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Xuan Y, Wang L, Zhang L, Lv M, Li F, Gong Q. Structural basis of pri-let-7 recognition by human pseudouridine synthase TruB1. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 721:150122. [PMID: 38776834 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.150122] [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: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Let-7 was one of the first microRNAs (miRNAs) to be discovered and its expression promotes differentiation during development and function as tumor suppressors in various cancers. The maturation process of let-7 miRNA is tightly regulated by multiple RNA-binding proteins. For example, LIN28 binds to the terminal loops of the precursors of let-7 family and block their processing into mature miRNAs. Trim25 promotes the uridylation-mediated degradation of pre-let-7 modified by LIN28/TUT4. Recently, human pseudouridine synthase TruB1 has been reported to facilitate let-7 maturation by directly binding to pri-let-7 and recruiting Drosha-DGCR8 microprocessor. Through biochemical assay and structural investigation, we show that human TruB1 binds specifically the terminal loop of pri-let-7a1 at nucleotides 31-41, which folds as a small stem-loop architecture. Although TruB1 recognizes the terminal loop of pri-let-7a1 in a way similar to how E. coli TruB interacts with tRNA, a conserved KRKK motif in human and other higher eukaryotes adds an extra binding interface and strengthens the recognition of TruB1 for pri-let-7a1 through electrostatic interactions. These findings reveal the structural basis of TruB1-pri-let-7 interaction which may assists the elucidation of precise role of TruB1 in biogenesis of let-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumi Xuan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027, Hefei, PR China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027, Hefei, PR China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027, Hefei, PR China
| | - Mengqi Lv
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027, Hefei, PR China
| | - Fudong Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027, Hefei, PR China
| | - Qingguo Gong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Center for Advanced Interdisciplinary Science and Biomedicine of IHM, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Membraneless Organelles & Cellular Dynamics, Biomedical Sciences and Health Laboratory of Anhui Province, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, 230027, Hefei, PR China.
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2
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Binder AK, Bremm F, Dörrie J, Schaft N. Non-Coding RNA in Tumor Cells and Tumor-Associated Myeloid Cells-Function and Therapeutic Potential. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7275. [PMID: 39000381 PMCID: PMC11242727 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The RNA world is wide, and besides mRNA, there is a variety of other RNA types, such as non-coding (nc)RNAs, which harbor various intracellular regulatory functions. This review focuses on small interfering (si)RNA and micro (mi)RNA, which form a complex network regulating mRNA translation and, consequently, gene expression. In fact, these RNAs are critically involved in the function and phenotype of all cells in the human body, including malignant cells. In cancer, the two main targets for therapy are dysregulated cancer cells and dysfunctional immune cells. To exploit the potential of mi- or siRNA therapeutics in cancer therapy, a profound understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of RNAs and following targeted intervention is needed to re-program cancer cells and immune cell functions in vivo. The first part focuses on the function of less well-known RNAs, including siRNA and miRNA, and presents RNA-based technologies. In the second part, the therapeutic potential of these technologies in treating cancer is discussed, with particular attention on manipulating tumor-associated immune cells, especially tumor-associated myeloid cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Katharina Binder
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (A.K.B.); (F.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Franziska Bremm
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (A.K.B.); (F.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jan Dörrie
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (A.K.B.); (F.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Niels Schaft
- Department of Dermatology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, 91054 Erlangen, Germany; (A.K.B.); (F.B.); (J.D.)
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen European Metropolitan Area of Nuremberg (CCC ER-EMN), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum Immuntherapie (DZI), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
- Bavarian Cancer Research Center (BZKF), 91054 Erlangen, Germany
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3
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Yan X, Li C, Liu K, Zhang T, Xu Q, Li X, Zhu J, Wang Z, Yusuf A, Cao S, Peng X, Cai JJ, Zhang X. Parallel degradome-seq and DMS-MaPseq substantially revise the miRNA biogenesis atlas in Arabidopsis. NATURE PLANTS 2024; 10:1126-1143. [PMID: 38918606 DOI: 10.1038/s41477-024-01725-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are produced from highly structured primary transcripts (pri-miRNAs) and regulate numerous biological processes in eukaryotes. Due to the extreme heterogeneity of these structures, the initial processing sites of plant pri-miRNAs and the structural rules that determine their processing have been predicted for many miRNAs but remain elusive for others. Here we used semi-active DCL1 mutants and advanced degradome-sequencing strategies to accurately identify the initial processing sites for 147 of 326 previously annotated Arabidopsis miRNAs and to illustrate their associated pri-miRNA cleavage patterns. Elucidating the in vivo RNA secondary structures of 73 pri-miRNAs revealed that about 95% of them differ from in silico predictions, and that the revised structures offer clearer interpretation of the processing sites and patterns. Finally, DCL1 partners Serrate and HYL1 could synergistically and independently impact processing patterns and in vivo RNA secondary structures of pri-miRNAs. Together, our work sheds light on the precise processing mechanisms of plant pri-miRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingxing Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
- Molecular and Environmental Plant Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Changhao Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Kaiye Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
- National Key Laboratory for Tropical Crop Breeding, School of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Tianru Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
- Molecular and Environmental Plant Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Qian Xu
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Xindi Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Jiaying Zhu
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Ziying Wang
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
- McWilliams School of Biomedical Informatics, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Anikah Yusuf
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
- Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Program, Des Moines University, West Des Moines, IA, USA
| | - Shuqing Cao
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
| | - Xu Peng
- Department of Medical Physiology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - James J Cai
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Xiuren Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
- Molecular and Environmental Plant Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
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4
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Chen C, Demirkhanyan L, Gondi CS. The Multifaceted Role of miR-21 in Pancreatic Cancers. Cells 2024; 13:948. [PMID: 38891080 PMCID: PMC11172074 DOI: 10.3390/cells13110948] [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: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
With the lack of specific signs and symptoms, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is often diagnosed at late metastatic stages, resulting in poor survival outcomes. Among various biomarkers, microRNA-21 (miR-21), a small non-coding RNA, is highly expressed in PDAC. By inhibiting regulatory proteins at the 3' untranslated regions (UTR), miR-21 holds significant roles in PDAC cell proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, angiogenesis, as well as cancer invasion, metastasis, and resistance therapy. We conducted a systematic search across major databases for articles on miR-21 and pancreatic cancer mainly published within the last decade, focusing on their diagnostic, prognostic, therapeutic, and biological roles. This rigorous approach ensured a comprehensive review of miR-21's multifaceted role in pancreatic cancers. In this review, we explore the current understandings and future directions regarding the regulation, diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic potential of targeting miR-21 in PDAC. This exhaustive review discusses the involvement of miR-21 in proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), apoptosis modulation, angiogenesis, and its role in therapy resistance. Also discussed in the review is the interplay between various molecular pathways that contribute to tumor progression, with specific reference to pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Chen
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
| | - Lusine Demirkhanyan
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Surgery, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
| | - Christopher S. Gondi
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
- Departments of Internal Medicine and Surgery, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Surgery, and Health Science Education and Pathology, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, Peoria, IL 61605, USA
- Health Care Engineering Systems Center, The Grainger College of Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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5
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Garg A, Shang R, Cvetanovic T, Lai EC, Joshua-Tor L. The structural landscape of Microprocessor Mediated pri- let-7 miRNAs processing. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.09.593372. [PMID: 38766155 PMCID: PMC11100773 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.09.593372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
miRNA biogenesis is initiated upon cleavage of a primary miRNA (pri-miRNA) hairpin by Microprocessor (MP), composed of the Drosha RNase III enzyme and its partner DGCR8. Multiple pri-miRNA sequence motifs affect MP recognition, fidelity, and efficiency. Here, we performed cryo-EM and biochemical studies of several let-7 family pri-miRNAs in complex with human MP. We show that MP has structural plasticity to accommodate different pri-miRNAs. These also revealed key structural features of the 5' UG sequence motif, more comprehensively represented as the "fUN" motif. Our analysis explains how the bulged nucleotide in class-II pri-let-7 members alters Drosha cleavage, generating a noncanonical precursor with 1-nt 3' overhang. Finally, the MP-SRSF3-pri-let-7f1 structure reveals how SRSF3 interacts with the CNNC motif and Drosha's PAZ-like domain, to promote proper Drosha loading onto the basal hairpin junction. Overall, our work illuminates the mechanisms for flexible recognition, accurate cleavage, and regulated processing of different pri-miRNAs by MP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankur Garg
- W. M. Keck Structural Biology Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, One Bungtown Road,Cold Spring Harbor, New York, 11724 USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor laboratory, One Bungtown Road, Cold Spring Harbor, New York, 11724 USA
| | - Renfu Shang
- Developmental Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, 430 East 67th St, ROC-10, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Todor Cvetanovic
- W. M. Keck Structural Biology Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, One Bungtown Road,Cold Spring Harbor, New York, 11724 USA
| | - Eric C. Lai
- Developmental Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, 430 East 67th St, ROC-10, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Leemor Joshua-Tor
- W. M. Keck Structural Biology Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, One Bungtown Road,Cold Spring Harbor, New York, 11724 USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor laboratory, One Bungtown Road, Cold Spring Harbor, New York, 11724 USA
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6
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Lee YJ, Kim WR, Park EG, Lee DH, Kim JM, Shin HJ, Jeong HS, Roh HY, Kim HS. Exploring the Key Signaling Pathways and ncRNAs in Colorectal Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4548. [PMID: 38674135 PMCID: PMC11050203 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084548] [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: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent cancer to be diagnosed, and it has a substantial mortality rate. Despite numerous studies being conducted on CRC, it remains a significant health concern. The disease-free survival rates notably decrease as CRC progresses, emphasizing the urgency for effective diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. CRC development is caused by environmental factors, which mostly lead to the disruption of signaling pathways. Among these pathways, the Wingless/Integrated (Wnt) signaling pathway, Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/AKT/mTOR) signaling pathway, Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway, Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) signaling pathway, and p53 signaling pathway are considered to be important. These signaling pathways are also regulated by non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs). They have emerged as crucial regulators of gene expression in CRC by changing their expression levels. The altered expression patterns of these ncRNAs have been implicated in CRC progression and development, suggesting their potential as diagnostic and therapeutic targets. This review provides an overview of the five key signaling pathways and regulation of ncRNAs involved in CRC pathogenesis that are studied to identify promising avenues for diagnosis and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Ju Lee
- Department of Integrated Biological Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea; (Y.J.L.); (W.R.K.); (E.G.P.); (D.H.L.); (J.-m.K.); (H.J.S.); (H.-s.J.)
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea;
| | - Woo Ryung Kim
- Department of Integrated Biological Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea; (Y.J.L.); (W.R.K.); (E.G.P.); (D.H.L.); (J.-m.K.); (H.J.S.); (H.-s.J.)
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea;
| | - Eun Gyung Park
- Department of Integrated Biological Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea; (Y.J.L.); (W.R.K.); (E.G.P.); (D.H.L.); (J.-m.K.); (H.J.S.); (H.-s.J.)
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea;
| | - Du Hyeong Lee
- Department of Integrated Biological Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea; (Y.J.L.); (W.R.K.); (E.G.P.); (D.H.L.); (J.-m.K.); (H.J.S.); (H.-s.J.)
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea;
| | - Jung-min Kim
- Department of Integrated Biological Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea; (Y.J.L.); (W.R.K.); (E.G.P.); (D.H.L.); (J.-m.K.); (H.J.S.); (H.-s.J.)
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea;
| | - Hae Jin Shin
- Department of Integrated Biological Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea; (Y.J.L.); (W.R.K.); (E.G.P.); (D.H.L.); (J.-m.K.); (H.J.S.); (H.-s.J.)
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea;
| | - Hyeon-su Jeong
- Department of Integrated Biological Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea; (Y.J.L.); (W.R.K.); (E.G.P.); (D.H.L.); (J.-m.K.); (H.J.S.); (H.-s.J.)
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea;
| | - Hyun-Young Roh
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea;
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Heui-Soo Kim
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea;
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Republic of Korea
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7
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Zablon F, Desai P, Dellinger K, Aravamudhan S. Cellular and Exosomal MicroRNAs: Emerging Clinical Relevance as Targets for Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Prognosis. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024; 8:e2300532. [PMID: 38258348 PMCID: PMC11198028 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202300532] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Breast cancer accounts for the highest cancer cases globally, with 12% of occurrences progressing to metastatic breast cancer with a low survival rate and limited effective early intervention strategies augmented by late diagnosis. Moreover, a low concentration of prognostic and predictive markers hinders disease monitoring. Circulating and exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) have recently shown a considerable interplay in breast cancer, standing out as effective diagnostic and prognostic markers. The primary functions are as gene regulatory agents at the genetic and epigenetic levels. An array of dysregulated miRNAs stimulates cancer-promoting mechanisms, activating oncogenes and controlling tumor-suppressing genes and mechanisms. Exosomes are vastly studied extracellular vesicles, carrying, and transporting cargo, including noncoding RNAs with premier roles in oncogenesis. Translocation of miRNAs from the circulation to exosomes, with RNA-binding proteins in stress-induced conditions, has shown significant cooperation in function to promote breast cancer. This review examines cellular and exosomal miRNA biogenesis and loading, the clinical implications of their dysregulation, their function in diagnosis, prognosis, and prediction of breast cancer, and in regulating cancer signaling pathways. The influence of cellular and exosomal miRNAs presents clinical significance on breast cancer diagnosis, subtyping, staging, prediction, and disease monitoring during treatment, hence a potent marker for breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faith Zablon
- Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering, North Carolina, A & T State University, 2904 E. Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC-27401
| | - Parth Desai
- University of North Carolina, Greensboro, 2904 E. Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC-27401
| | - Kristen Dellinger
- Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering, North Carolina, A & T State University, 2904 E. Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC-27401
| | - Shyam Aravamudhan
- Joint School of Nanoscience and Nanoengineering, North Carolina, A & T State University, 2904 E. Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC-27401
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8
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Baek SC, Kim B, Jang H, Kim K, Park IS, Min DH, Kim VN. Structural atlas of human primary microRNAs generated by SHAPE-MaP. Mol Cell 2024; 84:1158-1172.e6. [PMID: 38447581 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2024.02.005] [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: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
MicroRNA (miRNA) maturation is critically dependent on structural features of primary transcripts (pri-miRNAs). However, the scarcity of determined pri-miRNA structures has limited our understanding of miRNA maturation. Here, we employed selective 2'-hydroxyl acylation analyzed by primer extension and mutational profiling (SHAPE-MaP), a high-throughput RNA structure probing method, to unravel the secondary structures of 476 high-confidence human pri-miRNAs. Our SHAPE-based structures diverge substantially from those inferred solely from computation, particularly in the apical loop and basal segments, underlining the need for experimental data in RNA structure prediction. By comparing the structures with high-throughput processing data, we determined the optimal structural features of pri-miRNAs. The sequence determinants are influenced substantially by their structural contexts. Moreover, we identified an element termed the bulged GWG motif (bGWG) with a 3' bulge in the lower stem, which promotes processing. Our structure-function mapping better annotates the determinants of pri-miRNA processing and offers practical implications for designing small hairpin RNAs and predicting the impacts of miRNA mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Chan Baek
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, South Korea; School of Biological Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - Boseon Kim
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, South Korea; School of Biological Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - Harim Jang
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, South Korea; School of Biological Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - Kijun Kim
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, South Korea; School of Biological Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - Il-Soo Park
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, South Korea; Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - Dal-Hee Min
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, South Korea; Department of Chemistry, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea
| | - V Narry Kim
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, South Korea; School of Biological Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, South Korea.
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9
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Gu K, Mok L, Wakefield MJ, Chong MMW. Non-canonical RNA substrates of Drosha lack many of the conserved features found in primary microRNA stem-loops. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6713. [PMID: 38509178 PMCID: PMC10954719 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-57330-5] [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: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The RNase III enzyme Drosha has a central role in microRNA (miRNA) biogenesis, where it is required to release the stem-loop intermediate from primary (pri)-miRNA transcripts. However, it can also cleave stem-loops embedded within messenger (m)RNAs. This destabilizes the mRNA causing target gene repression and appears to occur primarily in stem cells. While pri-miRNA stem-loops have been extensively studied, such non-canonical substrates of Drosha have yet to be characterized in detail. In this study, we employed high-throughput sequencing to capture all polyA-tailed RNAs that are cleaved by Drosha in mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and compared the features of non-canonical versus miRNA stem-loop substrates. mRNA substrates are less efficiently processed than miRNA stem-loops. Sequence and structural analyses revealed that these mRNA substrates are also less stable and more likely to fold into alternative structures than miRNA stem-loops. Moreover, they lack the sequence and structural motifs found in miRNA stem-loops that are required for precise cleavage. Notably, we discovered a non-canonical Drosha substrate that is cleaved in an inverse manner, which is a process that is normally inhibited by features in miRNA stem-loops. Our study thus provides valuable insights into the recognition of non-canonical targets by Drosha.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen Gu
- St Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia
- Department of Medicine (St Vincent's), University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia
| | - Lawrence Mok
- St Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia
| | - Matthew J Wakefield
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Mark M W Chong
- St Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia.
- Department of Medicine (St Vincent's), University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, 3065, Australia.
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10
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Le TNY, Nguyen TA. High-throughput protocol for studying pri-miRNA processing using randomized sequences. STAR Protoc 2024; 5:102782. [PMID: 38103193 PMCID: PMC10770632 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The Microprocessor complex is crucial in microRNA (miRNA) biogenesis, as it processes primary miRNAs (pri-miRNAs) into precursor miRNAs. Here, we present a high-throughput, radioisotope-free protocol for studying pri-miRNA processing using randomized sequences. We describe steps for randomized substrate preparation, protein purification, processing assays, and DNA library construction for sequencing. This technique explores pri-miRNA processing, uncovers key RNA elements, and illuminates gene expression regulation. However, its efficacy may be constrained by data analysis complexity and the requirement for specialized equipment. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Nguyen et al. (2023).1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi Nhu-Y Le
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tuan Anh Nguyen
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China.
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11
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Shang B, Li C, Zhang X. How intrinsically disordered proteins order plant gene silencing. Trends Genet 2024; 40:260-275. [PMID: 38296708 PMCID: PMC10932933 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2023.12.009] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) and proteins with intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) possess low sequence complexity of amino acids and display non-globular tertiary structures. They can act as scaffolds, form regulatory hubs, or trigger biomolecular condensation to control diverse aspects of biology. Emerging evidence has recently implicated critical roles of IDPs and IDR-contained proteins in nuclear transcription and cytoplasmic post-transcriptional processes, among other molecular functions. We here summarize the concepts and organizing principles of IDPs. We then illustrate recent progress in understanding the roles of key IDPs in machineries that regulate transcriptional and post-transcriptional gene silencing (PTGS) in plants, aiming at highlighting new modes of action of IDPs in controlling biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoshuan Shang
- National Key Laboratory of Cotton Bio-breeding and Integrated Utilization (Henan University), State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Adaptation and Improvement, School of Life Sciences, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China; Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Changhao Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Xiuren Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA; Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA.
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12
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Le CT, Nguyen TD, Nguyen TA. Two-motif model illuminates DICER cleavage preferences. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:1860-1877. [PMID: 38167721 PMCID: PMC10899750 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad1186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
In humans, DICER is a key regulator of gene expression through its production of miRNAs and siRNAs by processing miRNA precursors (pre-miRNAs), short-hairpin RNAs (shRNAs), and long double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs). To advance our understanding of this process, we employed high-throughput dicing assays using various shRNA variants and both wild-type and mutant DICER. Our analysis revealed that DICER predominantly cleaves shRNAs at two positions, specifically at 21 (DC21) and 22 (DC22) nucleotides from their 5'-end. Our investigation identified two different motifs, mWCU and YCR, that determine whether DICER cleaves at DC21 or DC22, depending on their locations in shRNAs/pre-miRNAs. These motifs can work together or independently to determine the cleavage sites of DICER. Furthermore, our findings indicate that dsRNA-binding domain (dsRBD) of DICER enhances its cleavage, and mWCU strengthens the interaction between dsRBD and RNA, leading to an even greater enhancement of the cleavage. Conversely, YCR functions independently of dsRBD. Our study proposes a two-motif model that sheds light on the intricate regulatory mechanisms involved in gene expression by elucidating how DICER recognizes its substrates, providing valuable insights into this critical biological process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Truc Le
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Trung Duc Nguyen
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tuan Anh Nguyen
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
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13
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Ortolá B, Daròs JA. RNA Interference in Insects: From a Natural Mechanism of Gene Expression Regulation to a Biotechnological Crop Protection Promise. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:137. [PMID: 38534407 DOI: 10.3390/biology13030137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Insect pests rank among the major limiting factors in agricultural production worldwide. In addition to direct effect on crops, some phytophagous insects are efficient vectors for plant disease transmission. Large amounts of conventional insecticides are required to secure food production worldwide, with a high impact on the economy and environment, particularly when beneficial insects are also affected by chemicals that frequently lack the desired specificity. RNA interference (RNAi) is a natural mechanism gene expression regulation and protection against exogenous and endogenous genetic elements present in most eukaryotes, including insects. Molecules of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) or highly structured RNA are the substrates of cellular enzymes to produce several types of small RNAs (sRNAs), which play a crucial role in targeting sequences for transcriptional or post-transcriptional gene silencing. The relatively simple rules that underlie RNAi regulation, mainly based in Watson-Crick complementarity, have facilitated biotechnological applications based on these cellular mechanisms. This includes the promise of using engineered dsRNA molecules, either endogenously produced in crop plants or exogenously synthesized and applied onto crops, as a new generation of highly specific, sustainable, and environmentally friendly insecticides. Fueled on this expectation, this article reviews current knowledge about the RNAi pathways in insects, and some other applied questions such as production and delivery of recombinant RNA, which are critical to establish RNAi as a reliable technology for insect control in crop plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beltrán Ortolá
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - José-Antonio Daròs
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 Valencia, Spain
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14
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Wen Z, Li K, Xu W, Zhang Z, Liang N, Chen M, Guo L. Role of miR-276-3p in the cyantraniliprole resistance mechanism of Bemisia tabaci via CYP6CX3 targeting. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 254:127830. [PMID: 37926315 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
The sweet potato whitefly, Bemisia tabaci, is an important insect pest that transmits over 200 different plant viruses and causes serious damage to the production of cotton and Solanaceae vegetables. Cyantraniliprole is the first diamide insecticide, showing toxicity against B. tabaci. However, B. tabaci has developed resistance to this insecticide by upregulating the expressions of cytochrome P450 genes such as CYP6CX3, while there is limited information on the regulatory mechanism mediated by miRNA. In the present study, ten miRNAs were predicted to target CYP6CX3, in which miR-276-3p showed an inverse expression pattern with CYP6CX3 in two cyantraniliprole resistant strains and under cyantraniliprole exposure. A luciferase assay demonstrated that miR-276-3p suppressed CYP6CX3 expression by pairing with residues 1445-1453. Overexpression or knockdown of miR-276-3p directly impacted B. tabaci resistance to cyantraniliprole. In addition, exposure to cyantraniliprole led to a significant reduction in the expressions of five genes (drosha, dicer1, dicer2, Ago1, and Ago2A) associated with miRNA biogenesis. Suppressing genes such as drosha, dicer1, and Ago2A reduced the expression of miR-276-3p, increased CYP6CX3 expression, and decreased B. tabaci resistance to cyantraniliprole. These results improve our understanding of the role of miRNAs in P450 regulation and cyantraniliprole resistance in B. tabaci.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zanrong Wen
- Shandong Engineering Research Center for Environment-Friendly Agricultural Pest Management, College of Plant Health and Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, PR China
| | - Kaixin Li
- Shandong Engineering Research Center for Environment-Friendly Agricultural Pest Management, College of Plant Health and Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, PR China
| | - Wei Xu
- Food Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Zhuang Zhang
- Shandong Engineering Research Center for Environment-Friendly Agricultural Pest Management, College of Plant Health and Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, PR China
| | - Ni Liang
- Shandong Engineering Research Center for Environment-Friendly Agricultural Pest Management, College of Plant Health and Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, PR China
| | - Moxian Chen
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Lei Guo
- Shandong Engineering Research Center for Environment-Friendly Agricultural Pest Management, College of Plant Health and Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, PR China.
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15
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Bofill-De Ros X, Vang Ørom UA. Recent progress in miRNA biogenesis and decay. RNA Biol 2024; 21:1-8. [PMID: 38031325 PMCID: PMC10761092 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2023.2288741] [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: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs are a class of small regulatory RNAs that mediate regulation of protein synthesis by recognizing sequence elements in mRNAs. MicroRNAs are processed through a series of steps starting from transcription and primary processing in the nucleus to precursor processing and mature function in the cytoplasm. It is also in the cytoplasm where levels of mature microRNAs can be modulated through decay mechanisms. Here, we review the recent progress in the lifetime of a microRNA at all steps required for maintaining their homoeostasis. The increasing knowledge about microRNA regulation upholds great promise as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Bofill-De Ros
- RNA Biology and Innovation, Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland, USA
| | - Ulf Andersson Vang Ørom
- RNA Biology and Innovation, Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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16
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Shang R, Lee S, Senavirathne G, Lai EC. microRNAs in action: biogenesis, function and regulation. Nat Rev Genet 2023; 24:816-833. [PMID: 37380761 PMCID: PMC11087887 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-023-00611-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 81.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Ever since microRNAs (miRNAs) were first recognized as an extensive gene family >20 years ago, a broad community of researchers was drawn to investigate the universe of small regulatory RNAs. Although core features of miRNA biogenesis and function were revealed early on, recent years continue to uncover fundamental information on the structural and molecular dynamics of core miRNA machinery, how miRNA substrates and targets are selected from the transcriptome, new avenues for multilevel regulation of miRNA biogenesis and mechanisms for miRNA turnover. Many of these latest insights were enabled by recent technological advances, including massively parallel assays, cryogenic electron microscopy, single-molecule imaging and CRISPR-Cas9 screening. Here, we summarize the current understanding of miRNA biogenesis, function and regulation, and outline challenges to address in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renfu Shang
- Developmental Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Seungjae Lee
- Developmental Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gayan Senavirathne
- Developmental Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Eric C Lai
- Developmental Biology Program, Sloan Kettering Institute, New York, NY, USA.
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17
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Hsu CY, Allela OQB, Mahdi SAH, Doshi OP, Adil M, Ali MS, Saadh MJ. miR-136-5p: A key player in human cancers with diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic implications. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 250:154794. [PMID: 37683389 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
MiRNAs have emerged as crucial modulators of the expression of their target genes, attracting significant attention due to their engagement in various cellular processes, like cancer onset and development. Amidst the extensive repertoire of miRNAs implicated in cancer, miR-136-5p has emerged as an emerging miRNA with diverse roles. Dysregulation of miR-136-5p has been proved in human cancers. Accumulating evidence suggests that miR-136-5p mainly functions as a tumor suppressor. These data proposed that miR-136-5p is engaged in the regulation of various cellular processes, like cell proliferation, migration, invasion, EMT, and apoptosis. In addition, miR-136-5p has demonstrated substantial potential as a prognostic and diagnostic marker in human cancers as well as an effective mediator in cancer chemotherapy. Furthermore, miR-136-5p was shown to be correlated with clinicopathological features of affected patients, proposing that it could be used for cancer staging and patient survival. Therefore, a comprehensive comprehension of the precise molecular basis governing miR-136-5p dysregulation in different cancers is vital for unraveling its therapeutic importance. Here, we have discussed the molecular basis of miR-136-5p as a potential tumor suppressor as well as its importance in cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and chemotherapy. Finally, we have discussed the challenge of using miRNAs as a therapeutic target as well as the prospect regarding the importance of miR-136-5p in human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chou-Yi Hsu
- Department of Pharmacy, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Taiwan.
| | | | | | - Ojas Prakashbhai Doshi
- Arnold and Marie Schwartz College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Long Island University, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Mohamed J Saadh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Middle East University, Amman 11831, Jordan; Applied Science Research Center, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
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18
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Chen D, Ji Q, Liu J, Cheng F, Zheng J, Ma Y, He Y, Zhang J, Song T. MicroRNAs in the Regulation of RIG-I-like Receptor Signaling Pathway: Possible Strategy for Viral Infection and Cancer. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1344. [PMID: 37759744 PMCID: PMC10526236 DOI: 10.3390/biom13091344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I)-like receptors (RLRs) play a crucial role as pattern-recognition receptors within the innate immune system. These receptors, present in various cell and tissue types, serve as essential sensors for viral infections, enhancing the immune system's capacity to combat infections through the induction of type I interferons (IFN-I) and inflammatory cytokines. RLRs are involved in a variety of physiological and pathological processes, including viral infections, autoimmune disorders, and cancer. An increasing body of research has examined the possibility of RLRs or microRNAs as therapeutic targets for antiviral infections and malignancies, despite the fact that few studies have focused on the regulatory function of microRNAs on RLR signaling. Consequently, our main emphasis in this review is on elucidating the role of microRNAs in modulating the signaling pathways of RLRs in the context of cancer and viral infections. The aim is to establish a robust knowledge base that can serve as a basis for future comprehensive investigations into the interplay between microRNAs and RIG-I, while also facilitating the advancement of therapeutic drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dengwang Chen
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563002, China; (D.C.); (J.L.); (F.C.); (J.Z.); (Y.M.)
| | - Qinglu Ji
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563002, China; (Q.J.); (Y.H.)
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563002, China; (D.C.); (J.L.); (F.C.); (J.Z.); (Y.M.)
| | - Feng Cheng
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563002, China; (D.C.); (J.L.); (F.C.); (J.Z.); (Y.M.)
| | - Jishan Zheng
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563002, China; (D.C.); (J.L.); (F.C.); (J.Z.); (Y.M.)
| | - Yunyan Ma
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563002, China; (D.C.); (J.L.); (F.C.); (J.Z.); (Y.M.)
| | - Yuqi He
- School of Pharmacy, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563002, China; (Q.J.); (Y.H.)
| | - Jidong Zhang
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563002, China; (D.C.); (J.L.); (F.C.); (J.Z.); (Y.M.)
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Tissue Damage Repair and Regeneration Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563002, China
- Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection & Therapy of Guizhou Province, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563002, China
| | - Tao Song
- Department of Immunology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563002, China; (D.C.); (J.L.); (F.C.); (J.Z.); (Y.M.)
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Tissue Damage Repair and Regeneration Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563002, China
- Special Key Laboratory of Gene Detection & Therapy of Guizhou Province, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563002, China
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19
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Nguyen TL, Nguyen TD, Ngo MK, Le TNY, Nguyen TA. Noncanonical processing by animal Microprocessor. Mol Cell 2023; 83:1810-1826.e8. [PMID: 37267903 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Microprocessor (MP), DROSHA-DGCR8, processes primary miRNA transcripts (pri-miRNAs) to initiate miRNA biogenesis. The canonical cleavage mechanism of MP has been extensively investigated and comprehensively validated for two decades. However, this canonical mechanism cannot account for the processing of certain pri-miRNAs in animals. In this study, by conducting high-throughput pri-miRNA cleavage assays for approximately 260,000 pri-miRNA sequences, we discovered and comprehensively characterized a noncanonical cleavage mechanism of MP. This noncanonical mechanism does not need several RNA and protein elements essential for the canonical mechanism; instead, it utilizes previously unrecognized DROSHA dsRNA recognition sites (DRESs). Interestingly, the noncanonical mechanism is conserved across animals and plays a particularly significant role in C. elegans. Our established noncanonical mechanism elucidates MP cleavage in numerous RNA substrates unaccounted for by the canonical mechanism in animals. This study suggests a broader substrate repertoire of animal MPs and an expanded regulatory landscape for miRNA biogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuy Linh Nguyen
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Trung Duc Nguyen
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Minh Khoa Ngo
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Thi Nhu-Y Le
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tuan Anh Nguyen
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China.
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20
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Qiu L, Wang Y, Liu F, Deng S, He Z, Zheng W, Wang Y. Genetic polymorphisms of pri-let-7f, gene-environment and gene-gene interactions, and associations with ischemic stroke risk in Liaoning Province. J Int Med Res 2023; 51:3000605231173578. [PMID: 37170751 PMCID: PMC10184219 DOI: 10.1177/03000605231173578] [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: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The incidence of stroke has been rising annually and investigations into traditional risk factors have led to increased attention on genetic factors. In this study, we focused on the pri-let-7f gene, and investigated the association between pri-let-7f gene polymorphisms and ischemic stroke (IS). METHODS This case-control study included 1803 patients and 1456 healthy controls of Han ethnicity living in Liaoning Province. We carried out genotyping analysis of two loci, pri-let-7f-1 rs10739971 and pri-let-7f-2 rs17276588, and performed statistical analysis controlling for confounding factors by logistic regression. RESULTS The A alleles and AA genotypes of both loci were significantly associated with an increased risk of IS. Variant genotypes of rs17276588 may also increase the risk of IS in females with alcohol intake. Gene-gene interaction analysis showed combined effects of mutations in both these single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated an association between pri-let-7f SNPs and IS, providing potential latent biomarkers for the risk of IS. However, more detailed studies are needed to clarify these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luying Qiu
- Department of Neurology, Key Laboratory for Neurological Big Data of Liaoning Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuye Wang
- Department of Neurology, Key Laboratory for Neurological Big Data of Liaoning Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Department of Neurology, China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Peking Union Medical College and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Neurology, Key Laboratory for Neurological Big Data of Liaoning Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shumin Deng
- Department of Neurology, Key Laboratory for Neurological Big Data of Liaoning Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhiyi He
- Department of Neurology, Key Laboratory for Neurological Big Data of Liaoning Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Wenxu Zheng
- Geriatric Department of Dalian Friendship Hospital, No. 8 Sanba Square, Dalian, China
| | - Yanzhe Wang
- Department of Neurology, Key Laboratory for Neurological Big Data of Liaoning Province, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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21
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Son S, Kim B, Yang J, Kim VN. Role of the proline-rich disordered domain of DROSHA in intronic microRNA processing. Genes Dev 2023; 37:383-397. [PMID: 37236670 PMCID: PMC10270192 DOI: 10.1101/gad.350275.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
DROSHA serves as a gatekeeper of the microRNA (miRNA) pathway by processing primary transcripts (pri-miRNAs). While the functions of structured domains of DROSHA have been well documented, the contribution of N-terminal proline-rich disordered domain (PRD) remains elusive. Here we show that the PRD promotes the processing of miRNA hairpins located within introns. We identified a DROSHA isoform (p140) lacking the PRD, which is produced by proteolytic cleavage. Small RNA sequencing revealed that p140 is significantly impaired in the maturation of intronic miRNAs. Consistently, our minigene constructs demonstrated that PRD enhances the processing of intronic hairpins, but not those in exons. Splice site mutations did not affect the PRD's enhancing effect on intronic constructs, suggesting that the PRD acts independently of splicing reaction by interacting with sequences residing within introns. The N-terminal regions from zebrafish and Xenopus DROSHA can replace the human counterpart, indicating functional conservation despite poor sequence alignment. Moreover, we found that rapidly evolving intronic miRNAs are generally more dependent on PRD than conserved ones, suggesting a role of PRD in miRNA evolution. Our study reveals a new layer of miRNA regulation mediated by a low-complexity disordered domain that senses the genomic contexts of miRNA loci.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soomin Son
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Baekgyu Kim
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Jihye Yang
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - V Narry Kim
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea;
- School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
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22
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How does precursor RNA structure influence RNA processing and gene expression? Biosci Rep 2023; 43:232489. [PMID: 36689327 PMCID: PMC9977717 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20220149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA is a fundamental biomolecule that has many purposes within cells. Due to its single-stranded and flexible nature, RNA naturally folds into complex and dynamic structures. Recent technological and computational advances have produced an explosion of RNA structural data. Many RNA structures have regulatory and functional properties. Studying the structure of nascent RNAs is particularly challenging due to their low abundance and long length, but their structures are important because they can influence RNA processing. Precursor RNA processing is a nexus of pathways that determines mature isoform composition and that controls gene expression. In this review, we examine what is known about human nascent RNA structure and the influence of RNA structure on processing of precursor RNAs. These known structures provide examples of how other nascent RNAs may be structured and show how novel RNA structures may influence RNA processing including splicing and polyadenylation. RNA structures can be targeted therapeutically to treat disease.
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23
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An F, Meng X, Yuan L, Niu Y, Deng J, Li Z, Liu Y, Xia R, Liu S, Yan C. Network regulatory mechanism of ncRNA on the Wnt signaling pathway in osteoporosis. Cell Div 2023; 18:3. [PMID: 36879309 PMCID: PMC9990358 DOI: 10.1186/s13008-023-00086-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNA (ncRNA) is a type of non-protein-coding RNA molecule transcribed from the genome which performs broad regulation of a variety of biological functions in human cells. The Wnt signaling pathway is highly conserved in multicellular organisms, playing an important role in their growth and development. Increasing evidence suggests that ncRNA can regulate cell biological function, enhance bone metabolism, and maintain normal bone homeostasis by interacting with the Wnt pathway. Studies have also demonstrated that the association of ncRNA with the Wnt pathway may be a potential biomarker for the diagnosis, evaluation of prognosis, and treatment of osteoporosis. The interaction of ncRNA with Wnt also performs an important regulatory role in the occurrence and development of osteoporosis. Targeted therapy of the ncRNA/Wnt axis may ultimately be the preferred choice for the treatment of osteoporosis in the future. The current article reviews the mechanism of the ncRNA/Wnt axis in osteoporosis and reveals the relationship between ncRNA and Wnt, thereby exploring novel molecular targets for the treatment of osteoporosis and providing theoretical scientific guidance for its clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangyu An
- Teaching Experiment Training Center, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Xiangrui Meng
- The First Clinical Medical College, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Lingqing Yuan
- School of Basic Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Yanqiang Niu
- The First Clinical Medical College, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Jie Deng
- The First Clinical Medical College, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Zhaohui Li
- The First Clinical Medical College, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Yongqi Liu
- School of Basic Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.
| | - Ruoliu Xia
- The First Clinical Medical College, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Shiqing Liu
- The First Clinical Medical College, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China
| | - Chunlu Yan
- School of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, China.
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24
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Structure of the human DICER-pre-miRNA complex in a dicing state. Nature 2023; 615:331-338. [PMID: 36813958 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-023-05723-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Dicer has a key role in small RNA biogenesis, processing double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs)1,2. Human DICER (hDICER, also known as DICER1) is specialized for cleaving small hairpin structures such as precursor microRNAs (pre-miRNAs) and has limited activity towards long dsRNAs-unlike its homologues in lower eukaryotes and plants, which cleave long dsRNAs. Although the mechanism by which long dsRNAs are cleaved has been well documented, our understanding of pre-miRNA processing is incomplete because structures of hDICER in a catalytic state are lacking. Here we report the cryo-electron microscopy structure of hDICER bound to pre-miRNA in a dicing state and uncover the structural basis of pre-miRNA processing. hDICER undergoes large conformational changes to attain the active state. The helicase domain becomes flexible, which allows the binding of pre-miRNA to the catalytic valley. The double-stranded RNA-binding domain relocates and anchors pre-miRNA in a specific position through both sequence-independent and sequence-specific recognition of the newly identified 'GYM motif'3. The DICER-specific PAZ helix is also reoriented to accommodate the RNA. Furthermore, our structure identifies a configuration of the 5' end of pre-miRNA inserted into a basic pocket. In this pocket, a group of arginine residues recognize the 5' terminal base (disfavouring guanine) and terminal monophosphate; this explains the specificity of hDICER and how it determines the cleavage site. We identify cancer-associated mutations in the 5' pocket residues that impair miRNA biogenesis. Our study reveals how hDICER recognizes pre-miRNAs with stringent specificity and enables a mechanistic understanding of hDICER-related diseases.
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25
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Nguyen TL, Nguyen TD, Ngo MK, Nguyen TA. Dissection of the Caenorhabditis elegans Microprocessor. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:1512-1527. [PMID: 36598924 PMCID: PMC9976908 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac1170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Microprocessor (MP) is a complex involved in initiating the biogenesis of microRNAs (miRNAs) by cleaving primary microRNAs (pri-miRNAs). miRNAs are small single-stranded RNAs that play a key role in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Thus, understanding the molecular mechanism of MP is critical for interpreting the roles of miRNAs in normal cellular processes and during the onset of various diseases. MP comprises a ribonuclease enzyme, DROSHA, and a dimeric RNA-binding protein, which is called DGCR8 in humans and Pasha in Caenorhabditis elegans. DROSHA cleaves stem-loop structures located within pri-miRNAs to generate pre-miRNAs. Although the molecular mechanism of human MP (hMP; hDROSHA-DGCR8) is well understood, that of Caenorhabditis elegans MP (cMP; cDrosha-Pasha) is still largely unknown. Here, we reveal the molecular mechanism of cMP and show that it is distinct from that of hMP. We demonstrate that cDrosha and Pasha measure ∼16 and ∼25 bp along a pri-miRNA stem, respectively, and they work together to determine the site of cMP cleavage in pri-miRNAs. We also demonstrate the molecular basis for their substrate measurement. Thus, our findings reveal a previously unknown molecular mechanism of cMP; demonstrate the differences between the mechanisms of hMP and cMP; and provide a foundation for revealing the mechanisms regulating miRNA expression in different animal species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuy Linh Nguyen
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Trung Duc Nguyen
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Minh Khoa Ngo
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tuan Anh Nguyen
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
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26
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Komatsu S, Kitai H, Suzuki HI. Network Regulation of microRNA Biogenesis and Target Interaction. Cells 2023; 12:306. [PMID: 36672241 PMCID: PMC9856966 DOI: 10.3390/cells12020306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are versatile, post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression. Canonical miRNAs are generated through the two-step DROSHA- and DICER-mediated processing of primary miRNA (pri-miRNA) transcripts with optimal or suboptimal features for DROSHA and DICER cleavage and loading into Argonaute (AGO) proteins, whereas multiple hairpin-structured RNAs are encoded in the genome and could be a source of non-canonical miRNAs. Recent advances in miRNA biogenesis research have revealed details of the structural basis of miRNA processing and cluster assistance mechanisms that facilitate the processing of suboptimal hairpins encoded together with optimal hairpins in polycistronic pri-miRNAs. In addition, a deeper investigation of miRNA-target interaction has provided insights into the complexity of target recognition with distinct outcomes, including target-mediated miRNA degradation (TDMD) and cooperation in target regulation by multiple miRNAs. Therefore, the coordinated or network regulation of both miRNA biogenesis and miRNA-target interaction is prevalent in miRNA biology. Alongside recent advances in the mechanistic investigation of miRNA functions, this review summarizes recent findings regarding the ordered regulation of miRNA biogenesis and miRNA-target interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shintaro Komatsu
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Center for Neurological Diseases and Cancer, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
- Department of Nephrology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
| | - Hiroki Kitai
- Department of Nephrology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Hiroshi I. Suzuki
- Division of Molecular Oncology, Center for Neurological Diseases and Cancer, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya 466-8550, Japan
- Institute for Glyco-Core Research (iGCORE), Nagoya University, Nagoya 464-8601, Japan
- Center for One Medicine Innovative Translational Research, Gifu University Institute for Advanced Study, Gifu 501-1193, Japan
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27
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Gargiulo P, Marzano F, Salvatore M, Basile C, Buonocore D, Parlati ALM, Nardi E, Asile G, Abbate V, Colella A, Chirico A, Marciano C, Paolillo S, Perrone‐Filardi P. MicroRNAs: diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic role in heart failure—a review. ESC Heart Fail 2022; 10:753-761. [PMID: 36349485 PMCID: PMC10053166 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.14153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart failure is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, with relevant social and economic burden on global healthcare system. Although the development of novel diagnostic tools and the advance in therapies have deeply influenced the diagnosis and treatment of this disease, improving both prognosis and life expectancy of patients, hospitalization is still high, and mortality remains considerable. MicroRNAs are small endogenous RNA molecules that post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression in both physiological and pathological processes. In recent years, microRNA have arisen as attractive therapeutic targets in the treatment of a wide spectrum of pathologies, including heart failure. In cardiac pathology, deregulation of microRNAs expression and function is associated to adverse outcome and heart failure progression. Circulating levels of specific microRNAs have emerged as useful biomarkers for the diagnosis of heart failure or as prognostic indicators. In the present review, we summarize the state of current research on the role of miRNAs as biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis in patients with heart failure and their use as potential therapeutic targets for this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Gargiulo
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | | | | | - Christian Basile
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Davide Buonocore
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | | | - Ermanno Nardi
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Gaetano Asile
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Vincenza Abbate
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Angela Colella
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Alfonsina Chirico
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Caterina Marciano
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Stefania Paolillo
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Pasquale Perrone‐Filardi
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences University of Naples Federico II Naples Italy
- Mediterranea Cardiocentro Naples Italy
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28
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Ruiz-Arroyo VM, Nam Y. Dynamic Protein-RNA recognition in primary MicroRNA processing. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2022; 76:102442. [PMID: 36067707 PMCID: PMC9509664 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2022.102442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs are prevalent regulators of gene expression, controlling most of the proteome in multicellular organisms. To generate the functional small RNAs, precise processing steps are required. In animals, microRNA biogenesis is initiated by Microprocessor that minimally consists of the Drosha enzyme and its partner, DGCR8. This first step is critical for selecting primary microRNAs, and many RNA-binding proteins and regulatory pathways target both the accuracy and efficiency of microRNA maturation. Structures of Drosha and DGCR8 in complex with primary microRNAs elucidate how RNA structural features rather than sequence provide the framework for substrate recognition. Comparing multiple states of Microprocessor and the closely related Dicer homologs shed light on the dynamic protein-RNA complex assembly and disassembly required to recognize RNAs with diverse sequences via common structural features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor M Ruiz-Arroyo
- Department of Biochemistry, Department of Biophysics, Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA. https://twitter.com/@Ruiz_Arroy0
| | - Yunsun Nam
- Department of Biochemistry, Department of Biophysics, Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
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29
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García-Andrade F, Vigueras-Villaseñor RM, Chávez-Saldaña MD, Rojas-Castañeda JC, Bahena-Ocampo IU, Aréchaga-Ocampo E, Díaz-Chávez J, Landero-Huerta DA. The Role of microRNAs in the Gonocyte Theory as Target of Malignancy: Looking for Potential Diagnostic Biomarkers. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810526. [PMID: 36142439 PMCID: PMC9505168 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Some pediatric patients with cryptorchidism preserve cells with gonocyte characteristics beyond their differentiation period, which could support the theory of the gonocyte as a target for malignancy in the development of testicular neoplasia. One of the key molecules in gonocyte malignancy is represented by microRNAs (miRNAs). The goal of this review is to give an overview of miRNAs, a class of small non-coding RNAs that participate in the regulation of gene expression. We also aim to review the crucial role of several miRNAs that have been further described in the regulation of gonocyte differentiation to spermatogonia, which, when transformed, could give rise to germ cell neoplasia in situ, a precursor lesion to testicular germ cell tumors. Finally, the potential use of miRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in testicular neoplasia is addressed, due to their specificity and sensitivity compared to conventional markers, as well as their applications in therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiola García-Andrade
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México 04530, Mexico
- Posgrado en Biología Experimental, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Unidad Iztapalapa, Ciudad de México 09310, Mexico
| | - Rosa María Vigueras-Villaseñor
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México 04530, Mexico
- Correspondence: (R.M.V.-V.); (D.A.L.-H.); Tel.: +52-(55)-1084-0900 (ext. 1453) (R.M.V.-V. & D.A.L.-H.); Fax: +52-(55)-1084-5533 (R.M.V.-V. & D.A.L.-H.)
| | | | | | - Iván Uriel Bahena-Ocampo
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Unidad Iztapalapa, Ciudad de México 09310, Mexico
| | - Elena Aréchaga-Ocampo
- Departamento de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana Unidad Cuajimalpa, Ciudad de México 05348, Mexico
| | - José Díaz-Chávez
- Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, Ciudad de México 14080, Mexico
| | - Daniel Adrian Landero-Huerta
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Ciudad de México 04530, Mexico
- Correspondence: (R.M.V.-V.); (D.A.L.-H.); Tel.: +52-(55)-1084-0900 (ext. 1453) (R.M.V.-V. & D.A.L.-H.); Fax: +52-(55)-1084-5533 (R.M.V.-V. & D.A.L.-H.)
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30
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Secondary structure RNA elements control the cleavage activity of DICER. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2138. [PMID: 35440644 PMCID: PMC9018771 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29822-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The accurate and efficient cleavage of shRNAs and pre-miRNAs by DICER is crucial for their gene-silencing activity. Here, we conduct high-throughput DICER cleavage assays for more than ~20,000 different shRNAs and show the comprehensive cleavage activities of DICER on these sequences. We discover a single-nucleotide bulge (22-bulge), which facilitates the cleavage activity of DICER on shRNAs and human pre-miRNAs. As a result, this 22-bulge enhances the gene-silencing activity of shRNAs and the accuracy of miRNA biogenesis. In addition, various single-nucleotide polymorphism-edited 22-bulges are found to govern the cleavage sites of DICER on pre-miRNAs and thereby control their functions. Finally, we identify the single cleavage of DICER and reveal its molecular mechanism. Our findings improve the understanding of the DICER cleavage mechanism, provide a foundation for the design of accurate and efficient shRNAs for gene-silencing, and indicate the function of bulges in regulating miRNA biogenesis. MicroRNA precursors are cleaved by DICER to generate mature microRNAs in the cytoplasm. Here the authors employ high-throughput analysis of DICER cleavage activity and identify RNA secondary elements in precursor miRNAs and shRNAs, including a single nucleotide bulge, which govern its cleavage efficiency and accuracy.
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31
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Chen G, Yang Y, Wu QJ, Cao L, Ruan W, Shao C, Jiang L, Tang P, Ma S, Jiang A, Wang Z, Wu K, Zhang QC, Fu XD, Zhou Y. ILF3 represses repeat-derived microRNAs targeting RIG-I mediated type I interferon response. J Mol Biol 2022; 434:167469. [PMID: 35120969 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2022.167469] [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: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in regulated gene expression and miRNA biogenesis is also subject to regulation, together constituting critical regulatory circuitries in numerous physiological and pathological processes. As a dsRNA binding protein, interleukin enhancer binding factor 3 (ILF3) has been implicated as a negative regulator in miRNA biogenesis, but the mechanism and specificity have remained undefined. Here, combining small-RNA-seq and CLIP-seq, we showed that ILF3 directly represses many miRNAs or perhaps other types of small RNAs annotated in both miRBase and MirGeneDB. We demonstrated that ILF3 preferentially binds to A/U-enriched motifs, which tend to lengthen and/or stabilize the stem-loop in pri-miRNAs, thereby effectively competing with the Microprocessor to block miRNA biogenesis. Focusing on the biological function of ILF3-suppressed miR-582-3p, we discovered that this LINE-derived miRNA targets a critical interferon-inducible gene RIG-I for repression, thus establishing a novel ILF3/miR-582/RIG-I axis in the antiviral response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qi-Jia Wu
- Seqhealth Technology Co., Ltd, Wuhan, China
| | - Liu Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Wen Ruan
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Changwei Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Institute of Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego, USA
| | - Li Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Peng Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Suping Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ao Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiangfeng Cliff Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, Center for Synthetic and Systems Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiang-Dong Fu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Institute of Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego, USA
| | - Yu Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Hubei Key Laboratory of Cell Homeostasis, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
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Wang L, Yan X, Li Y, Wang Z, Chhajed S, Shang B, Wang Z, Choi SW, Zhao H, Chen S, Zhang X. PRP4KA phosphorylates SERRATE for degradation via 20 S proteasome to fine-tune miRNA production in Arabidopsis. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabm8435. [PMID: 35333566 PMCID: PMC8956257 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abm8435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Phosphorylation can quickly switch on/off protein functions. Here, we reported pre-mRNA processing 4 kinase A (PRP4KA), and its paralogs interact with Serrate (SE), a key factor in RNA processing. PRP4KA phosphorylates at least five residues of SE in vitro and in vivo. Hypophosphorylated, but not hyperphosphorylated, SE variants could readily rescue se phenotypes in vivo. Moreover, hypophosphorylated SE variants had stronger binding affinity to microprocessor component HYL1 and were more resistant to degradation by 20S proteasome than hyperphosphorylated counterparts. Knockdown of the kinases enhanced the accumulation of hypophosphorylated SE. However, the excessive SE interfered with the assembly and function of SE-scaffolded macromolecule complexes, causing the se-like defects in the mutant and wild-type backgrounds. Thus, phosphorylation of SE via PRP4KA can quickly clear accumulated SE to secure its proper amount. This study provides new insight into how protein phosphorylation regulates miRNA metabolism through controlling homeostasis of SE accumulation in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
- Laboratory of Bio-interactions and Crop Health, Department of Plant Pathology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Xingxing Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Yanjun Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Plant Virology, Ningbo University, Ningbo 315211, China
| | - Zhiye Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Shweta Chhajed
- Department of Biology, Plant Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Baoshuan Shang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Zhen Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Suk Won Choi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Hongwei Zhao
- Laboratory of Bio-interactions and Crop Health, Department of Plant Pathology, College of Plant Protection, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Sixue Chen
- Department of Biology, Plant Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Xiuren Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
- Corresponding author.
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33
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Bofill-De Ros X, Hong Z, Birkenfeld B, Alamo-Ortiz S, Yang A, Dai L, Gu S. Flexible pri-miRNA structures enable tunable production of 5’ isomiRs. RNA Biol 2022; 19:279-289. [PMID: 35188062 PMCID: PMC8865264 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2022.2025680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The Drosha cleavage of a pri-miRNA defines mature microRNA sequence. Drosha cleavage at alternative positions generates 5’ isoforms (isomiRs) which have distinctive functions. To understand how pri-miRNA structures influence Drosha cleavage, we performed a systematic analysis of the maturation of endogenous pri-miRNAs and their variants both in vitro and in vivo. We show that in addition to previously known features, the overall structural flexibility of pri-miRNA impact Drosha cleavage fidelity. Internal loops and nearby G · U wobble pairs on the pri-miRNA stem induce the use of non-canonical cleavage sites by Drosha, resulting in 5’ isomiR production. By analysing patient data deposited in the Cancer Genome Atlas, we provide evidence that alternative Drosha cleavage of pri-miRNAs is a tunable process that responds to the level of pri-miRNA-associated RNA-binding proteins. Together, our findings reveal that Drosha cleavage fidelity can be modulated by altering pri-miRNA structure, a potential mechanism underlying 5’ isomiR biogenesis in tumours. ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Xavier Bofill-De Ros
- RNA Mediated Gene Regulation Section, RNA Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Zhenyi Hong
- Neural Development Section, Mouse Cancer Genetics Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Ben Birkenfeld
- RNA Mediated Gene Regulation Section, RNA Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Sarangelica Alamo-Ortiz
- RNA Mediated Gene Regulation Section, RNA Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Acong Yang
- RNA Mediated Gene Regulation Section, RNA Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Lisheng Dai
- RNA Mediated Gene Regulation Section, RNA Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Shuo Gu
- RNA Mediated Gene Regulation Section, RNA Biology Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
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34
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Zhang X, Yang F, Liu F, Tian Q, Hu M, Li P, Zeng Y. Conservation of Differential Animal MicroRNA Processing by Drosha and Dicer. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 8:730006. [PMID: 35047552 PMCID: PMC8761633 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.730006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In complex biochemical systems, an enzyme, protein, or RNA, symbolized as E, has hundreds or thousands of substrates or interacting partners. The relative specificity hypothesis proposes that such an E would differentially interact with and influence its many distinct, downstream substrates, thereby regulating the underlying biological process (es). The importance of relative specificity has been underappreciated, and evidence of its physiological consequences particularly lacking. Previously we showed that human Drosha and Dicer ribonucleases (RNases) both discriminate their respective microRNA (miRNA) substrates, and that differential cleavage by Drosha contributes to global differential miRNA expression. If relative specificity is an important biological mechanism, it should be evolutionarily conserved. To test this hypothesis, we hereby examined the cleavage of hundreds of zebrafish and fruitfly miRNA intermediates by Drosha and Dicer and the impact on miRNA biogenesis in these organisms. We showed that Drosha action regulates differential miRNA expression in zebrafish and fruitflies and identified the conserved secondary structure features and sequences in miRNA transcripts that control Drosha activity and miRNA expression. Our results established the conservation of miRNA processing mechanisms and regulatory functions by Drosha and Dicer, greatly strengthened the evidence for the physiological consequences of relative specificity as well as demonstrated its evolutionary significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Zhang
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fanming Yang
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fanzou Liu
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qiuhuan Tian
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Min Hu
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Zeng
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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35
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Leitão AL, Enguita FJ. A Structural View of miRNA Biogenesis and Function. Noncoding RNA 2022; 8:ncrna8010010. [PMID: 35202084 PMCID: PMC8874510 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna8010010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Micro-RNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that act as post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression. Since their discovery in 1993, they have been the subject of deep study due to their involvement in many important biological processes. Compared with other ncRNAs, miRNAs are generated from devoted transcriptional units which are processed by a specific set of endonucleases. The contribution of structural biology methods for understanding miRNA biogenesis and function has been essential for the dissection of their roles in cell biology and human disease. In this review, we summarize the application of structural biology for the characterization of the molecular players involved in miRNA biogenesis (processors and effectors), starting from the X-ray crystallography methods to the more recent cryo-electron microscopy protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Lúcia Leitão
- MEtRICs, Department of Sciences and Technology of Biomass, NOVA School of Science and Technology, FCT NOVA, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal;
| | - Francisco J. Enguita
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
- Correspondence:
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36
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Kilikevicius A, Meister G, Corey DR. Reexamining assumptions about miRNA-guided gene silencing. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 50:617-634. [PMID: 34967419 PMCID: PMC8789053 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab1256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short endogenously expressed RNAs that have the potential to regulate the expression of any RNA. This potential has led to the publication of several thousand papers each year connecting miRNAs to many different genes and human diseases. By contrast, relatively few papers appear that investigate the molecular mechanism used by miRNAs. There is a disconnect between rigorous understanding of mechanism and the extraordinary diversity of reported roles for miRNAs. Consequences of this disconnect include confusion about the assumptions underlying the basic science of human miRNAs and slow development of therapeutics that target miRNAs. Here, we present an overview of investigations into miRNAs and their impact on gene expression. Progress in our understanding of miRNAs would be aided by a greater focus on the mechanism of miRNAs and a higher burden of evidence on researchers who seek to link expression of a particular miRNA to a biological phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrius Kilikevicius
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 6001 Forest Park Road, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Gunter Meister
- Regensburg Center for Biochemistry (RCB), Laboratory for RNA Biology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - David R Corey
- Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 6001 Forest Park Road, Dallas, TX, USA
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37
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Vardapour R, Kehl T, Kneitz S, Ludwig N, Meese E, Lenhof HP, Gessler M. The DGCR8 E518K mutation found in Wilms tumors leads to a partial miRNA processing defect that alters gene expression patterns and biological processes. Carcinogenesis 2021; 43:82-93. [PMID: 34919667 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgab110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Wilms tumor (WT) is the most common renal tumor in childhood. We and others have previously identified oncogenic driver mutations affecting the microprocessor genes DROSHA and DGCR8 that lead to altered miRNA expression patterns. In the case of DGCR8, a single recurrent hotspot mutation (E518K) was found in the RNA binding domain. To functionally assess this mutation in vitro, we generated mouse Dgcr8-KO embryonic stem cell (mESC) lines with an inducible expression of wild-type or mutant DGCR8, mirroring the hemizygous mutant expression seen in WT. RNA-seq analysis revealed significant differences of miRNA expression profiles in DGCR8-E518K compared to DGCR8-wild-type mESCs. The E518K mutation only led to a partial rescue of the reported miRNA processing defect in Dgcr8-KO, with selectively reduced expression of numerous canonical miRNAs. Nevertheless, DGCR8-E518K retained significant activity given its ability to still process many miRNAs. Subsequent to altered miRNA levels, the expression of mRNA targets was likewise changed. Functional assays showed that DGCR8-E518K cells still have a partial proliferation and differentiation defect but were able to rescue critical biological processes in embryoid body development. The stem cell program could be shut down and all three germ layers were formed. These findings suggest that the E518K mutation leads to a partial reduction of microprocessor activity and altered specificity with selective impairment only in certain developmental contexts, apparently including nephrogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romina Vardapour
- Theodor-Boveri-Institute/Biocenter, Developmental Biochemistry, Wuerzburg University, 97074 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Tim Kehl
- Center for Bioinformatics, Saarland Informatics Campus, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Susanne Kneitz
- Theodor-Boveri-Institute/Biocenter, Physiological Chemistry, Wuerzburg University, 97074 Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Nicole Ludwig
- Department of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Eckart Meese
- Department of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Hans-Peter Lenhof
- Center for Bioinformatics, Saarland Informatics Campus, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Manfred Gessler
- Theodor-Boveri-Institute/Biocenter, Developmental Biochemistry, Wuerzburg University, 97074 Wuerzburg, Germany.,Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, 97078 Wuerzburg, Germany
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38
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Nguyen TL, Nguyen TD, Nguyen TA. The conserved single-cleavage mechanism of animal DROSHA enzymes. Commun Biol 2021; 4:1332. [PMID: 34824450 PMCID: PMC8616936 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02860-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
RNase III enzymes typically cleave both strands of double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs). We recently discovered that a human RNase III, DROSHA, exhibits a single cleavage on the one strand of primary microRNAs (pri-miRNAs). This study revealed that DROSHAs from the other animals, including worms and flies, also show the single cleavage on dsRNAs. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the mechanism of single cleavage is conserved in animal DROSHA enzymes. In addition, the dsRNA-binding domain (dsRBD) and a 3p-strand cleavage-supporting helix (3pCSH) of the DROSHA enzymes foster a weak single cleavage on one strand, which ensures their double cleavages. Disrupting the interaction of dsRBD-RNA and 3pCSH-RNA by an internal loop (IL) and a 3pCSH-loop in the lower stem of pri-miRNAs, respectively, inhibits one of the double cleavages of DROSHAs, and this results in the single cleavage. Our findings expand our understanding of the enzymatic mechanisms of animal DROSHAs. They also indicate that there are currently unknown cellular functions of DROSHA enzymes using their single cleavage activity. Recently, the human RNase III enzyme DROSHA had been shown to exhibit single cleavage activity. Nguyen et al. report that this molecular mechanism of DROSHA is conserved in worms and flies, suggesting a common feature of animal DROSHAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuy Linh Nguyen
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Trung Duc Nguyen
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tuan Anh Nguyen
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China.
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39
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Kang W, Fromm B, Houben AJ, Høye E, Bezdan D, Arnan C, Thrane K, Asp M, Johnson R, Biryukova I, Friedländer MR. MapToCleave: High-throughput profiling of microRNA biogenesis in living cells. Cell Rep 2021; 37:110015. [PMID: 34788611 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.110015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous large-scale studies have uncovered many features that determine the processing of microRNA (miRNA) precursors; however, they have been conducted in vitro. Here, we introduce MapToCleave, a method to simultaneously profile processing of thousands of distinct RNA structures in living cells. We find that miRNA precursors with a stable lower basal stem are more efficiently processed and also have higher expression in vivo in tissues from 20 animal species. We systematically compare the importance of known and novel sequence and structural features and test biogenesis of miRNA precursors from 10 animal and plant species in human cells. Lastly, we provide evidence that the GHG motif better predicts processing when defined as a structure rather than sequence motif, consistent with recent cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) studies. In summary, we apply a screening assay in living cells to reveal the importance of lower basal stem stability for miRNA processing and in vivo expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Kang
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Bastian Fromm
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden; The Arctic University Museum of Norway, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Anna J Houben
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute for Science and Technology, Barcelona (BIST), Catalonia, Spain
| | - Eirik Høye
- Department of Tumor Biology, Oslo Institute for Cancer Research, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Daniela Bezdan
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute for Science and Technology, Barcelona (BIST), Catalonia, Spain; Institute of Medical Genetics and Applied Genomics, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; NGS Competence Center Tübingen (NCCT), University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Carme Arnan
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute for Science and Technology, Barcelona (BIST), Catalonia, Spain
| | - Kim Thrane
- Department of Gene Technology, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Science for Life Laboratory, Solna, Sweden
| | - Michaela Asp
- Department of Gene Technology, School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Science for Life Laboratory, Solna, Sweden
| | - Rory Johnson
- Department of Medical Oncology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Department for BioMedical Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Inna Biryukova
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marc R Friedländer
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
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40
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Wei X, Ke H, Wen A, Gao B, Shi J, Feng Y. Structural basis of microRNA processing by Dicer-like 1. NATURE PLANTS 2021; 7:1389-1396. [PMID: 34593993 DOI: 10.1038/s41477-021-01000-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs that inhibit the expression of target genes by directly binding to their mRNAs. In animals, pri-miRNAs are cleaved by Drosha to generate pre-miRNAs, which are subsequently cleaved by Dicer to generate mature miRNAs. Instead of being cleaved by two different enzymes, both cleavages in plants are performed by Dicer-like 1 (DCL1). With a similar domain architecture as human Dicer, it is mysterious how DCL1 recognizes pri-miRNAs and performs two cleavages sequentially. Here, we report the single-particle cryo-electron microscopy structures of Arabidopsis DCL1 complexed with a pri-miRNA and a pre-miRNA, respectively, in cleavage-competent states. These structures uncover the plasticity of the PAZ domain, which is critical for the recognition of both pri-miRNA and pre-miRNA. These structures suggest that the helicase module serves as an engine that transfers the substrate between two sequential cleavage events. This study lays a foundation for dissecting the regulation mechanism of miRNA biogenesis in plants and provides insights into the dicing state of human Dicer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaobin Wei
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Huanhuan Ke
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Aijia Wen
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bo Gao
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jing Shi
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Medicine & Holistic Integrative Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Yu Feng
- Department of Biophysics and Department of Pathology of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Immunity and Inflammatory diseases, Hangzhou, China.
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41
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Kim K, Baek SC, Lee YY, Bastiaanssen C, Kim J, Kim H, Kim VN. A quantitative map of human primary microRNA processing sites. Mol Cell 2021; 81:3422-3439.e11. [PMID: 34320405 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2021.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Maturation of canonical microRNA (miRNA) is initiated by DROSHA that cleaves the primary transcript (pri-miRNA). More than 1,800 miRNA loci are annotated in humans, but it remains largely unknown whether and at which sites pri-miRNAs are cleaved by DROSHA. Here, we performed in vitro processing on a full set of human pri-miRNAs (miRBase version 21) followed by sequencing. This comprehensive profiling enabled us to classify miRNAs on the basis of DROSHA dependence and map their cleavage sites with respective processing efficiency measures. Only 758 pri-miRNAs are confidently processed by DROSHA, while the majority may be non-canonical or false entries. Analyses of the DROSHA-dependent pri-miRNAs show key cis-elements for processing. We observe widespread alternative processing and unproductive cleavage events such as "nick" or "inverse" processing. SRSF3 is a broad-acting auxiliary factor modulating alternative processing and suppressing unproductive processing. The profiling data and methods developed in this study will allow systematic analyses of miRNA regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kijun Kim
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea; School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - S Chan Baek
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea; School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Young-Yoon Lee
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea; School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Carolien Bastiaanssen
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea; School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Jeesoo Kim
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea; School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Haedong Kim
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea; School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - V Narry Kim
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea; School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.
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42
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Zhu J, Li C, Peng X, Zhang X. RNA architecture influences plant biology. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2021; 72:4144-4160. [PMID: 33484251 PMCID: PMC8130982 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erab030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
The majority of the genome is transcribed to RNA in living organisms. RNA transcripts can form astonishing arrays of secondary and tertiary structures via Watson-Crick, Hoogsteen, or wobble base pairing. In vivo, RNA folding is not a simple thermodynamic event of minimizing free energy. Instead, the process is constrained by transcription, RNA-binding proteins, steric factors, and the microenvironment. RNA secondary structure (RSS) plays myriad roles in numerous biological processes, such as RNA processing, stability, transportation, and translation in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Emerging evidence has also implicated RSS in RNA trafficking, liquid-liquid phase separation, and plant responses to environmental variations such as temperature and salinity. At molecular level, RSS is correlated with splicing, polyadenylation, protein synthesis, and miRNA biogenesis and functions. In this review, we summarize newly reported methods for probing RSS in vivo and functions and mechanisms of RSS in plant physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaying Zhu
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Changhao Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Xu Peng
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Xiuren Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
- Correspondence:
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43
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Zhou K, Chang Y, Han B, Li R, Wei Y. MicroRNAs as crucial mediators in the pharmacological activities of triptolide (Review). Exp Ther Med 2021; 21:499. [PMID: 33791008 PMCID: PMC8005665 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.9930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Triptolide is the main bioactive constituent isolated from the Chinese herb Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F., which possesses a variety of pharmacological properties. MicroRNAs (miRNAs/miRs) are short non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally. miRNAs are implicated in several intracellular processes, whereby their dysregulation contributes to pathogenesis of various diseases. Thus, miRNAs have great potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for diseases, and are implicated in drug treatment. Previous studies have reported that specific miRNAs are targeted, and their expression levels can be altered following exposure to triptolide. Thus, miRNAs are emerging as crucial mediators in the pharmacological activities of triptolide. The present review summarizes current literature on miRNAs as target molecules in the pharmacological activities of triptolide, including antitumor, anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, renal protective, cardioprotective, antiangiogenesis activities and multiorgan toxicity effects. In addition, the diverse signaling pathways involved are discussed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms of triptolide in the regulation of target miRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Zhou
- Shanxi Institute of Energy, Taiyuan, Shanxi 030600, P.R. China
| | - Yinxia Chang
- College of Chinese Medicine and Food Engineering, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, Shanxi 030619, P.R. China
| | - Bo Han
- College of Basic Medicine, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, Shanxi 030619, P.R. China
| | - Rui Li
- College of Chinese Medicine and Food Engineering, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, Shanxi 030619, P.R. China
| | - Yanming Wei
- College of Chinese Medicine and Food Engineering, Shanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Jinzhong, Shanxi 030619, P.R. China
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44
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Ren J, Wu Y, Wang Y, Zhao Y, Li Y, Hao S, Lin L, Zhang S, Xu X, Wang H. CtIP suppresses primary microRNA maturation and promotes metastasis of colon cancer cells in a xenograft mouse model. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100707. [PMID: 33901493 PMCID: PMC8164041 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100707] [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: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
miRNAs are important regulators of eukaryotic gene expression. The post-transcriptional maturation of miRNAs is controlled by the Drosha-DiGeorge syndrome critical region gene 8 (DGCR8) microprocessor. Dysregulation of miRNA biogenesis has been implicated in the pathogenesis of human diseases, including cancers. C-terminal-binding protein-interacting protein (CtIP) is a well-known DNA repair factor that promotes the processing of DNA double-strand break (DSB) to initiate homologous recombination-mediated DSB repair. However, it was unclear whether CtIP has other unknown cellular functions. Here, we aimed to uncover the roles of CtIP in miRNA maturation and cancer cell metastasis. We found that CtIP is a potential regulatory factor that suppresses the processing of miRNA primary transcripts (pri-miRNA). CtIP directly bound to both DGCR8 and pri-miRNAs through a conserved Sae2-like domain, reduced the binding of Drosha to DGCR8 and pri-miRNA substrate, and inhibited processing activity of Drosha complex. CtIP depletion significantly increased the expression levels of a subset of mature miRNAs, including miR-302 family members that are associated with tumor progression and metastasis in several cancer types. We also found that CtIP-inhibited miRNAs, such as miR-302 family members, are not crucial for DSB repair. However, increase of miR-302b levels or loss of CtIP function severely suppressed human colon cancer cell line tumor cell metastasis in a mouse xenograft model. These studies reveal a previously unrecognized mechanism of CtIP in miRNA processing and tumor metastasis that represents a new function of CtIP in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianping Ren
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Ya Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Yuqin Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Youhang Li
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuailin Hao
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Lixiu Lin
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuyuan Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Xingzhi Xu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory for Genome Stability & Disease Prevention and Carson International Cancer Center, Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, China Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Hailong Wang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of DNA Damage Response and College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing, China.
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45
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Killy B, Bodendorfer B, Mages J, Ritter K, Schreiber J, Hölscher C, Pracht K, Ekici A, Jäck HM, Lang R. DGCR8 deficiency impairs macrophage growth and unleashes the interferon response to mycobacteria. Life Sci Alliance 2021; 4:4/6/e202000810. [PMID: 33771876 PMCID: PMC8008949 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202000810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The mycobacterial cell wall glycolipid trehalose-6,6-dimycolate (TDM) activates macrophages through the C-type lectin receptor MINCLE. Regulation of innate immune cells relies on miRNAs, which may be exploited by mycobacteria to survive and replicate in macrophages. Here, we have used macrophages deficient in the microprocessor component DGCR8 to investigate the impact of miRNA on the response to TDM. Deletion of DGCR8 in bone marrow progenitors reduced macrophage yield, but did not block macrophage differentiation. DGCR8-deficient macrophages showed reduced constitutive and TDM-inducible miRNA expression. RNAseq analysis revealed that they accumulated primary miRNA transcripts and displayed a modest type I IFN signature at baseline. Stimulation with TDM in the absence of DGCR8 induced overshooting expression of IFNβ and IFN-induced genes, which was blocked by antibodies to type I IFN. In contrast, signaling and transcriptional responses to recombinant IFNβ were unaltered. Infection with live Mycobacterium bovis Bacille Calmette-Guerin replicated the enhanced IFN response. Together, our results reveal an essential role for DGCR8 in curbing IFNβ expression macrophage reprogramming by mycobacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Killy
- Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Barbara Bodendorfer
- Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Kristina Ritter
- Infection Immunology, Forschungszentrum Borstel, Borstel, Germany
| | - Jonathan Schreiber
- Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christoph Hölscher
- Infection Immunology, Forschungszentrum Borstel, Borstel, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Borstel, Borstel, Germany
| | - Katharina Pracht
- Division of Molecular Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Arif Ekici
- Institute of Human Genetics, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Hans-Martin Jäck
- Division of Molecular Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine 3, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Roland Lang
- Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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46
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Zhang X, Li P, Zhong H, Yang F, Liu F, Yedid G, Zeng Y. Extending the L1 region in canonical double-stranded RNA-binding domains impairs their functions. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2021; 53:463-471. [PMID: 33751023 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmab014] [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: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
A large number of proteins involved in RNA metabolism possess a double-stranded RNA-binding domain (dsRBD), whose sequence variations and functional versatilities are still being recognized. All dsRBDs have a similar structural fold: α1-L1-β1-L2-β2-L3-β3-L4-α2 (α represents an α-helix, β a β-sheet, and L a loop conformation between the well-defined secondary structures). Our recent work revealed that the dsRBD in Drosha, which is involved in animal microRNA (miRNA) biogenesis, differs from other dsRBDs by containing a short insertion in its L1 region and that this insertion is important for Drosha function. We asked why the same insertion is excluded in all other dsRBDs and proposed that a longer L1 may be detrimental to their functions. In this study, to test this hypothesis, we inserted the Drosha sequence into several well-known dsRBDs from various organisms. Gel mobility shift assay demonstrated that L1 extension invariably reduced RNA binding by these dsRBDs. In addition, such a mutation in Dicer, another protein involved in miRNA biogenesis, impaired Dicer's ability to process miRNAs, which led to de-repression of reporter expression, in human cells. Taken together, our results add to the growing appreciation of the diversity in dsRBDs and suggest that dsRBDs have intricate structures and functions that are sensitive to perturbations in the L1 region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Zhang
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Huanhuan Zhong
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Fanming Yang
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Fanzhou Liu
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Gabriel Yedid
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yan Zeng
- Department of Zoology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
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47
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Li S, Le TNY, Nguyen TD, Trinh TA, Nguyen TA. Bulges control pri-miRNA processing in a position and strand-dependent manner. RNA Biol 2021; 18:1716-1726. [PMID: 33382955 PMCID: PMC8582997 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2020.1868139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play critical roles in gene expression and numerous human diseases. The success of miRNA biogenesis is largely determined by the primary miRNA (pri-miRNA) processing by the DROSHA-DGCR8 complex, called Microprocessor. Here, we analysed the high-throughput pri-miRNA processing assays and secondary structures of pri-miRNAs to investigate the roles of bulges in the pri-miRNA processing. We found that bulges in multiple places control both the cleavage efficiency and accuracy of pri-miRNA processing. These bulges were shown to act on Microprocessor via its catalytic subunit, DROSHA, and function in a position and strand-dependent manner. Interestingly, we discovered that the enriched and conserved bulges, called midB, can correct DROSHA orientation on pri-miRNAs, thereby enhancing production of miRNAs. The revealed functions of the bulges help improve our understanding of pri-miRNA processing and suggest their potential roles in miRNA biogenesis regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaohua Li
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Thi Nhu-Y Le
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Trung Duc Nguyen
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tam Anh Trinh
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tuan Anh Nguyen
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, China
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48
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Kotowska-Zimmer A, Pewinska M, Olejniczak M. Artificial miRNAs as therapeutic tools: Challenges and opportunities. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2021; 12:e1640. [PMID: 33386705 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) technology has been used for almost two decades to study gene functions and in therapeutic approaches. It uses cellular machinery and small, designed RNAs in the form of synthetic small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) or vector-based short hairpin RNAs (shRNAs), and artificial miRNAs (amiRNAs) to inhibit a gene of interest. Artificial miRNAs, known also as miRNA mimics, shRNA-miRs, or pri-miRNA-like shRNAs have the most complex structures and undergo two-step processing in cells to form mature siRNAs, which are RNAi effectors. AmiRNAs are composed of a target-specific siRNA insert and scaffold based on a natural primary miRNA (pri-miRNA). siRNAs serve as a guide to search for complementary sequences in transcripts, whereas pri-miRNA scaffolds ensure proper processing and transport. The dynamics of siRNA maturation and siRNA levels in the cell resemble those of endogenous miRNAs; therefore amiRNAs are safer than other RNAi triggers. Delivered as viral vectors and expressed under tissue-specific polymerase II (Pol II) promoters, amiRNAs provide long-lasting silencing and expression in selected tissues. Therefore, amiRNAs are useful therapeutic tools for a broad spectrum of human diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases, cancers and viral infections. Recent reports on the role of sequence and structure in pri-miRNA processing may contribute to the improvement of the amiRNA tools. In addition, the success of a recently initiated clinical trial for Huntington's disease could pave the way for other amiRNA-based therapies, if proven effective and safe. This article is categorized under: RNA Processing > Processing of Small RNAs Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > RNAi: Mechanisms of Action RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kotowska-Zimmer
- Department of Genome Engineering, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry PAS, Poznan, Poland
| | - Marianna Pewinska
- Department of Genome Engineering, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry PAS, Poznan, Poland
| | - Marta Olejniczak
- Department of Genome Engineering, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry PAS, Poznan, Poland
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49
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Xie W, Sowemimo I, Hayashi R, Wang J, Burkard TR, Brennecke J, Ameres SL, Patel DJ. Structure-function analysis of microRNA 3'-end trimming by Nibbler. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:30370-30379. [PMID: 33199607 PMCID: PMC7720153 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2018156117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Nibbler (Nbr) is a 3'-to-5' exoribonuclease whose catalytic 3'-end trimming activity impacts microRNA (miRNA) and PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) biogenesis. Here, we report on structural and functional studies to decipher the contributions of Nbr's N-terminal domain (NTD) and exonucleolytic domain (EXO) in miRNA 3'-end trimming. We have solved the crystal structures of the NTD core and EXO domains of Nbr, both in the apo-state. The NTD-core domain of Aedes aegypti Nbr adopts a HEAT-like repeat scaffold with basic patches constituting an RNA-binding surface exhibiting a preference for binding double-strand RNA (dsRNA) over single-strand RNA (ssRNA). Structure-guided functional assays in Drosophila S2 cells confirmed a principal role of the NTD in exonucleolytic miRNA trimming, which depends on basic surface patches. Gain-of-function experiments revealed a potential role of the NTD in recruiting Nbr to Argonaute-bound small RNA substrates. The EXO domain of A. aegypti and Drosophila melanogaster Nbr adopt a mixed α/β-scaffold with a deep pocket lined by a DEDDy catalytic cleavage motif. We demonstrate that Nbr's EXO domain exhibits Mn2+-dependent ssRNA-specific 3'-to-5' exoribonuclease activity. Modeling of a 3' terminal Uridine into the catalytic pocket of Nbr EXO indicates that 2'-O-methylation of the 3'-U would result in a steric clash with a tryptophan side chain, suggesting that 2'-O-methylation protects small RNAs from Nbr-mediated trimming. Overall, our data establish that Nbr requires its NTD as a substrate recruitment platform to execute exonucleolytic miRNA maturation, catalyzed by the ribonuclease EXO domain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xie
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065
| | - Ivica Sowemimo
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology, Vienna BioCenter, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Rippei Hayashi
- Department of Genome Sciences, The John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra 2601, Australia
| | - Juncheng Wang
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065
| | - Thomas R Burkard
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology, Vienna BioCenter, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Julius Brennecke
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology, Vienna BioCenter, 1030 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Stefan L Ameres
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology, Vienna BioCenter, 1030 Vienna, Austria;
- Max Perutz Labs, University of Vienna, Vienna BioCenter, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Dinshaw J Patel
- Structural Biology Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065;
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50
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Kwon SC, Jang H, Shen S, Baek SC, Kim K, Yang J, Kim J, Kim JS, Wang S, Shi Y, Li F, Kim VN. ERH facilitates microRNA maturation through the interaction with the N-terminus of DGCR8. Nucleic Acids Res 2020; 48:11097-11112. [PMID: 33035348 PMCID: PMC7641749 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The microprocessor complex cleaves the primary transcript of microRNA (pri-miRNA) to initiate miRNA maturation. Microprocessor is known to consist of RNase III DROSHA and dsRNA-binding DGCR8. Here, we identify Enhancer of Rudimentary Homolog (ERH) as a new component of Microprocessor. Through a crystal structure and biochemical experiments, we reveal that ERH uses its hydrophobic groove to bind to a conserved region in the N-terminus of DGCR8, in a 2:2 stoichiometry. Knock-down of ERH or deletion of the DGCR8 N-terminus results in a reduced processing of suboptimal pri-miRNAs in polycistronic miRNA clusters. ERH increases the processing of suboptimal pri-miR-451 in a manner dependent on its neighboring pri-miR-144. Thus, the ERH dimer may mediate 'cluster assistance' in which Microprocessor is loaded onto a poor substrate with help from a high-affinity substrate in the same cluster. Our study reveals a role of ERH in the miRNA biogenesis pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Chul Kwon
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea.,School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.,School of Biomedical Sciences, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Harim Jang
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea.,School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Siyuan Shen
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - S Chan Baek
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea.,School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Kijun Kim
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea.,School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Jihye Yang
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea.,School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Jeesoo Kim
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea.,School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Jong-Seo Kim
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea.,School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Suman Wang
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Yunyu Shi
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Fudong Li
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - V Narry Kim
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science, Seoul 08826, Korea.,School of Biological Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
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