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Chen Y, Shao Z, Wu S. Research progress on the tsRNA biogenesis, function, and application in lung cancer. Noncoding RNA Res 2025; 10:63-69. [PMID: 39309197 PMCID: PMC11414277 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2024.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2024] [Revised: 08/18/2024] [Accepted: 09/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/25/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a mounting occurrence of lung cancer, which stands as one of the most prevalent malignancies globally. This rise in incidence poses a significant hazard to human health, making lung cancer a matter of grave concern. It has been shown that tRNA-derived small non-coding RNA (tsRNA) is involved in the development of tumors, especially lung cancer, through mechanisms such as regulating mRNA stability, influencing protein translation, and acting as epigenetic regulators. Recent studies have shown that tsRNA is abnormally expressed in the plasma and tissues of lung cancer patients, and its expression level is closely related to the malignancy degree and postoperative recurrence of lung cancer. Therefore, for lung cancer patients, tsRNA represents a promising non-invasive biomarker, exhibiting significant potential for facilitating early diagnosis and prognostic evaluation, and for achieving precision treatment of lung cancer by regulating its expression. This article focuses on the biogenesis of tsRNA and its ability to promote lung cancer cell proliferation and invasion. In addition, the specific clinical significance of tsRNA in lung cancer was discussed. Finally, we discuss the need for further improvement of small RNA sequencing technology, and the future research directions and strategies of tsRNA in lung cancer and tumor diseases were summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhuowei Shao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shibo Wu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
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2
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Scacchetti A, Shields EJ, Trigg NA, Lee GS, Wilusz JE, Conine CC, Bonasio R. A ligation-independent sequencing method reveals tRNA-derived RNAs with blocked 3' termini. Mol Cell 2024; 84:3843-3859.e8. [PMID: 39096899 PMCID: PMC11455606 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2024.07.008] [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: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Despite the numerous sequencing methods available, the diversity in RNA size and chemical modification makes it difficult to capture all RNAs in a cell. We developed a method that combines quasi-random priming with template switching to construct sequencing libraries from RNA molecules of any length and with any type of 3' modifications, allowing for the sequencing of virtually all RNA species. Our ligation-independent detection of all types of RNA (LIDAR) is a simple, effective tool to identify and quantify all classes of coding and non-coding RNAs. With LIDAR, we comprehensively characterized the transcriptomes of mouse embryonic stem cells, neural progenitor cells, mouse tissues, and sperm. LIDAR detected a much larger variety of tRNA-derived RNAs (tDRs) compared with traditional ligation-dependent sequencing methods and uncovered tDRs with blocked 3' ends that had previously escaped detection. Therefore, LIDAR can capture all RNAs in a sample and uncover RNA species with potential regulatory functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Scacchetti
- Epigenetics Institute and Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Emily J Shields
- Epigenetics Institute and Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Department of Urology and Institute of Neuropathology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Natalie A Trigg
- Departments of Genetics and Pediatrics - Penn Epigenetics Institute, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, and Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Division of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Grace S Lee
- Departments of Genetics and Pediatrics - Penn Epigenetics Institute, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, and Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jeremy E Wilusz
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Therapeutic Innovation Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Colin C Conine
- Departments of Genetics and Pediatrics - Penn Epigenetics Institute, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, and Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Division of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Roberto Bonasio
- Epigenetics Institute and Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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3
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Gallardo-Dodd CJ, Kutter C. The regulatory landscape of interacting RNA and protein pools in cellular homeostasis and cancer. Hum Genomics 2024; 18:109. [PMID: 39334294 PMCID: PMC11437681 DOI: 10.1186/s40246-024-00678-6] [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: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 09/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Biological systems encompass intricate networks governed by RNA-protein interactions that play pivotal roles in cellular functions. RNA and proteins constituting 1.1% and 18% of the mammalian cell weight, respectively, orchestrate vital processes from genome organization to translation. To date, disentangling the functional fraction of the human genome has presented a major challenge, particularly for noncoding regions, yet recent discoveries have started to unveil a host of regulatory functions for noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). While ncRNAs exist at different sizes, structures, degrees of evolutionary conservation and abundances within the cell, they partake in diverse roles either alone or in combination. However, certain ncRNA subtypes, including those that have been described or remain to be discovered, are poorly characterized given their heterogeneous nature. RNA activity is in most cases coordinated through interactions with RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). Extensive efforts are being made to accurately reconstruct RNA-RBP regulatory networks, which have provided unprecedented insight into cellular physiology and human disease. In this review, we provide a comprehensive view of RNAs and RBPs, focusing on how their interactions generate functional signals in living cells, particularly in the context of post-transcriptional regulatory processes and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos J Gallardo-Dodd
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor, and Cell Biology, Science for Life Laboratory, Karolinska Institute, Solna, Sweden
| | - Claudia Kutter
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor, and Cell Biology, Science for Life Laboratory, Karolinska Institute, Solna, Sweden.
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4
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Liang Y, Ji D, Ying X, Ma R, Ji W. tsRNA modifications: An emerging layer of biological regulation in disease. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00401-6. [PMID: 39260796 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 09/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived small RNA (tsRNA) represents an important and increasingly valued type of small non-coding RNA (sncRNA). The investigation of tRNA and tsRNA modification crosswalks has not only provided novel insights into the information and functions of tsRNA, but has also expanded the diversity and complexity of the tsRNA biological regulation network. AIM OF REVIEW Comparing with other sncRNAs, tsRNA biogenesis show obvious correlation with RNA modifications from mature tRNA and harbor various tRNA modifications. In this review, we aim to present the current aspect of tsRNA modifications and that modified tsRNA shape different regulatory mechanisms in physiological and pathological processes. KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW Strategies for studying tsRNA mechanisms include its specific generation and functional effects induced by sequence/RNA modification/secondary structure. tsRNAs could harbor more than one tRNA modifications such as 5-methylcytosine (m5C), N1-methyladenosine (m1A), pseudouridine (Ψ) and N7-methylguanosine (m7G). This review consolidates the current knowledge of tRNA modification regulating tsRNA biogenesis, outlines the functional roles of various modified tsRNA and highlights their specific contributions in various disease pathogenesis. Therefore, the improvement of tsRNA modification detection technology and the introduction of experimental methods of tsRNA modification are conducive to further broadening the understanding of tsRNA function at the level of RNA modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaomin Liang
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, PR China
| | - Ding Ji
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510220, PR China
| | - Xiaoling Ying
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510220, PR China
| | - Renqiang Ma
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510220, PR China.
| | - Weidong Ji
- Center for Translational Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080, PR China.
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Herridge RP, Dolata J, Migliori V, de Santis Alves C, Borges F, Schorn AJ, van Ex F, Lin A, Bajczyk M, Parent JS, Leonardi T, Hendrick A, Kouzarides T, Martienssen RA. Pseudouridine guides germline small RNA transport and epigenetic inheritance. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2024:10.1038/s41594-024-01392-6. [PMID: 39242979 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-024-01392-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
Developmental epigenetic modifications in plants and animals are mostly reset during gamete formation but some are inherited from the germline. Small RNAs guide these epigenetic modifications but how inherited small RNAs are distinguished in plants and animals is unknown. Pseudouridine (Ψ) is the most abundant RNA modification but has not been explored in small RNAs. Here, we develop assays to detect Ψ in short RNA sequences, demonstrating its presence in mouse and Arabidopsis microRNAs. Germline small RNAs, namely epigenetically activated small interfering RNAs (easiRNAs) in Arabidopsis pollen and Piwi-interacting RNAs in mouse testes, are enriched for Ψ. In pollen, pseudouridylated easiRNAs are transported to sperm cells from the vegetative nucleus, and PAUSED/HEN5 (PSD), the plant homolog of Exportin-t, interacts genetically with Ψ and is required for this transport. We further show that Exportin-t is required for the triploid block: small RNA dosage-dependent seed lethality that is epigenetically inherited from pollen. Thus, Ψ has a conserved role in marking inherited small RNAs in the germline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowan P Herridge
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Jakub Dolata
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
- Department of Gene Expression, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland
| | - Valentina Migliori
- Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Filipe Borges
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
- CNRS, INRA Versailles, Versailles, France
| | - Andrea J Schorn
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
| | - Frédéric van Ex
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
- Inari LLC, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ann Lin
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
- Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Mateusz Bajczyk
- Department of Gene Expression, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland
| | - Jean-Sebastien Parent
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
- Agriculture Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tommaso Leonardi
- Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Center for Genomic Science of IIT@SEMM, Instituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Milan, Italy
| | - Alan Hendrick
- Storm Therapeutics, Ltd., Moneta Building (B280), Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Robert A Martienssen
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA.
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Zou LH, Zhu B, Chen Y, Lu Y, Ramkrishnan M, Xu C, Zhou X, Ding Y, Cho J, Zhou M. Genetic and epigenetic reprogramming in response to internal and external cues by induced transposon mobilization in Moso bamboo. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2024. [PMID: 39238152 DOI: 10.1111/nph.20107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
Long terminal repeat retroelements (LTR-REs) have profound effects on DNA methylation and gene regulation. Despite the vast abundance of LTR-REs in the genome of Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis), an industrial crop in underdeveloped countries, their precise implication of the LTR-RE mobility in stress response and development remains unknown. We investigated the RNA and DNA products of LTR-REs in Moso bamboo under various developmental stages and stressful conditions. Surprisingly, our analyses identified thousands of active LTR-REs, particularly those located near genes involved in stress response and developmental regulation. These genes adjacent to active LTR-REs exhibited an increased expression under stress and are associated with reduced DNA methylation that is likely affected by the induced LTR-REs. Moreover, the analyses of simultaneous mapping of insertions and DNA methylation showed that the LTR-REs effectively alter the epigenetic status of the genomic regions where they inserted, and concomitantly their transcriptional competence which might impact the stress resilience and growth of the host. Our work unveils the unusually strong LTR-RE mobility in Moso bamboo and its close association with (epi)genetic changes, which supports the co-evolution of the parasitic DNAs and host genome in attaining stress tolerance and developmental robustness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long-Hai Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, Bamboo Industry Institute, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Bailiang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, Bamboo Industry Institute, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Yaxin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, Bamboo Industry Institute, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Yaping Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, Bamboo Industry Institute, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Muthusamy Ramkrishnan
- State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Bamboo Research Institute, Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Subtropical Forest Biodiversity Conservation, College of Biology and the Environment, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210037, China
| | - Chao Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, Bamboo Industry Institute, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Xiaohong Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, Bamboo Industry Institute, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Yiqian Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, Bamboo Industry Institute, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
| | - Jungnam Cho
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, Durham, DH1 3LE, UK
| | - Mingbing Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, Bamboo Industry Institute, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 311300, China
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Velázquez-Flores MÁ, Ruiz Esparza-Garrido R. Fragments derived from non-coding RNAs: how complex is genome regulation? Genome 2024; 67:292-306. [PMID: 38684113 DOI: 10.1139/gen-2023-0136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
The human genome is highly dynamic and only a small fraction of it codes for proteins, but most of the genome is transcribed, highlighting the importance of non-coding RNAs on cellular functions. In addition, it is now known the generation of non-coding RNA fragments under particular cellular conditions and their functions have revealed unexpected mechanisms of action, converging, in some cases, with the biogenic pathways and action machineries of microRNAs or Piwi-interacting RNAs. This led us to the question why the cell produces so many apparently redundant molecules to exert similar functions and regulate apparently convergent processes? However, non-coding RNAs fragments can also function similarly to aptamers, with secondary and tertiary conformations determining their functions. In the present work, it was reviewed and analyzed the current information about the non-coding RNAs fragments, describing their structure and biogenic pathways, with special emphasis on their cellular functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Ángel Velázquez-Flores
- Laboratorio de RNAs No Codificantes de la Unidad de Investigación Médica en Genética Humana, Hospital de Pediatría del Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), CDMX, México
| | - Ruth Ruiz Esparza-Garrido
- Investigadora por México, Laboratorio de RNAs No Codificantes de la Unidad de Investigación Médica en Genética Humana, Hospital de Pediatría del Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), CDMX, México
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Liu S, Holmes AD, Katzman S, Sharma U. A sperm-enriched 5'fragment of tRNA-Valine regulates preimplantation embryonic transcriptome and development. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.08.607197. [PMID: 39211093 PMCID: PMC11361008 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.08.607197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Sperm small RNAs have been implicated in intergenerational epigenetic inheritance of paternal environmental effects; however, their biogenesis and functions remain poorly understood. We previously identified a 5' fragment of tRNA-Valine-CAC-2 (tRFValCAC) as one of the most abundant small RNA in mature sperm. tRFValCAC is specifically enriched in sperm during post-testicular maturation in the epididymis, and we found that it is delivered to sperm from epididymis epithelial cells via extracellular vesicles. Here, we investigated the mechanistic basis of tRFValCAC delivery to sperm and its functions in the early embryo. We show that tRFValCAC interacts with an RNA binding protein, heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A/B (hnRNPAB), in the epididymis, and this interaction regulates the sorting and packing of tRFValCAC into extracellular vesicles. In the embryo, we found that tRFValCAC regulates early embryonic mRNA processing and splicing. Inhibition of tRFValCAC in preimplantation embryos altered the transcript abundance of genes involved in RNA splicing and mRNA processing. Importantly, tRFValCAC-inhibited embryos showed altered mRNA splicing, including alternative splicing of various splicing factors and genes important for proper preimplantation embryonic development. Finally, we find that inhibition of tRFValCAC in zygotes delayed preimplantation embryonic development. Together, our results reveal a novel function of a sperm-enriched tRF in regulating alternating splicing and preimplantation embryonic development and shed light on the mechanism of sperm small RNA-mediated epigenetic inheritance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simeiyun Liu
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, California, 95064
| | - Andrew D. Holmes
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, California, 95064
| | - Sol Katzman
- Genomics Institute, University of California, Santa Cruz, California, 95064
| | - Upasna Sharma
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, California, 95064
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Hu Y, Liu Y, Shen J, Yin L, Hu X, Huang X, Chen Y, Zhang Y. Longitudinal observation of tRNA-derived fragments profiles in gestational diabetes mellitus and its diagnostic value. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2024; 50:1317-1333. [PMID: 38923718 DOI: 10.1111/jog.16008] [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: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) poses significant risks to maternal and fetal health. Current diagnostic methods based on glucose tolerance tests have limitations for early detection. tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) have emerged as potential molecular regulators in various diseases, including metabolic disorders. However, the diagnostic value of tsRNAs in plasma for early GDM or postpartum remains unclear. METHODS This longitudinal study profiled the expression of tsRNAs across different gestational stages and postpartum in women with GDM (n = 40) and healthy control gestational women (HCs, n = 40). High-throughput small RNA sequencing identified candidate tsRNAs, which were then validated and correlated with clinical biochemical markers such as fasting blood glucose (FBG), HOMA-IR, and GHbA1c. RESULTS tRF-1:32-Val-AAC-1-M6, tRF-1:31-Glu-CTC-1-M2, and tRF-1:30-Gly-CCC-1-M4 were consistently upregulated in the GDM group compared to HCs during the second trimester (p < 0.05). Only tRF-1:31-Glu-CTC-1-M2 was highly expressed during the first trimester, and tRF-1:30-Gly-CCC-1-M4 increased during postpartum. tRF-1:31-Glu-CTC-1-M2 showed a significant correlation with FBG levels in the first trimester (R = 0.317, p = 0.047). The expression of tRF-1:30-Gly-CCC-1-M4 was significantly correlated with HOMA-IR (r = 0.65, p < 0.001) and GHBA1c (r = 0.33, p = 0.037) during postpartum. A joint diagnostic model incorporating tsRNAs expression and clinical markers demonstrated enhanced predictive power for GDM (ROC AUC = 0.768). CONCLUSION Our results revealed distinct expression patterns of specific tsRNAs in GDM, showcasing their correlation with key metabolic parameters. This underscores their promising role as biomarkers for early prediction and diagnosis of GDM. The integration of tRFs into a composite biomarker panel holds the potential to improve clinical outcomes by enabling personalized risk assessment and targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifang Hu
- Department of Obstetrics, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Jun Shen
- Department of Obstetrics, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Lihua Yin
- Department of Obstetrics, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Xiaoxia Hu
- Department of Obstetrics, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Xiaolei Huang
- Department of Obstetrics, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yingyuan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yisheng Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
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Tang X, Wu J, Chen Y, Wang D, Wang T, Weng Y, Zhu Z, Peng R, Wang Y, Yan F. Evaluation of 5'-tRF-His-GTG As a Molecular Biomarker in Breast Cancer Diagnoses and Prognosis. Cancer Biother Radiopharm 2024; 39:441-450. [PMID: 38527246 DOI: 10.1089/cbr.2023.0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer (BC) is the most prevalent cancer among women worldwide. Although advances have been made in the identification of predictive biomarkers, current options for early diagnosis and prognostic analysis are still suboptimal. Recently, transfer-RNA-derived RNA fragments (tRFs) have emerged as a class of small noncoding RNAs that play a role in the cancer progression. The authors aimed to identify a specific class of tRFs as a molecular marker for BC diagnosis and prognosis in clinical management. Methods: The levels of 5'-tRF-His-GTG were quantified in BC tissue (n = 101) and inflammatory normal breast tissue (n = 22) using in situ hybridization. Clinicopathological parameters were obtained, including age, tumor node metastasis stage, hormone receptor status, histopathological grade, lymphovascular invasion, and recurrence. The correlation between the expression of 5'-tRF-His-GTG and these parameters in different BC subtypes was analyzed. Patient death and cancer progression were regarded as clinical endpoints in the survival analysis. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were also performed to predict the involvement in pivotal biological process. Results: The expression of 5'-tRF-His-GTG was significantly downregulated in BC tissues and was in connection with T stage in human epidermal growth factor 2-positive and basal-like BC, as well as N stage and histopathological grade in luminal BC. Patients with low expression of 5'-tRF-His-GTG had a poor overall survival rate. Statistics of GO and KEGG pathway revealed that cation channel activity, protein catabolic process, response to temperature stimulus, cell cycle, focal adhesion, and glycerophospholipid metabolism were significantly enriched. Conclusions: This study suggests that the assessment of 5'-tRF-His-GTG expression could serve as a novel biomarker for individual diagnosis and prognosis in BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xun Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Department of Division of Anatomy and Histo-embryology, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University and Jiangsu Cancer Hospital and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University and Jiangsu Cancer Hospital and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
| | - Jun Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Nanjing Brain Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Pathology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University and Jiangsu Cancer Hospital and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
| | - Daojuan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Department of Division of Anatomy and Histo-embryology, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tingyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Department of Division of Anatomy and Histo-embryology, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yajing Weng
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Department of Division of Anatomy and Histo-embryology, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhengquan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Department of Division of Anatomy and Histo-embryology, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Rui Peng
- Department of General Surgery, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University and Jiangsu Cancer Hospital and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
| | - Yong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science and Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Department of Division of Anatomy and Histo-embryology, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
- Nanjing University (Suzhou) High-tech Institute, Suzhou Industrial Park, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Yan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University and Jiangsu Cancer Hospital and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular and Translational Cancer Research, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University and Jiangsu Cancer Hospital and Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
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11
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Ming J, Lin L, Li J, Wu L, Fang S, Huang T, Fu Y, Liu D, Zhang W, Li C, Yang Y, Huang Y, Qin Y, Kuang J, Huang X, Guo L, Zhang X, Liu J, Chen J, Zhao C, Wang B, Pei D. Cell fate decision by a morphogen-transcription factor-chromatin modifier axis. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6365. [PMID: 39075094 PMCID: PMC11286941 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50144-z] [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: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell fate decisions remain poorly understood at the molecular level. Embryogenesis provides a unique opportunity to analyze molecular details associated with cell fate decisions. Works based on model organisms have provided a conceptual framework of genes that specify cell fate control, for example, transcription factors (TFs) controlling processes from pluripotency to immunity1. How TFs specify cell fate remains poorly understood. Here we report that SALL4 relies on NuRD (nucleosome-remodeling and deacetylase complex) to interpret BMP4 signal and decide cell fate in a well-controlled in vitro system. While NuRD complex cooperates with SALL4 to convert mouse embryonic fibroblasts or MEFs to pluripotency, BMP4 diverts the same process to an alternative fate, PrE (primitive endoderm). Mechanistically, BMP4 signals the dissociation of SALL4 from NuRD physically to establish a gene regulatory network for PrE. Our results provide a conceptual framework to explore the rich landscapes of cell fate choices intrinsic to development in higher organisms involving morphogen-TF-chromatin modifier pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Ming
- Laboratory of Cell Fate Control, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lihui Lin
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Center for Cell Lineage and Development, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiajun Li
- Laboratory of Cell Fate Control, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Linlin Wu
- Laboratory of Cell Fate Control, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shicai Fang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Laboratory of Cell Fate Control, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yu Fu
- Laboratory of Cell Fate Control, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dong Liu
- Laboratory of Cell Fate Control, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenhui Zhang
- Laboratory of Cell Fate Control, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chen Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongzheng Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi Huang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yue Qin
- Laboratory of Cell Fate Control, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Junqi Kuang
- Laboratory of Cell Fate Control, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, 310024, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xingnan Huang
- Laboratory of Cell Fate Control, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liman Guo
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofei Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jing Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Center for Cell Lineage and Development, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiekai Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, South China Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Center for Cell Lineage and Development, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chengchen Zhao
- Laboratory of Cell Fate Control, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Bo Wang
- Laboratory of Cell Fate Control, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China.
- Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, School of Information and Electronic Engineering, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
- Key Laboratory of Biomedical Intelligent Computing Technology of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Duanqing Pei
- Laboratory of Cell Fate Control, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China.
- Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou, 310024, Zhejiang, China.
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12
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Syu YC, Hatterschide J, Budding CR, Tang Y, Musier-Forsyth K. Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 uses a specific tRNA Pro isodecoder to prime reverse transcription. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 30:967-976. [PMID: 38684316 PMCID: PMC11251516 DOI: 10.1261/rna.080006.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is the only oncogenic human retrovirus discovered to date. All retroviruses are believed to use a host cell tRNA to prime reverse transcription (RT). In HTLV-1, the primer-binding site (PBS) in the genomic RNA is complementary to the 3' 18 nucleotides (nt) of human tRNAPro The human genome encodes 20 cytoplasmic tRNAPro genes representing seven isodecoders, all of which share the same 3' 18 nt sequence but vary elsewhere. Whether all tRNAPro isodecoders are used to prime RT in cells is unknown. A previous study showed that a 3' 18 nt tRNAPro-derived fragment (tRFPro) is packaged into HTLV-1 particles and can serve as an RT primer in vitro. The role of this tRNA fragment in the viral life cycle is unclear. In retroviruses, N1-methylation of the tRNA primer at position A58 (m1A) is essential for successful plus-strand transfer. Using primer-extension assays performed in chronically HTLV-1-infected cells, we found that A58 of tRNAPro is m1A-modified, implying that full-length tRNAPro is capable of facilitating successful plus-strand transfer. Analysis of HTLV-1 RT primer extension products indicated that full-length tRNAPro is likely to be the primer. To determine which tRNAPro isodecoder is used as the RT primer, we sequenced the minus-strand strong-stop RT product containing the intact tRNA primer and established that HTLV-1 primes RT using a specific tRNAPro UGG isodecoder. Further studies are required to understand how this primer is annealed to the highly structured HTLV-1 PBS and to investigate the role of tRFPro in the viral life cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ci Syu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Center for RNA Biology, and Center for Retrovirus Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, USA
| | - Joshua Hatterschide
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Center for RNA Biology, and Center for Retrovirus Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, USA
| | - Christina R Budding
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Center for RNA Biology, and Center for Retrovirus Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, USA
| | - Yingke Tang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Center for RNA Biology, and Center for Retrovirus Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, USA
| | - Karin Musier-Forsyth
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Center for RNA Biology, and Center for Retrovirus Research, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, USA
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13
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Zhang S, Gu Y, Ge J, Xie Y, Yu X, Wu X, Sun D, Zhang X, Guo J, Guo J. tRF-33-P4R8YP9LON4VDP inhibits gastric cancer progression via modulating STAT3 signaling pathway in an AGO2-dependent manner. Oncogene 2024; 43:2160-2171. [PMID: 38783100 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-03062-9] [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: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
It has been demonstrated that tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) perform essential functions in the pathophysiology of cancer. In this study, we focused on the possible mechanisms of tRF-33-P4R8YP9LON4VDP (tRF-33) underlying the development of gastric malignancy. In total, 454 tissue samples with different gastric mucosal lesions were collected. The tRF-33 expression level in different cohorts was determined, and its value for diagnostic efficiency and prognosis evaluation were assessed. Cell proliferation assays, Transwell assay, flow cytometry, and xenotransplantation model were used to evaluate its effect on gastric cancer cells. The molecular mechanism was verified by fluorescence in situ hybridization, dual luciferase assay, Western blot, and RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation. The results showed that the expression of tRF-33 exhibited a gradual modification from normal control samples to gastritis tissues, early and latent stage of gastric cancer tissues. Consequently, tRF-33 holds significant potential as a predictive and diagnostic biomarker for gastric malignancy. Over-expression of tRF-33 inhibited gastric cancer cell progression and metastatic viability, and induced cell apoptosis. Tumorigenicity in nude mice showed the suppressive characteristics of tRF-33. Mechanistic investigation revealed that tRF-33 exerted silencing on STAT3 mRNA via binding to AGO2. In conclusion, tRF-33 exhibited values in diagnosing gastric cancer and evaluating its prognosis, and suppressed tumor cell viability by inhibiting STAT3 signaling pathway. The schematic mechanisms underlying tRF-33 regulating gastric cancer occurrence. tRF-33 binds to AGO2 proteins and then negatively regulates STAT3 expression through targeting its 3'UTR. The downregulated expression of STAT3 results in the decrease of STAT3 and p-STAT3 and further blocks the transcription of the downstream genes and finally inhibits the gastric cancer occurrence. MMP-9, matrix metalloproteinase-9; Bcl-2, B-cell lymphoma-2; STAT3, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3; UTR, untranslated region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangshuang Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315020, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Yeqi Gu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Jiaxin Ge
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315020, China.
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315020, China.
| | - Yaoyao Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Xiuchong Yu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315020, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Xinxin Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Desen Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Xinjun Zhang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315020, China
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315020, China
| | - Jie Guo
- School of Materials Science & Chemical Engineering, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, Zhejiang, China
| | - Junming Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315020, China.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China.
- Institute of Digestive Diseases of Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315020, China.
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14
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Gotte G. Effects of Pathogenic Mutants of the Neuroprotective RNase 5-Angiogenin in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:738. [PMID: 38927674 PMCID: PMC11202570 DOI: 10.3390/genes15060738] [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: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that affects the motoneurons. More than 40 genes are related with ALS, and amyloidogenic proteins like SOD1 and/or TDP-43 mutants are directly involved in the onset of ALS through the formation of polymorphic fibrillogenic aggregates. However, efficacious therapeutic approaches are still lacking. Notably, heterozygous missense mutations affecting the gene coding for RNase 5, an enzyme also called angiogenin (ANG), were found to favor ALS onset. This is also true for the less-studied but angiogenic RNase 4. This review reports the substrate targets and illustrates the neuroprotective role of native ANG in the neo-vascularization of motoneurons. Then, it discusses the molecular determinants of many pathogenic ANG mutants, which almost always cause loss of function related to ALS, resulting in failures in angiogenesis and motoneuron protection. In addition, ANG mutations are sometimes combined with variants of other factors, thereby potentiating ALS effects. However, the activity of the native ANG enzyme should be finely balanced, and not excessive, to avoid possible harmful effects. Considering the interplay of these angiogenic RNases in many cellular processes, this review aims to stimulate further investigations to better elucidate the consequences of mutations in ANG and/or RNase 4 genes, in order to achieve early diagnosis and, possibly, successful therapies against ALS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Gotte
- Biological Chemistry Section, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Strada Le Grazie 8, I-37134 Verona, Italy
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15
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Sun C, Guo R, Ye X, Tang S, Chen M, Zhou P, Yang M, Liao C, Li H, Lin B, Zang C, Qi Y, Han D, Sun Y, Li N, Zhu D, Xu K, Hu H. Wybutosine hypomodification of tRNAphe activates HERVK and impairs neuronal differentiation. iScience 2024; 27:109748. [PMID: 38706838 PMCID: PMC11066470 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
We previously reported that loss of function of TYW1 led to cerebral palsy with severe intellectual disability through reduced neural proliferation. However, whether TYW1 loss affects neural differentiation is unknown. In this study, we first demonstrated that TYW1 loss blocked the formation of OHyW in tRNAphe and therefore affected the translation efficiency of UUU codon. Using the brain organoid model, we showed impaired neuron differentiation when TYW1 was depleted. Interestingly, retrotransposons were differentially regulated in TYW1-/- hESCs (human embryonic stem cells). In particular, one kind of human-specific endogenous retrovirus-K (HERVK/HML2), whose reactivation impaired human neurodevelopment, was significantly up-regulated in TYW1-/- hESCs. Consistently, a UUU codon-enriched protein, SMARCAD1, which was a key factor in controlling endogenous retroviruses, was reduced. Taken together, TYW1 loss leads to up-regulation of HERVK in hESCs by down-regulated SMARCAD1, thus impairing neuron differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanbo Sun
- Laboratory of Medical Systems Biology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Ruirui Guo
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
- School of Basic Medical Science, Gansu Medical College, Pingliang 744000, Gansu, China
| | - Xiangyan Ye
- Laboratory of Medical Systems Biology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Shiyi Tang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Manqi Chen
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Pei Zhou
- Laboratory of Medical Systems Biology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Miaomiao Yang
- Laboratory of Medical Systems Biology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Caihua Liao
- Laboratory of Medical Systems Biology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Hong Li
- Laboratory of Medical Systems Biology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Bing Lin
- Laboratory of Medical Systems Biology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Congwen Zang
- Laboratory of Medical Systems Biology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Yifei Qi
- Laboratory of Medical Systems Biology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Dingding Han
- Laboratory of Medical Systems Biology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Yi Sun
- Department of Neonatology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province 510180, China
| | - Na Li
- Laboratory of Medical Systems Biology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Dengna Zhu
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
| | - Kaishou Xu
- Department of Rehabilitation, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510120, China
| | - Hao Hu
- Laboratory of Medical Systems Biology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
- Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450052, China
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16
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Muthukumar S, Li CT, Liu RJ, Bellodi C. Roles and regulation of tRNA-derived small RNAs in animals. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024; 25:359-378. [PMID: 38182846 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-023-00690-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
A growing class of small RNAs, known as tRNA-derived RNAs (tdRs), tRNA-derived small RNAs or tRNA-derived fragments, have long been considered mere intermediates of tRNA degradation. These small RNAs have recently been implicated in an evolutionarily conserved repertoire of biological processes. In this Review, we discuss the biogenesis and molecular functions of tdRs in mammals, including tdR-mediated gene regulation in cell metabolism, immune responses, transgenerational inheritance, development and cancer. We also discuss the accumulation of tRNA-derived stress-induced RNAs as a distinct adaptive cellular response to pathophysiological conditions. Furthermore, we highlight new conceptual advances linking RNA modifications with tdR activities and discuss challenges in studying tdR biology in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sowndarya Muthukumar
- Division of Molecular Hematology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund Stem Cell Center, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Cai-Tao Li
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ru-Juan Liu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Cristian Bellodi
- Division of Molecular Hematology, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Lund Stem Cell Center, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
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17
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Xiong Q, Zhang Y, Xu Y, Yang Y, Zhang Z, Zhou Y, Zhang S, Zhou L, Wan X, Yang X, Zeng Z, Liu J, Zheng Y, Han J, Zhu Q. tiRNA-Val-CAC-2 interacts with FUBP1 to promote pancreatic cancer metastasis by activating c‑MYC transcription. Oncogene 2024; 43:1274-1287. [PMID: 38443680 PMCID: PMC11035144 DOI: 10.1038/s41388-024-02991-9] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Cumulative studies have established the significance of transfer RNA-derived small RNA (tsRNA) in tumorigenesis and progression. Nevertheless, its function and mechanism in pancreatic cancer metastasis remain largely unclear. Here, we screened and identified tiRNA-Val-CAC-2 as highly expressed in pancreatic cancer metastasis samples by tsRNA sequencing. We also observed elevated levels of tiRNA-Val-CAC-2 in the serum of pancreatic cancer patients who developed metastasis, and patients with high levels of tiRNA-Val-CAC-2 exhibited a worse prognosis. Additionally, knockdown of tiRNA-Val-CAC-2 inhibited the metastasis of pancreatic cancer in vivo and in vitro, while overexpression of tiRNA-Val-CAC-2 promoted the metastasis of pancreatic cancer. Mechanically, we discovered that tiRNA-Val-CAC-2 interacts with FUBP1, leading to enhanced stability of FUBP1 protein and increased FUBP1 enrichment in the c-MYC promoter region, thereby boosting the transcription of c-MYC. Of note, rescue experiments confirmed that tiRNA-Val-CAC-2 could influence pancreatic cancer metastasis via FUBP1-mediated c-MYC transcription. These findings highlight a potential novel mechanism underlying pancreatic cancer metastasis, and suggest that both tiRNA-Val-CAC-2 and FUBP1 could serve as promising prognostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qunli Xiong
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yaguang Zhang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Laboratory of Biotherapy, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yongfeng Xu
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhang
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Su Zhang
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Laboratory of Biotherapy, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Lian Zhou
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Laboratory of Biotherapy, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiaowen Wan
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Laboratory of Biotherapy, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Xiaojuan Yang
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zhu Zeng
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jinlu Liu
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ying Zheng
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Junhong Han
- Department of Biotherapy, Cancer Center and State Laboratory of Biotherapy, and Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| | - Qing Zhu
- Division of Abdominal Tumor Multimodality Treatment, Cancer Center, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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18
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Huang T, Zhao Y, Jiang G, Yang Z. tsRNA: A Promising Biomarker in Breast Cancer. J Cancer 2024; 15:2613-2626. [PMID: 38577588 PMCID: PMC10988313 DOI: 10.7150/jca.93531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) are a novel class of non-coding small RNAs, generated from specific cleavage sites of tRNA or pre-tRNA. tsRNAs can directly participate in RNA silencing, transcription, translation, and other processes. Their dysregulation is closely related to the occurrence and development of various cancers. Breast cancer is one of the most common and fastest-growing malignant tumors in humans. tsRNAs have been found to be dysregulated in breast cancer, serving as a new target for exploring the pathogenesis of breast cancer. They are also considered new tumor markers, providing a basis for diagnosis and treatment. This article reviews the generation, classification, mechanism of action, function of tsRNAs, and their biological effects and related mechanisms in breast cancer, in the hope of providing a new direction for the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Huang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, China
| | - Yuexin Zhao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, China
| | - Guoqin Jiang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, China
| | - Zhixue Yang
- Department of Thyroid and Breast Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, 215004, China
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19
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Tan L, Wu X, Tang Z, Chen H, Cao W, Wen C, Zou G, Zou H. The tsRNAs (tRFdb-3013a/b) serve as novel biomarkers for colon adenocarcinomas. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:4299-4326. [PMID: 38451187 PMCID: PMC10968714 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205590] [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: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
The tsRNAs (tRNA-derived small RNAs) are a novel class of small non-coding RNAs derived from transfer-RNAs. Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is the most malignant intestinal tumor. This study focused on the identification and characterization of tsRNA biomarkers in colon adenocarcinomas. Data processing and bioinformatic analyses were performed with the packages of R and Python software. The cell proliferation, migration and invasion abilities were determined by CCK-8 and transwell assays. Luciferase reporter assay was used to test the binding of tsRNA with its target genes. With computational methods, we identified the tRNA fragments profiles within COAD datasets, and discriminated forty-two differentially expressed tsRNAs between paired colon adenocarcinomas and non-tumor controls. Among the fragments derived from the 3' end of tRNA-His-GUG (a histidyl-transfer-RNA), tRFdb-3013a and tRFdb-3013b (tRFdb-3013a/b) were notably decreased in colon and rectum adenocarcinomas, especially, tRFdb-3013a/b might tend to be down-regulated in patients with lymphatic or vascular invasion present. The clinical survival of colorectal adenocarcinoma patients with low tRFdb-3013a/b expression was significantly worse than that of high expression patients. In colon adenocarcinoma cells, tRFdb-3013a could have inhibited cell proliferations, and reduced cell migration and invasion abilities. The enrichment analyses showed that most of tRFdb-3013a correlated-genes were enriched in the extracellular matrix associated GO terms, phagosome pathway, and a GSEA molecular signature pathway. Additionally, the 3'UTR of ST3GAL1 mRNA was predicted to contain the binding site of tRFdb-3013a/b, tRFdb-3013a/b might directly target and regulate ST3GAL1 expression in colon adenocarcinomas. These results suggested that tRFdb-3013a/b might serve as novel biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of colon adenocarcinomas, and act a key player in the progression of colon adenocarcinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihong Tan
- Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Xiaoling Wu
- Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Zhurong Tang
- Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Huan Chen
- Yueyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yueyang 414000, China
- Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Weiguo Cao
- Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Chunjie Wen
- Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Guojun Zou
- Yueyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yueyang 414000, China
| | - Hecun Zou
- Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
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20
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Fernández-García L, Ahumada-Marchant C, Lobos-Ávila P, Brauer B, Bustos FJ, Arriagada G. The Mytilus chilensis Steamer-like Element-1 Retrotransposon Antisense mRNA Harbors an Internal Ribosome Entry Site That Is Modulated by hnRNPK. Viruses 2024; 16:403. [PMID: 38543768 PMCID: PMC10974842 DOI: 10.3390/v16030403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
LTR-retrotransposons are transposable elements characterized by the presence of long terminal repeats (LTRs) directly flanking an internal coding region. They share genome organization and replication strategies with retroviruses. Steamer-like Element-1 (MchSLE-1) is an LTR-retrotransposon identified in the genome of the Chilean blue mussel Mytilus chilensis. MchSLE-1 is transcribed; however, whether its RNA is also translated and the mechanism underlying such translation remain to be elucidated. Here, we characterize the MchSLE-1 translation mechanism. We found that the MchSLE-1 5' and 3'LTRs command transcription of sense and antisense RNAs, respectively. Using luciferase reporters commanded by the untranslated regions (UTRs) of MchSLE-1, we found that in vitro 5'UTR sense is unable to initiate translation, whereas the antisense 5'UTR initiates translation even when the eIF4E-eIF4G interaction was disrupted, suggesting the presence of an internal ribosomal entry site (IRES). The antisense 5'UTR IRES activity was tested using bicistronic reporters. The antisense 5'UTR has IRES activity only when the mRNA is transcribed in the nucleus, suggesting that nuclear RNA-binding proteins are required to modulate its activity. Indeed, heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNPK) was identified as an IRES trans-acting factor (ITAF) of the MchSLE-1 IRES. To our knowledge, this is the first report describing an IRES in an antisense mRNA derived from a mussel LTR-retrotransposon.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Gloria Arriagada
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomedicas, Facultad de Medicina y Facultad de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad Andres Bello, Santiago 83700071, Chile; (L.F.-G.); (C.A.-M.); (P.L.-Á.); (B.B.); (F.J.B.)
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21
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Zhang Y, Gu X, Li Y, Huang Y, Ju S. Multiple regulatory roles of the transfer RNA-derived small RNAs in cancers. Genes Dis 2024; 11:597-613. [PMID: 37692525 PMCID: PMC10491922 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2023.02.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
With the development of sequencing technology, transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) have received extensive attention as a new type of small noncoding RNAs. Based on the differences in the cleavage sites of nucleases on tRNAs, tsRNAs can be divided into two categories, tRNA halves (tiRNAs) and tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs), each with specific subcellular localizations. Additionally, the biogenesis of tsRNAs is tissue-specific and can be regulated by tRNA modifications. In this review, we first elaborated on the classification and biogenesis of tsRNAs. After summarizing the latest mechanisms of tsRNAs, including transcriptional gene silencing, post-transcriptional gene silencing, nascent RNA silencing, translation regulation, rRNA regulation, and reverse transcription regulation, we explored the representative biological functions of tsRNAs in tumors. Furthermore, this review summarized the clinical value of tsRNAs in cancers, thus providing theoretical support for their potential as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Xinliang Gu
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Yang Li
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
- Research Center of Clinical Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Yuejiao Huang
- Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Shaoqing Ju
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
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22
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La Ferlita A, Alaimo S, Nigita G, Distefano R, Beane JD, Tsichlis PN, Ferro A, Croce CM, Pulvirenti A. tRFUniverse: A comprehensive resource for the interactive analyses of tRNA-derived ncRNAs in human cancer. iScience 2024; 27:108810. [PMID: 38303722 PMCID: PMC10831894 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.108810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
tRNA-derived ncRNAs are a heterogeneous class of non-coding RNAs recently proposed to be active regulators of gene expression and be involved in many diseases, including cancer. Consequently, several online resources on tRNA-derived ncRNAs have been released. Although interesting, such resources present only basic features and do not adequately exploit the wealth of knowledge available about tRNA-derived ncRNAs. Therefore, we introduce tRFUniverse, a novel online resource for the analysis of tRNA-derived ncRNAs in human cancer. tRFUniverse presents an extensive collection of classes of tRNA-derived ncRNAs analyzed across all the TCGA and TARGET tumor cohorts, NCI-60 cell lines, and biological fluids. Moreover, public AGO CLASH/CLIP-Seq data were analyzed to identify the molecular interactions between tRNA-derived ncRNAs and other transcripts. Importantly, tRFUniverse combines in a single resource a comprehensive set of features that we believe may be helpful to investigate the involvement of tRNA-derived ncRNAs in cancer biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro La Ferlita
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Salvatore Alaimo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Knowmics Lab, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni Nigita
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Rosario Distefano
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Joal D. Beane
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Philip N. Tsichlis
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Alfredo Ferro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Knowmics Lab, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Carlo M. Croce
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Alfredo Pulvirenti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Knowmics Lab, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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23
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Xie L, Zhao Z, Xia H, Su S, He L, Huang Z, Li Y, Gao M, Chen J, Peng J, Ruan Y. A novel tsRNA-5008a promotes ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes that causes atrial structural remodeling predisposed to atrial fibrillation. Exp Cell Res 2024; 435:113923. [PMID: 38190870 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2024.113923] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an extremely common clinical arrhythmia disease, but whether its mechanism is associated with ferroptosis remains unclear. The tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) are involved in a variety of cardiovascular diseases, however, their role and mechanism in atrial remodeling in AF have not been studied. We aimed to explore whether tsRNAs mediate ferroptosis in AF progression. The AF models were constructed to detect ferroptosis-related indicators, and Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) was introduced to clarify the relationship between ferroptosis and AF. Atrial myocardial tissue was used for small RNA sequencing to screen potential tsRNAs. tsRNA functioned on ferroptosis and AF was explored. Atrial fibrosis and changes in the cellular structures and arrangement were observed in AF mice model, and these alterations were accompanied by ferroptosis occurrence, exhibited by the accumulation of Fe2+ and MDA levels and the decrease of expression of FTH1, GPX4, and SLC7A11. Blocking above ferroptosis activation with Fer-1 resulted in a significant improvement for AF. A total of 7 tsRNAs were upregulated (including tsRNA-5008a) and 2 tsRNAs were downregulated in atrial myocardial tissue in the AF group compared with the sham group. We constructed a tsRNA-mRNA regulated network, which showed tsRNA-5008a targeted 16 ferroptosis-related genes. Knockdown of tsRNA-5008a significantly suppressed ferroptosis through targeting SLC7A11 and diminished myocardial fibrosis both in vitro and in vivo. On the contrary, tsRNA-5008a mimics promoted ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes. Collectively, tsRNA-5008a involved in AF through ferroptosis. Our study provides novel insights into the role of tsRNA-5008a mediated ferroptosis in AF progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangzhen Xie
- Department of Geriatrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zewei Zhao
- Department of Geriatrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hao Xia
- Department of Geriatrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shuang Su
- Department of Geriatrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Liwei He
- Department of Cardiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhaohui Huang
- Department of Geriatrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yongchun Li
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Mingjian Gao
- Department of Geriatrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jun Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Southern University of Science and Technology Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian Peng
- Department of Cardiology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yunjun Ruan
- Department of Geriatrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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24
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Chen Y, Liu X, Chen W, Zhu L. RNS2 is required for the biogenesis of a wounding responsive 16 nts tsRNA in Arabidopsis thaliana. PLANT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 114:6. [PMID: 38265739 DOI: 10.1007/s11103-023-01399-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), a new category of regulatory small non-coding RNA existing in almost all branches of life, have recently attracted broad attention. Increasing evidence has shown that tsRNAs are not random degradation debris of tRNAs, but products cleaved by specific endoribonucleases, with versatile functions in response to various developmental and environmental cues. However, it is still unclear about the diversity, biogenesis and function of tsRNAs in plants. In this study, we comprehensively profiled 10-60 nts small RNAs in Arabidopsis thaliana leaf with or without wounding stress and identified four 16 nts tiny tRFs (tRNA-derived fragments) sharply increased after wounding, namely tRF5'Ala. Notably, genetic, biochemical and bioinformatic data indicated that RNS2, a member of class II RNase T2 enzymes, was the main endoribonuclease responsible for the biogenesis of tRF5'Ala. Moreover, tRF5'Ala was highly abundant and conserved in Arabidopsis and rice pollen. However, tRF5'Ala did not associate with AGO 1 in vivo or display any inhibitory effect on the translation of a luciferase mRNA in vitro. Altogether, our study highlights the discovery of a novel class of tiny tsRNAs drastically increased under wounding stress as well as their generation by RNS2, which provides a new insight into tsRNAs research in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Chen
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Editing, Innovative Center of Molecular Genetics and Evolution, School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, 230 Waihuanxi Road, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xiaobin Liu
- Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Editing, Innovative Center of Molecular Genetics and Evolution, School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, 230 Waihuanxi Road, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Weiqiang Chen
- Key Laboratory of Beijing for Identification and Safety Evaluation of Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100700, China.
- Prescription Laboratory of Xinjiang Traditional Uyghur Medicine, Xinjiang Institute of Traditional Uyghur Medicine, Urmuqi, 830000, China.
| | - Lei Zhu
- Institute of Thoracic Oncology and Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 6100041, China.
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25
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Lu X. Regulation of endogenous retroviruses in murine embryonic stem cells and early embryos. J Mol Cell Biol 2024; 15:mjad052. [PMID: 37604781 PMCID: PMC10794949 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjad052] [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: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) are important components of transposable elements that constitute ∼40% of the mouse genome. ERVs exhibit dynamic expression patterns during early embryonic development and are engaged in numerous biological processes. Therefore, ERV expression must be closely monitored in cells. Most studies have focused on the regulation of ERV expression in mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and during early embryonic development. This review touches on the classification, expression, and functions of ERVs in mouse ESCs and early embryos and mainly discusses ERV modulation strategies from the perspectives of transcription, epigenetic modification, nucleosome/chromatin assembly, and post-transcriptional control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
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26
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Nakano Y, Gamper H, McGuigan H, Maharjan S, Sun Z, Krishnan K, Yigit E, Li NS, Piccirilli JA, Kleiner R, Nichols N, Hou YM. Genome-Wide Profiling of tRNA Using an Unexplored Reverse Transcriptase with High Processivity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.09.569604. [PMID: 38106225 PMCID: PMC10723452 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.09.569604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring the dynamic changes of cellular tRNA pools is challenging, due to the extensive post-transcriptional modifications of individual species. The most critical component in tRNAseq is a processive reverse transcriptase (RT) that can read through each modification with high efficiency. Here we show that the recently developed group-II intron RT Induro has the processivity and efficiency necessary to profile tRNA dynamics. Using our Induro-tRNAseq, simpler and more comprehensive than the best methods to date, we show that Induro progressively increases readthrough of tRNA over time and that the mechanism of increase is selective removal of RT stops, without altering the misincorporation frequency. We provide a parallel dataset of the misincorporation profile of Induro relative to the related TGIRT RT to facilitate the prediction of non-annotated modifications. We report an unexpected modification profile among human proline isoacceptors, absent from mouse and lower eukaryotes, that indicates new biology of decoding proline codons.
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27
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Yu M, Yi J, Qiu Q, Yao D, Li J, Yang J, Mi C, Zhou L, Lu B, Lu W, Ying K, Chen W, Chen E, Zhang H, Lu Z, Lu Y, Liu P. Pan-cancer tRNA-derived fragment CAT1 coordinates RBPMS to stabilize NOTCH2 mRNA to promote tumorigenesis. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113408. [PMID: 37943661 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113408] [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: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Transfer RNA-derived fragments (tRFs) are a class of small non-coding regulatory RNAs that are involved in the pathophysiology of many diseases. However, the role of tRFs in cancer progression remains largely elusive. Here, we demonstrate that a pan-cancer 3'-tRF, CAT1 (cancer associated tRF 1), is ubiquitously upregulated in tumors and associated with poor prognosis of a variety of cancers, including lung cancer. The upregulated CAT1 in cancer cells binds to RNA-binding protein with multiple splicing (RBPMS) and displaces NOTCH2 association from RBPMS, thereby inhibiting the subsequent CCR4-NOT deadenylation-complex-mediated NOTCH2 mRNA decay. The CAT1-enhanced NOTCH2 expression promotes lung cancer cell proliferation and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. In addition, plasma CAT1 levels are substantially increased in patients with lung cancer compared to non-cancer control subjects. Our findings reveal an intrinsic connection between cancer-specific upregulation of CAT1 and cancer progression, show the regulation of NOTCH signaling in cancer by a 3'-tRF, and highlight its great clinical potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqian Yu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Jiani Yi
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
| | - Qiongzi Qiu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Dongxia Yao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Jia Li
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
| | - Juze Yang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
| | - Chunyi Mi
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Liyuan Zhou
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
| | - Bingjian Lu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Weiguo Lu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Kejing Ying
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Wantao Chen
- Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Enguo Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Honghe Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Research Unit of Intelligence Classification of Tumor Pathology and Precision Therapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Zhimin Lu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China.
| | - Yan Lu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China.
| | - Pengyuan Liu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China; Department of Physiology, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA.
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28
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Kuhle B, Chen Q, Schimmel P. tRNA renovatio: Rebirth through fragmentation. Mol Cell 2023; 83:3953-3971. [PMID: 37802077 PMCID: PMC10841463 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.09.016] [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: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023]
Abstract
tRNA function is based on unique structures that enable mRNA decoding using anticodon trinucleotides. These structures interact with specific aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases and ribosomes using 3D shape and sequence signatures. Beyond translation, tRNAs serve as versatile signaling molecules interacting with other RNAs and proteins. Through evolutionary processes, tRNA fragmentation emerges as not merely random degradation but an act of recreation, generating specific shorter molecules called tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs). These tsRNAs exploit their linear sequences and newly arranged 3D structures for unexpected biological functions, epitomizing the tRNA "renovatio" (from Latin, meaning renewal, renovation, and rebirth). Emerging methods to uncover full tRNA/tsRNA sequences and modifications, combined with techniques to study RNA structures and to integrate AI-powered predictions, will enable comprehensive investigations of tRNA fragmentation products and new interaction potentials in relation to their biological functions. We anticipate that these directions will herald a new era for understanding biological complexity and advancing pharmaceutical engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Kuhle
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA; Department of Cellular Biochemistry, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Qi Chen
- Molecular Medicine Program, Department of Human Genetics, and Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Paul Schimmel
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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29
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Zhang L, Liu J, Hou Y. Classification, function, and advances in tsRNA in non-neoplastic diseases. Cell Death Dis 2023; 14:748. [PMID: 37973899 PMCID: PMC10654580 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-023-06250-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) are non-coding small RNAs produced by specific endonucleases following the processing and splicing of precursor or mature tRNAs upon starvation, oxidative stress, hypoxia, and other adverse conditions. tRNAs are classified into two major categories, tRNA fragments (tRFs) and tRNA-derived stress-induced small RNAs (tiRNAs), based on differences in splice sites. With the development of high-throughput sequencing technologies in recent years, tsRNAs have been found to have important biological functions, including inhibition of apoptosis, epigenetic regulation, cell-cell communication, translation, and regulation of gene expression. Additionally, these molecules have been found to be aberrantly expressed in various diseases and to be involved in several pathological processes. In this article, the classification and nomenclature, biological functions, and potential use of tsRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets in non-neoplastic diseases are reviewed. Although tsRNA research is at its infancy, their potential in the treatment of non-tumor diseases warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liou Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Translational Research Experiment Department, Science Experiment Center, China Medical University, Shenyang, China.
| | - Yang Hou
- Department of Radiology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110004, China.
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Tam PLF, Leung D. The Molecular Impacts of Retrotransposons in Development and Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16418. [PMID: 38003607 PMCID: PMC10671454 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216418] [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: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Retrotransposons are invasive genetic elements that constitute substantial portions of mammalian genomes. They have the potential to influence nearby gene expression through their cis-regulatory sequences, reverse transcription machinery, and the ability to mold higher-order chromatin structures. Due to their multifaceted functions, it is crucial for host fitness to maintain strict regulation of these parasitic sequences to ensure proper growth and development. This review explores how subsets of retrotransposons have undergone evolutionary exaptation to enhance the complexity of mammalian genomes. It also highlights the significance of regulating these elements, drawing on recent studies conducted in human and murine systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe Lut Fei Tam
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong SAR, China;
| | - Danny Leung
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong SAR, China;
- Center for Epigenomics Research, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong SAR, China
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31
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Herridge RP, Dolata J, Migliori V, de Santis Alves C, Borges F, Schorn AJ, Van Ex F, Parent JS, Lin A, Bajczyk M, Leonardi T, Hendrick A, Kouzarides T, Martienssen RA. Pseudouridine guides germline small RNA transport and epigenetic inheritance. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.27.542553. [PMID: 37398006 PMCID: PMC10312437 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.27.542553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications that arise during plant and animal development, such as DNA and histone modification, are mostly reset during gamete formation, but some are inherited from the germline including those marking imprinted genes1. Small RNAs guide these epigenetic modifications, and some are also inherited by the next generation2,3. In C. elegans, these inherited small RNAs have poly (UG) tails4, but how inherited small RNAs are distinguished in other animals and plants is unknown. Pseudouridine (Ψ) is the most abundant RNA modification but has not been explored in small RNAs. Here, we develop novel assays to detect Ψ in short RNA sequences, demonstrating its presence in mouse and Arabidopsis microRNAs and their precursors. We also detect substantial enrichment in germline small RNAs, namely epigenetically activated siRNAs (easiRNAs) in Arabidopsis pollen, and piwi-interacting piRNAs in mouse testis. In pollen, pseudouridylated easiRNAs are localized to sperm cells, and we found that PAUSED/HEN5 (PSD), the plant homolog of Exportin-t, interacts genetically with Ψ and is required for transport of easiRNAs into sperm cells from the vegetative nucleus. We further show that Exportin-t is required for the triploid block: chromosome dosage-dependent seed lethality that is epigenetically inherited from pollen. Thus, Ψ has a conserved role in marking inherited small RNAs in the germline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rowan P Herridge
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Jakub Dolata
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
- Department of Gene Expression, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland
| | - Valentina Migliori
- The Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Filipe Borges
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Andrea J Schorn
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Frédéric Van Ex
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Jean-Sebastien Parent
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Ann Lin
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
| | - Mateusz Bajczyk
- Department of Gene Expression, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland
| | - Tommaso Leonardi
- The Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
- Center for Genomic Science of IIT@SEMM, Instituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), 20139 Milan, Italy
| | - Alan Hendrick
- Storm Therapeutics, Ltd., Moneta Building (B280), Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge CB22 3AT, UK
| | - Tony Kouzarides
- The Gurdon Institute, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
| | - Robert A Martienssen
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 11724, USA
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Wang P, Fu Z, Liu Y, Huang S, Guo Y, Jin J, Fang Y, Pan Y, Fan Z, Yu H. tRF-21-LNK8KEP1B as a potential novel diagnostic biomarker for enthesitis-related arthritis. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 124:110820. [PMID: 37660592 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110820] [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: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) play crucial roles in the progression of various diseases, and widely distribute in human tissues, including blood and urine. The diagnosis of enthesitis-related arthritis (ERA) is based on the observation of clinical manifestations. Therefore, we aimed to investigate whether serum tRFs can be used as diagnostic markers for ERA. METHODS Serum was collected from children admitted to the Children's Hospital Affiliated with Nanjing Medical University between February 2022 to October 2022. The expression profiles of tRFs in the serum of ERA patients (n = 5) and healthy controls (HCs; n = 5) were investigated using small RNA high-throughput sequencing. The level and diagnostic value of tRF-21-LNK8KEP1B were evaluated by real-time quantitative PCR in serum samples from 30 ERA patients and 31 HCs. The specificity and sensitivity of tRFs were determined using receiver operating characteristic analyses. Bioinformatics analysis was performed to explore and identify the potential biological pathways induced by tRFs. RESULTS Ninety-eight upregulated and 63 downregulated tRFs were identified in the serum. We selected tRF-21-LNK8KEP1B as a candidate marker using KEGG pathway enrichment and PCR validation. tRF-21-LNK8KEP1B was substantially increased in the serum of ERA patients compared with that in HCs. The area under the curve (AUC) for tRF-21-LNK8KEP1B in the ERA group was 0.7849. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, we demonstrated the promising role of serum tRF-21-LNK8KEP1B -levels as a diagnostic biomarker for ERA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panpan Wang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ziyi Fu
- Department of Maternal and Children's Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yingying Liu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shuoyin Huang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanli Guo
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Jin
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuying Fang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuting Pan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zhidan Fan
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Haiguo Yu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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Akiyama Y, Ivanov P. tRNA-derived RNAs: Biogenesis and roles in translational control. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2023; 14:e1805. [PMID: 37406666 PMCID: PMC10766869 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived RNAs (tDRs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs that play important roles in different aspects of gene expression. These ubiquitous and heterogenous RNAs, which vary across different species and cell types, are proposed to regulate various biological processes. In this review, we will discuss aspects of their biogenesis, and specifically, their contribution into translational control. We will summarize diverse roles of tDRs and the molecular mechanisms underlying their functions in the regulation of protein synthesis and their impact on related events such as stress-induced translational reprogramming. This article is categorized under: RNA Processing > Processing of Small RNAs Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Regulatory RNAs Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Biogenesis of Effector Small RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasutoshi Akiyama
- Laboratory of Oncology, Pharmacy Practice and Sciences, Tohoku University Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sendai, Japan
| | - Pavel Ivanov
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation and Immunity, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Shi H, Xie J, Pei S, He D, Hou H, Xu S, Fu Z, Shi X. Digging out the biology properties of tRNA-derived small RNA from black hole. Front Genet 2023; 14:1232325. [PMID: 37953919 PMCID: PMC10637384 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1232325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
An unique subclass of functional non-coding RNAs generated by transfer RNA (tRNA) under stress circumstances is known as tRNA-derived small RNA (tsRNA). tsRNAs can be divided into tRNA halves and tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) based on the different cleavage sites. Like microRNAs, tsRNAs can attach to Argonaute (AGO) proteins to target downstream mRNA in a base pairing manner, which plays a role in rRNA processing, gene silencing, protein expression and viral infection. Notably, tsRNAs can also directly bind to protein and exhibit functions in transcription, protein modification, gene expression, protein stabilization, and signaling pathways. tsRNAs can control the expression of tumor suppressor genes and participate in the initiation of cancer. It can also mediate the progression of diseases by regulating cell viability, migration ability, inflammatory factor content and autophagy ability. Precision medicine targeting tsRNAs and drug therapy of plant-derived tsRNAs are expected to be used in clinical practice. In addition, liquid biopsy technology based on tsRNAs indicates a new direction for the non-invasive diagnosis of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hengmei Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiaheng Xie
- Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shengbin Pei
- Department of Breast Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Danni He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Huyang Hou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shipeng Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Ziyi Fu
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoyan Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
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Chen Q, Zhou T. Emerging functional principles of tRNA-derived small RNAs and other regulatory small RNAs. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:105225. [PMID: 37673341 PMCID: PMC10562873 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advancements in small RNA sequencing have unveiled a previously hidden world of regulatory small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) that extend beyond the well-studied small interfering RNAs, microRNAs, and piwi-interacting RNAs. This exploration, starting with tRNA-derived small RNAs, has led to the discovery of a diverse universe of sncRNAs derived from various longer structured RNAs such as rRNAs, small nucleolar RNAs, small nuclear RNAs, Y RNAs, and vault RNAs, with exciting uncharted functional possibilities. In this perspective, we discuss the emerging functional principles of sncRNAs beyond the well-known RNAi-like mechanisms, focusing on those that operate independent of linear sequence complementarity but rather function in an aptamer-like fashion. Aptamers use 3D structure for specific interactions with ligands and are modulated by RNA modifications and subcellular environments. Given that aptamer-like sncRNA functions are widespread and present in species lacking RNAi, they may represent an ancient functional principle that predates RNAi. We propose a rethinking of the origin of RNAi and its relationship with these aptamer-like functions in sncRNAs and how these complementary mechanisms shape biological processes. Lastly, the aptamer-like function of sncRNAs highlights the need for caution in using small RNA mimics in research and therapeutics, as their specificity is not restricted solely to linear sequence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Chen
- Molecular Medicine Program, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
| | - Tong Zhou
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, USA.
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Li Y, Gao J, Wang Y, Cai J, Wu D, Wang L, Pu W, Yu F, Zhu S. The functions of a 5' tRNA-Ala-derived fragment in gene expression. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 193:1126-1141. [PMID: 37350495 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiad361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Transfer RNA (tRNA) can produce smaller RNA fragments called tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs). tRFs play critical roles in multiple cellular programs, although the functional mechanisms of tRFs remain largely unknown in plants. In this study, we examined the phenotype associated with 5' tRF-Ala (tRF-Ala, produced from tRNA-Ala) overexpression and knockdown lines (tDR-Ala-OE and tDR-Ala-kd, respectively) and the mechanisms by which tRF-Ala affects mRNA levels in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). We investigated the candidate proteins associated with tRF-Ala by quantitative proteomics and confirmed the direct interaction between tRF-Ala and the splicing factor SERINE-ARGININE RICH PROTEIN 34 (SR34). A transcriptome sequencing analysis showed that 318 genes among all the genes (786) with substantial alternative splicing (AS) variance in tDR-Ala-OE lines are targets of SR34. tRF-Ala diminished the binding affinity between SR34 and its targets by direct competition for interaction with SR34. These findings reveal the critical roles of tRF-Ala in regulating mRNA levels and splicing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, and Hunan Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics and Developmental Regulation, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Junping Gao
- Technology Center, China Tobacco Hunan Industrial Co., Ltd., Changsha 410007, China
| | - Ying Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, and Hunan Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics and Developmental Regulation, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Jun Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, and Hunan Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics and Developmental Regulation, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Dousheng Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, and Hunan Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics and Developmental Regulation, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Long Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, and Hunan Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics and Developmental Regulation, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Wenxuan Pu
- Technology Center, China Tobacco Hunan Industrial Co., Ltd., Changsha 410007, China
| | - Feng Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, and Hunan Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics and Developmental Regulation, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
| | - Sirui Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, and Hunan Key Laboratory of Plant Functional Genomics and Developmental Regulation, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China
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Lai H, Feng N, Zhai Q. Discovery of the major 15-30 nt mammalian small RNAs, their biogenesis and function. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5796. [PMID: 37723159 PMCID: PMC10507107 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41554-6] [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: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Small RNAs (sRNAs) within 15-30 nt such as miRNA, tsRNA, srRNA with 3'-OH have been identified. However, whether these sRNAs are the major 15-30 nt sRNAs is still unknown. Here we show about 90% mammalian sRNAs within 15-30 nt end with 2',3'-cyclic phosphate (3'-cP). TANT-seq was developed to simultaneously profile sRNAs with 3'-cP (sRNA-cPs) and sRNA-OHs, and huge amount of sRNA-cPs were detected. Surprisingly, sRNA-cPs and sRNA-OHs usually have distinct sequences. The data from TANT-seq were validated by a novel method termed TE-qPCR, and Northern blot. Furthermore, we found that Angiogenin and RNase 4 contribute to the biogenesis of sRNA-cPs. Moreover, much more sRNA-cPs than sRNA-OHs bind to Ago2, and can regulate gene expression. Particularly, snR-2-cP regulates Bcl2 by targeting to its 3'UTR dependent on Ago2, and subsequently regulates apoptosis. In addition, sRNA-cPs can guide the cleavage of target RNAs in Ago2 complex as miRNAs without the requirement of 3'-cP. Our discovery greatly expands the repertoire of mammalian sRNAs, and provides strategies and powerful tools towards further investigation of sRNA-cPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hejin Lai
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food Safety, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ning Feng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food Safety, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiwei Zhai
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food Safety, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
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38
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Gou LT, Zhu Q, Liu MF. Small RNAs: An expanding world with therapeutic promises. FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 3:676-682. [PMID: 38933305 PMCID: PMC11197668 DOI: 10.1016/j.fmre.2023.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs), such as microRNAs (miRNAs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), and transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), play essential roles in regulating various cellular and developmental processes. Over the past three decades, researchers have identified novel sncRNA species from various organisms. These molecules demonstrate dynamic expression and diverse functions, and they are subject to intricate regulation through RNA modifications in both healthy and diseased states. Notably, certain sncRNAs in gametes, particularly sperm, respond to environmental stimuli and facilitate epigenetic inheritance. Collectively, the in-depth understanding of sncRNA functions and mechanisms has accelerated the development of small RNA-based therapeutics. In this review, we present the recent advances in the field, including new sncRNA species and the regulatory influences of RNA modifications. We also discuss the current limitations and challenges associated with using small RNAs as either biomarkers or therapeutic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lan-Tao Gou
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Qifan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Mo-Fang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
- School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai 201210, China
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39
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Yang F, Su W, Chung OW, Tracy L, Wang L, Ramsden DA, Zhang ZZZ. Retrotransposons hijack alt-EJ for DNA replication and eccDNA biogenesis. Nature 2023; 620:218-225. [PMID: 37438532 PMCID: PMC10691919 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-06327-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Retrotransposons are highly enriched in the animal genome1-3. The activation of retrotransposons can rewrite host DNA information and fundamentally impact host biology1-3. Although developmental activation of retrotransposons can offer benefits for the host, such as against virus infection, uncontrolled activation promotes disease or potentially drives ageing1-5. After activation, retrotransposons use their mRNA as templates to synthesize double-stranded DNA for making new insertions in the host genome1-3,6. Although the reverse transcriptase that they encode can synthesize the first-strand DNA1-3,6, how the second-strand DNA is generated remains largely unclear. Here we report that retrotransposons hijack the alternative end-joining (alt-EJ) DNA repair process of the host for a circularization step to synthesize their second-strand DNA. We used Nanopore sequencing to examine the fates of replicated retrotransposon DNA, and found that 10% of them achieve new insertions, whereas 90% exist as extrachromosomal circular DNA (eccDNA). Using eccDNA production as a readout, further genetic screens identified factors from alt-EJ as essential for retrotransposon replication. alt-EJ drives the second-strand synthesis of the long terminal repeat retrotransposon DNA through a circularization process and is therefore necessary for eccDNA production and new insertions. Together, our study reveals that alt-EJ is essential in driving the propagation of parasitic genomic retroelements. Our study uncovers a conserved function of this understudied DNA repair process, and provides a new perspective to understand-and potentially control-the retrotransposon life cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu Yang
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Weijia Su
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Oliver W Chung
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Lauren Tracy
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Lu Wang
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Dale A Ramsden
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Z Z Zhao Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
- Duke Regeneration Center, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
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Gan L, Song H, Ding X. Transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) in gastric cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1184615. [PMID: 37503324 PMCID: PMC10369188 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1184615] [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: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) are newly discovered noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). According to the specific cleavage of nucleases at different sites of tRNAs, the produced tsRNAs are divided into tRNA-derived stress-inducible RNAs (tiRNAs) and tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs). tRFs and tiRNAs have essential biological functions, such as mRNA stability regulation, translation regulation and epigenetic regulation, and play significant roles in the occurrence and development of various tumors. Although the roles of tsRNAs in some tumors have been intensively studied, their roles in gastric cancer are still rarely reported. In this review, we focus on recent advances in the generation and classification of tsRNAs, their biological functions, and their roles in gastric cancer. Sixteen articles investigating dysregulated tsRNAs in gastric cancer are summarized. The roles of 17 tsRNAs are summarized, of which 9 were upregulated and 8 were downregulated compared with controls. Aberrant regulation of tsRNAs was closely related to the main clinicopathological factors of gastric cancer, such as lymph node metastasis, Tumor-Node-Metastasis (TNM) stage, tumor size, and vascular invasion. tsRNAs participate in the progression of gastric cancer by regulating the PTEN/PI3K/AKT, MAPK, Wnt, and p53 signaling pathways. The available literature suggests the potential of using tsRNAs as clinical biomarkers for gastric cancer diagnosis and prognosis and as therapeutic targets for gastric cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Gan
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Haojun Song
- The Gastroenterology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- The Biobank of The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Xiaoyun Ding
- The Gastroenterology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
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Lee S, Kim J, Valdmanis PN, Kim HK. Emerging roles of tRNA-derived small RNAs in cancer biology. Exp Mol Med 2023:10.1038/s12276-023-01038-5. [PMID: 37430089 PMCID: PMC10393972 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-01038-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) play an essential role in mRNA translation by delivering amino acids to growing polypeptide chains. Recent data demonstrate that tRNAs can be cleaved by ribonucleases, and the resultant cleavage products, tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), have crucial roles in physiological and pathological conditions. They are classified into more than six types according to their size and cleavage positions. Since the initial discovery of the physiological functions of tsRNAs more than a decade ago, accumulating data have demonstrated that tsRNAs play critical roles in gene regulation and tumorigenesis. These tRNA-derived molecules have various regulatory functions at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and translational levels. More than a hundred types of modifications are found on tRNAs, affecting the biogenesis, stability, function, and biochemical properties of tsRNA. Both oncogenic and tumor suppressor functions have been reported for tsRNAs, which play important roles in the development and progression of various cancers. Abnormal expression patterns and modification of tsRNAs are associated with various diseases, including cancer and neurological disorders. In this review, we will describe the biogenesis, versatile gene regulation mechanisms, and modification-mediated regulation mechanisms of tsRNA as well as the expression patterns and potential therapeutic roles of tsRNAs in various cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saebyeol Lee
- Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Jungeun Kim
- Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Paul N Valdmanis
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98115, USA
| | - Hak Kyun Kim
- Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul, 06974, Republic of Korea.
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Cornec A, Poirier EZ. Interplay between RNA interference and transposable elements in mammals. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1212086. [PMID: 37475864 PMCID: PMC10354258 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1212086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) plays pleiotropic roles in animal cells, from the post-transcriptional control of gene expression via the production of micro-RNAs, to the inhibition of RNA virus infection. We discuss here the role of RNAi in regulating the expression of self RNAs, and particularly transposable elements (TEs), which are genomic sequences capable of influencing gene expression and disrupting genome architecture. Dicer proteins act as the entry point of the RNAi pathway by detecting and degrading RNA of TE origin, ultimately leading to TE silencing. RNAi similarly targets cellular RNAs such as repeats transcribed from centrosomes. Dicer proteins are thus nucleic acid sensors that recognize self RNA in the form of double-stranded RNA, and trigger a silencing RNA interference response.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Enzo Z. Poirier
- Stem Cell Immunity Team, Institut Curie, PSL Research University, INSERM U932, Paris, France
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Abstract
The study of eukaryotic tRNA processing has given rise to an explosion of new information and insights in the last several years. We now have unprecedented knowledge of each step in the tRNA processing pathway, revealing unexpected twists in biochemical pathways, multiple new connections with regulatory pathways, and numerous biological effects of defects in processing steps that have profound consequences throughout eukaryotes, leading to growth phenotypes in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae and to neurological and other disorders in humans. This review highlights seminal new results within the pathways that comprise the life of a tRNA, from its birth after transcription until its death by decay. We focus on new findings and revelations in each step of the pathway including the end-processing and splicing steps, many of the numerous modifications throughout the main body and anticodon loop of tRNA that are so crucial for tRNA function, the intricate tRNA trafficking pathways, and the quality control decay pathways, as well as the biogenesis and biology of tRNA-derived fragments. We also describe the many interactions of these pathways with signaling and other pathways in the cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric M Phizicky
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics and Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, New York 14642, USA
| | - Anita K Hopper
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Center for RNA Biology, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43235, USA
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Xu J, Qian B, Wang F, Huang Y, Yan X, Li P, Zhang Q, Li Y, Sun K. Global Profile of tRNA-Derived Small RNAs in Pathological Cardiac Hypertrophy Plasma and Identification of tRF-21-NB8PLML3E as a New Hypertrophy Marker. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2065. [PMID: 37370960 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13122065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It remains unclear whether transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) play a role in pathological cardiac hypertrophy (PCH). We aimed to clarify the expression profile of tsRNAs and disclose their relationship with the clinical phenotype of PCH and the putative role. METHODS Small RNA sequencing was performed on the plasma of PCH patients and healthy volunteers. In the larger sample size and angiotensin II (Ang II)-stimulated H9c2 cells, the data were validated by real-time qPCR. Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) were examined in Ang II-stimulated H9c2 cells. The potential role of tsRNAs in the pathogenesis of PCH was explored by bioinformatics analysis. RESULTS A total of 4185 differentially expressed tsRNAs were identified, of which four and five tsRNAs were observed to be significantly upregulated and downregulated, respectively. Of the five downregulated tsRNAs, four were verified to be significantly downregulated in the larger sample group, including tRF-30-3JVIJMRPFQ5D, tRF-16-R29P4PE, tRF-21-NB8PLML3E, and tRF-21-SWRYVMMV0, and the AUC values for diagnosis of concentric hypertrophy were 0.7893, 0.7825, 0.8475, and 0.8825, respectively. The four downregulated tsRNAs were negatively correlated with the left ventricular posterior wall dimensions in PCH patients (r = -0.4227; r = -0.4517; r = -0.5567; r = -0.4223). The levels of ANP and BNP, as well as cell size, were decreased in Ang II-stimulated H9c2 cells with 21-NB8PLML3E mimic transfection. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that the target genes of tRF-21-NB8PLML3E were mainly enriched in the metabolic pathway and involved in the regulation of ribosomes. CONCLUSIONS The plasma tRF-21-NB8PLML3E might be considered as a biomarker and offers early screening potential in patients with PCH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyi Xu
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China
- Department of Central Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China
| | - Buyun Qian
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China
| | - Ying Huang
- Department of Central Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China
| | - Xinxin Yan
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China
| | - Ping Li
- Department of Central Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China
| | - Kangyun Sun
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China
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45
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Scacchetti A, Shields EJ, Trigg NA, Wilusz JE, Conine CC, Bonasio R. A ligation-independent sequencing method reveals tRNA-derived RNAs with blocked 3' termini. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.06.543899. [PMID: 37333231 PMCID: PMC10274639 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.06.543899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Despite the numerous sequencing methods available, the vast diversity in size and chemical modifications of RNA molecules makes the capture of the full spectrum of cellular RNAs a difficult task. By combining quasi-random hexamer priming with a custom template switching strategy, we developed a method to construct sequencing libraries from RNA molecules of any length and with any type of 3' terminal modification, allowing the sequencing and analysis of virtually all RNA species. Ligation-independent detection of all types of RNA (LIDAR) is a simple, effective tool to comprehensively characterize changes in small non-coding RNAs and mRNAs simultaneously, with performance comparable to separate dedicated methods. With LIDAR, we comprehensively characterized the coding and non-coding transcriptome of mouse embryonic stem cells, neural progenitor cells, and sperm. LIDAR detected a much larger variety of tRNA-derived RNAs (tDRs) compared to traditional ligation-dependent sequencing methods, and uncovered the presence of tDRs with blocked 3' ends that had previously escaped detection. Our findings highlight the potential of LIDAR to systematically detect all RNAs in a sample and uncover new RNA species with potential regulatory functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Scacchetti
- Epigenetics Institute and Department of Cell and Developmental Biology; University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Emily J. Shields
- Epigenetics Institute and Department of Cell and Developmental Biology; University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Urology and Institute of Neuropathology, Medical Center–University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Natalie A. Trigg
- Departments of Genetics and Pediatrics - Penn Epigenetics Institute, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, and Center for Research on Reproduction and Women’s Health, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Division of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jeremy E. Wilusz
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Therapeutic Innovation Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Colin C. Conine
- Departments of Genetics and Pediatrics - Penn Epigenetics Institute, Institute of Regenerative Medicine, and Center for Research on Reproduction and Women’s Health, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Division of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Roberto Bonasio
- Epigenetics Institute and Department of Cell and Developmental Biology; University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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La Ferlita A, Sp N, Goryunova M, Nigita G, Pollock RE, Croce CM, Beane JD. Small Non-Coding RNAs in Soft-Tissue Sarcomas: State of the Art and Future Directions. Mol Cancer Res 2023; 21:511-524. [PMID: 37052491 PMCID: PMC10238653 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-22-1008] [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: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Soft-tissue sarcomas (STS) are a rare and heterogeneous group of tumors that arise from connective tissue and can occur anywhere in the body. Among the plethora of over 50 different STS types, liposarcoma (LPS) is one of the most common. The subtypes of STS are characterized by distinct differences in tumor biology that drive responses to pharmacologic therapy and disparate oncologic outcomes. Small non-coding RNAs (sncRNA) are a heterogeneous class of regulatory RNAs involved in the regulation of gene expression by targeting mRNAs. Among the several types of sncRNAs, miRNAs and tRNA-derived ncRNAs are the most studied in the context of tumor biology, and we are learning more about the role of these molecules as important regulators of STS tumorigenesis and differentiation. However, challenges remain in translating these findings and no biomarkers or therapeutic approaches targeting sncRNAs have been developed for clinical use. In this review, we summarize the current landscape of sncRNAs in the context of STS with an emphasis on LPS, including the role of sncRNAs in the tumorigenesis and differentiation of these rare malignancies and their potential as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Finally, we provide an appraisal of published studies and outline future directions to study sncRNAs in STS, including tRNA-derived ncRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro La Ferlita
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Nipin Sp
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Marina Goryunova
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Giovanni Nigita
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Raphael E. Pollock
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Carlo M. Croce
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Joal D. Beane
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Liu J, Min S, Kim D, Park J, Park E, Koh Y, Shin DY, Kim TK, Byun JM, Yoon SS, Hong J. Epigenetic priming improves salvage chemotherapy in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma via endogenous retrovirus-induced cGAS-STING activation. Clin Epigenetics 2023; 15:75. [PMID: 37138342 PMCID: PMC10155448 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-023-01493-x] [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: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although most patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) achieve complete remission after first-line rituximab-containing immunochemotherapy, up to 40% of patients relapse and require salvage therapy. Among those patients, a substantial proportion remain refractory to salvage therapy due to insufficient efficacy or intolerance of toxicities. A hypomethylating agent, 5-azacytidine, showed a chemosensitizing effect when primed before chemotherapy in lymphoma cell lines and newly diagnosed DLBCL patients. However, its potential to improve outcomes of salvage chemotherapy in DLBCL has not been investigated. RESULTS In this study, we demonstrated the mechanism of 5-azacytidine priming as a chemosensitizer in a platinum-based salvage regimen. This chemosensitizing effect was associated with endogenous retrovirus (ERV)-induced viral mimicry responses via the cGAS-STING axis. We found deficiency of cGAS impaired the chemosensitizing effect of 5-azacytidine. Furthermore, combining vitamin C and 5-azacytidine to synergistically activate STING could be a potential remedy for insufficient priming induced by 5-azacytidine alone. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, the chemosensitizing effect of 5-azacytidine could be exploited to overcome the limitations of the current platinum-containing salvage chemotherapy in DLBCL and the status of cGAS-STING has the potential to predict the efficacy of 5-azacytidine priming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Liu
- College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Center for Medical Innovation, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, China
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Suji Min
- Center for Medical Innovation, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dongchan Kim
- Center for Medical Innovation, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jihyun Park
- Center for Medical Innovation, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunchae Park
- Center for Medical Innovation, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Youngil Koh
- Center for Medical Innovation, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Yeop Shin
- Center for Medical Innovation, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Kon Kim
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Ja Min Byun
- Center for Medical Innovation, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Soo Yoon
- Center for Medical Innovation, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Junshik Hong
- Center for Medical Innovation, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul, 03080, Republic of Korea.
- Biomedical Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Di Fazio A, Gullerova M. An old friend with a new face: tRNA-derived small RNAs with big regulatory potential in cancer biology. Br J Cancer 2023; 128:1625-1635. [PMID: 36759729 PMCID: PMC10133234 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02191-4] [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: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) essential for protein translation. Emerging evidence suggests that tRNAs can also be processed into smaller fragments, tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), a novel class of sncRNAs with powerful applications and high biological relevance to cancer. tsRNAs biogenesis is heterogeneous and involves different ribonucleases, such as Angiogenin and Dicer. For many years, tsRNAs were thought to be just degradation products. However, accumulating evidence shows their roles in gene expression: either directly via destabilising the mRNA or the ribosomal machinery, or indirectly via regulating the expression of ribosomal components. Furthermore, tsRNAs participate in various biological processes linked to cancer, including apoptosis, cell cycle, immune response, and retroviral insertion into the human genome. It is emerging that tsRNAs have significant therapeutic potential. Endogenous tsRNAs can be used as cancer biomarkers, while synthetic tsRNAs and antisense oligonucleotides can be employed to regulate gene expression. In this review, we are recapitulating the regulatory roles of tsRNAs, with a focus on cancer biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Di Fazio
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3RE, UK
| | - Monika Gullerova
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3RE, UK.
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49
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Yushkova E, Moskalev A. Transposable elements and their role in aging. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 86:101881. [PMID: 36773759 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.101881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs) are an important part of eukaryotic genomes. The role of somatic transposition in aging, carcinogenesis, and other age-related diseases has been determined. This review discusses the fundamental properties of TEs and their complex interactions with cellular processes, which are crucial for understanding the diverse effects of their activity on the genetics and epigenetics of the organism. The interactions of TEs with recombination, replication, repair, and chromosomal regulation; the ability of TEs to maintain a balance between their own activity and repression, the involvement of TEs in the creation of new or alternative genes, the expression of coding/non-coding RNA, and the role in DNA damage and modification of regulatory networks are reviewed. The contribution of the derepressed TEs to age-dependent effects in individual cells/tissues in different organisms was assessed. Conflicting information about TE activity under stress as well as theories of aging mechanisms related to TEs is discussed. On the one hand, transposition activity in response to stressors can lead to organisms acquiring adaptive innovations of great importance for evolution at the population level. On the other hand, the TE expression can cause decreased longevity and stress tolerance at the individual level. The specific features of TE effects on aging processes in germline and soma and the ways of their regulation in cells are highlighted. Recent results considering somatic mutations in normal human and animal tissues are indicated, with the emphasis on their possible functional consequences. In the context of aging, the correlation between somatic TE activation and age-related changes in the number of proteins required for heterochromatin maintenance and longevity regulation was analyzed. One of the original features of this review is a discussion of not only effects based on the TEs insertions and the associated consequences for the germline cell dynamics and somatic genome, but also the differences between transposon- and retrotransposon-mediated structural genome changes and possible phenotypic characteristics associated with aging and various age-related pathologies. Based on the analysis of published data, a hypothesis about the influence of the species-specific features of number, composition, and distribution of TEs on aging dynamics of different animal genomes was formulated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Yushkova
- Laboratory of Geroprotective and Radioprotective Technologies, Institute of Biology, Komi Science Center, Ural Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 28 Kommunisticheskaya st., 167982 Syktyvkar, Russian Federation
| | - Alexey Moskalev
- Laboratory of Geroprotective and Radioprotective Technologies, Institute of Biology, Komi Science Center, Ural Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 28 Kommunisticheskaya st., 167982 Syktyvkar, Russian Federation; Laboratory of Genetics and Epigenetics of Aging, Russian Clinical Research Center for Gerontology, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow 129226, Russian Federation; Longaevus Technologies, London, UK.
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50
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Gong M, Deng Y, Xiang Y, Ye D. The role and mechanism of action of tRNA-derived fragments in the diagnosis and treatment of malignant tumors. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:62. [PMID: 36964534 PMCID: PMC10036988 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01079-3] [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: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and death worldwide. While various factors are established as causing malignant tumors, the mechanisms underlying cancer development remain poorly understood. Early diagnosis and the development of effective treatments for cancer are important research topics. Transfer RNA (tRNA), the most abundant class of RNA molecules in the human transcriptome, participates in both protein synthesis and cellular metabolic processes. tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) are produced by specific cleavage of pre-tRNA and mature tRNA molecules, which are highly conserved and occur widely in various organisms. tRFs were initially thought to be random products with no physiological function, but have been redefined as novel functional small non-coding RNA molecules that help to regulate RNA stability, modulate translation, and influence target gene expression, as well as other biological processes. There is increasing evidence supporting roles for tRFs in tumorigenesis and cancer development, including the regulation of tumor cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and drug resistance. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms by which tRFs impact these processes has potential to inform malignant tumor diagnosis and treatment. Further, tRFs are expected to become new biological markers for early diagnosis and prognosis prediction in patients with tumors, as well as a targets for precision cancer therapies. Video abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengdan Gong
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yongqin Deng
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yizhen Xiang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dong Ye
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China.
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