1
|
Forsyth KS, Jiwrajka N, Lovell CD, Toothacre NE, Anguera MC. The conneXion between sex and immune responses. Nat Rev Immunol 2024; 24:487-502. [PMID: 38383754 PMCID: PMC11216897 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-024-00996-9] [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] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
There are notable sex-based differences in immune responses to pathogens and self-antigens, with female individuals exhibiting increased susceptibility to various autoimmune diseases, and male individuals displaying preferential susceptibility to some viral, bacterial, parasitic and fungal infections. Although sex hormones clearly contribute to sex differences in immune cell composition and function, the presence of two X chromosomes in female individuals suggests that differential gene expression of numerous X chromosome-linked immune-related genes may also influence sex-biased innate and adaptive immune cell function in health and disease. Here, we review the sex differences in immune system composition and function, examining how hormones and genetics influence the immune system. We focus on the genetic and epigenetic contributions responsible for altered X chromosome-linked gene expression, and how this impacts sex-biased immune responses in the context of pathogen infection and systemic autoimmunity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine S Forsyth
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nikhil Jiwrajka
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Division of Rheumatology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Claudia D Lovell
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Natalie E Toothacre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Montserrat C Anguera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Martitz A, Schulz EG. Spatial orchestration of the genome: topological reorganisation during X-chromosome inactivation. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2024; 86:102198. [PMID: 38663040 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2024.102198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Genomes are organised through hierarchical structures, ranging from local kilobase-scale cis-regulatory contacts to large chromosome territories. Most notably, (sub)-compartments partition chromosomes according to transcriptional activity, while topologically associating domains (TADs) define cis-regulatory landscapes. The inactive X chromosome in mammals has provided unique insights into the regulation and function of the three-dimensional (3D) genome. Concurrent with silencing of the majority of genes and major alterations of its chromatin state, the X chromosome undergoes profound spatial rearrangements at multiple scales. These include the emergence of megadomains, alterations of the compartment structure and loss of the majority of TADs. Moreover, the Xist locus, which orchestrates X-chromosome inactivation, has provided key insights into regulation and function of regulatory domains. This review provides an overview of recent insights into the control of these structural rearrangements and contextualises them within a broader understanding of 3D genome organisation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Martitz
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany; Department of Biology, Chemistry, Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany
| | - Edda G Schulz
- Systems Epigenetics, Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, 14195 Berlin, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Palihati M, Saitoh N. RNA in chromatin organization and nuclear architecture. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2024; 86:102176. [PMID: 38490161 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2024.102176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
In the cell nucleus, genomic DNA is surrounded by nonmembranous nuclear bodies. This might result from specific regions of the genome being transcribed into long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which tend to remain at the sites of their own transcription. The lncRNAs seed the nuclear bodies by recruiting and concentrating proteins and RNAs, which undergo liquid-liquid-phase separation, and form molecular condensates, the so-called nuclear bodies. These nuclear bodies may provide appropriate environments for gene activation or repression. Notably, lncRNAs also contribute to three-dimensional genome structure by mediating long-range chromatin interactions. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms by which lncRNAs regulate gene expression through shaping chromatin and nuclear architectures. We also explore lncRNAs' potential as a therapeutic target for cancer, because lncRNAs are often expressed in a disease-specific manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maierdan Palihati
- Division of Cancer Biology, The Cancer Institute of JFCR, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Noriko Saitoh
- Division of Cancer Biology, The Cancer Institute of JFCR, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
McIntyre KL, Waters SA, Zhong L, Hart-Smith G, Raftery M, Chew ZA, Patel HR, Graves JAM, Waters PD. Identification of the RSX interactome in a marsupial shows functional coherence with the Xist interactome during X inactivation. Genome Biol 2024; 25:134. [PMID: 38783307 PMCID: PMC11112854 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-024-03280-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The marsupial specific RSX lncRNA is the functional analogue of the eutherian specific XIST, which coordinates X chromosome inactivation. We characterized the RSX interactome in a marsupial representative (the opossum Monodelphis domestica), identifying 135 proteins, of which 54 had orthologues in the XIST interactome. Both interactomes were enriched for biological pathways related to RNA processing, regulation of translation, and epigenetic transcriptional silencing. This represents a remarkable example showcasing the functional coherence of independently evolved lncRNAs in distantly related mammalian lineages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kim L McIntyre
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Shafagh A Waters
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Ling Zhong
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Gene Hart-Smith
- Australian Proteome Analysis Facility, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia
| | - Mark Raftery
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Zahra A Chew
- National Centre for Indigenous Genomics, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | - Hardip R Patel
- National Centre for Indigenous Genomics, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | | | - Paul D Waters
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lee YW, Weissbein U, Blum R, Lee JT. G-quadruplex folding in Xist RNA antagonizes PRC2 activity for stepwise regulation of X chromosome inactivation. Mol Cell 2024; 84:1870-1885.e9. [PMID: 38759625 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2024.04.015] [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: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
How Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) is regulated by RNA remains an unsolved problem. Although PRC2 binds G-tracts with the potential to form RNA G-quadruplexes (rG4s), whether rG4s fold extensively in vivo and whether PRC2 binds folded or unfolded rG4 are unknown. Using the X-inactivation model in mouse embryonic stem cells, here we identify multiple folded rG4s in Xist RNA and demonstrate that PRC2 preferentially binds folded rG4s. High-affinity rG4 binding inhibits PRC2's histone methyltransferase activity, and stabilizing rG4 in vivo antagonizes H3 at lysine 27 (H3K27me3) enrichment on the inactive X chromosome. Surprisingly, mutagenizing the rG4 does not affect PRC2 recruitment but promotes its release and catalytic activation on chromatin. H3K27me3 marks are misplaced, however, and gene silencing is compromised. Xist-PRC2 complexes become entrapped in the S1 chromosome compartment, precluding the required translocation into the S2 compartment. Thus, Xist rG4 folding controls PRC2 activity, H3K27me3 enrichment, and the stepwise regulation of chromosome-wide gene silencing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong Woo Lee
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Uri Weissbein
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Roy Blum
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Jeannie T Lee
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Liang M, Zhang L, Lai L, Li Z. Unraveling the role of Xist in X chromosome inactivation: insights from rabbit model and deletion analysis of exons and repeat A. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:156. [PMID: 38551746 PMCID: PMC10980640 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05151-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
X chromosome inactivation (XCI) is a process that equalizes the expression of X-linked genes between males and females. It relies on Xist, continuously expressed in somatic cells during XCI maintenance. However, how Xist impacts XCI maintenance and its functional motifs remain unclear. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of Xist, using rabbits as an ideal non-primate model. Homozygous knockout of exon 1, exon 6, and repeat A in female rabbits resulted in embryonic lethality. However, X∆ReAX females, with intact X chromosome expressing Xist, showed no abnormalities. Interestingly, there were no significant differences between females with homozygous knockout of exons 2-5 and wild-type rabbits, suggesting that exons 2, 3, 4, and 5 are less important for XCI. These findings provide evolutionary insights into Xist function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingming Liang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Lichao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Liangxue Lai
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China.
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China.
- Institute of Stem Cells and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100039, China.
- Research Unit of Generation of Large Animal Disease Models, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, 510530, China.
| | - Zhanjun Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fayyaz F, Eshkiki ZS, Karamzadeh AR, Moradi Z, Kaviani F, Namazi A, Karimi R, Tabaeian SP, Mansouri F, Akbari A. Relationship between long non-coding RNAs and Hippo signaling pathway in gastrointestinal cancers; molecular mechanisms and clinical significance. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23826. [PMID: 38226210 PMCID: PMC10788524 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23826] [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: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a significant biological role in the regulation of various cellular processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis and migration. In various malignancies, lncRNAs interplay with some main cancer-associated signaling pathways, including the Hippo signaling pathway to regulate the various cellular processes. It has been revealed that the cross-talking between lncRNAs and Hippo signaling pathway involves in gastrointestinal (GI) cancers development and progression. Considering the clinical significance of these lncRNAs, they have also been introduced as potential biomarkers in diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic strategies in GI cancers. Herein, we review the mechanisms of lncRNA-mediated regulation of Hippo signaling pathway and focus on the corresponding molecular mechanisms and clinical significance of these non-coding RNAs in GI cancers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Farimah Fayyaz
- Colorectal Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Shokati Eshkiki
- Alimentary Tract Research Center, Clinical Sciences Research Institute, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Amir Reza Karamzadeh
- Occupational Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Genetic, Faculty of Sciences, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran
| | - Zahra Moradi
- Department of Genetic, Faculty of Sciences, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran
| | - Faezeh Kaviani
- Department of Genetic, Faculty of Sciences, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Namazi
- Colorectal Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roya Karimi
- Colorectal Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seidamir Pasha Tabaeian
- Colorectal Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mansouri
- Department of Genetic, Faculty of Sciences, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Akbari
- Colorectal Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Keniry A, Blewitt ME. Chromatin-mediated silencing on the inactive X chromosome. Development 2023; 150:dev201742. [PMID: 37991053 DOI: 10.1242/dev.201742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, the second X chromosome in females is silenced to enable dosage compensation between XX females and XY males. This essential process involves the formation of a dense chromatin state on the inactive X (Xi) chromosome. There is a wealth of information about the hallmarks of Xi chromatin and the contribution each makes to silencing, leaving the tantalising possibility of learning from this knowledge to potentially remove silencing to treat X-linked diseases in females. Here, we discuss the role of each chromatin feature in the establishment and maintenance of the silent state, which is of crucial relevance for such a goal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Keniry
- Epigenetics and Development Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- The Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Marnie E Blewitt
- Epigenetics and Development Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- The Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Yin Y, Shen X. Noncoding RNA-chromatin association: Functions and mechanisms. FUNDAMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 3:665-675. [PMID: 38933302 PMCID: PMC11197541 DOI: 10.1016/j.fmre.2023.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Pervasive transcription of the mammalian genome produces hundreds of thousands of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). Numerous studies have suggested that some of these ncRNAs regulate multiple cellular processes and play important roles in physiological and pathological processes. Notably, a large subset of ncRNAs is enriched on chromatin and participates in regulating gene expression and the dynamics of chromatin structure and status. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the functional study of chromatin-associated ncRNAs and mechanistic insights into how these ncRNAs associate with chromatin. We also discuss the potential future challenges which still need to be overcome in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yafei Yin
- Department of Cell Biology and Department of Cardiology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Xiaohua Shen
- Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Medicine and School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Li YD, Huang H, Ren ZJ, Yuan Y, Wu H, Liu C. Pan-cancer analysis identifies SPEN mutation as a predictive biomarker with the efficacy of immunotherapy. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:793. [PMID: 37620924 PMCID: PMC10463702 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11235-0] [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: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The association between specific genetic mutations and immunotherapy benefits has been widely known, while such studies in pan-cancer are still limited. SPEN, mainly involved in X chromosome inactivation (XCI), plays an essential in tumorigenesis and sex differences in cancer. Thus, we firstly analyzed the potential role of SPEN in the TCGA pan-cancer cohort and clinical samples. Bioinformatics analysis and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining confirm that the expression of SPEN is significantly different in various cancers and may involve RNA splicing and processing via enrichment analysis. Then, our data further revealed that those patients with SPEN mutation could predict a better prognosis in pan-cancer and had distinct immune signatures, higher tumor mutation burden (TMB), and microsatellite instability (MSI) in common cancer types. Finally, the cancer patients from 9 studies treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors were included to investigate the efficacy of immunotherapy. The results further showed that SPEN mutation was associated with better clinical outcomes (HR, 0.74; 95%CI, 0.59-0.93, P = 0.01), and this association remained existed in female patients (HR, 0.60; 95%CI, 0.38-0.94 P = 0.024), but not in male patients (HR, 0.82; 95%CI, 0.62-1.08 P = 0.150). Our findings demonstrated that SPEN mutation might strongly predict immunotherapy efficacy in pan-cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Dong Li
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hao Huang
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zheng-Ju Ren
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ye Yuan
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hao Wu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chuan Liu
- Department of Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Valledor M, Byron M, Dumas B, Carone DM, Hall LL, Lawrence JB. Early chromosome condensation by XIST builds A-repeat RNA density that facilitates gene silencing. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112686. [PMID: 37384527 PMCID: PMC10461597 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
XIST RNA triggers chromosome-wide gene silencing and condenses an active chromosome into a Barr body. Here, we use inducible human XIST to examine early steps in the process, showing that XIST modifies cytoarchitecture before widespread gene silencing. In just 2-4 h, barely visible transcripts populate the large "sparse zone" surrounding the smaller "dense zone"; importantly, density zones exhibit different chromatin impacts. Sparse transcripts immediately trigger immunofluorescence for H2AK119ub and CIZ1, a matrix protein. H3K27me3 appears hours later in the dense zone, which enlarges with chromosome condensation. Genes examined are silenced after compaction of the RNA/DNA territory. Insights into this come from the findings that the A-repeat alone can silence genes and rapidly, but only where dense RNA supports sustained histone deacetylation. We propose that sparse XIST RNA quickly impacts architectural elements to condense the largely non-coding chromosome, coalescing RNA density that facilitates an unstable, A-repeat-dependent step required for gene silencing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melvys Valledor
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Meg Byron
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Brett Dumas
- Department of Medicine, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Dawn M Carone
- Department of Biology, Swarthmore College, Swarthmore, PA 19081, USA
| | - Lisa L Hall
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA.
| | - Jeanne B Lawrence
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Singh A, Rappolee DA, Ruden DM. Epigenetic Reprogramming in Mice and Humans: From Fertilization to Primordial Germ Cell Development. Cells 2023; 12:1874. [PMID: 37508536 PMCID: PMC10377882 DOI: 10.3390/cells12141874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
In this review, advances in the understanding of epigenetic reprogramming from fertilization to the development of primordial germline cells in a mouse and human embryo are discussed. To gain insights into the molecular underpinnings of various diseases, it is essential to comprehend the intricate interplay between genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors during cellular reprogramming and embryonic differentiation. An increasing range of diseases, including cancer and developmental disorders, have been linked to alterations in DNA methylation and histone modifications. Global epigenetic reprogramming occurs in mammals at two stages: post-fertilization and during the development of primordial germ cells (PGC). Epigenetic reprogramming after fertilization involves rapid demethylation of the paternal genome mediated through active and passive DNA demethylation, and gradual demethylation in the maternal genome through passive DNA demethylation. The de novo DNA methyltransferase enzymes, Dnmt3a and Dnmt3b, restore DNA methylation beginning from the blastocyst stage until the formation of the gastrula, and DNA maintenance methyltransferase, Dnmt1, maintains methylation in the somatic cells. The PGC undergo a second round of global demethylation after allocation during the formative pluripotent stage before gastrulation, where the imprints and the methylation marks on the transposable elements known as retrotransposons, including long interspersed nuclear elements (LINE-1) and intracisternal A-particle (IAP) elements are demethylated as well. Finally, DNA methylation is restored in the PGC at the implantation stage including sex-specific imprints corresponding to the sex of the embryo. This review introduces a novel perspective by uncovering how toxicants and stress stimuli impact the critical period of allocation during formative pluripotency, potentially influencing both the quantity and quality of PGCs. Furthermore, the comprehensive comparison of epigenetic events between mice and humans breaks new ground, empowering researchers to make informed decisions regarding the suitability of mouse models for their experiments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aditi Singh
- CS Mott Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA; (A.S.); (D.A.R.)
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Daniel A. Rappolee
- CS Mott Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA; (A.S.); (D.A.R.)
- Reproductive Stress Measurement, Mechanisms and Management, Corp., 135 Lake Shore Rd., Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236, USA
- Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
- Department of Physiology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Douglas M. Ruden
- CS Mott Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA; (A.S.); (D.A.R.)
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
- Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Deforzh E, Kharel P, Karelin A, Ivanov P, Krichevsky AM. HOXDeRNA activates a cancerous transcription program and super-enhancers genome-wide. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.30.547275. [PMID: 37425921 PMCID: PMC10327164 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.30.547275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Background The origin and genesis of highly malignant and heterogenous glioblastoma brain tumors remain unknown. We previously identified an enhancer-associated long non-coding RNA, LINC01116 (named HOXDeRNA here), that is absent in the normal brain but is commonly expressed in malignant glioma. HOXDeRNA has a unique capacity to transform human astrocytes into glioma-like cells. This work aimed to investigate molecular events underlying the genome-wide function of this lncRNA in glial cell fate and transformation. Results Using a combination of RNA-Seq, ChIRP-Seq, and ChIP-Seq, we now demonstrate that HOXDeRNA binds in trans to the promoters of genes encoding 44 glioma-specific transcription factors distributed throughout the genome and derepresses them by removing the Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2). Among the activated transcription factors are the core neurodevelopmental regulators SOX2, OLIG2, POU3F2, and SALL2. This process requires an RNA quadruplex structure of HOXDeRNA that interacts with EZH2. Moreover, HOXDeRNA-induced astrocyte transformation is accompanied by the activation of multiple oncogenes such as EGFR, PDGFR, BRAF, and miR-21, and glioma-specific super-enhancers enriched for binding sites of glioma master transcription factors SOX2 and OLIG2. Conclusions Our results demonstrate that HOXDeRNA overrides PRC2 repression of glioma core regulatory circuitry with RNA quadruplex structure. These findings help reconstruct the sequence of events underlying the process of astrocyte transformation and suggest a driving role for HOXDeRNA and a unifying RNA-dependent mechanism of gliomagenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evgeny Deforzh
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Prakash Kharel
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Anton Karelin
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Pavel Ivanov
- Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Anna M. Krichevsky
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gil N, Perry RBT, Mukamel Z, Tuck A, Bühler M, Ulitsky I. Complex regulation of Eomes levels mediated through distinct functional features of the Meteor long non-coding RNA locus. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112569. [PMID: 37256750 PMCID: PMC10320833 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are implicated in a plethora of cellular processes, but an in-depth understanding of their functional features or their mechanisms of action is currently lacking. Here we study Meteor, a lncRNA transcribed near the gene encoding EOMES, a pleiotropic transcription factor implicated in various processes throughout development and in adult tissues. Using a wide array of perturbation techniques, we show that transcription elongation through the Meteor locus is required for Eomes activation in mouse embryonic stem cells, with Meteor repression linked to a change in the subpopulation primed to differentiate to the mesoderm lineage. We further demonstrate that a distinct functional feature of the locus-namely, the underlying DNA element-is required for suppressing Eomes expression following neuronal differentiation. Our results demonstrate the complex regulation that can be conferred by a single locus and emphasize the importance of careful selection of perturbation techniques when studying lncRNA loci.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noa Gil
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology and Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Rotem Ben-Tov Perry
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology and Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Zohar Mukamel
- Department of Molecular Genetics, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel
| | - Alex Tuck
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marc Bühler
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research, 4058 Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Igor Ulitsky
- Department of Immunology and Regenerative Biology and Department of Molecular Neuroscience, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot 76100, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mattick JS, Amaral PP, Carninci P, Carpenter S, Chang HY, Chen LL, Chen R, Dean C, Dinger ME, Fitzgerald KA, Gingeras TR, Guttman M, Hirose T, Huarte M, Johnson R, Kanduri C, Kapranov P, Lawrence JB, Lee JT, Mendell JT, Mercer TR, Moore KJ, Nakagawa S, Rinn JL, Spector DL, Ulitsky I, Wan Y, Wilusz JE, Wu M. Long non-coding RNAs: definitions, functions, challenges and recommendations. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2023; 24:430-447. [PMID: 36596869 PMCID: PMC10213152 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-022-00566-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 371] [Impact Index Per Article: 371.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Genes specifying long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) occupy a large fraction of the genomes of complex organisms. The term 'lncRNAs' encompasses RNA polymerase I (Pol I), Pol II and Pol III transcribed RNAs, and RNAs from processed introns. The various functions of lncRNAs and their many isoforms and interleaved relationships with other genes make lncRNA classification and annotation difficult. Most lncRNAs evolve more rapidly than protein-coding sequences, are cell type specific and regulate many aspects of cell differentiation and development and other physiological processes. Many lncRNAs associate with chromatin-modifying complexes, are transcribed from enhancers and nucleate phase separation of nuclear condensates and domains, indicating an intimate link between lncRNA expression and the spatial control of gene expression during development. lncRNAs also have important roles in the cytoplasm and beyond, including in the regulation of translation, metabolism and signalling. lncRNAs often have a modular structure and are rich in repeats, which are increasingly being shown to be relevant to their function. In this Consensus Statement, we address the definition and nomenclature of lncRNAs and their conservation, expression, phenotypic visibility, structure and functions. We also discuss research challenges and provide recommendations to advance the understanding of the roles of lncRNAs in development, cell biology and disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John S Mattick
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- UNSW RNA Institute, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Paulo P Amaral
- INSPER Institute of Education and Research, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Piero Carninci
- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
- Human Technopole, Milan, Italy
| | - Susan Carpenter
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
| | - Howard Y Chang
- Center for Personal Dynamics Regulomes, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ling-Ling Chen
- CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Runsheng Chen
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Caroline Dean
- John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Marcel E Dinger
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- UNSW RNA Institute, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Katherine A Fitzgerald
- Division of Innate Immunity, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | | | - Mitchell Guttman
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Tetsuro Hirose
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Maite Huarte
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Center for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Institute of Health Research of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Rory Johnson
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Chandrasekhar Kanduri
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Philipp Kapranov
- Institute of Genomics, School of Medicine, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, China
| | - Jeanne B Lawrence
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Jeannie T Lee
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joshua T Mendell
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Timothy R Mercer
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Kathryn J Moore
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shinichi Nakagawa
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - John L Rinn
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - David L Spector
- Cold Spring Harbour Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbour, NY, USA
| | - Igor Ulitsky
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yue Wan
- Laboratory of RNA Genomics and Structure, Genome Institute of Singapore, A*STAR, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jeremy E Wilusz
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Therapeutic Innovation Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Mian Wu
- Translational Research Institute, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Nickbarg EB, Spencer KB, Mortison JD, Lee JT. Targeting RNA with small molecules: lessons learned from Xist RNA. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 29:463-472. [PMID: 36725318 PMCID: PMC10019374 DOI: 10.1261/rna.079523.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Although more than 98% of the human genome is noncoding, nearly all drugs on the market target one of about 700 disease-related proteins. However, an increasing number of diseases are now being attributed to noncoding RNA and the ability to target them would vastly expand the chemical space for drug development. We recently devised a screening strategy based upon affinity-selection mass spectrometry and succeeded in identifying bioactive compounds for the noncoding RNA prototype, Xist. One such compound, termed X1, has drug-like properties and binds specifically to the RepA motif of Xist in vitro and in vivo. Small-angle X-ray scattering analysis reveals that X1 changes the conformation of RepA in solution, thereby explaining the displacement of cognate interacting protein factors (PRC2 and SPEN) and inhibition of X-chromosome inactivation. In this Perspective, we discuss lessons learned from these proof-of-concept experiments and suggest that RNA can be systematically targeted by drug-like compounds to disrupt RNA structure and function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jeannie T Lee
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
- Department of Genetics, The Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Gruhn WH, Tang WW, Dietmann S, Alves-Lopes JP, Penfold CA, Wong FC, Ramakrishna NB, Surani MA. Epigenetic resetting in the human germ line entails histone modification remodeling. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eade1257. [PMID: 36652508 PMCID: PMC9848478 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.ade1257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic resetting in the mammalian germ line entails acute DNA demethylation, which lays the foundation for gametogenesis, totipotency, and embryonic development. We characterize the epigenome of hypomethylated human primordial germ cells (hPGCs) to reveal mechanisms preventing the widespread derepression of genes and transposable elements (TEs). Along with the loss of DNA methylation, we show that hPGCs exhibit a profound reduction of repressive histone modifications resulting in diminished heterochromatic signatures at most genes and TEs and the acquisition of a neutral or paused epigenetic state without transcriptional activation. Efficient maintenance of a heterochromatic state is limited to a subset of genomic loci, such as evolutionarily young TEs and some developmental genes, which require H3K9me3 and H3K27me3, respectively, for efficient transcriptional repression. Accordingly, transcriptional repression in hPGCs presents an exemplary balanced system relying on local maintenance of heterochromatic features and a lack of inductive cues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wolfram H. Gruhn
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Henry Wellcome Building of Cancer and Developmental Biology, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
- Physiology, Development and Neuroscience Department, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EL, UK
| | - Walfred W.C. Tang
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Henry Wellcome Building of Cancer and Developmental Biology, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
- Physiology, Development and Neuroscience Department, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EL, UK
| | - Sabine Dietmann
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Henry Wellcome Building of Cancer and Developmental Biology, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
- Physiology, Development and Neuroscience Department, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EL, UK
- Wellcome–MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Puddicombe Way, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
- Institute for Informatics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - João P. Alves-Lopes
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Henry Wellcome Building of Cancer and Developmental Biology, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
- Physiology, Development and Neuroscience Department, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EL, UK
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, J9:30, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Visionsgatan 4, 17164, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christopher A. Penfold
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Henry Wellcome Building of Cancer and Developmental Biology, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
- Physiology, Development and Neuroscience Department, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EL, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Frederick C. K. Wong
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Henry Wellcome Building of Cancer and Developmental Biology, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
- Physiology, Development and Neuroscience Department, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EL, UK
| | - Navin B. Ramakrishna
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Henry Wellcome Building of Cancer and Developmental Biology, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
- Genome Institute of Singapore, A*STAR, Biopolis, Singapore 138672, Singapore
| | - M. Azim Surani
- Wellcome Trust/Cancer Research UK Gurdon Institute, Henry Wellcome Building of Cancer and Developmental Biology, Cambridge CB2 1QN, UK
- Physiology, Development and Neuroscience Department, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EL, UK
- Wellcome–MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Puddicombe Way, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge CB2 0AW, UK
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Vargas LN, Silveira MM, Franco MM. Epigenetic Reprogramming and Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2647:37-58. [PMID: 37041328 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3064-8_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetics is an area of genetics that studies the heritable modifications in gene expression and phenotype that are not controlled by the primary sequence of DNA. The main epigenetic mechanisms are DNA methylation, post-translational covalent modifications in histone tails, and non-coding RNAs. During mammalian development, there are two global waves of epigenetic reprogramming. The first one occurs during gametogenesis and the second one begins immediately after fertilization. Environmental factors such as exposure to pollutants, unbalanced nutrition, behavioral factors, stress, in vitro culture conditions can negatively affect epigenetic reprogramming events. In this review, we describe the main epigenetic mechanisms found during mammalian preimplantation development (e.g., genomic imprinting, X chromosome inactivation). Moreover, we discuss the detrimental effects of cloning by somatic cell nuclear transfer on the reprogramming of epigenetic patterns and some molecular alternatives to minimize these negative impacts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luna N Vargas
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- Institute of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Márcia M Silveira
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
- Institute of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Maurício M Franco
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil.
- Institute of Biotechnology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Shevchenko AI, Rifel NA, Zakian SM, Zakharova IS. Constitutive heterochromatin propagation contributes to the X chromosome inactivation. Chromosome Res 2022; 30:289-307. [PMID: 35920963 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-022-09706-4] [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: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Imprinted X chromosome inactivation (iXCI) balances the expression of X-linked genes in preimplantation embryos and extraembryonic tissues in rodents. Long noncoding Xist RNA drives iXCI, silencing genes and recruiting Xist-dependent chromatin repressors. Some domains on the inactive X chromosome include repressive modifications specific to constitutive heterochromatin, which show no direct link to Xist RNA. We explored the relationship between Xist RNA and chromatin silencing during iXCI in vole Microtus levis. We performed locus-specific activation of Xist transcription on the only active X chromosome using the dCas9-SAM system in XO vole trophoblast stem cells (TSCs), which allow modeling iXCI events to some extent. The artificially activated endogenous vole Xist transcript is truncated and restricted ~ 6.6 kb of the exon 1. Ectopic Xist RNA accumulates on the X chromosome and recruits Xist-dependent modifications during TSC differentiation, yet is incapable by itself repressing X-linked genes. Transcriptional silencing occurs upon ectopic Xist upregulation only when repressive marks spread from the massive telomeric constitutive heterochromatin to the X chromosome region containing genes. We hypothesize that the Xist RNA-induced propagation of repressive marks from the constitutive heterochromatin could be a mechanism involved in X chromosome inactivation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander I Shevchenko
- Federal Research Center, "Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences", Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia.,Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia.,E.N. Meshalkin National Medical Research Center, Ministry of Health Care of Russian Federation, Novosibirsk, 630055, Russia
| | - Nikita A Rifel
- Federal Research Center, "Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences", Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
| | - Suren M Zakian
- Federal Research Center, "Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences", Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia.,Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia.,E.N. Meshalkin National Medical Research Center, Ministry of Health Care of Russian Federation, Novosibirsk, 630055, Russia
| | - Irina S Zakharova
- Federal Research Center, "Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences", Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia. .,Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia. .,E.N. Meshalkin National Medical Research Center, Ministry of Health Care of Russian Federation, Novosibirsk, 630055, Russia.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Evolving understandings for the roles of non-coding RNAs in autoimmunity and autoimmune disease. J Autoimmun 2022:102948. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaut.2022.102948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
|
21
|
Guo Y, Wang GG. Modulation of the high-order chromatin structure by Polycomb complexes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1021658. [PMID: 36274840 PMCID: PMC9579376 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1021658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The multi-subunit Polycomb Repressive Complex (PRC) 1 and 2 act, either independently or synergistically, to maintain and enforce a repressive state of the target chromatin, thereby regulating the processes of cell lineage specification and organismal development. In recent years, deep sequencing-based and imaging-based technologies, especially those tailored for mapping three-dimensional (3D) chromatin organization and structure, have allowed a better understanding of the PRC complex-mediated long-range chromatin contacts and DNA looping. In this review, we review current advances as for how Polycomb complexes function to modulate and help define the high-order chromatin structure and topology, highlighting the multi-faceted roles of Polycomb proteins in gene and genome regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yiran Guo
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- *Correspondence: Yiran Guo, ; Gang Greg Wang,
| | - Gang Greg Wang
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
- *Correspondence: Yiran Guo, ; Gang Greg Wang,
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Gerbi SA. Non-random chromosome segregation and chromosome eliminations in the fly Bradysia (Sciara). Chromosome Res 2022; 30:273-288. [PMID: 35793056 PMCID: PMC10777868 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-022-09701-9] [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: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Mendelian inheritance is based upon random segregation of homologous chromosomes during meiosis and perfect duplication and division of chromosomes in mitosis so that the entire genomic content is passed down to the daughter cells. The unusual chromosome mechanics of the fly Bradysia (previously called Sciara) presents many exceptions to the canonical processes. In male meiosis I, there is a monopolar spindle and non-random segregation such that all the paternal homologs move away from the single pole and are eliminated. In male meiosis II, there is a bipolar spindle and segregation of the sister chromatids except for the X dyad that undergoes non-disjunction. The daughter cell that is nullo-X degenerates, whereas the sperm has two copies of the X. Fertilization restores the diploid state, but there are three copies of the X chromosome, of which one or two of the paternally derived X chromosomes will be eliminated in an early cleavage division. Bradysia (Sciara) coprophila also has germ line limited L chromosomes that are eliminated from the soma. Current information and the molecular mechanisms for chromosome imprinting and eliminations, which are just beginning to be studied, will be reviewed here.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan A Gerbi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Division of Biology and Medicine, Brown University, 185 Meeting Street, Sidney Frank Hall Room 260, Providence, RI, 02912, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Bauer M, Payer B, Filion GJ. Causality in transcription and genome folding: Insights from X inactivation. Bioessays 2022; 44:e2200105. [PMID: 36028473 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202200105] [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: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The spatial organization of genomes is becoming increasingly understood. In mammals, where it is most investigated, this organization ties in with transcription, so an important research objective is to understand whether gene activity is a cause or a consequence of genome folding in space. In this regard, the phenomena of X-chromosome inactivation and reactivation open a unique window of investigation because of the singularities of the inactive X chromosome. Here we focus on the cause-consequence nexus between genome conformation and transcription and explain how recent results about the structural changes associated with inactivation and reactivation of the X chromosome shed light on this problem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moritz Bauer
- Oncode Institute, Hubrecht Institute-KNAW and University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Bernhard Payer
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Guillaume J Filion
- Dept. Biological Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
De Novo Polycomb Recruitment and Repressive Domain Formation. EPIGENOMES 2022; 6:epigenomes6030025. [PMID: 35997371 PMCID: PMC9397058 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes6030025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Every cell of an organism shares the same genome; even so, each cellular lineage owns a different transcriptome and proteome. The Polycomb group proteins (PcG) are essential regulators of gene repression patterning during development and homeostasis. However, it is unknown how the repressive complexes, PRC1 and PRC2, identify their targets and elicit new Polycomb domains during cell differentiation. Classical recruitment models consider the pre-existence of repressive histone marks; still, de novo target binding overcomes the absence of both H3K27me3 and H2AK119ub. The CpG islands (CGIs), non-core proteins, and RNA molecules are involved in Polycomb recruitment. Nonetheless, it is unclear how de novo targets are identified depending on the physiological context and developmental stage and which are the leading players stabilizing Polycomb complexes at domain nucleation sites. Here, we examine the features of de novo sites and the accessory elements bridging its recruitment and discuss the first steps of Polycomb domain formation and transcriptional regulation, comprehended by the experimental reconstruction of the repressive domains through time-resolved genomic analyses in mammals.
Collapse
|
25
|
Yang T, Ou J, Yildirim E. Xist exerts gene-specific silencing during XCI maintenance and impacts lineage-specific cell differentiation and proliferation during hematopoiesis. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4464. [PMID: 35915095 PMCID: PMC9343370 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32273-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
X chromosome inactivation (XCI) is a dosage compensation phenomenon that occurs in females. Initiation of XCI depends on Xist RNA, which triggers silencing of one of the two X chromosomes, except for XCI escape genes that continue to be biallelically expressed. In the soma XCI is stably maintained with continuous Xist expression. How Xist impacts XCI maintenance remains an open question. Here we conditionally delete Xist in hematopoietic system of mice and report differentiation and cell cycle defects in female hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). By utilizing female HSPCs and mouse embryonic fibroblasts, we find that X-linked genes show variable tolerance to Xist loss. Specifically, XCI escape genes exhibit preferential transcriptional upregulation, which associates with low H3K27me3 occupancy and high chromatin accessibility that accommodates preexisting binding of transcription factors such as Yin Yang 1 (YY1) at the basal state. We conclude that Xist is necessary for gene-specific silencing during XCI maintenance and impacts lineage-specific cell differentiation and proliferation during hematopoiesis. Here the authors investigate the functional relevance of X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) regulator Xist in hematopoiesis. They find that Xist loss leads to changes in the ratio of hematopoietic progenitor cells and results in chromatin accessibility and transcriptional upregulation on the inactive X chromosome, including XCI escape genes known to be associated with cell cycle and immune response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianqi Yang
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.,Duke Regeneration Center, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.,Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Jianhong Ou
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.,Duke Regeneration Center, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Eda Yildirim
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA. .,Duke Regeneration Center, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27710, USA. .,Duke Cancer Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Xist-mediated silencing requires additive functions of SPEN and Polycomb together with differentiation-dependent recruitment of SmcHD1. Cell Rep 2022; 39:110830. [PMID: 35584662 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.110830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
X chromosome inactivation (XCI) is mediated by the non-coding RNA Xist, which directs chromatin modification and gene silencing in cis. The RNA binding protein SPEN and associated corepressors have a central role in Xist-mediated gene silencing. Other silencing factors, notably the Polycomb system, have been reported to function downstream of SPEN. In recent work, we found that SPEN has an additional role in correct localization of Xist RNA in cis, indicating that its contribution to chromatin-mediated gene silencing needs to be reappraised. Making use of a SPEN separation-of-function mutation, we show that SPEN and Polycomb pathways, in fact, function in parallel to establish gene silencing. We also find that differentiation-dependent recruitment of the chromosomal protein SmcHD1 is required for silencing many X-linked genes. Our results provide important insights into the mechanism of X inactivation and the coordination of chromatin-based gene regulation with cellular differentiation and development.
Collapse
|
27
|
Dossin F, Heard E. The Molecular and Nuclear Dynamics of X-Chromosome Inactivation. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol 2022; 14:a040196. [PMID: 34312245 PMCID: PMC9121902 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a040196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In female eutherian mammals, dosage compensation of X-linked gene expression is achieved during development through transcriptional silencing of one of the two X chromosomes. Following X chromosome inactivation (XCI), the inactive X chromosome remains faithfully silenced throughout somatic cell divisions. XCI is dependent on Xist, a long noncoding RNA that coats and silences the X chromosome from which it is transcribed. Xist coating triggers a cascade of chromosome-wide changes occurring at the levels of transcription, chromatin composition, chromosome structure, and spatial organization within the nucleus. XCI has emerged as a paradigm for the study of such crucial nuclear processes and the dissection of their functional interplay. In the past decade, the advent of tools to characterize and perturb these processes have provided an unprecedented understanding into their roles during XCI. The mechanisms orchestrating the initiation of XCI as well as its maintenance are thus being unraveled, although many questions still remain. Here, we introduce key aspects of the XCI process and review the recent discoveries about its molecular basis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- François Dossin
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Director's Unit, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Edith Heard
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Director's Unit, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Maimaitiyiming Y, Ye L, Yang T, Yu W, Naranmandura H. Linear and Circular Long Non-Coding RNAs in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: From Pathogenesis to Classification and Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084442. [PMID: 35457264 PMCID: PMC9033105 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The coding regions account for only a small part of the human genome, and the remaining vast majority of the regions generate large amounts of non-coding RNAs. Although non-coding RNAs do not code for any protein, they are suggested to work as either tumor suppressers or oncogenes through modulating the expression of genes and functions of proteins at transcriptional, posttranscriptional and post-translational levels. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) originates from malignant transformed B/T-precursor-stage lymphoid progenitors in the bone marrow (BM). The pathogenesis of ALL is closely associated with aberrant genetic alterations that block lymphoid differentiation and drive abnormal cell proliferation as well as survival. While treatment of pediatric ALL represents a major success story in chemotherapy-based elimination of a malignancy, adult ALL remains a devastating disease with relatively poor prognosis. Thus, novel aspects in the pathogenesis and progression of ALL, especially in the adult population, need to be further explored. Accumulating evidence indicated that genetic changes alone are rarely sufficient for development of ALL. Recent advances in cytogenic and sequencing technologies revealed epigenetic alterations including that of non-coding RNAs as cooperating events in ALL etiology and progression. While the role of micro RNAs in ALL has been extensively reviewed, less attention, relatively, has been paid to other non-coding RNAs. Herein, we review the involvement of linear and circular long non-coding RNAs in the etiology, maintenance, and progression of ALL, highlighting the contribution of these non-coding RNAs in ALL classification and diagnosis, risk stratification as well as treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yasen Maimaitiyiming
- The Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, and Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; (Y.M.); (L.Y.); (T.Y.)
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- NHC and CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, School of Brain Science and Brain Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Linyan Ye
- The Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, and Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; (Y.M.); (L.Y.); (T.Y.)
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Tao Yang
- The Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, and Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; (Y.M.); (L.Y.); (T.Y.)
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Wenjuan Yu
- Department of Hematology, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Correspondence: (W.Y.); (H.N.)
| | - Hua Naranmandura
- The Affiliated Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, and Department of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China; (Y.M.); (L.Y.); (T.Y.)
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Department of Hematology, First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou 311121, China
- Correspondence: (W.Y.); (H.N.)
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Ryabykh GK, Mylarshchikov DE, Kuznetsov SV, Sigorskikh AI, Ponomareva TY, Zharikova AA, Mironov AA. RNA–Chromatin Interactome: What? Where? When? Mol Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s0026893322020121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
30
|
Bencivenga D, Stampone E, Vastante A, Barahmeh M, Della Ragione F, Borriello A. An Unanticipated Modulation of Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitors: The Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs. Cells 2022; 11:cells11081346. [PMID: 35456025 PMCID: PMC9028986 DOI: 10.3390/cells11081346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
It is now definitively established that a large part of the human genome is transcribed. However, only a scarce percentage of the transcriptome (about 1.2%) consists of RNAs that are translated into proteins, while the large majority of transcripts include a variety of RNA families with different dimensions and functions. Within this heterogeneous RNA world, a significant fraction consists of sequences with a length of more than 200 bases that form the so-called long non-coding RNA family. The functions of long non-coding RNAs range from the regulation of gene transcription to the changes in DNA topology and nucleosome modification and structural organization, to paraspeckle formation and cellular organelles maturation. This review is focused on the role of long non-coding RNAs as regulators of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors’ (CDKIs) levels and activities. Cyclin-dependent kinases are enzymes necessary for the tuned progression of the cell division cycle. The control of their activity takes place at various levels. Among these, interaction with CDKIs is a vital mechanism. Through CDKI modulation, long non-coding RNAs implement control over cellular physiology and are associated with numerous pathologies. However, although there are robust data in the literature, the role of long non-coding RNAs in the modulation of CDKIs appears to still be underestimated, as well as their importance in cell proliferation control.
Collapse
|
31
|
Targeting Xist with compounds that disrupt RNA structure and X inactivation. Nature 2022; 604:160-166. [PMID: 35355011 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-04537-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Although more than 98% of the human genome is non-coding1, nearly all of the drugs on the market target one of about 700 disease-related proteins. The historical reluctance to invest in non-coding RNA stems partly from requirements for drug targets to adopt a single stable conformation2. Most RNAs can adopt several conformations of similar stabilities. RNA structures also remain challenging to determine3. Nonetheless, an increasing number of diseases are now being attributed to non-coding RNA4 and the ability to target them would vastly expand the chemical space for drug development. Here we devise a screening strategy and identify small molecules that bind the non-coding RNA prototype Xist5. The X1 compound has drug-like properties and binds specifically the RepA motif6 of Xist in vitro and in vivo. Small-angle X-ray scattering analysis reveals that RepA can adopt multiple conformations but favours one structure in solution. X1 binding reduces the conformational space of RepA, displaces cognate interacting protein factors (PRC2 and SPEN), suppresses histone H3K27 trimethylation, and blocks initiation of X-chromosome inactivation. X1 inhibits cell differentiation and growth in a female-specific manner. Thus, RNA can be systematically targeted by drug-like compounds that disrupt RNA structure and epigenetic function.
Collapse
|
32
|
Li J, Ming Z, Yang L, Wang T, Liu G, Ma Q. Long noncoding RNA XIST: Mechanisms for X chromosome inactivation, roles in sex-biased diseases, and therapeutic opportunities. Genes Dis 2022; 9:1478-1492. [PMID: 36157489 PMCID: PMC9485286 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2022.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual dimorphism has been reported in various human diseases including autoimmune diseases, neurological diseases, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and some types of cancers, although the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. The long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) X-inactive specific transcript (XIST) is involved in X chromosome inactivation (XCI) in female placental mammals, a process that ensures the balanced expression dosage of X-linked genes between sexes. XIST is abnormally expressed in many sex-biased diseases. In addition, escape from XIST-mediated XCI and skewed XCI also contribute to sex-biased diseases. Therefore, its expression or modification can be regarded as a biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of many sex-biased diseases. Genetic manipulation of XIST expression can inhibit the progression of some of these diseases in animal models, and therefore XIST has been proposed as a potential therapeutic target. In this manuscript, we summarize the current knowledge about the mechanisms for XIST-mediated XCI and the roles of XIST in sex-biased diseases, and discuss potential therapeutic strategies targeting XIST.
Collapse
|
33
|
Ilieva M, Uchida S. Long Non-Coding RNAs in Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells and Their Differentiation. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 322:C769-C774. [PMID: 35235428 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00059.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The breakthrough technology for reprogramming somatic cells into induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) has created a new path for science and medicine. The iPSC technology provides a powerful tool for elucidating the mechanisms of cellular differentiation and cell fate decision as well as to study targets and pathways relevant to pathological processes. Since they can be generated from any person, iPSC are a promising resource for regenerative medicine potentiating the possibility to discover new drugs in a high-throughput screening format and treat diseases through personalized cell therapy-based strategies. However, the reprogramming process is complex, and its regulation needs fine tuning. The regulatory mechanisms of cell reprogramming and differentiation are still not elucidated, but significant results show that multiple long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play essential roles. In this mini review, we discuss the latest research on lncRNAs in iPSC stemness, neuronal and cardiac differentiation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mirolyuba Ilieva
- Center for RNA Medicine, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Copenhagen SV, Denmark
| | - Shizuka Uchida
- Center for RNA Medicine, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Copenhagen SV, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Faber MW, Vo TV. Long RNA-Mediated Chromatin Regulation in Fission Yeast and Mammals. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:968. [PMID: 35055152 PMCID: PMC8778201 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
As part of a complex network of genome control, long regulatory RNAs exert significant influences on chromatin dynamics. Understanding how this occurs could illuminate new avenues for disease treatment and lead to new hypotheses that would advance gene regulatory research. Recent studies using the model fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe (S. pombe) and powerful parallel sequencing technologies have provided many insights in this area. This review will give an overview of key findings in S. pombe that relate long RNAs to multiple levels of chromatin regulation: histone modifications, gene neighborhood regulation in cis and higher-order chromosomal ordering. Moreover, we discuss parallels recently found in mammals to help bridge the knowledge gap between the study systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tommy V. Vo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Gene regulation in time and space during X-chromosome inactivation. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2022; 23:231-249. [PMID: 35013589 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-021-00438-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) is the epigenetic mechanism that ensures X-linked dosage compensation between cells of females (XX karyotype) and males (XY). XCI is essential for female embryos to survive through development and requires the accurate spatiotemporal regulation of many different factors to achieve remarkable chromosome-wide gene silencing. As a result of XCI, the active and inactive X chromosomes are functionally and structurally different, with the inactive X chromosome undergoing a major conformational reorganization within the nucleus. In this Review, we discuss the multiple layers of genetic and epigenetic regulation that underlie initiation of XCI during development and then maintain it throughout life, in light of the most recent findings in this rapidly advancing field. We discuss exciting new insights into the regulation of X inactive-specific transcript (XIST), the trigger and master regulator of XCI, and into the mechanisms and dynamics that underlie the silencing of nearly all X-linked genes. Finally, given the increasing interest in understanding the impact of chromosome organization on gene regulation, we provide an overview of the factors that are thought to reshape the 3D structure of the inactive X chromosome and of the relevance of such structural changes for XCI establishment and maintenance.
Collapse
|
36
|
The lncRNAs at X Chromosome Inactivation Center: Not Just a Matter of Sex Dosage Compensation. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020611. [PMID: 35054794 PMCID: PMC8775829 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) constitute the majority of the transcriptome, as the result of pervasive transcription of the mammalian genome. Different RNA species, such as lncRNAs, miRNAs, circRNA, mRNAs, engage in regulatory networks based on their reciprocal interactions, often in a competitive manner, in a way denominated “competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks” (“ceRNET”): miRNAs and other ncRNAs modulate each other, since miRNAs can regulate the expression of lncRNAs, which in turn regulate miRNAs, titrating their availability and thus competing with the binding to other RNA targets. The unbalancing of any network component can derail the entire regulatory circuit acting as a driving force for human diseases, thus assigning “new” functions to “old” molecules. This is the case of XIST, the lncRNA characterized in the early 1990s and well known as the essential molecule for X chromosome inactivation in mammalian females, thus preventing an imbalance of X-linked gene expression between females and males. Currently, literature concerning XIST biology is becoming dominated by miRNA associations and they are also gaining prominence for other lncRNAs produced by the X-inactivation center. This review discusses the available literature to explore possible novel functions related to ceRNA activity of lncRNAs produced by the X-inactivation center, beyond their role in dosage compensation, with prospective implications for emerging gender-biased functions and pathological mechanisms.
Collapse
|
37
|
The tandem repeat modules of Xist lncRNA: a swiss army knife for the control of X-chromosome inactivation. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:2549-2560. [PMID: 34882219 PMCID: PMC8786293 DOI: 10.1042/bst20210253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
X-inactive-specific transcript (Xist) is a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) essential for X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) in female placental mammals. Thirty years after its discovery, it is still puzzling how this lncRNA triggers major structural and transcriptional changes leading to the stable silencing of an entire chromosome. Recently, a series of studies in mouse cells have uncovered domains of functional specialization within Xist mapping to conserved tandem repeat regions, known as Repeats A-to-F. These functional domains interact with various RNA binding proteins (RBPs) and fold into distinct RNA structures to execute specific tasks in a synergistic and coordinated manner during the inactivation process. This modular organization of Xist is mostly conserved in humans, but recent data point towards differences regarding functional specialization of the tandem repeats between the two species. In this review, we summarize the recent progress on understanding the role of Xist repetitive blocks and their involvement in the molecular mechanisms underlying XCI. We also discuss these findings in the light of the similarities and differences between mouse and human Xist.
Collapse
|
38
|
Xist nucleates local protein gradients to propagate silencing across the X chromosome. Cell 2021; 184:6174-6192.e32. [PMID: 34813726 PMCID: PMC8671326 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2021.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The lncRNA Xist forms ∼50 diffraction-limited foci to transcriptionally silence one X chromosome. How this small number of RNA foci and interacting proteins regulate a much larger number of X-linked genes is unknown. We show that Xist foci are locally confined, contain ∼2 RNA molecules, and nucleate supramolecular complexes (SMACs) that include many copies of the critical silencing protein SPEN. Aggregation and exchange of SMAC proteins generate local protein gradients that regulate broad, proximal chromatin regions. Partitioning of numerous SPEN molecules into SMACs is mediated by their intrinsically disordered regions and essential for transcriptional repression. Polycomb deposition via SMACs induces chromatin compaction and the increase in SMACs density around genes, which propagates silencing across the X chromosome. Our findings introduce a mechanism for functional nuclear compartmentalization whereby crowding of transcriptional and architectural regulators enables the silencing of many target genes by few RNA molecules.
Collapse
|
39
|
Abstract
Although long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are generally expressed at low levels, emerging evidence has revealed that many play important roles in gene regulation by a variety of mechanisms as they engage with proteins. Given that the abundance of proteins often greatly exceeds that of their interacting lncRNAs, quantification of the relative abundance, or even the exact stoichiometry in some cases, within lncRNA-protein complexes is helpful for understanding of the mechanism(s) of action of lncRNAs. We discuss methods used to examine lncRNA and protein expression at the single cell, subcellular, and suborganelle levels, the average and local lncRNA concentration in cells, as well as how lncRNAs can modulate the functions of their interacting proteins even at a low stoichiometric concentration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Man Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Liang-Zhong Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Ling-Ling Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China
- School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Wang T, Li J, Yang L, Wu M, Ma Q. The Role of Long Non-coding RNAs in Human Imprinting Disorders: Prospective Therapeutic Targets. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:730014. [PMID: 34760887 PMCID: PMC8573313 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.730014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Genomic imprinting is a term used for an intergenerational epigenetic inheritance and involves a subset of genes expressed in a parent-of-origin-dependent way. Imprinted genes are expressed preferentially from either the paternally or maternally inherited allele. Long non-coding RNAs play essential roles in regulating this allele-specific expression. In several well-studied imprinting clusters, long non-coding RNAs have been found to be essential in regulating temporal- and spatial-specific establishment and maintenance of imprinting patterns. Furthermore, recent insights into the epigenetic pathological mechanisms underlying human genomic imprinting disorders suggest that allele-specific expressed imprinted long non-coding RNAs serve as an upstream regulator of the expression of other protein-coding or non-coding imprinted genes in the same cluster. Aberrantly expressed long non-coding RNAs result in bi-allelic expression or silencing of neighboring imprinted genes. Here, we review the emerging roles of long non-coding RNAs in regulating the expression of imprinted genes, especially in human imprinting disorders, and discuss three strategies targeting the central long non-coding RNA UBE3A-ATS for the purpose of developing therapies for the imprinting disorders Prader-Willi syndrome and Angelman syndrome. In summary, a better understanding of long non-coding RNA-related mechanisms is key to the development of potential therapeutic targets for human imprinting disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tingxuan Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jianjian Li
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Liuyi Yang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Manyin Wu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Qing Ma
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Synthetic Genomics, CAS Key Laboratory of Quantitative Engineering Biology, Shenzhen Institute of Synthetic Biology, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Attaway M, Chwat-Edelstein T, Vuong BQ. Regulatory Non-Coding RNAs Modulate Transcriptional Activation During B Cell Development. Front Genet 2021; 12:678084. [PMID: 34721515 PMCID: PMC8551670 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.678084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
B cells play a significant role in the adaptive immune response by secreting immunoglobulins that can recognize and neutralize foreign antigens. They develop from hematopoietic stem cells, which also give rise to other types of blood cells, such as monocytes, neutrophils, and T cells, wherein specific transcriptional programs define the commitment and subsequent development of these different cell lineages. A number of transcription factors, such as PU.1, E2A, Pax5, and FOXO1, drive B cell development. Mounting evidence demonstrates that non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), modulate the expression of these transcription factors directly by binding to the mRNA coding for the transcription factor or indirectly by modifying cellular pathways that promote expression of the transcription factor. Conversely, these transcription factors upregulate expression of some miRNAs and lncRNAs to determine cell fate decisions. These studies underscore the complex gene regulatory networks that control B cell development during hematopoiesis and identify new regulatory RNAs that require additional investigation. In this review, we highlight miRNAs and lncRNAs that modulate the expression and activity of transcriptional regulators of B lymphopoiesis and how they mediate this regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Attaway
- Department of Biology, The City College of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Tzippora Chwat-Edelstein
- Department of Biology, The City College of New York, New York, NY, United States.,Macaulay Honors College, New York, NY, United States
| | - Bao Q Vuong
- Department of Biology, The City College of New York, New York, NY, United States.,The Graduate Center, The City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Trotman JB, Braceros KCA, Cherney RE, Murvin MM, Calabrese JM. The control of polycomb repressive complexes by long noncoding RNAs. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2021; 12:e1657. [PMID: 33861025 PMCID: PMC8500928 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The polycomb repressive complexes 1 and 2 (PRCs; PRC1 and PRC2) are conserved histone-modifying enzymes that often function cooperatively to repress gene expression. The PRCs are regulated by long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in complex ways. On the one hand, specific lncRNAs cause the PRCs to engage with chromatin and repress gene expression over genomic regions that can span megabases. On the other hand, the PRCs bind RNA with seemingly little sequence specificity, and at least in the case of PRC2, direct RNA-binding has the effect of inhibiting the enzyme. Thus, some RNAs appear to promote PRC activity, while others may inhibit it. The reasons behind this apparent dichotomy are unclear. The most potent PRC-activating lncRNAs associate with chromatin and are predominantly unspliced or harbor unusually long exons. Emerging data imply that these lncRNAs promote PRC activity through internal RNA sequence elements that arise and disappear rapidly in evolutionary time. These sequence elements may function by interacting with common subsets of RNA-binding proteins that recruit or stabilize PRCs on chromatin. This article is categorized under: RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Recognition RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA-Protein Complexes RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Interactions: Functional Implications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jackson B. Trotman
- Department of Pharmacology and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Keean C. A. Braceros
- Department of Pharmacology and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Curriculum in Mechanistic, Interdisciplinary Studies of Biological Systems, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Rachel E. Cherney
- Department of Pharmacology and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - McKenzie M. Murvin
- Department of Pharmacology and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - J. Mauro Calabrese
- Department of Pharmacology and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Sabol M, Calleja-Agius J, Di Fiore R, Suleiman S, Ozcan S, Ward MP, Ozretić P. (In)Distinctive Role of Long Non-Coding RNAs in Common and Rare Ovarian Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13205040. [PMID: 34680193 PMCID: PMC8534192 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13205040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Rare ovarian cancers (ROCs) are OCs with an annual incidence of fewer than 6 cases per 100,000 women. They affect women of all ages, but due to their low incidence and the potential clinical inexperience in management, there can be a delay in diagnosis, leading to a poor prognosis. The underlying causes for these tumors are varied, but generally, the tumors arise due to alterations in gene/protein expression in cellular processes that regulate normal proliferation and its checkpoints. Dysregulation of the cellular processes that lead to cancer includes gene mutations, epimutations, non-coding RNA (ncRNA) regulation, posttranscriptional and posttranslational modifications. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) are defined as transcribed RNA molecules, more than 200 nucleotides in length which are not translated into proteins. They regulate gene expression through several mechanisms and therefore add another level of complexity to the regulatory mechanisms affecting tumor development. Since few studies have been performed on ROCs, in this review we summarize the mechanisms of action of lncRNA in OC, with an emphasis on ROCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maja Sabol
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Jean Calleja-Agius
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, MSD 2080 Msida, Malta; (J.C.-A.); (R.D.F.); (S.S.)
| | - Riccardo Di Fiore
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, MSD 2080 Msida, Malta; (J.C.-A.); (R.D.F.); (S.S.)
- Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, Center for Biotechnology, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
| | - Sherif Suleiman
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, MSD 2080 Msida, Malta; (J.C.-A.); (R.D.F.); (S.S.)
| | - Sureyya Ozcan
- Department of Chemistry, Middle East Technical University (METU), 06800 Ankara, Turkey;
- Cancer Systems Biology Laboratory (CanSyl), Middle East Technical University (METU), 06800 Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mark P. Ward
- Department of Histopathology, Trinity St James’s Cancer Institute, Emer Casey Molecular Pathology Laboratory, Trinity College Dublin and Coombe Women’s and Infants University Hospital, D08 RX0X Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Petar Ozretić
- Laboratory for Hereditary Cancer, Division of Molecular Medicine, Ruđer Bošković Institute, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +385-(1)-4571292
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Chen H, Guo Y, Cheng X. Long non-cording RNA XIST promoted cell proliferation and suppressed apoptosis by miR-423-5p/HMGA2 axis in diabetic nephropathy. Mol Cell Biochem 2021; 476:4517-4528. [PMID: 34532814 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-021-04250-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
This research studied the effect of long non-coding RNA X-inactive-specific transcript (XIST) on DN. The effect of high glucose (HG) on the expression of XIST and miR-423-5p was detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) in human kidney (HK) cells (human glomerular mesangial cells (HMCs) and human kidney-2 (HK-2) cells). The effect of XIST depletion and miR-423-5p inhibition or overexpression on high mobility group protein A2 (HMGA2) protein level was examined by western blot in HG-induced HK cells. The impacts of XIST depletion on viability and apoptosis were assessed by 3-(4, 5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2, 5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and flow cytometry assays in HG-induced HK cells. We found the expression of XIST and HMGA2 protein was significantly upregulated in DN tissues and cells. Moreover, HG treatment induced the upregulation of XIST and HMGA2 protein level in HK cells. Besides, both XIST depletion and HMGA2 depletion decreased cell proliferation but increased apoptosis in HG-treated HK cells. Furthermore, HMGA2 upregulation or miR-423-5p inhibition partly eliminated the effects of XIST depletion on cell proliferation, apoptosis of HG-treated HK cells. Interestingly, HMGA2 upregulation partly reversed miR-423-5p overexpression-mediated suppression on viability and promotion on apoptosis in HG-treated HK cells. Mechanistically, XIST sponged miR-423-5p to regulate HMGA2 expression in DN cells. Taken together, XIST depletion suppressed proliferation and promoted apoptosis via miR-423-5p/HMGA2 axis in HG-treated HK cells, which may provide a potential therapeutic target for DN.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Chen
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Road, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China.,Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital, Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuan Guo
- Clinical Laboratory Center, Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xingbo Cheng
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, 188 Shizi Road, Suzhou, 215006, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Yao W, Du X, Zhang J, Wang Y, Wang M, Pan Z, Li Q. SMAD4-induced knockdown of the antisense long noncoding RNA BRE-AS contributes to granulosa cell apoptosis. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2021; 25:251-263. [PMID: 34458009 PMCID: PMC8368758 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2021.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Antisense long noncoding RNAs (AS-lncRNAs), a sub-class of lncRNAs, are transcribed in the opposite direction from their overlapping protein-coding genes and are implicated in various physiological and pathological processes. However, their role in female reproduction remains largely unknown. Here, we report that BRE-AS, an AS-lncRNA transcript from intron 10 of the protein-coding gene BRE, is involved in granulosa cell (GC) apoptosis. Based on our previous RNA sequencing data, we identified 28 AS-lncRNAs as important in the initiation of porcine follicular atresia, with BRE-AS showing the most significant upregulation in early atretic follicles. In this study, gain- and loss-of-function assays demonstrated that BRE-AS induces early apoptosis in GCs. Mechanistically, BRE-AS acts in cis to suppress the expression of BRE, an anti-apoptotic factor, via direct interaction with the pre-mRNA transcript of the latter, inducing increased GC apoptosis. Notably, we also found that BRE-AS was upregulated in SMAD4-silenced GCs. SMAD4 was identified as a transcriptional repressor of BRE-AS because it inhibits BRE-AS expression and BRE-AS-mediated GC apoptosis. In conclusion, we not only identified a novel AS-lncRNA related to the early apoptosis of GCs and initiation of follicular atresia but also described a novel regulatory pathway, SMAD4/BRE-AS/BRE, coordinating GC function and female fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wang Yao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Xing Du
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Jinbi Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yang Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Miaomiao Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Zengxiang Pan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Qifa Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Exploring chromatin structural roles of non-coding RNAs at imprinted domains. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:1867-1879. [PMID: 34338292 PMCID: PMC8421051 DOI: 10.1042/bst20210758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Different classes of non-coding RNA (ncRNA) influence the organization of chromatin. Imprinted gene domains constitute a paradigm for exploring functional long ncRNAs (lncRNAs). Almost all express an lncRNA in a parent-of-origin dependent manner. The mono-allelic expression of these lncRNAs represses close by and distant protein-coding genes, through diverse mechanisms. Some control genes on other chromosomes as well. Interestingly, several imprinted chromosomal domains show a developmentally regulated, chromatin-based mechanism of imprinting with apparent similarities to X-chromosome inactivation. At these domains, the mono-allelic lncRNAs show a relatively stable, focal accumulation in cis. This facilitates the recruitment of Polycomb repressive complexes, lysine methyltranferases and other nuclear proteins — in part through direct RNA–protein interactions. Recent chromosome conformation capture and microscopy studies indicate that the focal aggregation of lncRNA and interacting proteins could play an architectural role as well, and correlates with close positioning of target genes. Higher-order chromatin structure is strongly influenced by CTCF/cohesin complexes, whose allelic association patterns and actions may be influenced by lncRNAs as well. Here, we review the gene-repressive roles of imprinted non-coding RNAs, particularly of lncRNAs, and discuss emerging links with chromatin architecture.
Collapse
|
47
|
Singh N. Role of mammalian long non-coding RNAs in normal and neuro oncological disorders. Genomics 2021; 113:3250-3273. [PMID: 34302945 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2021.07.015] [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: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are expressed at lower levels than protein-coding genes but have a crucial role in gene regulation. LncRNA is distinct, they are being transcribed using RNA polymerase II, and their functionality depends on subcellular localization. Depending on their niche, they specifically interact with DNA, RNA, and proteins and modify chromatin function, regulate transcription at various stages, forms nuclear condensation bodies and nucleolar organization. lncRNAs may also change the stability and translation of cytoplasmic mRNAs and hamper signaling pathways. Thus, lncRNAs affect the physio-pathological states and lead to the development of various disorders, immune responses, and cancer. To date, ~40% of lncRNAs have been reported in the nervous system (NS) and are involved in the early development/differentiation of the NS to synaptogenesis. LncRNA expression patterns in the most common adult and pediatric tumor suggest them as potential biomarkers and provide a rationale for targeting them pharmaceutically. Here, we discuss the mechanisms of lncRNA synthesis, localization, and functions in transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and other forms of gene regulation, methods of lncRNA identification, and their potential therapeutic applications in neuro oncological disorders as explained by molecular mechanisms in other malignant disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neetu Singh
- Molecular Biology Unit, Department of Centre for Advance Research, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226 003, India.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Razin SV, Gavrilov AA. Non-coding RNAs in chromatin folding and nuclear organization. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:5489-5504. [PMID: 34117518 PMCID: PMC11072467 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03876-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
One of the most intriguing questions facing modern biology concerns how the genome directs the construction of cells, tissues, and whole organisms. It is tempting to suggest that the part of the genome that does not encode proteins contains architectural plans. We are still far from understanding how these plans work at the level of building tissues and the body as a whole. However, the results of recent studies demonstrate that at the cellular level, special non-coding RNAs serve as scaffolds for the construction of various intracellular structures. The term "architectural RNAs" was proposed to designate this subset of non-coding RNAs. In this review, we discuss the role of architectural RNAs in the construction of the cell nucleus and maintenance of the three-dimensional organization of the genome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sergey V Razin
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334, Moscow, Russia.
- Faculty of Biology, M. V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Alexey A Gavrilov
- Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334, Moscow, Russia
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 119334, Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Szanto A, Aguilar R, Kesner B, Blum R, Wang D, Cifuentes-Rojas C, Del Rosario BC, Kis-Toth K, Lee JT. A disproportionate impact of G9a methyltransferase deficiency on the X chromosome. Genes Dev 2021; 35:1035-1054. [PMID: 34168040 PMCID: PMC8247598 DOI: 10.1101/gad.337592.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
In this study from Szanto et al., the authors investigated the role of G9a, a histone methyltransferase responsible for the dimethylation of histone H3 at lysine 9 (H3K9me2) that plays key roles in transcriptional silencing of developmentally regulated genes, in X-chromosome inactivation (XCI). They found a female-specific function of G9a and demonstrate that deleting G9a has a disproportionate impact on the X chromosome relative to the rest of the genome, and show RNA tethers G9a for allele-specific targeting of the H3K9me2 modification and the G9a–RNA interaction is essential for XCI. G9a is a histone methyltransferase responsible for the dimethylation of histone H3 at lysine 9 (H3K9me2). G9a plays key roles in transcriptional silencing of developmentally regulated genes, but its role in X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) has been under debate. Here, we uncover a female-specific function of G9a and demonstrate that deleting G9a has a disproportionate impact on the X chromosome relative to the rest of the genome. G9a deficiency causes a failure of XCI and female-specific hypersensitivity to drug inhibition of H3K9me2. We show that G9a interacts with Tsix and Xist RNAs, and that competitive inhibition of the G9a-RNA interaction recapitulates the XCI defect. During XCI, Xist recruits G9a to silence X-linked genes on the future inactive X. In parallel on the future Xa, Tsix recruits G9a to silence Xist in cis. Thus, RNA tethers G9a for allele-specific targeting of the H3K9me2 modification and the G9a-RNA interaction is essential for XCI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Attila Szanto
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA.,Department of Genetics, The Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Rodrigo Aguilar
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA.,Department of Genetics, The Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Barry Kesner
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA.,Department of Genetics, The Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Roy Blum
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA.,Department of Genetics, The Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Danni Wang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA.,Department of Genetics, The Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Catherine Cifuentes-Rojas
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA.,Department of Genetics, The Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Brian C Del Rosario
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA.,Department of Genetics, The Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Katalin Kis-Toth
- Department of Rheumatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| | - Jeannie T Lee
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA.,Department of Genetics, The Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Naciri I, Lin B, Webb CH, Jiang S, Carmona S, Liu W, Mortazavi A, Sun S. Linking Chromosomal Silencing With Xist Expression From Autosomal Integrated Transgenes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:693154. [PMID: 34222260 PMCID: PMC8250153 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.693154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Xist is the master regulator of X-Chromosome Inactivation (XCI), the mammalian dosage compensation mechanism that silences one of the two X chromosomes in a female cell. XCI is established during early embryonic development. Xist transgene (Tg) integrated into an autosome can induce transcriptional silencing of flanking genes; however, the effect and mechanism of Xist RNA on autosomal sequence silencing remain elusive. In this study, we investigate an autosomal integration of Xist Tg that is compatible with mouse viability but causes male sterility in homozygous transgenic mice. We observed ectopic Xist expression in the transgenic male cells along with a transcriptional reduction of genes clustered in four segments on the mouse chromosome 1 (Chr 1). RNA/DNA Fluorescent in situ Hybridization (FISH) and chromosome painting confirmed that Xist Tg is associated with chromosome 1. To determine the spreading mechanism of autosomal silencing induced by Xist Tg on Chr 1, we analyzed the positions of the transcriptionally repressed chromosomal sequences relative to the Xist Tg location inside the cell nucleus. Our results show that the transcriptionally repressed chromosomal segments are closely proximal to Xist Tg in the three-dimensional nucleus space. Our findings therefore support a model that Xist directs and maintains long-range transcriptional silencing facilitated by the three-dimensional chromosome organization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ikrame Naciri
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Benjamin Lin
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Chiu-Ho Webb
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Shan Jiang
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Sarah Carmona
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Wenzhu Liu
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Ali Mortazavi
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Sha Sun
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|