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Zheng Y, Chai R, Wang T, Xu Z, He Y, Shen P, Liu J. RNA polymerase stalling-derived genome instability underlies ribosomal antibiotic efficacy and resistance evolution. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6579. [PMID: 39097616 PMCID: PMC11297953 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50917-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Bacteria often evolve antibiotic resistance through mutagenesis. However, the processes causing the mutagenesis have not been fully resolved. Here, we find that a broad range of ribosome-targeting antibiotics cause mutations through an underexplored pathway. Focusing on the clinically important aminoglycoside gentamicin, we find that the translation inhibitor causes genome-wide premature stalling of RNA polymerase (RNAP) in a loci-dependent manner. Further analysis shows that the stalling is caused by the disruption of transcription-translation coupling. Anti-intuitively, the stalled RNAPs subsequently induce lesions to the DNA via transcription-coupled repair. While most of the bacteria are killed by genotoxicity, a small subpopulation acquires mutations via SOS-induced mutagenesis. Given that these processes are triggered shortly after antibiotic addition, resistance rapidly emerges in the population. Our work reveals a mechanism of action of ribosomal antibiotics, illustrates the importance of dissecting the complex interplay between multiple molecular processes in understanding antibiotic efficacy, and suggests new strategies for countering the development of resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yayun Zheng
- Center for Infection Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Ruochen Chai
- Center for Infection Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Tianmin Wang
- Center for Infection Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Zeqi Xu
- Center for Infection Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yihui He
- Center for Infection Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Shen
- Center for Infection Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Jintao Liu
- Center for Infection Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Beijing, China.
- SXMU-Tsinghua Collaborative Innovation Center for Frontier Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, China.
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2
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Duardo RC, Marinello J, Russo M, Morelli S, Pepe S, Guerra F, Gómez-González B, Aguilera A, Capranico G. Human DNA topoisomerase I poisoning causes R loop-mediated genome instability attenuated by transcription factor IIS. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadm8196. [PMID: 38787953 PMCID: PMC11122683 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adm8196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
DNA topoisomerase I can contribute to cancer genome instability. During catalytic activity, topoisomerase I forms a transient intermediate, topoisomerase I-DNA cleavage complex (Top1cc) to allow strand rotation and duplex relaxation, which can lead to elevated levels of DNA-RNA hybrids and micronuclei. To comprehend the underlying mechanisms, we have integrated genomic data of Top1cc-triggered hybrids and DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) shortly after Top1cc induction, revealing that Top1ccs increase hybrid levels with different mechanisms. DSBs are at highly transcribed genes in early replicating initiation zones and overlap with hybrids downstream of accumulated RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) at gene 5'-ends. A transcription factor IIS mutant impairing transcription elongation further increased RNAPII accumulation likely due to backtracking. Moreover, Top1ccs can trigger micronuclei when occurring during late G1 or early/mid S, but not during late S. As micronuclei and transcription-replication conflicts are attenuated by transcription factor IIS, our results support a role of RNAPII arrest in Top1cc-induced transcription-replication conflicts leading to DSBs and micronuclei.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renée C. Duardo
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum–University of Bologna, via Selmi 3, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Jessica Marinello
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum–University of Bologna, via Selmi 3, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marco Russo
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum–University of Bologna, via Selmi 3, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sara Morelli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum–University of Bologna, via Selmi 3, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Simona Pepe
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum–University of Bologna, via Selmi 3, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Federico Guerra
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum–University of Bologna, via Selmi 3, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Belén Gómez-González
- Centro Andaluz de Biología Molecular y Medicina Regenerativa—CABIMER, Universidad de Sevilla–CSIC, Calle Américo Vespucio 24, 41092 Seville, Spain
- Departamento de Genetica, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Seville, Spain
| | - Andrés Aguilera
- Centro Andaluz de Biología Molecular y Medicina Regenerativa—CABIMER, Universidad de Sevilla–CSIC, Calle Américo Vespucio 24, 41092 Seville, Spain
- Departamento de Genetica, Facultad de Biología, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Seville, Spain
| | - Giovanni Capranico
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum–University of Bologna, via Selmi 3, 40126, Bologna, Italy
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3
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Rojas P, Wang J, Guglielmi G, Sadurnì MM, Pavlou L, Leung GHD, Rajagopal V, Spill F, Saponaro M. Genome-wide identification of replication fork stalling/pausing sites and the interplay between RNA Pol II transcription and DNA replication progression. Genome Biol 2024; 25:126. [PMID: 38773641 PMCID: PMC11106976 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-024-03278-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND DNA replication progression can be affected by the presence of physical barriers like the RNA polymerases, leading to replication stress and DNA damage. Nonetheless, we do not know how transcription influences overall DNA replication progression. RESULTS To characterize sites where DNA replication forks stall and pause, we establish a genome-wide approach to identify them. This approach uses multiple timepoints during S-phase to identify replication fork/stalling hotspots as replication progresses through the genome. These sites are typically associated with increased DNA damage, overlapped with fragile sites and with breakpoints of rearrangements identified in cancers but do not overlap with replication origins. Overlaying these sites with a genome-wide analysis of RNA polymerase II transcription, we find that replication fork stalling/pausing sites inside genes are directly related to transcription progression and activity. Indeed, we find that slowing down transcription elongation slows down directly replication progression through genes. This indicates that transcription and replication can coexist over the same regions. Importantly, rearrangements found in cancers overlapping transcription-replication collision sites are detected in non-transformed cells and increase following treatment with ATM and ATR inhibitors. At the same time, we find instances where transcription activity favors replication progression because it reduces histone density. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, our findings highlight how transcription and replication overlap during S-phase, with both positive and negative consequences for replication fork progression and genome stability by the coexistence of these two processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Rojas
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Jianming Wang
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Giovanni Guglielmi
- School of Mathematics, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Martina Mustè Sadurnì
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Lucas Pavlou
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Geoffrey Ho Duen Leung
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Vijay Rajagopal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Fabian Spill
- School of Mathematics, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Marco Saponaro
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
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4
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Xu Y, Jiao Y, Liu C, Miao R, Liu C, Wang Y, Ma C, Liu J. R-loop and diseases: the cell cycle matters. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:84. [PMID: 38678239 PMCID: PMC11055327 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02000-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The cell cycle is a crucial biological process that is involved in cell growth, development, and reproduction. It can be divided into G1, S, G2, and M phases, and each period is closely regulated to ensure the production of two similar daughter cells with the same genetic material. However, many obstacles influence the cell cycle, including the R-loop that is formed throughout this process. R-loop is a triple-stranded structure, composed of an RNA: DNA hybrid and a single DNA strand, which is ubiquitous in organisms from bacteria to mammals. The existence of the R-loop has important significance for the regulation of various physiological processes. However, aberrant accumulation of R-loop due to its limited resolving ability will be detrimental for cells. For example, DNA damage and genomic instability, caused by the R-loop, can activate checkpoints in the cell cycle, which in turn induce cell cycle arrest and cell death. At present, a growing number of factors have been proven to prevent or eliminate the accumulation of R-loop thereby avoiding DNA damage and mutations. Therefore, we need to gain detailed insight into the R-loop resolution factors at different stages of the cell cycle. In this review, we review the current knowledge of factors that play a role in resolving the R-loop at different stages of the cell cycle, as well as how mutations of these factors lead to the onset and progression of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqin Xu
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China
| | - Yue Jiao
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China
| | - Chengbin Liu
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China
| | - Rui Miao
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China
| | - Chunyan Liu
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China
| | - Yilong Wang
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China
| | - Chunming Ma
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China
| | - Jiao Liu
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China.
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5
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Prakash A, Dutta D. Bicyclomycin generates ROS and blocks cell division in Escherichia coli. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0293858. [PMID: 38551933 PMCID: PMC10980228 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the killing exerted by antibiotics on bacteria is debated. Evidence attributes part of toxicity of many antibiotics to their ability to generate ROS by interfering with cellular metabolism, but some studies dismiss the role of ROS. Bicyclomycin (BCM) is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that is the only known compound to inhibit E. coli transcription terminator factor Rho with no known other cellular targets. In the present study, we addressed this question by checking whether the induction of oxidative stress could explain the increased sensitivity to Bicyclomycin in the hns deleted strain even in Δkil background in E. coli. BCM evoked the generation of ROS in E. coli cells. BCM is known to cause the cell filamentation phenotype in E. coli. Performing fluorescence microscopic analysis, we show that bicyclomycin-dependent cell filamentation is associated with SOS response. RecA-GFP filaments were found to colocalize with the damaged DNA sites in the cell. Further analysis revealed that the genomic DNA was partitioned but the cell septum formation was severely affected under BCM treatment. Furthermore, we observed biofilm formation by E. coli after BCM treatment. We hypothesize that ROS production after BCM treatment could lead to cell filamentation in bacteria. A better understanding of the mode of toxicity of BCM will help us design better antibiotic treatment regimes for clinical practices, including combinatorial drug therapies. The cell filamentation phenotype observed after BCM treatment makes this antibiotic a promising drug for phage-antibiotic synergy (PAS) therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anand Prakash
- CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh, India
| | - Dipak Dutta
- CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh, India
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6
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Westover KR, Jin P, Yao B. Bridging the gap: R-loop mediated genomic instability and its implications in neurological diseases. Epigenomics 2024; 16:589-608. [PMID: 38530068 PMCID: PMC11160457 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2023-0379] [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: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
R-loops, intricate three-stranded structures formed by RNA-DNA hybrids and an exposed non-template DNA strand, are fundamental to various biological phenomena. They carry out essential and contrasting functions within cellular mechanisms, underlining their critical role in maintaining cellular homeostasis. The specific cellular context that dictates R-loop formation determines their function, particularly emphasizing the necessity for their meticulous genomic regulation. Notably, the aberrant formation or misregulation of R-loops is implicated in numerous neurological disorders. This review focuses on the complex interactions between R-loops and double-strand DNA breaks, exploring how R-loop dysregulation potentially contributes to the pathogenesis of various brain disorders, which could provide novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underpinning neurological disease progression and identify potential therapeutic targets by highlighting these aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine R Westover
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University, School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Peng Jin
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University, School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Bing Yao
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University, School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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7
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Yang KB, Rasouly A, Epshtein V, Martinez C, Nguyen T, Shamovsky I, Nudler E. Persistence of backtracking by human RNA polymerase II. Mol Cell 2024; 84:897-909.e4. [PMID: 38340716 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2024.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
RNA polymerase II (RNA Pol II) can backtrack during transcription elongation, exposing the 3' end of nascent RNA. Nascent RNA sequencing can approximate the location of backtracking events that are quickly resolved; however, the extent and genome-wide distribution of more persistent backtracking are unknown. Consequently, we developed a method to directly sequence the extruded, "backtracked" 3' RNA. Our data show that RNA Pol II slides backward more than 20 nt in human cells and can persist in this backtracked state. Persistent backtracking mainly occurs where RNA Pol II pauses near promoters and intron-exon junctions and is enriched in genes involved in translation, replication, and development, where gene expression is decreased if these events are unresolved. Histone genes are highly prone to persistent backtracking, and the resolution of such events is likely required for timely expression during cell division. These results demonstrate that persistent backtracking can potentially affect diverse gene expression programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin B Yang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Aviram Rasouly
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Vitaly Epshtein
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Criseyda Martinez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Thao Nguyen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Ilya Shamovsky
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Evgeny Nudler
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY 10016, USA.
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8
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Wang L. RNA polymerase collisions and their role in transcription. Transcription 2024; 15:38-47. [PMID: 38357902 DOI: 10.1080/21541264.2024.2316972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA polymerases are the central enzymes of gene expression and function frequently in either a head-on or co-directional manner on the busy DNA track. Whether and how these collisions between RNA polymerases contribute to transcriptional regulation is mysterious. Increasing evidence from biochemical and single-molecule studies suggests that RNA polymerase collisions function as an important regulator to fine-tune transcription, rather than creating deleterious "traffic jams". This review summarizes the recent progress on elucidating the consequences of RNA polymerase collisions during transcription and highlights the significance of cooperation and coordination between RNA polymerases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Wang
- Department of Chemical Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, China
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9
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Bhardwaj K, Kalita A, Verma N, Prakash A, Thakur R, Dutta D. Rho-dependent termination enables cellular pH homeostasis. J Bacteriol 2024; 206:e0035623. [PMID: 38169297 PMCID: PMC10810219 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00356-23] [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: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The termination factor Rho, an ATP-dependent RNA translocase, preempts pervasive transcription processes, thereby rendering genome integrity in bacteria. Here, we show that the loss of Rho function raised the intracellular pH to >8.0 in Escherichia coli. The loss of Rho function upregulates tryptophanase-A (TnaA), an enzyme that catabolizes tryptophan to produce indole, pyruvate, and ammonia. We demonstrate that the enhanced TnaA function had produced the conjugate base ammonia, raising the cellular pH in the Rho-dependent termination defective strains. On the other hand, the constitutively overexpressed Rho lowered the cellular pH to about 6.2, independent of cellular ammonia levels. Since Rho overexpression may increase termination activities, the decrease in cellular pH could result from an excess H+ ion production during ATP hydrolysis by overproduced Rho. Furthermore, we performed in vivo termination assays to show that the efficiency of Rho-dependent termination was increased at both acidic and basic pH ranges. Given that the Rho level remained unchanged, the alkaline pH increases the termination efficiency by stimulating Rho's catalytic activity. We conducted the Rho-mediated RNA release assay from a stalled elongation complex to show an efficient RNA release at alkaline pH, compared to the neutral or acidic pH, that supports our in vivo observation. Whereas acidic pH appeared to increase the termination function by elevating the cellular level of Rho. This study is the first to link Rho function to the cellular pH homeostasis in bacteria. IMPORTANCE The current study shows that the loss or gain of Rho-dependent termination alkalizes or acidifies the cytoplasm, respectively. In the case of loss of Rho function, the tryptophanase-A enzyme is upregulated, and degrades tryptophan, producing ammonia to alkalize cytoplasm. We hypothesize that Rho overproduction by deleting its autoregulatory DNA portion increases termination function, causing excessive ATP hydrolysis to produce H+ ions and cytoplasmic acidification. Therefore, this study is the first to unravel a relationship between Rho function and intrinsic cellular pH homeostasis. Furthermore, the Rho level increases in the absence of autoregulation, causing cytoplasmic acidification. As intracellular pH plays a critical role in enzyme function, such a connection between Rho function and alkalization will have far-reaching implications for bacterial physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanika Bhardwaj
- CSIR Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Arunima Kalita
- CSIR Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh, India
| | - Neha Verma
- CSIR Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Anand Prakash
- CSIR Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ruchika Thakur
- CSIR Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Dipak Dutta
- CSIR Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh, India
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10
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Browning KR, Merrikh H. Pathogenic bacteria experience pervasive RNA polymerase backtracking during infection. mBio 2024; 15:e0273723. [PMID: 38095872 PMCID: PMC10790778 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02737-23] [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: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Eukaryotic hosts have defense mechanisms that may disrupt molecular transactions along the pathogen's chromosome through excessive DNA damage. Given that DNA damage stalls RNA polymerase (RNAP) thereby increasing mutagenesis, investigating how host defense mechanisms impact the movement of the transcription machinery on the pathogen chromosome is crucial. Using a new methodology we developed, we elucidated the dynamics of RNAP movement and association with the chromosome in the pathogenic bacterium Salmonella enterica during infection. We found that dynamics of RNAP movement on the chromosome change significantly during infection genome-wide, including at regions that encode for key virulence genes. In particular, we found that there is pervasive RNAP backtracking on the bacterial chromosome during infections and that anti-backtracking factors are critical for pathogenesis. Altogether, our results suggest that, interestingly, the host environment can promote the development of antimicrobial resistance and hypervirulence as stalled RNAPs can accelerate evolution through increased mutagenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn R. Browning
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Houra Merrikh
- Department of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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11
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Wollman AJM, Syeda AH, Howard JAL, Payne-Dwyer A, Leech A, Warecka D, Guy C, McGlynn P, Hawkins M, Leake MC. Tetrameric UvrD Helicase Is Located at the E. Coli Replisome due to Frequent Replication Blocks. J Mol Biol 2024; 436:168369. [PMID: 37977299 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2023.168369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
DNA replication in all organisms must overcome nucleoprotein blocks to complete genome duplication. Accessory replicative helicases in Escherichia coli, Rep and UvrD, help remove these blocks and aid the re-initiation of replication. Mechanistic details of Rep function have emerged from recent live cell studies; however, the division of UvrD functions between its activities in DNA repair and role as an accessory helicase remain unclear in live cells. By integrating super-resolved single-molecule fluorescence microscopy with biochemical analysis, we find that UvrD self-associates into tetrameric assemblies and, unlike Rep, is not recruited to a specific replisome protein despite being found at approximately 80% of replication forks. Instead, its colocation with forks is likely due to the very high frequency of replication blocks composed of DNA-bound proteins, including RNA polymerase and factors involved in repairing DNA damage. Deleting rep and DNA repair factor genes mutS and uvrA, and inhibiting transcription through RNA polymerase mutation and antibiotic inhibition, indicates that the level of UvrD at the fork is dependent on UvrD's function. Our findings show that UvrD is recruited to sites of nucleoprotein blocks via different mechanisms to Rep and plays a multi-faceted role in ensuring successful DNA replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J M Wollman
- School of Physics, Engineering and Technology, University of York, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom; Department of Biology, University of York, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom
| | - Aisha H Syeda
- School of Physics, Engineering and Technology, University of York, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom; Department of Biology, University of York, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom
| | - Jamieson A L Howard
- School of Physics, Engineering and Technology, University of York, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom; Department of Biology, University of York, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom
| | - Alex Payne-Dwyer
- School of Physics, Engineering and Technology, University of York, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom; Department of Biology, University of York, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Leech
- Bioscience Technology Facility, Department of Biology, University of York, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom
| | - Dominika Warecka
- Department of Biology, University of York, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom
| | - Colin Guy
- Covance Laboratories Ltd., Otley Road, Harrogate HG3 1PY, United Kingdom
| | - Peter McGlynn
- Department of Biology, University of York, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom
| | - Michelle Hawkins
- Department of Biology, University of York, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom
| | - Mark C Leake
- School of Physics, Engineering and Technology, University of York, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom; Department of Biology, University of York, York YO10 5DD, United Kingdom.
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12
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Kumar C, Remus D. Looping out of control: R-loops in transcription-replication conflict. Chromosoma 2024; 133:37-56. [PMID: 37419963 PMCID: PMC10771546 DOI: 10.1007/s00412-023-00804-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Transcription-replication conflict is a major cause of replication stress that arises when replication forks collide with the transcription machinery. Replication fork stalling at sites of transcription compromises chromosome replication fidelity and can induce DNA damage with potentially deleterious consequences for genome stability and organismal health. The block to DNA replication by the transcription machinery is complex and can involve stalled or elongating RNA polymerases, promoter-bound transcription factor complexes, or DNA topology constraints. In addition, studies over the past two decades have identified co-transcriptional R-loops as a major source for impairment of DNA replication forks at active genes. However, how R-loops impede DNA replication at the molecular level is incompletely understood. Current evidence suggests that RNA:DNA hybrids, DNA secondary structures, stalled RNA polymerases, and condensed chromatin states associated with R-loops contribute to the of fork progression. Moreover, since both R-loops and replication forks are intrinsically asymmetric structures, the outcome of R-loop-replisome collisions is influenced by collision orientation. Collectively, the data suggest that the impact of R-loops on DNA replication is highly dependent on their specific structural composition. Here, we will summarize our current understanding of the molecular basis for R-loop-induced replication fork progression defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charanya Kumar
- Molecular Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, 10065, USA
| | - Dirk Remus
- Molecular Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, 10065, USA.
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13
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Yang KB, Rasouly A, Epshtein V, Martinez C, Nguyen T, Shamovsky I, Nudler E. Persistence of backtracking by human RNA polymerase II. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.13.571520. [PMID: 38168453 PMCID: PMC10760130 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.13.571520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
RNA polymerase II (pol II) can backtrack during transcription elongation, exposing the 3' end of nascent RNA. Nascent RNA sequencing can approximate the location of backtracking events that are quickly resolved; however, the extent and genome wide distribution of more persistent backtracking is unknown. Consequently, we developed a novel method to directly sequence the extruded, "backtracked" 3' RNA. Our data shows that pol II slides backwards more than 20 nucleotides in human cells and can persist in this backtracked state. Persistent backtracking mainly occurs where pol II pauses near promoters and intron-exon junctions, and is enriched in genes involved in translation, replication, and development, where gene expression is decreased if these events are unresolved. Histone genes are highly prone to persistent backtracking, and the resolution of such events is likely required for timely expression during cell division. These results demonstrate that persistent backtracking has the potential to affect diverse gene expression programs.
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14
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Lewis JS, van Oijen AM, Spenkelink LM. Embracing Heterogeneity: Challenging the Paradigm of Replisomes as Deterministic Machines. Chem Rev 2023; 123:13419-13440. [PMID: 37971892 PMCID: PMC10790245 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00436] [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: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
The paradigm of cellular systems as deterministic machines has long guided our understanding of biology. Advancements in technology and methodology, however, have revealed a world of stochasticity, challenging the notion of determinism. Here, we explore the stochastic behavior of multi-protein complexes, using the DNA replication system (replisome) as a prime example. The faithful and timely copying of DNA depends on the simultaneous action of a large set of enzymes and scaffolding factors. This fundamental cellular process is underpinned by dynamic protein-nucleic acid assemblies that must transition between distinct conformations and compositional states. Traditionally viewed as a well-orchestrated molecular machine, recent experimental evidence has unveiled significant variability and heterogeneity in the replication process. In this review, we discuss recent advances in single-molecule approaches and single-particle cryo-EM, which have provided insights into the dynamic processes of DNA replication. We comment on the new challenges faced by structural biologists and biophysicists as they attempt to describe the dynamic cascade of events leading to replisome assembly, activation, and progression. The fundamental principles uncovered and yet to be discovered through the study of DNA replication will inform on similar operating principles for other multi-protein complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob S. Lewis
- Macromolecular
Machines Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, United Kingdom
| | - Antoine M. van Oijen
- Molecular
Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia
| | - Lisanne M. Spenkelink
- Molecular
Horizons and School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales 2522, Australia
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15
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Abstract
Transcription and replication both require large macromolecular complexes to act on a DNA template, yet these machineries cannot simultaneously act on the same DNA sequence. Conflicts between the replication and transcription machineries (transcription-replication conflicts, or TRCs) are widespread in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes and have the capacity to both cause DNA damage and compromise complete, faithful replication of the genome. This review will highlight recent studies investigating the genomic locations of TRCs and the mechanisms by which they may be prevented, mitigated, or resolved. We address work from both model organisms and mammalian systems but predominantly focus on multicellular eukaryotes owing to the additional complexities inherent in the coordination of replication and transcription in the context of cell type-specific gene expression and higher-order chromatin organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liana Goehring
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA;
| | - Tony T Huang
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Pharmacology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA;
| | - Duncan J Smith
- Center for Genomics and Systems Biology, Department of Biology, New York University, New York, NY, USA;
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16
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T N, Govindarajan S, Munavar MH. trans-translation system is important for maintaining genome integrity during DNA damage in bacteria. Res Microbiol 2023; 174:104136. [PMID: 37690591 DOI: 10.1016/j.resmic.2023.104136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
DNA integrity in bacteria is regulated by various factors that act on the DNA. trans-translation has previously been shown to be important for the survival of Escherichia coli cells exposed to certain DNA-damaging agents. However, the mechanisms underlying this sensitivity are poorly understood. In this study, we explored the involvement of the trans-translation system in the maintenance of genome integrity using various DNA-damaging agents and mutant backgrounds. Relative viability assays showed that SsrA-defective cells were sensitive to DNA-damaging agents, such as nalidixic acid (NA), ultraviolet radiation (UV), and methyl methanesulfonate (MMS). The viability of SsrA-defective cells was rescued by deleting sulA, although the expression of SulA was not more pronounced in SsrA-defective cells than in wild-type cells. Live cell imaging using a Gam-GFP fluorescent reporter showed increased double-strand breaks (DSBs) in SsrA-defective cells during DNA damage. We also showed that the ribosome rescue function of SsrA was sufficient for DNA damage tolerance. DNA damage sensitivity can be alleviated by partial uncoupling of transcription and translation by using sub-lethal concentrations of ribosome inhibiting antibiotic (tetracycline) or by mutating the gene coding for RNase H (rnhA). Taken together, our results highlight the importance of trans-translation system in maintaining genome integrity and bacterial survival during DNA damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagarajan T
- Department of Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, India; Department of Biological Sciences, SRM University-AP, Amaravati, India
| | | | - M Hussain Munavar
- Department of Molecular Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai, India.
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17
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Woodgate J, Zenkin N. Transcription-translation coupling: Recent advances and future perspectives. Mol Microbiol 2023; 120:539-546. [PMID: 37856403 PMCID: PMC10953045 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.15076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
The flow of genetic information from the chromosome to protein in all living organisms consists of two steps: (1) copying information coded in DNA into an mRNA intermediate via transcription by RNA polymerase, followed by (2) translation of this mRNA into a polypeptide by the ribosome. Unlike eukaryotes, where transcription and translation are separated by a nuclear envelope, in bacterial cells, these two processes occur within the same compartment. This means that a pioneering ribosome starts translation on nascent mRNA that is still being actively transcribed by RNA polymerase. This tethering via mRNA is referred to as 'coupling' of transcription and translation (CTT). CTT raises many questions regarding physical interactions and potential mutual regulation between these large (ribosome is ~2.5 MDa and RNA polymerase is 0.5 MDa) and powerful molecular machines. Accordingly, we will discuss some recently discovered structural and functional aspects of CTT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Woodgate
- Centre for Bacterial Cell Biology, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical SciencesNewcastle UniversityNewcastle Upon TyneUK
| | - Nikolay Zenkin
- Centre for Bacterial Cell Biology, Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical SciencesNewcastle UniversityNewcastle Upon TyneUK
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18
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Zhang W, Ren D, Li Z, Yue L, Whitman WB, Dong X, Li J. Internal transcription termination widely regulates differential expression of operon-organized genes including ribosomal protein and RNA polymerase genes in an archaeon. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:7851-7867. [PMID: 37439380 PMCID: PMC10450193 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Genes organized within operons in prokaryotes benefit from coordinated expression. However, within many operons, genes are expressed at different levels, and the mechanisms for this remain obscure. By integrating PacBio-seq, dRNA-seq, Term-seq and Illumina-seq data of a representative archaeon Methanococcus maripaludis, internal transcription termination sites (ioTTSs) were identified within 38% of operons. Higher transcript and protein abundances were found for genes upstream than downstream of ioTTSs. For representative operons, these differences were confirmed by northern blotting, qRT-PCR and western blotting, demonstrating that these ioTTS terminations were functional. Of special interest, mutation of ioTTSs in ribosomal protein (RP)-RNA polymerase (RNAP) operons not only elevated expression of the downstream RNAP genes but also decreased production of the assembled RNAP complex, slowed whole cell transcription and translation, and inhibited growth. Overexpression of the RNAP subunits with a shuttle vector generated the similar physiological effects. Therefore, ioTTS termination is a general and physiologically significant regulatory mechanism of the operon gene expression. Because the RP-RNAP operons are found to be widely distributed in archaeal species, this regulatory mechanism could be commonly employed in archaea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Derong Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhihua Li
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Lei Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing 100049, China
| | | | - Xiuzhu Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.19A Yuquan Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Resources, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
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19
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Schroeder JW, Hurto RL, Randall JR, Wozniak KJ, Timko TA, Nye TM, Wang JD, Freddolino PL, Simmons LA. RNase H genes cause distinct impacts on RNA:DNA hybrid formation and mutagenesis genome wide. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadi5945. [PMID: 37494439 PMCID: PMC10371020 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi5945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
RNA:DNA hybrids compromise replication fork progression and genome integrity in all cells. The overall impacts of naturally occurring RNA:DNA hybrids on genome integrity, and the relative contributions of ribonucleases H to mitigating the negative effects of hybrids, remain unknown. Here, we investigate the contributions of RNases HII (RnhB) and HIII (RnhC) to hybrid removal, DNA replication, and mutagenesis genome wide. Deletion of either rnhB or rnhC triggers RNA:DNA hybrid accumulation but with distinct patterns of mutagenesis and hybrid accumulation. Across all cells, hybrids accumulate strongly in noncoding RNAs and 5'-UTRs of coding sequences. For ΔrnhB, hybrids accumulate preferentially in untranslated regions and early in coding sequences. We show that hybrid accumulation is particularly sensitive to gene expression in ΔrnhC cells. DNA replication in ΔrnhC cells is disrupted, leading to transversions and structural variation. Our results resolve the outstanding question of how hybrids in native genomic contexts cause mutagenesis and shape genome organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy W. Schroeder
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Rebecca L. Hurto
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Justin R. Randall
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Katherine J. Wozniak
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Room 743E, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Taylor A. Timko
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Taylor M. Nye
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jue D. Wang
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
| | - Peter L. Freddolino
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Lyle A. Simmons
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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20
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Yakhnin A, Bubunenko M, Mandell Z, Lubkowska L, Husher S, Babitzke P, Kashlev M. Robust regulation of transcription pausing in Escherichia coli by the ubiquitous elongation factor NusG. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2221114120. [PMID: 37276387 PMCID: PMC10268239 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2221114120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcription elongation by multi-subunit RNA polymerases (RNAPs) is regulated by auxiliary factors in all organisms. NusG/Spt5 is the only universally conserved transcription elongation factor shared by all domains of life. NusG is a component of antitermination complexes controlling ribosomal RNA operons, an essential antipausing factor, and a transcription-translation coupling factor in Escherichia coli. We employed RNET-seq for genome-wide mapping of RNAP pause sites in wild-type and NusG-depleted cells. We demonstrate that NusG is a major antipausing factor that suppresses thousands of backtracked and nonbacktracked pauses across the E. coli genome. The NusG-suppressed pauses were enriched immediately downstream from the translation start codon but were also abundant elsewhere in open reading frames, small RNA genes, and antisense transcription units. This finding revealed a strong similarity of NusG to Spt5, which stimulates the elongation rate of many eukaryotic genes. We propose a model in which promoting forward translocation and/or stabilization of RNAP in the posttranslocation register by NusG results in suppression of pausing in E. coli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander V. Yakhnin
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD21702
| | - Mikhail Bubunenko
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD21702
| | - Zachary F. Mandell
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for RNA Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA16802
| | - Lucyna Lubkowska
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD21702
| | - Sara Husher
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD21702
| | - Paul Babitzke
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Center for RNA Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA16802
| | - Mikhail Kashlev
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD21702
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21
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Browning KR, Merrikh H. Pathogenic bacteria experience pervasive RNA polymerase backtracking during infection. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.12.540596. [PMID: 37215019 PMCID: PMC10197661 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.12.540596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Pathogenic bacteria and their eukaryotic hosts are in a constant arms race. Hosts have numerous defense mechanisms at their disposal that not only challenge the bacterial invaders, but have the potential to disrupt molecular transactions along the bacterial chromosome. However, it is unclear how the host impacts association of proteins with the bacterial chromosome at the molecular level during infection. This is partially due to the lack of a method that could detect these events in pathogens while they are within host cells. We developed and optimized a system capable of mapping and measuring levels of bacterial proteins associated with the chromosome while they are actively infecting the host (referred to as PIC-seq). Here, we focused on the dynamics of RNA polymerase (RNAP) movement and association with the chromosome in the pathogenic bacterium Salmonella enterica as a model system during infection. Using PIC-seq, we found that RNAP association patterns with the chromosome change during infection genome-wide, including at regions that encode for key virulence genes. Importantly, we found that infection of a host significantly increases RNAP backtracking on the bacterial chromosome. RNAP backtracking is the most common form of disruption to RNAP progress on the chromosome. Interestingly, we found that the resolution of backtracked RNAPs via the anti-backtracking factors GreA and GreB is critical for pathogenesis, revealing a new class of virulence genes. Altogether, our results strongly suggest that infection of a host significantly impacts transcription by disrupting RNAP movement on the chromosome within the bacterial pathogen. The increased backtracking events have important implications not only for efficient transcription, but also for mutation rates as stalled RNAPs increase the levels of mutagenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn R. Browning
- Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Houra Merrikh
- Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
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22
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Schroeder JW, Hurto RL, Randall JR, Wozniak KJ, Timko TA, Nye TM, Wang JD, Freddolino PL, Simmons LA. RNase H genes cause distinct impacts on RNA:DNA hybrid formation and mutagenesis genome-wide. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.08.539860. [PMID: 37214986 PMCID: PMC10197577 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.08.539860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
RNA:DNA hybrids such as R-loops affect genome integrity and DNA replication fork progression. The overall impacts of naturally occurring RNA:DNA hybrids on genome integrity, and the relative contributions of ribonucleases H to mitigating the negative effects of hybrids, remain unknown. Here, we investigate the contributions of RNases HII (RnhB) and HIII (RnhC) to hybrid removal, DNA replication, and mutagenesis genome-wide. Deletion of either rnhB or rnhC triggers RNA:DNA hybrid accumulation, but with distinct patterns of mutagenesis and hybrid accumulation. Across all cells, hybrids accumulate most strongly in non-coding RNAs and 5'-UTRs of coding sequences. For Δ rnhB , hybrids accumulate preferentially in untranslated regions and early in coding sequences. Hybrid accumulation is particularly sensitive to gene expression in Δ rnhC ; in cells lacking RnhC, DNA replication is disrupted leading to transversions and structural variation. Our results resolve the outstanding question of how hybrids in native genomic contexts interact with replication to cause mutagenesis and shape genome organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy W. Schroeder
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53706
| | - Rebecca L. Hurto
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Justin R. Randall
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Katherine J. Wozniak
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Taylor A. Timko
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Taylor M. Nye
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Center for Women’s Infectious Disease Research, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO 63110-1093, USA
| | - Jue D. Wang
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI 53706
| | - Peter L. Freddolino
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
| | - Lyle A. Simmons
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109
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23
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Brochu J, Vlachos-Breton É, Irsenco D, Drolet M. Characterization of a pathway of genomic instability induced by R-loops and its regulation by topoisomerases in E. coli. PLoS Genet 2023; 19:e1010754. [PMID: 37141391 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The prototype enzymes of the ubiquitous type IA topoisomerases (topos) family are Escherichia coli topo I (topA) and topo III (topB). Topo I shows preference for relaxation of negative supercoiling and topo III for decatenation. However, as they could act as backups for each other or even share functions, strains lacking both enzymes must be used to reveal the roles of type IA enzymes in genome maintenance. Recently, marker frequency analysis (MFA) of genomic DNA from topA topB null mutants revealed a major RNase HI-sensitive DNA peak bordered by Ter/Tus barriers, sites of replication fork fusion and termination in the chromosome terminus region (Ter). Here, flow cytometry for R-loop-dependent replication (RLDR), MFA, R-loop detection with S9.6 antibodies, and microscopy were used to further characterize the mechanism and consequences of over-replication in Ter. It is shown that the Ter peak is not due to the presence of a strong origin for RLDR in Ter region; instead RLDR, which is partly inhibited by the backtracking-resistant rpoB*35 mutation, appears to contribute indirectly to Ter over-replication. The data suggest that RLDR from multiple sites on the chromosome increases the number of replication forks trapped at Ter/Tus barriers which leads to RecA-dependent DNA amplification in Ter and to a chromosome segregation defect. Overproducing topo IV, the main cellular decatenase, does not inhibit RLDR or Ter over-replication but corrects the chromosome segregation defect. Furthermore, our data suggest that the inhibition of RLDR by topo I does not require its C-terminal-mediated interaction with RNA polymerase. Overall, our data reveal a pathway of genomic instability triggered by R-loops and its regulation by various topos activities at different steps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Brochu
- Département de microbiologie, infectiologie et immunologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Émilie Vlachos-Breton
- Département de microbiologie, infectiologie et immunologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Dina Irsenco
- Département de microbiologie, infectiologie et immunologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Marc Drolet
- Département de microbiologie, infectiologie et immunologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
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24
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Huang D, Johnson AE, Sim BS, Lo TW, Merrikh H, Wiggins PA. The in vivo measurement of replication fork velocity and pausing by lag-time analysis. Nat Commun 2023; 14:1762. [PMID: 36997519 PMCID: PMC10063678 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37456-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractAn important step towards understanding the mechanistic basis of the central dogma is the quantitative characterization of the dynamics of nucleic-acid-bound molecular motors in the context of the living cell. To capture these dynamics, we develop lag-time analysis, a method for measuring in vivo dynamics. Using this approach, we provide quantitative locus-specific measurements of fork velocity, in units of kilobases per second, as well as replisome pause durations, some with the precision of seconds. The measured fork velocity is observed to be both locus and time dependent, even in wild-type cells. In this work, we quantitatively characterize known phenomena, detect brief, locus-specific pauses at ribosomal DNA loci in wild-type cells, and observe temporal fork velocity oscillations in three highly-divergent bacterial species.
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25
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Wee LM, Tong AB, Florez Ariza AJ, Cañari-Chumpitaz C, Grob P, Nogales E, Bustamante CJ. A trailing ribosome speeds up RNA polymerase at the expense of transcript fidelity via force and allostery. Cell 2023; 186:1244-1262.e34. [PMID: 36931247 PMCID: PMC10135430 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
In prokaryotes, translation can occur on mRNA that is being transcribed in a process called coupling. How the ribosome affects the RNA polymerase (RNAP) during coupling is not well understood. Here, we reconstituted the E. coli coupling system and demonstrated that the ribosome can prevent pausing and termination of RNAP and double the overall transcription rate at the expense of fidelity. Moreover, we monitored single RNAPs coupled to ribosomes and show that coupling increases the pause-free velocity of the polymerase and that a mechanical assisting force is sufficient to explain the majority of the effects of coupling. Also, by cryo-EM, we observed that RNAPs with a terminal mismatch adopt a backtracked conformation, while a coupled ribosome allosterically induces these polymerases toward a catalytically active anti-swiveled state. Finally, we demonstrate that prolonged RNAP pausing is detrimental to cell viability, which could be prevented by polymerase reactivation through a coupled ribosome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Meng Wee
- QB3-Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Alexander B Tong
- QB3-Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Department of Chemistry, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Alfredo Jose Florez Ariza
- QB3-Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Biophysics Graduate Group, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Cristhian Cañari-Chumpitaz
- QB3-Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Department of Chemistry, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Patricia Grob
- QB3-Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Eva Nogales
- QB3-Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Biophysics Graduate Group, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA.
| | - Carlos J Bustamante
- QB3-Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Biophysics Graduate Group, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Department of Chemistry, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Department of Physics, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Kavli Energy Nanoscience Institute, Berkeley, CA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA; Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, USA.
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26
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Huan YW, Brown R, Wang B. An adenine/thymidine-rich region is integral to RepL-mediated DNA replication. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1095671. [PMID: 36846746 PMCID: PMC9948254 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1095671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The lytic replication of bacteriophage P1 requires RepL expression and the lytic stage origin, oriL, which is postulated to be located within repL gene sequence. The exact sequence of P1 oriL and the mechanism(s) of RepL-mediated DNA replication, however, are not fully understood. By using repL gene expression to induce DNA replication of a gfp and a rfp reporter plasmids, we demonstrated that synonymous base substitution in an adenine/thymidine-rich region of repL gene sequence, termed AT2, significantly inhibited the RepL-mediated signal amplification. Contrastingly, mutations in an IHF and two DnaA binding sites did not affect the RepL-mediated signal amplification significantly. A truncated repL sequence with the AT2 region allowed RepL-mediated signal amplification in trans therefore verifying a significant role of the AT2 region in RepL-mediated DNA replication. A combination of repL gene expression and a non-protein-coding copy of repL gene sequence (termed nc-repL) was able to amplify the output of an arsenic biosensor. Furthermore, mutation(s) at single or multiple positions within the AT2 region produced varying levels of RepL-mediated signal amplification. Overall, our results provide novel insights into the identity and location of P1 oriL as well as demonstrating the potential of using repL constructs to amplify and modulate the output of genetic biosensors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Wei Huan
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Russell Brown
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Baojun Wang
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- College of Chemical and Biological Engineering & ZJU-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Research Center for Biological Computation, Zhejiang Laboratory, Hangzhou, China
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27
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RNase HI Depletion Strongly Potentiates Cell Killing by Rifampicin in Mycobacteria. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2022; 66:e0209121. [PMID: 36154174 DOI: 10.1128/aac.02091-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Multidrug-resistant (MDR) tuberculosis (TB) is defined by the resistance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the causative organism, to the first-line antibiotics rifampicin and isoniazid. Mitigating or reversing resistance to these drugs offers a means of preserving and extending their use in TB treatment. R-loops are RNA/DNA hybrids that are formed in the genome during transcription, and they can be lethal to the cell if not resolved. RNase HI is an enzyme that removes R-loops, and this activity is essential in M. tuberculosis: knockouts of rnhC, the gene encoding RNase HI, are nonviable. This essentiality makes it a candidate target for the development of new antibiotics. In the model organism Mycolicibacterium smegmatis, RNase HI activity is provided by two enzymes, RnhA and RnhC. We show that the partial depletion of RNase HI activity in M. smegmatis, by knocking out either of the genes encoding RnhA or RnhC, led to the accumulation of R-loops. The sensitivity of the knockout strains to the antibiotics moxifloxacin, streptomycin, and rifampicin was increased, the latter by a striking near 100-fold. We also show that R-loop accumulation accompanies partial transcriptional inhibition, suggesting a mechanistic basis for the synergy between RNase HI depletion and rifampicin. A model of how transcriptional inhibition can potentiate R-loop accumulation is presented. Finally, we identified four small molecules that inhibit recombinant RnhC activity and that also potentiated rifampicin activity in whole-cell assays against M. tuberculosis, supporting an on-target mode of action and providing the first step in developing a new class of antimycobacterial drug.
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28
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McLean EK, Nye TM, Lowder FC, Simmons LA. The Impact of RNA-DNA Hybrids on Genome Integrity in Bacteria. Annu Rev Microbiol 2022; 76:461-480. [PMID: 35655343 PMCID: PMC9527769 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-micro-102521-014450] [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] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
During the essential processes of DNA replication and transcription, RNA-DNA hybrid intermediates are formed that pose significant risks to genome integrity when left unresolved. To manage RNA-DNA hybrids, all cells rely on RNase H family enzymes that specifically cleave the RNA portion of the many different types of hybrids that form in vivo. Recent experimental advances have provided new insight into how RNA-DNA hybrids form and the consequences to genome integrity that ensue when persistent hybrids remain unresolved. Here we review the types of RNA-DNA hybrids, including R-loops, RNA primers, and ribonucleotide misincorporations, that form during DNA replication and transcription and discuss how each type of hybrid can contribute to genome instability in bacteria. Further, we discuss how bacterial RNase HI, HII, and HIII and bacterial FEN enzymes contribute to genome maintenance through the resolution of hybrids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma K McLean
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;
| | - Taylor M Nye
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;
- Current affiliation: Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Frances C Lowder
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;
| | - Lyle A Simmons
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;
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29
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Hao S, Wang Y, Zhao Y, Gao W, Cui W, Li Y, Cui J, Liu Y, Lin L, Xu X, Wang H. Dynamic switching of crotonylation to ubiquitination of H2A at lysine 119 attenuates transcription-replication conflicts caused by replication stress. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:9873-9892. [PMID: 36062559 PMCID: PMC9508856 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac734] [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: 05/21/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The reversible post-translational modification (PTM) of proteins plays an important role in many cellular processes. Lysine crotonylation (Kcr) is a newly identified PTM, but its functional significance remains unclear. Here, we found that Kcr is involved in the replication stress response. We show that crotonylation of histone H2A at lysine 119 (H2AK119) and ubiquitination of H2AK119 are reversibly regulated by replication stress. Decrotonylation of H2AK119 by SIRT1 is a prerequisite for subsequent ubiquitination of H2AK119 by BMI1. Accumulation of ubiquitinated H2AK119 at reversed replication forks leads to the release of RNA Polymerase II and transcription repression in the vicinity of stalled replication forks. These effects attenuate transcription–replication conflicts (TRCs) and TRC-associated R-loop formation and DNA double-strand breaks. These findings suggest that decrotonylation and ubiquitination of H2A at lysine 119 act together to resolve replication stress-induced TRCs and protect genome stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuailin Hao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Ya Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Yuqin Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Wen Gao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Wei Cui
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Youhang Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Jian Cui
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Yu Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Lixiu Lin
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Xingzhi Xu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Genome Stability and Disease Prevention and Carson International Cancer Center, Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, China Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, China
| | - Hailong Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing 100048, China
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30
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Goswami S, Gowrishankar J. Role for DNA double strand end-resection activity of RecBCD in control of aberrant chromosomal replication initiation in Escherichia coli. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:8643-8657. [PMID: 35929028 PMCID: PMC9410895 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac670] [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: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Replication of the circular bacterial chromosome is initiated from a locus oriC with the aid of an essential protein DnaA. One approach to identify factors acting to prevent aberrant oriC-independent replication initiation in Escherichia coli has been that to obtain mutants which survive loss of DnaA. Here, we show that a ΔrecD mutation, associated with attenuation of RecBCD’s DNA double strand end-resection activity, provokes abnormal replication and rescues ΔdnaA lethality in two situations: (i) in absence of 5′-3′ single-strand DNA exonuclease RecJ, or (ii) when multiple two-ended DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) are generated either by I-SceI endonucleolytic cleavages or by radiomimetic agents phleomycin or bleomycin. One-ended DSBs in the ΔrecD mutant did not rescue ΔdnaA lethality. With two-ended DSBs in the ΔrecD strain, ΔdnaA viability was retained even after linearization of the chromosome. Data from genome-wide DNA copy number determinations in ΔdnaA-rescued cells lead us to propose a model that nuclease-mediated DNA resection activity of RecBCD is critical for prevention of a σ-mode of rolling-circle over-replication when convergent replication forks merge and fuse, as may be expected to occur during normal replication at the chromosomal terminus region or during repair of two-ended DSBs following ‘ends-in’ replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayantan Goswami
- Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, Hyderabad 500039, India.,Graduate Studies, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, India.,Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, SAS Nagar 140306, India
| | - Jayaraman Gowrishankar
- Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics, Hyderabad 500039, India.,Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Mohali, SAS Nagar 140306, India
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31
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Hangas A, Kekäläinen NJ, Potter A, Michell C, Aho KJ, Rutanen C, Spelbrink JN, Pohjoismäki JL, Goffart S. Top3α is the replicative topoisomerase in mitochondrial DNA replication. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:8733-8748. [PMID: 35904803 PMCID: PMC9410902 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial DNA has been investigated for nearly fifty years, but many aspects of the maintenance of this essential small genome remain unknown. Like any genome, mammalian mitochondrial DNA requires the function of topoisomerases to counter and regulate the topological tension arising during replication, transcription, segregation, and repair. However, the functions of the different mitochondrial topoisomerases are poorly understood. Here, we investigate the role of Topoisomerase 3α (Top3α) in mtDNA replication and transcription, providing evidence that this enzyme, previously reported to act in mtDNA segregation, also participates in mtDNA replication fork progression. Top3α knockdown caused replication fork stalling, increased mtDNA catenation and decreased mtDNA levels. Overexpression in contrast induced abundant double-strand breaks around the replication origin OH and abortion of early replication, while at the same time improving the resolution of mtDNA replication termination intermediates. Both Top3α knockdown and overexpression affected mitochondrial RNA transcription, leading to a decrease in steady-state levels of mitochondrial transcripts. Together, our results indicate that the mitochondrial isoform of Top3α is not only involved in mtDNA segregation, as reported previously, but also supports the progression of the replication fork. Mitochondrial Top3α is also influencing the progression of transcription, with its absence affecting downstream transcript levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anu Hangas
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, PO Box 111, 80101 Joensuu, Finland
| | - Nina J Kekäläinen
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, PO Box 111, 80101 Joensuu, Finland
| | - Alisa Potter
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, PO Box 111, 80101 Joensuu, Finland.,Radboud Center for Mitochondrial Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Craig Michell
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, PO Box 111, 80101 Joensuu, Finland
| | - Kauko J Aho
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, PO Box 111, 80101 Joensuu, Finland
| | - Chiara Rutanen
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, PO Box 111, 80101 Joensuu, Finland
| | - Johannes N Spelbrink
- Radboud Center for Mitochondrial Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jaakko L Pohjoismäki
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, PO Box 111, 80101 Joensuu, Finland
| | - Steffi Goffart
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, PO Box 111, 80101 Joensuu, Finland
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32
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Miropolskaya N, Petushkov I, Esyunina D, Kulbachinskiy A. Suppressor mutations in Escherichia coli RNA polymerase alter transcription initiation but do not affect translesion RNA synthesis in vitro. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:102099. [PMID: 35667439 PMCID: PMC9254596 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.102099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial RNA polymerase (RNAP) coordinates transcription with DNA repair and replication. Many RNAP mutations have pleiotropic phenotypes with profound effects on transcription-coupled processes. One class of RNAP mutations (rpo*) has been shown to suppress mutations in regulatory factors responsible for changes in gene expression during stationary phase or starvation, as well as in factors involved in the restoration of replication forks after DNA damage. These mutations were suggested to affect the ability of RNAP to transcribe damaged DNA and to decrease the stability of transcription complexes, thus facilitating their dislodging during DNA replication and repair, although this was not explicitly demonstrated. Here, we obtained nine mutations of this class located around the DNA/RNA binding cleft of E. coli RNAP and analyzed their transcription properties in vitro. We found that these mutations decreased promoter complex stability to varying degrees and all decreased the activity of rRNA promoters. However, they did not have strong effects on elongation complex stability. Some mutations were shown to stimulate transcriptional pauses or decrease intrinsic RNA cleavage by RNAP, but none altered the ability of RNAP to transcribe DNA templates containing damaged nucleotides. Thus, we conclude that the suppressor phenotypes of the mutations are unlikely to result from direct effects on DNA lesion recognition by RNAP but may be primarily explained by changes in transcription initiation. Further analysis of the effects of these mutations on the genomic distribution of RNAP and its interactions with regulatory factors will be essential for understanding their diverse phenotypes in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nataliya Miropolskaya
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Center "Kurchatov Institute", Moscow, Russia
| | - Ivan Petushkov
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Center "Kurchatov Institute", Moscow, Russia
| | - Daria Esyunina
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Center "Kurchatov Institute", Moscow, Russia.
| | - Andrey Kulbachinskiy
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Center "Kurchatov Institute", Moscow, Russia.
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33
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Gál Z, Nieto B, Boukoura S, Rasmussen AV, Larsen DH. Treacle Sticks the Nucleolar Responses to DNA Damage Together. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:892006. [PMID: 35646927 PMCID: PMC9133508 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.892006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The importance of chromatin environment for DNA repair has gained increasing recognition in recent years. The nucleolus is the largest sub-compartment within the nucleus: it has distinct biophysical properties, selective protein retention, and houses the specialized ribosomal RNA genes (collectively referred to as rDNA) with a unique chromatin composition. These genes have high transcriptional activity and a repetitive nature, making them susceptible to DNA damage and resulting in the highest frequency of rearrangements across the genome. A distinct DNA damage response (DDR) secures the fidelity of this genomic region, the so-called nucleolar DDR (n-DDR). The composition of the n-DDR reflects the characteristics of nucleolar chromatin with the nucleolar protein Treacle (also referred to as TCOF1) as a central coordinator retaining several well-characterized DDR proteins in the nucleolus. In this review, we bring together data on the structure of Treacle, its known functions in ribosome biogenesis, and its involvement in multiple branches of the n-DDR to discuss their interconnection. Furthermore, we discuss how the functions of Treacle in ribosome biogenesis and in the n-DDR may contribute to Treacher Collins Syndrome, a disease caused by mutations in Treacle. Finally, we outline outstanding questions that need to be addressed for a more comprehensive understanding of Treacle, the n-DDR, and the coordination of ribosome biogenesis and DNA repair.
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34
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Brickner JR, Garzon JL, Cimprich KA. Walking a tightrope: The complex balancing act of R-loops in genome stability. Mol Cell 2022; 82:2267-2297. [PMID: 35508167 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Although transcription is an essential cellular process, it is paradoxically also a well-recognized cause of genomic instability. R-loops, non-B DNA structures formed when nascent RNA hybridizes to DNA to displace the non-template strand as single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), are partially responsible for this instability. Yet, recent work has begun to elucidate regulatory roles for R-loops in maintaining the genome. In this review, we discuss the cellular contexts in which R-loops contribute to genomic instability, particularly during DNA replication and double-strand break (DSB) repair. We also summarize the evidence that R-loops participate as an intermediate during repair and may influence pathway choice to preserve genomic integrity. Finally, we discuss the immunogenic potential of R-loops and highlight their links to disease should they become pathogenic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua R Brickner
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jada L Garzon
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Karlene A Cimprich
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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35
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Essential Role for an Isoform of Escherichia coli Translation Initiation Factor IF2 in Repair of Two-Ended DNA Double-Strand Breaks. J Bacteriol 2022; 204:e0057121. [PMID: 35343794 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00571-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In Escherichia coli, three isoforms of the essential translation initiation factor IF2 (IF2-1, IF2-2, and IF2-3) are generated from separate in-frame initiation codons in infB. The isoforms have earlier been suggested to additionally participate in DNA damage repair and replication restart. It is also known that the proteins RecA and RecBCD are needed for repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) in E. coli. Here, we show that strains lacking IF2-1 are profoundly sensitive to two-ended DSBs in DNA generated by radiomimetic agents phleomycin or bleomycin, or by endonuclease I-SceI. However, these strains remained tolerant to other DSB-generating genotoxic agents or perturbations to which recA and recBC mutants remained sensitive, such as to mitomycin C, type-2 DNA topoisomerase inhibitors, or DSB caused by palindrome cleavage behind a replication fork. Data from genome-wide copy number analyses following I-SceI cleavage at a single chromosomal locus suggested that, in a strain lacking IF2-1, the magnitude of recombination-dependent replication through replication restart mechanisms is largely preserved but the extent of DNA resection around the DSB site is reduced. We propose that in the absence of IF2-1 it is the synapsis of a RecA nucleoprotein filament to its homologous target that is weakened, which in turn leads to a specific failure in assembly of Ter-to-oriC directed replisomes needed for consummation of two-ended DSB repair. IMPORTANCE Double-strand breaks (DSBs) in DNA are major threats to genome integrity. In Escherichia coli, DSBs are repaired by RecA- and RecBCD-mediated homologous recombination (HR). This study demonstrates a critical role for an isoform (IF2-1) of the translation initiation factor IF2 in the repair of two-ended DSBs in E. coli (that can be generated by ionizing radiation, certain DNA-damaging chemicals, or endonuclease action). It is proposed that IF2-1 acts to facilitate the function of RecA in the synapsis between a pair of DNA molecules during HR.
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36
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Tsirkas I, Dovrat D, Thangaraj M, Brouwer I, Cohen A, Paleiov Z, Meijler MM, Lenstra T, Aharoni A. Transcription-replication coordination revealed in single live cells. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:2143-2156. [PMID: 35137218 PMCID: PMC8887460 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The coexistence of DNA replication and transcription during S-phase requires their tight coordination to prevent harmful conflicts. While extensive research revealed important mechanisms for minimizing these conflicts and their consequences, little is known regarding how the replication and transcription machinery are coordinated in real-time. Here, we developed a live-cell imaging approach for the real-time monitoring of replisome progression and transcription dynamics during a transcription-replication encounter. We found a wave of partial transcriptional repression ahead of the moving replication fork, which may contribute to efficient fork progression through the transcribed gene. Real-time detection of conflicts revealed their negative impact on both processes, leading to fork stalling or slowdown as well as lower transcription levels during gene replication, with different trade-offs observed in defined subpopulations of cells. Our real-time measurements of transcription-replication encounters demonstrate how these processes can proceed simultaneously while maintaining genomic stability, and how conflicts can arise when coordination is impaired.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Tsirkas
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Daniel Dovrat
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Manikandan Thangaraj
- The Department of Chemistry and the National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Ineke Brouwer
- Division of Gene Regulation, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Oncode Institute,1066CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Amit Cohen
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Zohar Paleiov
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Michael M Meijler
- The Department of Chemistry and the National Institute for Biotechnology in the Negev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Tineke Lenstra
- Division of Gene Regulation, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Oncode Institute,1066CX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Amir Aharoni
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er Sheva 84105, Israel
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37
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Bailey EJ, Gottesman ME, Gonzalez RL. NusG-mediated Coupling of Transcription and Translation Enhances Gene Expression by Suppressing RNA Polymerase Backtracking. J Mol Biol 2022; 434:167330. [PMID: 34710399 PMCID: PMC9833396 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.167330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
In bacteria, transcription is coupled to, and can be regulated by, translation. Although recent structural studies suggest that the N-utilization substance G (NusG) transcription factor can serve as a direct, physical link between the transcribing RNA polymerase (RNAP) and the lead ribosome, mechanistic studies investigating the potential role of NusG in mediating transcription-translation coupling are lacking. Here, we report development of a cellular extract- and reporter gene-based, in vitro biochemical system that supports transcription-translation coupling as well as the use of this system to study the role of NusG in coupling. Our findings show that NusG is required for coupling and that the enhanced gene expression that results from coupling is dependent on the ability of NusG to directly interact with the lead ribosome. Moreover, we provide strong evidence that NusG-mediated coupling enhances gene expression through a mechanism in which the lead ribosome that is tethered to the RNAP by NusG suppresses spontaneous backtracking of the RNAP on its DNA template that would otherwise inhibit transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J. Bailey
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, 3000 Broadway, MC3126, New York, NY 10027, USA,Current Address: Center for Research on Learning and Teaching in Engineering, University of Michigan, 2609 Draper Drive, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Max E. Gottesman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia University Medical Center, 701 West 168 Street, New York, NY 10032, USA,To whom correspondence should be addressed: Max E. Gottesman, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia University Medical Center, 701 West 168 Street, New York, NY 10032 USA Tel.: (212) 305-6900; Fax: (212) 305-1468; and Ruben L. Gonzalez, Jr., Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, 3000 Broadway, MC3126, New York, NY 10027, USA, Tel.: (212) 854-1096; Fax: (212) 932-1289;
| | - Ruben L. Gonzalez
- Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, 3000 Broadway, MC3126, New York, NY 10027, USA,To whom correspondence should be addressed: Max E. Gottesman, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia University Medical Center, 701 West 168 Street, New York, NY 10032 USA Tel.: (212) 305-6900; Fax: (212) 305-1468; and Ruben L. Gonzalez, Jr., Department of Chemistry, Columbia University, 3000 Broadway, MC3126, New York, NY 10027, USA, Tel.: (212) 854-1096; Fax: (212) 932-1289;
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38
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Saponaro M. Transcription-Replication Coordination. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:108. [PMID: 35054503 PMCID: PMC8781949 DOI: 10.3390/life12010108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcription and replication are the two most essential processes that a cell does with its DNA: they allow cells to express the genomic content that is required for their functions and to create a perfect copy of this genomic information to pass on to the daughter cells. Nevertheless, these two processes are in a constant ambivalent relationship. When transcription and replication occupy the same regions, there is the possibility of conflicts between transcription and replication as transcription can impair DNA replication progression leading to increased DNA damage. Nevertheless, DNA replication origins are preferentially located in open chromatin next to actively transcribed regions, meaning that the possibility of conflicts is potentially an accepted incident for cells. Data in the literature point both towards the existence or not of coordination between these two processes to avoid the danger of collisions. Several reviews have been published on transcription-replication conflicts, but we focus here on the most recent findings that relate to how these two processes are coordinated in eukaryotes, considering advantages and disadvantages from coordination, how likely conflicts are at any given time, and which are their potential hotspots in the genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Saponaro
- Transcription Associated Genome Instability Laboratory, Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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39
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Agapov A, Olina A, Kulbachinskiy A. OUP accepted manuscript. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:3018-3041. [PMID: 35323981 PMCID: PMC8989532 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cellular DNA is continuously transcribed into RNA by multisubunit RNA polymerases (RNAPs). The continuity of transcription can be disrupted by DNA lesions that arise from the activities of cellular enzymes, reactions with endogenous and exogenous chemicals or irradiation. Here, we review available data on translesion RNA synthesis by multisubunit RNAPs from various domains of life, define common principles and variations in DNA damage sensing by RNAP, and consider existing controversies in the field of translesion transcription. Depending on the type of DNA lesion, it may be correctly bypassed by RNAP, or lead to transcriptional mutagenesis, or result in transcription stalling. Various lesions can affect the loading of the templating base into the active site of RNAP, or interfere with nucleotide binding and incorporation into RNA, or impair RNAP translocation. Stalled RNAP acts as a sensor of DNA damage during transcription-coupled repair. The outcome of DNA lesion recognition by RNAP depends on the interplay between multiple transcription and repair factors, which can stimulate RNAP bypass or increase RNAP stalling, and plays the central role in maintaining the DNA integrity. Unveiling the mechanisms of translesion transcription in various systems is thus instrumental for understanding molecular pathways underlying gene regulation and genome stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksei Agapov
- Correspondence may also be addressed to Aleksei Agapov. Tel: +7 499 196 0015; Fax: +7 499 196 0015;
| | - Anna Olina
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute” Moscow 123182, Russia
| | - Andrey Kulbachinskiy
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +7 499 196 0015; Fax: +7 499 196 0015;
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40
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St Germain C, Zhao H, Sinha V, Sanz LA, Chédin F, Barlow J. OUP accepted manuscript. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:2051-2073. [PMID: 35100392 PMCID: PMC8887484 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Conflicts between transcription and replication machinery are a potent source of replication stress and genome instability; however, no technique currently exists to identify endogenous genomic locations prone to transcription–replication interactions. Here, we report a novel method to identify genomic loci prone to transcription–replication interactions termed transcription–replication immunoprecipitation on nascent DNA sequencing, TRIPn-Seq. TRIPn-Seq employs the sequential immunoprecipitation of RNA polymerase 2 phosphorylated at serine 5 (RNAP2s5) followed by enrichment of nascent DNA previously labeled with bromodeoxyuridine. Using TRIPn-Seq, we mapped 1009 unique transcription–replication interactions (TRIs) in mouse primary B cells characterized by a bimodal pattern of RNAP2s5, bidirectional transcription, an enrichment of RNA:DNA hybrids, and a high probability of forming G-quadruplexes. TRIs are highly enriched at transcription start sites and map to early replicating regions. TRIs exhibit enhanced Replication Protein A association and TRI-associated genes exhibit higher replication fork termination than control transcription start sites, two marks of replication stress. TRIs colocalize with double-strand DNA breaks, are enriched for deletions, and accumulate mutations in tumors. We propose that replication stress at TRIs induces mutations potentially contributing to age-related disease, as well as tumor formation and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Commodore P St Germain
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- School of Mathematics and Science, Solano Community College, 4000 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield, CA 94534, USA
| | - Hongchang Zhao
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Vrishti Sinha
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Lionel A Sanz
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Frédéric Chédin
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Jacqueline H Barlow
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +1 530 752 9529; Fax: +1 530 752 9014;
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41
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Zardoni L, Nardini E, Brambati A, Lucca C, Choudhary R, Loperfido F, Sabbioneda S, Liberi G. Elongating RNA polymerase II and RNA:DNA hybrids hinder fork progression and gene expression at sites of head-on replication-transcription collisions. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:12769-12784. [PMID: 34878142 PMCID: PMC8682787 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab1146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncoordinated clashes between replication forks and transcription cause replication stress and genome instability, which are hallmarks of cancer and neurodegeneration. Here, we investigate the outcomes of head-on replication-transcription collisions, using as a model system budding yeast mutants for the helicase Sen1, the ortholog of human Senataxin. We found that RNA Polymerase II accumulates together with RNA:DNA hybrids at sites of head-on collisions. The replication fork and RNA Polymerase II are both arrested during the clash, leading to DNA damage and, in the long run, the inhibition of gene expression. The inactivation of RNA Polymerase II elongation factors, such as the HMG-like protein Spt2 and the DISF and PAF complexes, but not alterations in chromatin structure, allows replication fork progression through transcribed regions. Attenuation of RNA Polymerase II elongation rescues RNA:DNA hybrid accumulation and DNA damage sensitivity caused by the absence of Sen1, but not of RNase H proteins, suggesting that such enzymes counteract toxic RNA:DNA hybrids at different stages of the cell cycle with Sen1 mainly acting in replication. We suggest that the main obstacle to replication fork progression is the elongating RNA Polymerase II engaged in an R-loop, rather than RNA:DNA hybrids per se or hybrid-associated chromatin modifications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Zardoni
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", CNR, 27100 Pavia, Italy.,Scuola Universitaria Superiore IUSS, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Eleonora Nardini
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", CNR, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Brambati
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", CNR, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | | | | | - Federica Loperfido
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", CNR, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Simone Sabbioneda
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", CNR, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Giordano Liberi
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare "Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza", CNR, 27100 Pavia, Italy.,IFOM Foundation, 20139 Milan, Italy
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42
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Jacobs RQ, Huffines AK, Laiho M, Schneider DA. The small-molecule BMH-21 directly inhibits transcription elongation and DNA occupancy of RNA polymerase I in vivo and in vitro. J Biol Chem 2021; 298:101450. [PMID: 34838819 PMCID: PMC8683726 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.101450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells are dependent upon an abundance of ribosomes to maintain rapid cell growth and proliferation. The rate-limiting step of ribosome biogenesis is ribosomal RNA (rRNA) synthesis by RNA polymerase I (Pol I). Therefore, a goal of the cancer therapeutic field is to develop and characterize Pol I inhibitors. Here, we elucidate the mechanism of Pol I inhibition by a first-in-class small-molecule BMH-21. To characterize the effects of BMH-21 on Pol I transcription, we leveraged high-resolution in vitro transcription assays and in vivo native elongating transcript sequencing (NET-seq). We find that Pol I transcription initiation, promoter escape, and elongation are all inhibited by BMH-21 in vitro. In particular, the transcription elongation phase is highly sensitive to BMH-21 treatment, as it causes a decrease in transcription elongation rate and an increase in paused Pols on the ribosomal DNA (rDNA) template. In vivo NET-seq experiments complement these findings by revealing a reduction in Pol I occupancy on the template and an increase in sequence-specific pausing upstream of G-rich rDNA sequences after BMH-21 treatment. Collectively, these data reveal the mechanism of action of BMH-21, which is a critical step forward in the development of this compound and its derivatives for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Q Jacobs
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, 35294, USA
| | - Abigail K Huffines
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, 35294, USA
| | - Marikki Laiho
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences and Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - David A Schneider
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, 35294, USA.
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43
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Kemiha S, Poli J, Lin YL, Lengronne A, Pasero P. Toxic R-loops: Cause or consequence of replication stress? DNA Repair (Amst) 2021; 107:103199. [PMID: 34399314 DOI: 10.1016/j.dnarep.2021.103199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Transcription-replication conflicts (TRCs) represent a potential source of endogenous replication stress (RS) and genomic instability in eukaryotic cells but the mechanisms that underlie this instability remain poorly understood. Part of the problem could come from non-B DNA structures called R-loops, which are formed of a RNA:DNA hybrid and a displaced ssDNA loop. In this review, we discuss different scenarios in which R-loops directly or indirectly interfere with DNA replication. We also present other types of TRCs that may not depend on R-loops to impede fork progression. Finally, we discuss alternative models in which toxic RNA:DNA hybrids form at stalled forks as a consequence - but not a cause - of replication stress and interfere with replication resumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samira Kemiha
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, CNRS et Université de Montpellier, Equipe labélisée Ligue contre le Cancer, Montpellier, France
| | - Jérôme Poli
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, CNRS et Université de Montpellier, Equipe labélisée Ligue contre le Cancer, Montpellier, France
| | - Yea-Lih Lin
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, CNRS et Université de Montpellier, Equipe labélisée Ligue contre le Cancer, Montpellier, France
| | - Armelle Lengronne
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, CNRS et Université de Montpellier, Equipe labélisée Ligue contre le Cancer, Montpellier, France
| | - Philippe Pasero
- Institut de Génétique Humaine, CNRS et Université de Montpellier, Equipe labélisée Ligue contre le Cancer, Montpellier, France.
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44
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Abstract
Rho is a hexameric bacterial RNA helicase, which became a paradigm of factor-dependent transcription termination. The broadly accepted ("textbook") model posits a series of steps, wherein Rho first binds C-rich Rho utilization (rut) sites on nascent RNA, uses its ATP-dependent translocase activity to catch up with RNA polymerase (RNAP), and either pulls the transcript from the elongation complex or pushes RNAP forward, thus terminating transcription. However, this appealingly simple mechano-chemical model lacks a biological realism and is increasingly at odds with genetic and biochemical data. Here, we summarize recent structural and biochemical studies that have advanced our understanding of molecular details of RNA recognition, termination signaling, and RNAP inactivation in Rho-dependent transcription termination, rebalancing the view in favor of an alternative "allosteric" mechanism. In the revised model, Rho binds RNAP early in elongation assisted by the cofactors NusA and NusG, forming a pre-termination complex (PTC). The formation of PTC allows Rho to continuously sample nascent transcripts for a termination signal, which subsequently traps the elongation complex in an inactive state prior to its dissociation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhitai Hao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Vladimir Svetlov
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Evgeny Nudler
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, New York University School of Medicine, New York, Ny, USA
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45
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Zhang S, Zhou T, Wang Z, Yi F, Li C, Guo W, Xu H, Cui H, Dong X, Liu J, Song X, Cao L. Post-Translational Modifications of PCNA in Control of DNA Synthesis and DNA Damage Tolerance-the Implications in Carcinogenesis. Int J Biol Sci 2021; 17:4047-4059. [PMID: 34671219 PMCID: PMC8495385 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.64628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The faithful DNA replication is a critical event for cell survival and inheritance. However, exogenous or endogenous sources of damage challenge the accurate synthesis of DNA, which causes DNA lesions. The DNA lesions are obstacles for replication fork progression. However, the prolonged replication fork stalling leads to replication fork collapse, which may cause DNA double-strand breaks (DSB). In order to maintain genomic stability, eukaryotic cells evolve translesion synthesis (TLS) and template switching (TS) to resolve the replication stalling. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) trimer acts as a slide clamp and encircles DNA to orchestrate DNA synthesis and DNA damage tolerance (DDT). The post-translational modifications (PTMs) of PCNA regulate these functions to ensure the appropriate initiation and termination of replication and DDT. The aberrant regulation of PCNA PTMs will result in DSB, which causes mutagenesis and poor response to chemotherapy. Here, we review the roles of the PCNA PTMs in DNA duplication and DDT. We propose that clarifying the regulation of PCNA PTMs may provide insights into understanding the development of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyi Zhang
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, PR China
| | - Tingting Zhou
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, PR China
| | - Zhuo Wang
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, PR China
| | - Fei Yi
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, PR China
| | - Chunlu Li
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, PR China
| | - Wendong Guo
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, PR China
| | - Hongde Xu
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, PR China
| | - Hongyan Cui
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, PR China
| | - Xiang Dong
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, PR China
| | - Jingwei Liu
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, PR China
| | - Xiaoyu Song
- Institute of Health Sciences, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, PR China
| | - Liu Cao
- College of Basic Medical Science, Key Laboratory of Cell Biology of Ministry of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Medical Cell Biology of Ministry of Education, Liaoning Province Collaborative Innovation Center of Aging Related Disease Diagnosis and Treatment and Prevention, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning Province, 110122, PR China
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46
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Wiedermannová J, Krásný L. β-CASP proteins removing RNA polymerase from DNA: when a torpedo is needed to shoot a sitting duck. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:10221-10234. [PMID: 34551438 PMCID: PMC8501993 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
During the first step of gene expression, RNA polymerase (RNAP) engages DNA to transcribe RNA, forming highly stable complexes. These complexes need to be dissociated at the end of transcription units or when RNAP stalls during elongation and becomes an obstacle (‘sitting duck’) to further transcription or replication. In this review, we first outline the mechanisms involved in these processes. Then, we explore in detail the torpedo mechanism whereby a 5′–3′ RNA exonuclease (torpedo) latches itself onto the 5′ end of RNA protruding from RNAP, degrades it and upon contact with RNAP, induces dissociation of the complex. This mechanism, originally described in Eukaryotes and executed by Xrn-type 5′–3′ exonucleases, was recently found in Bacteria and Archaea, mediated by β-CASP family exonucleases. We discuss the mechanistic aspects of this process across the three kingdoms of life and conclude that 5′–3′ exoribonucleases (β-CASP and Xrn families) involved in the ancient torpedo mechanism have emerged at least twice during evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Wiedermannová
- Correspondence may also be addressed to Jana Wiedermannová. Tel: +44 191 208 3226; Fax: +44 191 208 3205;
| | - Libor Krásný
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +420 241063208;
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47
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Webster MW, Weixlbaumer A. Macromolecular assemblies supporting transcription-translation coupling. Transcription 2021; 12:103-125. [PMID: 34570660 DOI: 10.1080/21541264.2021.1981713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Coordination between the molecular machineries that synthesize and decode prokaryotic mRNAs is an important layer of gene expression control known as transcription-translation coupling. While it has long been known that translation can regulate transcription and vice-versa, recent structural and biochemical work has shed light on the underlying mechanistic basis. Complexes of RNA polymerase linked to a trailing ribosome (expressomes) have been structurally characterized in a variety of states at near-atomic resolution, and also directly visualized in cells. These data are complemented by recent biochemical and biophysical analyses of transcription-translation systems and the individual components within them. Here, we review our improved understanding of the molecular basis of transcription-translation coupling. These insights are discussed in relation to our evolving understanding of the role of coupling in cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael W Webster
- Department of Integrated Structural Biology, Institut de Gé né tique et de Biologie Molé culaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Illkirch Cedex, France.,Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.,CNRS Umr 7104, Illkirch Cedex.,Inserm U1258, Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Albert Weixlbaumer
- Department of Integrated Structural Biology, Institut de Gé né tique et de Biologie Molé culaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Illkirch Cedex, France.,Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.,CNRS Umr 7104, Illkirch Cedex.,Inserm U1258, Illkirch Cedex, France
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48
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Brüning JG, Marians KJ. Bypass of complex co-directional replication-transcription collisions by replisome skipping. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:9870-9885. [PMID: 34469567 PMCID: PMC8464059 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Collisions between the replisome and RNA polymerases [RNAP(s)] are the main obstacle to DNA replication. These collisions can occur either head-on or co-directionally with respect to the direction of translocation of both complexes. Whereas head-on collisions require additional factors to be resolved, co-directional collisions are thought to be overcome by the replisome itself using the mRNA transcript as a primer. We show that mRNA takeover is utilized primarily after collisions with single RNAP complexes with short transcripts. Bypass of more complex transcription complexes requires the synthesis of a new primer downstream of the RNAP for the replisome to resume leading-strand synthesis. In both cases, bypass proceeds with displacement of the RNAP. Rep, Mfd, UvrD and RNase H can process the RNAP block and facilitate replisome bypass by promoting the formation of continuous leading strands. Bypass of co-directional RNAP(s) and/or R-loops is determined largely by the length of the obstacle that the replisome needs to traverse: R-loops are about equally as potent obstacles as RNAP arrays if they occupy the same length of the DNA template.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan-Gert Brüning
- Molecular Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Kenneth J Marians
- Molecular Biology Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, New York, NY 10065, USA
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49
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St Germain C, Zhao H, Barlow JH. Transcription-Replication Collisions-A Series of Unfortunate Events. Biomolecules 2021; 11:1249. [PMID: 34439915 PMCID: PMC8391903 DOI: 10.3390/biom11081249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcription-replication interactions occur when DNA replication encounters genomic regions undergoing transcription. Both replication and transcription are essential for life and use the same DNA template making conflicts unavoidable. R-loops, DNA supercoiling, DNA secondary structure, and chromatin-binding proteins are all potential obstacles for processive replication or transcription and pose an even more potent threat to genome integrity when these processes co-occur. It is critical to maintaining high fidelity and processivity of transcription and replication while navigating through a complex chromatin environment, highlighting the importance of defining cellular pathways regulating transcription-replication interaction formation, evasion, and resolution. Here we discuss how transcription influences replication fork stability, and the safeguards that have evolved to navigate transcription-replication interactions and maintain genome integrity in mammalian cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Commodore St Germain
- School of Mathematics and Science, Solano Community College, 4000 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield, CA 94534, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
| | - Hongchang Zhao
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
| | - Jacqueline H. Barlow
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California Davis, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA;
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50
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Topoisomerase I Essentiality, DnaA-Independent Chromosomal Replication, and Transcription-Replication Conflict in Escherichia coli. J Bacteriol 2021; 203:e0019521. [PMID: 34124945 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00195-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Topoisomerase I (Topo I) of Escherichia coli, encoded by topA, acts to relax negative supercoils in DNA. Topo I deficiency results in hypernegative supercoiling, formation of transcription-associated RNA-DNA hybrids (R-loops), and DnaA- and oriC-independent constitutive stable DNA replication (cSDR), but some uncertainty persists as to whether topA is essential for viability in E. coli and related enterobacteria. Here, we show that several topA alleles, including ΔtopA, confer lethality in derivatives of wild-type E. coli strain MG1655. Viability in the absence of Topo I was restored with two perturbations, neither of which reversed the hypernegative supercoiling phenotype: (i) in a reduced-genome strain (MDS42) or (ii) by an RNA polymerase (RNAP) mutation, rpoB*35, that has been reported to alleviate the deleterious consequences of RNAP backtracking and transcription-replication conflicts. Four phenotypes related to cSDR were identified for topA mutants: (i) one of the topA alleles rescued ΔdnaA lethality; (ii) in dnaA+ derivatives, Topo I deficiency generated a characteristic copy number peak in the terminus region of the chromosome; (iii) topA was synthetically lethal with rnhA (encoding RNase HI, whose deficiency also confers cSDR); and (iv) topA rnhA synthetic lethality was itself rescued by ΔdnaA. We propose that the terminal lethal consequence of hypernegative DNA supercoiling in E. coli topA mutants is RNAP backtracking during transcription elongation and associated R-loop formation, which in turn leads to transcription-replication conflicts and to cSDR. IMPORTANCE In all life forms, double-helical DNA exists in a topologically supercoiled state. The enzymes DNA gyrase and topoisomerase I act, respectively, to introduce and to relax negative DNA supercoils in Escherichia coli. That gyrase deficiency leads to bacterial death is well established, but the essentiality of topoisomerase I for viability has been less certain. This study confirms that topoisomerase I is essential for E. coli viability and suggests that in its absence, aberrant chromosomal DNA replication and excessive transcription-replication conflicts occur that are responsible for lethality.
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