Biochimie 2023; 214:141-155. [PMID: 37619810 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2023.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
R-loops are atypical, three-stranded nucleic acid structures that contain a stretch of RNA:DNA hybrids and an unpaired, single stranded DNA loop. R-loops are physiological relevant and can act as regulators of gene expression, chromatin structure, DNA damage repair and DNA replication. However, unscheduled and persistent R-loops are mutagenic and can mediate replication-transcription conflicts, leading to DNA damage and genome instability if left unchecked. Detailed transcriptome analysis unveiled that 85% of the human genome, including repetitive regions, hold transcriptional activity. This anticipates that R-loops management plays a central role for the regulation and integrity of genomes. This function is expected to have a particular relevance for repetitive sequences that make up to 75% of the human genome. Here, we review the impact of R-loops on the function and stability of repetitive regions such as centromeres, telomeres, rDNA arrays, transposable elements and triplet repeat expansions and discuss their relevance for associated pathological conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alice Gambelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi di Trieste, Via E. Weiss 2, 34127, Trieste, Italy
| | - Alessandro Ferrando
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi di Trieste, Via E. Weiss 2, 34127, Trieste, Italy
| | - Chiara Boncristiani
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi di Trieste, Via E. Weiss 2, 34127, Trieste, Italy
| | - Stefan Schoeftner
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi di Trieste, Via E. Weiss 2, 34127, Trieste, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Domínguez-Rosas E, Hernández-Oñate MÁ, Fernandez-Valverde SL, Tiznado-Hernández ME. Plant long non-coding RNAs: identification and analysis to unveil their physiological functions. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1275399. [PMID: 38023843 PMCID: PMC10644886 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1275399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Eukaryotic genomes encode thousands of RNA molecules; however, only a minimal fraction is translated into proteins. Among the non-coding elements, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in diverse biological processes. LncRNAs are associated mainly with the regulation of the expression of the genome; nonetheless, their study has just scratched the surface. This is somewhat due to the lack of widespread conservation at the sequence level, in addition to their relatively low and highly tissue-specific expression patterns, which makes their exploration challenging, especially in plant genomes where only a few of these molecules have been described completely. Recently published high-quality genomes of crop plants, along with new computational tools, are considered promising resources for studying these molecules in plants. This review briefly summarizes the characteristics of plant lncRNAs, their presence and conservation, the different protocols to find these elements, and the limitations of these protocols. Likewise, it describes their roles in different plant physiological phenomena. We believe that the study of lncRNAs can help to design strategies to reduce the negative effect of biotic and abiotic stresses on the yield of crop plants and, in the future, help create fruits and vegetables with improved nutritional content, higher amounts of compounds with positive effects on human health, better organoleptic characteristics, and fruits with a longer postharvest shelf life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edmundo Domínguez-Rosas
- Coordinación de Tecnología de Alimentos de Origen Vegeta, Centro de Investigación en Alimentación y Desarrollo, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
| | | | | | - Martín Ernesto Tiznado-Hernández
- Coordinación de Tecnología de Alimentos de Origen Vegeta, Centro de Investigación en Alimentación y Desarrollo, Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gebrie A. Transposable elements as essential elements in the control of gene expression. Mob DNA 2023; 14:9. [PMID: 37596675 PMCID: PMC10439571 DOI: 10.1186/s13100-023-00297-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Interspersed repetitions called transposable elements (TEs), commonly referred to as mobile elements, make up a significant portion of the genomes of higher animals. TEs contribute in controlling the expression of genes locally and even far away at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels, which is one of their significant functional effects on gene function and genome evolution. There are different mechanisms through which TEs control the expression of genes. First, TEs offer cis-regulatory regions in the genome with their inherent regulatory features for their own expression, making them potential factors for controlling the expression of the host genes. Promoter and enhancer elements contain cis-regulatory sites generated from TE, which function as binding sites for a variety of trans-acting factors. Second, a significant portion of miRNAs and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to have TEs that encode for regulatory RNAs, revealing the TE origin of these RNAs. Furthermore, it was shown that TE sequences are essential for these RNAs' regulatory actions, which include binding to the target mRNA. By being a member of cis-regulatory and regulatory RNA sequences, TEs therefore play essential regulatory roles. Additionally, it has been suggested that TE-derived regulatory RNAs and cis-regulatory regions both contribute to the evolutionary novelty of gene regulation. Additionally, these regulatory systems arising from TE frequently have tissue-specific functions. The objective of this review is to discuss TE-mediated gene regulation, with a particular emphasis on the processes, contributions of various TE types, differential roles of various tissue types, based mostly on recent studies on humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alemu Gebrie
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Zhao P, Peng C, Fang L, Wang Z, Liu GE. Taming transposable elements in livestock and poultry: a review of their roles and applications. Genet Sel Evol 2023; 55:50. [PMID: 37479995 PMCID: PMC10362595 DOI: 10.1186/s12711-023-00821-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Livestock and poultry play a significant role in human nutrition by converting agricultural by-products into high-quality proteins. To meet the growing demand for safe animal protein, genetic improvement of livestock must be done sustainably while minimizing negative environmental impacts. Transposable elements (TE) are important components of livestock and poultry genomes, contributing to their genetic diversity, chromatin states, gene regulatory networks, and complex traits of economic value. However, compared to other species, research on TE in livestock and poultry is still in its early stages. In this review, we analyze 72 studies published in the past 20 years, summarize the TE composition in livestock and poultry genomes, and focus on their potential roles in functional genomics. We also discuss bioinformatic tools and strategies for integrating multi-omics data with TE, and explore future directions, feasibility, and challenges of TE research in livestock and poultry. In addition, we suggest strategies to apply TE in basic biological research and animal breeding. Our goal is to provide a new perspective on the importance of TE in livestock and poultry genomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pengju Zhao
- Hainan Institute of Zhejiang University, Hainan Sanya, 572000, China
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Peng
- Hainan Institute of Zhejiang University, Hainan Sanya, 572000, China
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingzhao Fang
- Center for Quantitative Genetics and Genomics, Aarhus University, 8000, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Zhengguang Wang
- Hainan Institute of Zhejiang University, Hainan Sanya, 572000, China.
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Zhejiang, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China.
| | - George E Liu
- Animal Genomics and Improvement Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Segal D, Dostie J. The Talented LncRNAs: Meshing into Transcriptional Regulatory Networks in Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3433. [PMID: 37444543 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15133433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
As a group of diseases characterized by uncontrollable cell growth, cancer is highly multifaceted in how it overrides checkpoints controlling proliferation. Amongst the regulators of these checkpoints, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can have key roles in why natural biological processes go haywire. LncRNAs represent a large class of regulatory transcripts that can localize anywhere in cells. They were found to affect gene expression on many levels from transcription to mRNA translation and even protein stability. LncRNA participation in such control mechanisms can depend on cell context, with given transcripts sometimes acting as oncogenes or tumor suppressors. Importantly, the tissue-specificity and low expression levels of lncRNAs make them attractive therapeutic targets or biomarkers. Here, we review the various cellular processes affected by lncRNAs and outline molecular strategies they use to control gene expression, particularly in cancer and in relation to transcription factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dana Segal
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A3, Canada
| | - Josée Dostie
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3G 1Y6, Canada
- Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 1A3, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Reynoso MA, Blanco FA, Zanetti ME. Nuclear and cytoplasmic lncRNAs in root tips of the model legume Medicago truncatula under control and submergence. IUBMB Life 2023. [PMID: 36852968 DOI: 10.1002/iub.2712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to identify long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in root tips of the model legume Medicago truncatula using previously generated nuclear, total polyA, ribosome-associated polyA, and Riboseq RNA datasets, which might shed light on their localization and potential regulatory roles. RNA-seq data were mapped to the version 5 of the M. truncatula A17 genome and analyzed to identify genome annotated lncRNAs and putative new root tip (NRT) lncRNAs. lncRNAs were classified according to their genomic location relative to chromatin accessible regions, protein-coding genes and transposable elements (TE), finding differences between annotated lncRNAs and NRT lncRNAs, both in their genomic position as well as in the type of TEs in their vicinity. We investigated their response to submergence and found a set of regulated lncRNAs that were preferentially upregulated in the nucleus, some of which were located nearby genes of the conserved submergence upregulated gene families, and chromatin accessible regions suggesting a potential regulatory role. Finally, the accumulation of lncRNAs under submergence was validated by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction on nuclear RNA, providing additional evidence of their localization, which could ultimately be required for their function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mauricio A Reynoso
- Instituto de Biotecnología y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Centro Científico y Tecnológico-La Plata, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, La Plata, Argentina.,Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, Center for Plant Cell Biology, University of California, Riverside, California, USA
| | - Flavio Antonio Blanco
- Instituto de Biotecnología y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Centro Científico y Tecnológico-La Plata, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, La Plata, Argentina
| | - María Eugenia Zanetti
- Instituto de Biotecnología y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Centro Científico y Tecnológico-La Plata, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, La Plata, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Wang B, Zhang Z, Liu W, Tan B. Targeting regulatory T cells in gastric cancer: Pathogenesis, immunotherapy, and prognosis. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 158:114180. [PMID: 36586241 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) remains one of the most common malignancies worldwide. Despite immune-checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has revolutionized cancer treatment and obtained durable clinical responses, only a fraction of GC patients benefit from it. As an important component of T cells, regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a vital role in the pathogenesis of GC, keep a core balance between immune suppression and autoimmunity, and function as predictive biomarkers for prognosis of GC patients. In this review, we discuss the role of Tregs in the pathogenesis of GC, and targeting Tregs via influencing their transcription factor, migration, co-stimulatory receptors, immune checkpoints, and cytokines. We also focus on the currently important findings of Tregs metabolism including amino acid, fatty acid, and lactic acid metabolism of GC. The emerging role of microbiome and clinical combined therapy in modulating Tregs in GC treatment is also summarized. Meanwhile, this review recapitulates a novel regulator, magnesium, is involved in mediating Tregs in GC. These research advances on Treg-related strategies provide new insights and challenges for GC progression, treatment, and prognosis. And we hope our review can stimulate further discovery and implication of mediators and pathways targeting Tregs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bingyu Wang
- The Third Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 050011 Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Zaibo Zhang
- The Third Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 050011 Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Wenbo Liu
- The Third Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 050011 Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Bibo Tan
- The Third Department of Surgery, The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, 050011 Shijiazhuang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Park EG, Ha H, Lee DH, Kim WR, Lee YJ, Bae WH, Kim HS. Genomic Analyses of Non-Coding RNAs Overlapping Transposable Elements and Its Implication to Human Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23168950. [PMID: 36012216 PMCID: PMC9409130 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23168950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
It is estimated that up to 80% of the human genome is transcribed into RNA molecules but less than 2% of the genome encodes the proteins, and the rest of the RNA transcripts that are not translated into protein are called non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Many studies have revealed that ncRNAs have biochemical activities as epigenetic regulators at the post-transcriptional level. Growing evidence has demonstrated that transposable elements (TEs) contribute to a large percentage of ncRNAs’ transcription. The TEs inserted into certain parts of the genome can act as alternative promoters, enhancers, and insulators, and the accumulation of TEs increases genetic diversity in the human genome. The TEs can also generate microRNAs, so-called miRNA-derived from transposable elements (MDTEs), and are also implicated in disease progression, such as infectious diseases and cancer. Here, we analyzed the origin of ncRNAs and reviewed the published literature on MDTEs related to disease progression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eun Gyung Park
- Department of Integrated Biological Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Hongseok Ha
- Division of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea
| | - Du Hyeong Lee
- Department of Integrated Biological Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Woo Ryung Kim
- Department of Integrated Biological Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Yun Ju Lee
- Department of Integrated Biological Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Woo Hyeon Bae
- Department of Integrated Biological Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Heui-Soo Kim
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Bhat A, Ghatage T, Bhan S, Lahane GP, Dhar A, Kumar R, Pandita RK, Bhat KM, Ramos KS, Pandita TK. Role of Transposable Elements in Genome Stability: Implications for Health and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:7802. [PMID: 35887150 PMCID: PMC9319628 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Most living organisms have in their genome a sizable proportion of DNA sequences capable of mobilization; these sequences are commonly referred to as transposons, transposable elements (TEs), or jumping genes. Although long thought to have no biological significance, advances in DNA sequencing and analytical technologies have enabled precise characterization of TEs and confirmed their ubiquitous presence across all forms of life. These findings have ignited intense debates over their biological significance. The available evidence now supports the notion that TEs exert major influence over many biological aspects of organismal life. Transposable elements contribute significantly to the evolution of the genome by giving rise to genetic variations in both active and passive modes. Due to their intrinsic nature of mobility within the genome, TEs primarily cause gene disruption and large-scale genomic alterations including inversions, deletions, and duplications. Besides genomic instability, growing evidence also points to many physiologically important functions of TEs, such as gene regulation through cis-acting control elements and modulation of the transcriptome through epigenetic control. In this review, we discuss the latest evidence demonstrating the impact of TEs on genome stability and the underling mechanisms, including those developed to mitigate the deleterious impact of TEs on genomic stability and human health. We have also highlighted the potential therapeutic application of TEs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Audesh Bhat
- Centre for Molecular Biology, Central University of Jammu, Jammu 181143, India;
| | - Trupti Ghatage
- Department of Pharmacy, BITS-Pilani Hyderabad Campus, Hyderabad 500078, India; (T.G.); (G.P.L.); (A.D.)
| | - Sonali Bhan
- Centre for Molecular Biology, Central University of Jammu, Jammu 181143, India;
| | - Ganesh P. Lahane
- Department of Pharmacy, BITS-Pilani Hyderabad Campus, Hyderabad 500078, India; (T.G.); (G.P.L.); (A.D.)
| | - Arti Dhar
- Department of Pharmacy, BITS-Pilani Hyderabad Campus, Hyderabad 500078, India; (T.G.); (G.P.L.); (A.D.)
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, Shri Mata Vaishnav Devi University, Katra 182320, India;
| | - Raj K. Pandita
- Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Krishna M. Bhat
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - Kenneth S. Ramos
- Center for Genomics and Precision Medicine, Texas A&M College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| | - Tej K. Pandita
- Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
- Center for Genomics and Precision Medicine, Texas A&M College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Chiang VSC, DeRosa H, Park JH, Hunter RG. The Role of Transposable Elements in Sexual Development. Front Behav Neurosci 2022; 16:923732. [PMID: 35874645 PMCID: PMC9301316 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2022.923732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Up to 50% of most mammalian genomes are made up of transposable elements (TEs) that have the potential to mobilize around the genome. Despite this prevalence, research on TEs is only beginning to gain traction within the field of neuroscience. While TEs have long been regarded as “junk” or parasitic DNA, it has become evident that they are adaptive DNA and RNA regulatory elements. In addition to their vital role in normal development, TEs can also interact with steroid receptors, which are key elements to sexual development. In this review, we provide an overview of the involvement of TEs in processes related to sexual development- from TE activity in the germline to TE accumulation in sex chromosomes. Moreover, we highlight sex differences in TE activity and their regulation of genes related to sexual development. Finally, we speculate on the epigenetic mechanisms that may govern TEs’ role in sexual development. In this context, we emphasize the need to further the understanding of sexual development through the lens of TEs including in a variety of organs at different developmental stages, their molecular networks, and evolution.
Collapse
|
22
|
Azadbakht N, Doosti A, Jami MS. CRISPR/Cas9-mediated LINC00511 knockout strategies, increased apoptosis of breast cancer cells via suppressing antiapoptotic genes. Biol Proced Online 2022; 24:8. [PMID: 35790898 PMCID: PMC9254607 DOI: 10.1186/s12575-022-00171-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The growing detection of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) required the application of functional approaches in order to provide absolutely precise, conducive, and reliable processed information along with effective consequences. We utilized genetic knockout (KO) techniques to ablate the Long Intergenic Noncoding RNA 00,511 gene in several humans who suffered from breast cancer cells and at the end we analyzed and examined the results. Results The predictive relevance of LINC00511 expression pattern was measured by using a pooled hazard ratio (HR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The link among LINC00511 expression profiles and cancer metastasis was measured by using a pooled odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval. This meta- analysis was composed of fifteen studies which contained a total of 1040 tumor patients. We used three distinct CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockdown techniques to prevent the LINC00511 lncRNA from being transcribed. RT-PCR was used to measure lncRNA and RNA expression. We used CCK-8, colony formation tests, and the invasion transwell test to measure cell proliferation and invasion. The stemness was measured by using a sphere-formation test. To validate molecular attachment, luciferase reporter assays were performed. The functional impacts of LINC00511 gene deletion in knockdown breast cancer cell lines were confirmed by using RT-qPCR, MTT, and a colony formation test. This meta-analysis was composed of 15 trials which contained a total of 1040 malignant tumors. Greater LINC00511 expression was ascribed to a lower overall survival (HR = 1.93, 95% CI 1.49–2.49, < P 0.001) and to an increased proportion of lymph node metastasis (OR = 3.07, 95% CI 2.23–4.23, P < 0.001) in the meta‐analysis. It was found that the role of LINC00511 was overexpressed in breast cancer samples, and this overexpression was ascribed to a poor prognosis. The gain and loss-of-function tests demonstrated findings such as LINC00511 increased breast cancer cell proliferation, sphere-forming ability, and tumor growth. Additionally, the transcription factor E2F1 binds to the Nanog gene's promoter site to induce transcription. P57, P21, Prkca, MDM4, Map2k6, and FADD gene expression in the treatment group (LINC00511 deletion) was significantly higher than in the control group (P < 0.01). In addition, knockout cells had lower expression of BCL2 and surviving genes than control cells P < 0.001). In each of the two target alleles, the du-HITI approach introduced a reporter and a transcription termination signal. This strategy's donor vector preparation was significantly easier than "CRISPR HDR," and cell selection was likewise much easier than "CRISPR excision." Furthermore, when this approach was used in the initial transfection attempt, single-cell knockouts for both alleles were generated. Conclusions The methods employed and described in this work could be extended to the production of LINC00511 knockout cell lines and, in theory, to the deletion of other lncRNAs to study their function. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12575-022-00171-1.
Collapse
|
23
|
Fueyo R, Judd J, Feschotte C, Wysocka J. Roles of transposable elements in the regulation of mammalian transcription. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2022; 23:481-497. [PMID: 35228718 PMCID: PMC10470143 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-022-00457-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 61.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs) comprise about half of the mammalian genome. TEs often contain sequences capable of recruiting the host transcription machinery, which they use to express their own products and promote transposition. However, the regulatory sequences carried by TEs may affect host transcription long after the TEs have lost the ability to transpose. Recent advances in genome analysis and engineering have facilitated systematic interrogation of the regulatory activities of TEs. In this Review, we discuss diverse mechanisms by which TEs contribute to transcription regulation. Notably, TEs can donate enhancer and promoter sequences that influence the expression of host genes, modify 3D chromatin architecture and give rise to novel regulatory genes, including non-coding RNAs and transcription factors. We discuss how TEs spur regulatory evolution and facilitate the emergence of genetic novelties in mammalian physiology and development. By virtue of their repetitive and interspersed nature, TEs offer unique opportunities to dissect the effects of mutation and genomic context on the function and evolution of cis-regulatory elements. We argue that TE-centric studies hold the key to unlocking general principles of transcription regulation and evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Fueyo
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Julius Judd
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Cedric Feschotte
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA.
| | - Joanna Wysocka
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Developmental Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Emblem Å, Knutsen E, Jørgensen TE, Fure H, Johansen SD, Brekke OL, Mollnes TE, Karlsen BO. Blood Transcriptome Analysis of Septic Patients Reveals a Long Non-Coding Alu-RNA in the Complement C5a Receptor 1 Gene. Noncoding RNA 2022; 8:ncrna8020024. [PMID: 35447887 PMCID: PMC9027897 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna8020024] [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: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Many severe inflammation conditions are complement-dependent with the complement component C5a-C5aR1 axis as an important driver. At the RNA level, the blood transcriptome undergoes programmed expression of coding and long non-coding RNAs to combat invading microorganisms. Understanding the expression of long non-coding RNAs containing Alu elements in inflammation is important for reconstructing cell fate trajectories leading to severe disease. We have assembled a pipeline for computation mining of new Alu-containing long non-coding RNAs by intersecting immune genes with known Alu coordinates in the human genome. By applying the pipeline to patient bulk RNA-seq data with sepsis, we found immune genes containing 48 Alu insertion as robust candidates for further study. Interestingly, 1 of the 48 candidates was located within the complement system receptor gene C5aR1 and holds promise as a target for RNA therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Åse Emblem
- Research Laboratory and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nordland Hospital Trust, 8005 Bodø, Norway; (Å.E.); (H.F.); (O.-L.B.); (T.E.M.)
| | - Erik Knutsen
- Department of Medical Biology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway;
| | - Tor Erik Jørgensen
- Genomics Division—FBA, Nord University, 8026 Bodø, Norway; (T.E.J.); (S.D.J.)
| | - Hilde Fure
- Research Laboratory and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nordland Hospital Trust, 8005 Bodø, Norway; (Å.E.); (H.F.); (O.-L.B.); (T.E.M.)
| | | | - Ole-Lars Brekke
- Research Laboratory and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nordland Hospital Trust, 8005 Bodø, Norway; (Å.E.); (H.F.); (O.-L.B.); (T.E.M.)
- Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Tom Eirik Mollnes
- Research Laboratory and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nordland Hospital Trust, 8005 Bodø, Norway; (Å.E.); (H.F.); (O.-L.B.); (T.E.M.)
- Centre of Molecular Inflammation Research, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Immunology, Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet, University of Oslo, 0372 Oslo, Norway
| | - Bård Ove Karlsen
- Research Laboratory and Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nordland Hospital Trust, 8005 Bodø, Norway; (Å.E.); (H.F.); (O.-L.B.); (T.E.M.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Long Noncoding RNA Mediated Regulation in Human Embryogenesis, Pluripotency, and Reproduction. Stem Cells Int 2022; 2022:8051717. [PMID: 35103065 PMCID: PMC8800634 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8051717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), a class of noncoding RNAs with more than 200 bp in length, are produced by pervasive transcription in mammalian genomes and regulate gene expression through various action mechanisms. Accumulating data indicate that lncRNAs mediate essential biological functions in human development, including early embryogenesis, induction of pluripotency, and germ cell development. Comprehensive analysis of sequencing data highlights that lncRNAs are expressed in a stage-specific and human/primate-specific pattern during early human development. They contribute to cell fate determination through interacting with almost all classes of cellular biomolecules, including proteins, DNA, mRNAs, and microRNAs. Furthermore, the expression of a few of lncRNAs is highly associated with the pathogenesis and progression of many reproductive diseases, suggesting that they could serve as candidate biomarkers for diagnosis or novel targets for treatment. Here, we review research on lncRNAs and their roles in embryogenesis, pluripotency, and reproduction. We aim to identify the underlying molecular mechanisms essential for human development and provide novel insight into the causes and treatments of human reproductive diseases.
Collapse
|
26
|
Zeng C, Takeda A, Sekine K, Osato N, Fukunaga T, Hamada M. Bioinformatics Approaches for Determining the Functional Impact of Repetitive Elements on Non-coding RNAs. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2509:315-340. [PMID: 35796972 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2380-0_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
With a large number of annotated non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), repetitive sequences are found to constitute functional components (termed as repetitive elements) in ncRNAs that perform specific biological functions. Bioinformatics analysis is a powerful tool for improving our understanding of the role of repetitive elements in ncRNAs. This chapter summarizes recent findings that reveal the role of repetitive elements in ncRNAs. Furthermore, relevant bioinformatics approaches are systematically reviewed, which promises to provide valuable resources for studying the functional impact of repetitive elements on ncRNAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Zeng
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan.
- AIST-Waseda University Computational Bio Big-Data Open Innovation Laboratory (CBBD-OIL), Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Atsushi Takeda
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kotaro Sekine
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Naoki Osato
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Fukunaga
- Waseda Institute for Advanced Study, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Michiaki Hamada
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, Japan.
- AIST-Waseda University Computational Bio Big-Data Open Innovation Laboratory (CBBD-OIL), Tokyo, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Sahoo B, Choudhary RK, Sharma P, Choudhary S, Gupta MK. Significance and Relevance of Spermatozoal RNAs to Male Fertility in Livestock. Front Genet 2021; 12:768196. [PMID: 34956322 PMCID: PMC8696160 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.768196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Livestock production contributes to a significant part of the economy in developing countries. Although artificial insemination techniques brought substantial improvements in reproductive efficiency, male infertility remains a leading challenge in livestock. Current strategies for the diagnosis of male infertility largely depend on the evaluation of semen parameters and fail to diagnose idiopathic infertility in most cases. Recent evidences show that spermatozoa contains a suit of RNA population whose profile differs between fertile and infertile males. Studies have also demonstrated the crucial roles of spermatozoal RNA (spRNA) in spermatogenesis, fertilization, and early embryonic development. Thus, the spRNA profile may serve as unique molecular signatures of fertile sperm and may play pivotal roles in the diagnosis and treatment of male fertility. This manuscript provides an update on various spRNA populations, including protein-coding and non-coding RNAs, in livestock species and their potential role in semen quality, particularly sperm motility, freezability, and fertility. The contribution of seminal plasma to the spRNA population is also discussed. Furthermore, we discussed the significance of rare non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) such as long ncRNAs (lncRNAs) and circular RNAs (circRNAs) in spermatogenic events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bijayalaxmi Sahoo
- Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Rourkela, India
| | - Ratan K Choudhary
- College of Animal Biotechnology, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, India
| | - Paramajeet Sharma
- College of Animal Biotechnology, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, India
| | - Shanti Choudhary
- College of Animal Biotechnology, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar Gupta
- Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Rourkela, India
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Khoei MA, Karimi M, Karamian R, Amini S, Soorni A. Identification of the Complex Interplay Between Nematode-Related lncRNAs and Their Target Genes in Glycine max L. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:779597. [PMID: 34956274 PMCID: PMC8705754 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.779597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Soybean (Glycine max) is a major plant protein source and oilseed crop. However, plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs) affect its annual yield. In the current study, in order to better understand the regulation of defense mechanism against PPNs in soybean, we investigated the role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in response to two nematode species, Heterodera glycines (SCN: soybean cyst nematode) and Rotylenchulus reniformis (reniform). To this end, two publicly available RNA-seq data sets (SCN data set and RAD: reniform-associated data set) were employed to discover the lncRNAome profile of soybean under SCN and reniform infection, respectively. Upon identification of unannotated transcripts in these data sets, a seven-step pipeline was utilized to sieve these transcripts, which ended up in 384 and 283 potential lncRNAs in SCN data set and RAD, respectively. These transcripts were then used to predict cis and trans nematode-related targets in soybean genome. Computational prediction of target genes function, some of which were also among differentially expressed genes, revealed the involvement of putative nematode-responsive genes as well as enrichment of multiple stress responses in both data sets. Finally, 15 and six lncRNAs were proposed to be involved in microRNA-mediated regulation of gene expression in soybean in response to SNC and reniform infection, respectively. Collectively, this study provides a novel insight into the signaling and regulatory network of soybean-pathogen interactions and opens a new window for further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Roya Karamian
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
| | | | - Aboozar Soorni
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology, Isfahan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Panyushev N, Okorokova L, Danilov L, Adonin L. Pattern of Repetitive Element Transcription Segregate Cell Lineages during the Embryogenesis of Sea Urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus. Biomedicines 2021; 9:1736. [PMID: 34829966 PMCID: PMC8615465 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Repetitive elements (REs) occupy a significant part of eukaryotic genomes and are shown to play diverse roles in genome regulation. During embryogenesis of the sea urchin, a large number of REs are expressed, but the role of these elements in the regulation of biological processes remains unknown. The aim of this study was to identify the RE expression at different stages of embryogenesis. REs occupied 44% of genomic DNA of Strongylocentrotus purpuratus. The most prevalent among these elements were the unknown elements-in total, they contributed 78.5% of REs (35% in total genome occupancy). It was revealed that the transcription pattern of genes and REs changes significantly during gastrulation. Using the de novo transcriptome assembly, we showed that the expression of RE is independent of its copy number in the genome. We also identified copies that are expressed. Only active RE copies were used for mapping and quantification of RE expression in the single-cell RNA sequencing data. REs expression was observed in all cell lineages and they were detected as population markers. Moreover, the primary mesenchyme cell (PMC) line had the greatest diversity of REs among the markers. Our data suggest a role for RE in the organization of developmental domains during the sea urchin embryogenesis at the single-cell resolution level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nick Panyushev
- Bioinformatics Institute, 197342 St. Petersburg, Russia; (N.P.); (L.O.)
| | - Larisa Okorokova
- Bioinformatics Institute, 197342 St. Petersburg, Russia; (N.P.); (L.O.)
| | - Lavrentii Danilov
- St. Petersburg State University, Department of Genetics and Biotechnology, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia;
| | - Leonid Adonin
- Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, 141700 Dolgoprudny, Russia
- Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, Group of Mechanisms for Nanosystems Targeted Delivery, 119121 Moscow, Russia
- Institute of Environmental and Agricultural Biology (X-BIO), Tyumen State University, 625003 Tyumen, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Nicolau M, Picault N, Moissiard G. The Evolutionary Volte-Face of Transposable Elements: From Harmful Jumping Genes to Major Drivers of Genetic Innovation. Cells 2021; 10:cells10112952. [PMID: 34831175 PMCID: PMC8616336 DOI: 10.3390/cells10112952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs) are self-replicating DNA elements that constitute major fractions of eukaryote genomes. Their ability to transpose can modify the genome structure with potentially deleterious effects. To repress TE activity, host cells have developed numerous strategies, including epigenetic pathways, such as DNA methylation or histone modifications. Although TE neo-insertions are mostly deleterious or neutral, they can become advantageous for the host under specific circumstances. The phenomenon leading to the appropriation of TE-derived sequences by the host is known as TE exaptation or co-option. TE exaptation can be of different natures, through the production of coding or non-coding DNA sequences with ultimately an adaptive benefit for the host. In this review, we first give new insights into the silencing pathways controlling TE activity. We then discuss a model to explain how, under specific environmental conditions, TEs are unleashed, leading to a TE burst and neo-insertions, with potential benefits for the host. Finally, we review our current knowledge of coding and non-coding TE exaptation by providing several examples in various organisms and describing a method to identify TE co-option events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melody Nicolau
- LGDP-UMR5096, CNRS, 66860 Perpignan, France; (M.N.); (N.P.)
- LGDP-UMR5096, Université de Perpignan Via Domitia, 66860 Perpignan, France
| | - Nathalie Picault
- LGDP-UMR5096, CNRS, 66860 Perpignan, France; (M.N.); (N.P.)
- LGDP-UMR5096, Université de Perpignan Via Domitia, 66860 Perpignan, France
| | - Guillaume Moissiard
- LGDP-UMR5096, CNRS, 66860 Perpignan, France; (M.N.); (N.P.)
- LGDP-UMR5096, Université de Perpignan Via Domitia, 66860 Perpignan, France
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Significance of Sex Differences in ncRNAs Expression and Function in Pregnancy and Related Complications. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9111509. [PMID: 34829737 PMCID: PMC8614665 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9111509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In the era of personalized medicine, fetal sex-specific research is of utmost importance for comprehending the mechanisms governing pregnancy and pregnancy-related complications. In recent times, noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) have gained increasing attention as critical players in gene regulation and disease pathogenesis, and as candidate biomarkers in human diseases as well. Different types of ncRNAs, including microRNAs (miRNAs), piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), participate in every step of pregnancy progression, although studies taking into consideration fetal sex as a central variable are still limited. To date, most of the available data have been obtained investigating sex-specific placental miRNA expression. Several studies revealed that miRNAs regulate the (patho)-physiological processes in a sexually dimorphic manner, ensuring normal fetal development, successful pregnancy, and susceptibility to diseases. Moreover, the observation that ncRNA profiles differ according to cells, tissues, and developmental stages of pregnancy, along with the complex interactions among different types of ncRNAs in regulating gene expression, strongly indicates that more studies are needed to understand the role of sex-specific ncRNA in pregnancy and associated disorders.
Collapse
|
32
|
Trigiante G, Blanes Ruiz N, Cerase A. Emerging Roles of Repetitive and Repeat-Containing RNA in Nuclear and Chromatin Organization and Gene Expression. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:735527. [PMID: 34722514 PMCID: PMC8552494 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.735527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Genomic repeats have been intensely studied as regulatory elements controlling gene transcription, splicing and genome architecture. Our understanding of the role of the repetitive RNA such as the RNA coming from genomic repeats, or repetitive sequences embedded in mRNA/lncRNAs, in nuclear and cellular functions is instead still limited. In this review we discuss evidence supporting the multifaceted roles of repetitive RNA and RNA binding proteins in nuclear organization, gene regulation, and in the formation of dynamic membrane-less aggregates. We hope that our review will further stimulate research in the consolidating field of repetitive RNA biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andrea Cerase
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Blizard Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Li M, Larsen PA. Primate-specific retrotransposons and the evolution of circadian networks in the human brain. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 131:988-1004. [PMID: 34592258 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.09.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The circadian rhythm of the human brain is attuned to sleep-wake cycles that entail global alterations in neuronal excitability. This periodicity involves a highly coordinated regulation of gene expression. A growing number of studies are documenting a fascinating connection between primate-specific retrotransposons (Alu elements) and key epigenetic regulatory processes in the primate brain. Collectively, these studies indicate that Alu elements embedded in the human neuronal genome mediate post-transcriptional processes that unite human-specific neuroepigenetic landscapes and circadian rhythm. Here, we review evidence linking Alu retrotransposon-mediated posttranscriptional pathways to circadian gene expression. We hypothesize that Alu retrotransposons participate in the organization of circadian brain function through multidimensional neuroepigenetic pathways. We anticipate that these pathways are closely tied to the evolution of human cognition and their perturbation contributes to the manifestation of human-specific neurological diseases. Finally, we address current challenges and accompanying opportunities in studying primate- and human-specific transposable elements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manci Li
- University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, 55108, United States
| | - Peter A Larsen
- University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, 55108, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Hsu PS, Yu SH, Tsai YT, Chang JY, Tsai LK, Ye CH, Song NY, Yau LC, Lin SP. More than causing (epi)genomic instability: emerging physiological implications of transposable element modulation. J Biomed Sci 2021; 28:58. [PMID: 34364371 PMCID: PMC8349491 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-021-00754-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs) initially attracted attention because they comprise a major portion of the genomic sequences in plants and animals. TEs may jump around the genome and disrupt both coding genes as well as regulatory sequences to cause disease. Host cells have therefore evolved various epigenetic and functional RNA-mediated mechanisms to mitigate the disruption of genomic integrity by TEs. TE associated sequences therefore acquire the tendencies of attracting various epigenetic modifiers to induce epigenetic alterations that may spread to the neighboring genes. In addition to posting threats for (epi)genome integrity, emerging evidence suggested the physiological importance of endogenous TEs either as cis-acting control elements for controlling gene regulation or as TE-containing functional transcripts that modulate the transcriptome of the host cells. Recent advances in long-reads sequence analysis technologies, bioinformatics and genetic editing tools have enabled the profiling, precise annotation and functional characterization of TEs despite their challenging repetitive nature. The importance of specific TEs in preimplantation embryonic development, germ cell differentiation and meiosis, cell fate determination and in driving species specific differences in mammals will be discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pu-Sheng Hsu
- Institute of Biotechnology, College of Bio-Resources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Han Yu
- Institute of Biotechnology, College of Bio-Resources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Tzang Tsai
- Institute of Biotechnology, College of Bio-Resources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jen-Yun Chang
- Institute of Biotechnology, College of Bio-Resources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Kuang Tsai
- Institute of Biotechnology, College of Bio-Resources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hung Ye
- Institute of Biotechnology, College of Bio-Resources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ning-Yu Song
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Lih-Chiao Yau
- Institute of Biotechnology, College of Bio-Resources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shau-Ping Lin
- Institute of Biotechnology, College of Bio-Resources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Center of Systems Biology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan. .,The Research Center of Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Sun W, Zhou H, Han X, Hou L, Xue X. Circular RNA: A novel type of biomarker for glioma (Review). Mol Med Rep 2021; 24:602. [PMID: 34165178 PMCID: PMC8240176 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2021.12240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
With the rapid development of sequencing technologies, the characteristics and functions of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in different tissues, and their underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, have been identified. circRNAs are significantly enriched in the brain and are continually expressed from the embryonic stage to the adult stage in rats. Previous studies have reported that certain circRNAs are differentially expressed in glioma and regulate a number of biological processes, such as cell proliferation, metastasis and oncogenesis of glioma. Furthermore, certain circRNAs have been associated with tumor size, World Health Organization tumor grade and poor prognosis in patients with glioma. It has been hypothesized that circRNAs may be involved in the onset and progression of glioma through transcriptional regulation, protein translation and binding to microRNAs. These properties and functions suggest the potential of circRNAs as prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for glioma. For the present review, published studies were examined from PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central and the reference lists of the retrieved articles. The aim of the present review was to summarize the progress of circRNA research in glioma, discuss the potential diagnostic and prognostic values, and the roles of circRNAs in glioma, and provide a novel theoretical basis and research concepts for the prediction, diagnosis and treatment of glioma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Sun
- Department of Radiotherapy, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Huandi Zhou
- Department of Radiotherapy, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Xuetao Han
- Department of Radiotherapy, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Liubing Hou
- Department of Radiotherapy, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoying Xue
- Department of Radiotherapy, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Alfano V, Zeisel MB, Levrero M, Guerrieri F. The lncRNAs in HBV-Related HCCs: Targeting Chromatin Dynamics and Beyond. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:3115. [PMID: 34206504 PMCID: PMC8268133 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13133115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents the fourth leading and fastest rising cause of cancer death (841,000 new cases and 782,000 deaths annually), and hepatitis B (HBV), with 250 million people chronically infected at risk of developing HCC, accounts for >50% of the cases worldwide. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), untranslated transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides, are implicated in gene regulation at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels, exerting their activities both in the nuclear and cytoplasmic compartments. Thanks to high-throughput sequencing techniques, several lncRNAs have been shown to favor the establishment of chronic HBV infection, to change the host transcriptome to establish a pro-carcinogenic environment, and to directly participate in HCC development and progression. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the role of lncRNAs in HBV infection and HBV-related liver carcinogenesis and discuss the potential of lncRNAs as predictive or diagnostic biomarkers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Alfano
- Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), UMR Inserm 1052 CNRS 5286 Mixte CLB, Université de Lyon 1 (UCBL1), 69003 Lyon, France; (V.A.); (M.B.Z.)
| | - Mirjam B. Zeisel
- Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), UMR Inserm 1052 CNRS 5286 Mixte CLB, Université de Lyon 1 (UCBL1), 69003 Lyon, France; (V.A.); (M.B.Z.)
| | - Massimo Levrero
- Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), UMR Inserm 1052 CNRS 5286 Mixte CLB, Université de Lyon 1 (UCBL1), 69003 Lyon, France; (V.A.); (M.B.Z.)
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Hôpital Croix Rousse, Service d’Hépato-Gastroentérologie, 69004 Lyon, France
- Department of Medicine SCIAC, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Guerrieri
- Cancer Research Center of Lyon (CRCL), UMR Inserm 1052 CNRS 5286 Mixte CLB, Université de Lyon 1 (UCBL1), 69003 Lyon, France; (V.A.); (M.B.Z.)
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Long Noncoding RNA RP11-357H14.17 Plays an Oncogene Role in Gastric Cancer by Activating ATF2 Signaling and Enhancing Treg Cells. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:6635936. [PMID: 34195276 PMCID: PMC8181105 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6635936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world. The potential functions and mechanisms of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in GC development are still unclear. It is of great significance to explore the prognostic value of LncRNA signatures for GC. Methods LncRNAs differently expressed in GC and their prognostic value were studied based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. The functional regulatory network and immune infiltration of RP11-357H14.17 were further studied using a variety of bioinformatics tools and databases. Results We found that the high expression of RP11-357H14.17 was closely associated with shortened overall survival (OS) and poor prognosis in gastric cancer patients. We also found that its expression was related to clinical features including tumor volume, metastasis, and differentiation. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that RP11-357H14.17 is closely related to enhanced DNA replication and metabolism; ssGSEA analysis implied the oncogenic roles of RP11-357H14.17 was related to ATF2 signaling and Treg cell differentiation. Furthermore, we verified such link by using real-time PCR and IHC staining in human GC samples. Conclusion We demonstrate that RP11-357H14.17 may play a crucial role in the occurrence, development, and malignant biological behavior of gastric cancer as a potential prognostic marker for gastric cancer.
Collapse
|
38
|
Discovery of a Novel Long Noncoding RNA Lx8-SINE B2 as a Marker of Pluripotency. Stem Cells Int 2021; 2021:6657597. [PMID: 33628268 PMCID: PMC7884122 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6657597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Pluripotency and self-renewal of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are marked by core transcription regulators such as Oct4, Sox2, and Nanog. Another important marker of pluripotency is the long noncoding RNA (lncRNA). Here, we ind that a novel long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) Lx8-SINE B2 is a marker of pluripotency. LncRNA Lx8-SINE B2 is enriched in ESCs and downregulated during ESC differentiation. By rapid amplification of cDNA ends, we identified the full-length sequence of lncRNA Lx8-SINE B2. We further showed that transposable elements at upstream of lncRNA Lx8-SINE B2 could drive the expression of lncRNA Lx8-SINE B2. Furthermore, ESC-specific expression of lncRNA Lx8-SINE B2 was driven by Oct4 and Sox2. In summary, we identified a novel marker lncRNA of ESCs, which is driven by core pluripotency regulators.
Collapse
|
39
|
Zhang S, Gong Y, Li C, Yang W, Li L. Beyond regulations at DNA levels: A review of epigenetic therapeutics targeting cancer stem cells. Cell Prolif 2020; 54:e12963. [PMID: 33314500 PMCID: PMC7848960 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.12963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In the past few years, the paramount role of cancer stem cells (CSCs), in terms of cancer initiation, proliferation, metastasis, invasion and chemoresistance, has been revealed by accumulating studies. However, this level of cellular plasticity cannot be entirely explained by genetic mutations. Research on epigenetic modifications as a complementary explanation for the properties of CSCs has been increasing over the past several years. Notably, therapeutic strategies are currently being developed in an effort to reverse aberrant epigenetic alterations using specific chemical inhibitors. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of CSCs and their role in cancer progression, and provide an overview of epigenetic alterations seen in CSCs. Importantly, we focus on primary cancer therapies that target the epigenetic modification of CSCs by the use of specific chemical inhibitors, such as histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors, DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitors and microRNA‐based (miRNA‐based) therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shunhao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanji Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Department of Temporomandibular Joint, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China.,State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Chunjie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| | - Wenbin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Longjiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Oral Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Oral Disease, Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China
| |
Collapse
|