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Carvalho L, Lasek AW. It is not just about transcription: involvement of brain RNA splicing in substance use disorders. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2024; 131:495-503. [PMID: 38396082 PMCID: PMC11055753 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-024-02740-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Alternative splicing is a co-transcriptional process that significantly contributes to the molecular landscape of the cell. It plays a multifaceted role in shaping gene transcription, protein diversity, and functional adaptability in response to environmental cues. Recent studies demonstrate that drugs of abuse have a profound impact on alternative splicing patterns within different brain regions. Drugs like alcohol and cocaine modify the expression of genes responsible for encoding splicing factors, thereby influencing alternative splicing of crucial genes involved in neurotransmission, neurogenesis, and neuroinflammation. Notable examples of these alterations include alcohol-induced changes in splicing factors such as HSPA6 and PCBP1, as well as cocaine's impact on PTBP1 and SRSF11. Beyond the immediate effects of drug exposure, recent research has shed light on the role of alternative splicing in contributing to the risk of substance use disorders (SUDs). This is exemplified by exon skipping events in key genes like ELOVL7, which can elevate the risk of alcohol use disorder. Lastly, drugs of abuse can induce splicing alterations through epigenetic modifications. For example, cocaine exposure leads to alterations in levels of trimethylated lysine 36 of histone H3, which exhibits a robust association with alternative splicing and serves as a reliable predictor for exon exclusion. In summary, alternative splicing has emerged as a critical player in the complex interplay between drugs of abuse and the brain, offering insights into the molecular underpinnings of SUDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luana Carvalho
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1220 E. Broad ST, Box 980613, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA.
| | - Amy W Lasek
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1220 E. Broad ST, Box 980613, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
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2
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Zhang H, Wang Y, Hu Z, Wu Y, Chen N, Zhu Y, Yu Y, Fan H, Wang H. Zygotic Splicing Activation of the Transcriptome is a Crucial Aspect of Maternal-to-Zygotic Transition and Required for the Conversion from Totipotency to Pluripotency. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308496. [PMID: 38308190 PMCID: PMC11005748 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
During maternal-to-zygotic transition (MZT) in the embryo, mRNA undergoes complex post-transcriptional regulatory processes. However, it is unclear whether and how alternative splicing plays a functional role in MZT. By analyzing transcriptome changes in mouse and human early embryos, dynamic changes in alternative splicing during MZT are observed and a previously unnoticed process of zygotic splicing activation (ZSA) following embryonic transcriptional activation is described. As the underlying mechanism of RNA splicing, splicing factors undergo dramatic maternal-to-zygotic conversion. This conversion relies on the key maternal factors BTG4 and PABPN1L and is zygotic-transcription-dependent. CDK11-dependent phosphorylation of the key splicing factor, SF3B1, and its aggregation with SRSF2 in the subnuclear domains of 2-cell embryos are prerequisites for ZSA. Isoforms generated by erroneous splicing, such as full-length Dppa4, hinder normal embryonic development. Moreover, alternative splicing regulates the conversion of early embryonic blastomeres from totipotency to pluripotency, thereby affecting embryonic lineage differentiation. ZSA is an essential post-transcriptional process of MZT and has physiological significance in generating new life. In addition to transcriptional activation, appropriate expression of transcript isoforms is also necessary for preimplantation embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Zhang
- MOA Key Laboratory of Animal VirologyCenter for Veterinary SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310058China
- Department of Veterinary MedicineCollege of Animal SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310058China
| | - Yang Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory for Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling NetworkLife Sciences InstituteZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310058China
| | - Zhe‐Wei Hu
- MOA Key Laboratory of Animal VirologyCenter for Veterinary SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310058China
| | - Yun‐Wen Wu
- MOE Key Laboratory for Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling NetworkLife Sciences InstituteZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310058China
| | - Nuo Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory for Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling NetworkLife Sciences InstituteZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310058China
| | - Yi‐Min Zhu
- Department of Reproductive EndocrinologyWomen's HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiang310002China
| | - Yuan‐Song Yu
- Savaid Stomatology SchoolHangzhou Medical CollegeHangzhou310053China
| | - Heng‐Yu Fan
- MOE Key Laboratory for Biosystems Homeostasis and Protection and Innovation Center for Cell Signaling NetworkLife Sciences InstituteZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310058China
- Assisted Reproduction UnitDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologySir Run Run Shaw HospitalSchool of MedicineZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310016China
- Center for Biomedical ResearchShaoxing InstituteZhejiang UniversityShaoxing312000China
| | - Hua‐Nan Wang
- MOA Key Laboratory of Animal VirologyCenter for Veterinary SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310058China
- Department of Veterinary MedicineCollege of Animal SciencesZhejiang UniversityHangzhou310058China
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3
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Engal E, Zhang Z, Geminder O, Jaffe-Herman S, Kay G, Ben-Hur A, Salton M. The spectrum of pre-mRNA splicing in autism. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2024; 15:e1838. [PMID: 38509732 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Disruptions in spatiotemporal gene expression can result in atypical brain function. Specifically, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by abnormalities in pre-mRNA splicing. Abnormal splicing patterns have been identified in the brains of individuals with ASD, and mutations in splicing factors have been found to contribute to neurodevelopmental delays associated with ASD. Here we review studies that shed light on the importance of splicing observed in ASD and that explored the intricate relationship between splicing factors and ASD, revealing how disruptions in pre-mRNA splicing may underlie ASD pathogenesis. We provide an overview of the research regarding all splicing factors associated with ASD and place a special emphasis on five specific splicing factors-HNRNPH2, NOVA2, WBP4, SRRM2, and RBFOX1-known to impact the splicing of ASD-related genes. In the discussion of the molecular mechanisms influenced by these splicing factors, we lay the groundwork for a deeper understanding of ASD's complex etiology. Finally, we discuss the potential benefit of unraveling the connection between splicing and ASD for the development of more precise diagnostic tools and targeted therapeutic interventions. This article is categorized under: RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease RNA Evolution and Genomics > RNA and Ribonucleoprotein Evolution RNA Evolution and Genomics > Computational Analyses of RNA RNA-Based Catalysis > RNA Catalysis in Splicing and Translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eden Engal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Institute for Medical Research Israel Canada, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Zhenwei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ophir Geminder
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Institute for Medical Research Israel Canada, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Shiri Jaffe-Herman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Institute for Medical Research Israel Canada, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Gillian Kay
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Institute for Medical Research Israel Canada, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Asa Ben-Hur
- Department of Computer Science, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Maayan Salton
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Institute for Medical Research Israel Canada, Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
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4
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Gonçalves M, Santos JI, Coutinho MF, Matos L, Alves S. Development of Engineered-U1 snRNA Therapies: Current Status. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14617. [PMID: 37834063 PMCID: PMC10572768 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914617] [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: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Splicing of pre-mRNA is a crucial regulatory stage in the pathway of gene expression. The majority of human genes that encode proteins undergo alternative pre-mRNA splicing and mutations that affect splicing are more prevalent than previously thought. Targeting aberrant RNA(s) may thus provide an opportunity to correct faulty splicing and potentially treat numerous genetic disorders. To that purpose, the use of engineered U1 snRNA (either modified U1 snRNAs or exon-specific U1s-ExSpeU1s) has been applied as a potentially therapeutic strategy to correct splicing mutations, particularly those affecting the 5' splice-site (5'ss). Here we review and summarize a vast panoply of studies that used either modified U1 snRNAs or ExSpeU1s to mediate gene therapeutic correction of splicing defects underlying a considerable number of genetic diseases. We also focus on the pre-clinical validation of these therapeutic approaches both in vitro and in vivo, and summarize the main obstacles that need to be overcome to allow for their successful translation to clinic practice in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Gonçalves
- Research and Development Unit, Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, INSA I.P., Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; (M.G.); (J.I.S.); (M.F.C.); (L.M.)
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, Institute of Sciences, Technologies and Agro-Environment, CECA-ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences, AL4AnimalS, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisboa, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences, CITAB, Inov4Agro, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Juliana Inês Santos
- Research and Development Unit, Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, INSA I.P., Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; (M.G.); (J.I.S.); (M.F.C.); (L.M.)
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, Institute of Sciences, Technologies and Agro-Environment, CECA-ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences, AL4AnimalS, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisboa, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
- Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Rua do Campo Alegre, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Francisca Coutinho
- Research and Development Unit, Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, INSA I.P., Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; (M.G.); (J.I.S.); (M.F.C.); (L.M.)
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, Institute of Sciences, Technologies and Agro-Environment, CECA-ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences, AL4AnimalS, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisboa, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Liliana Matos
- Research and Development Unit, Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, INSA I.P., Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; (M.G.); (J.I.S.); (M.F.C.); (L.M.)
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, Institute of Sciences, Technologies and Agro-Environment, CECA-ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences, AL4AnimalS, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisboa, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sandra Alves
- Research and Development Unit, Department of Human Genetics, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge, INSA I.P., Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal; (M.G.); (J.I.S.); (M.F.C.); (L.M.)
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, Institute of Sciences, Technologies and Agro-Environment, CECA-ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences, AL4AnimalS, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisboa, Avenida da Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisboa, Portugal
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Shen F, Hu C, Huang X, He H, Yang D, Zhao J, Yang X. Advances in alternative splicing identification: deep learning and pantranscriptome. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1232466. [PMID: 37790793 PMCID: PMC10544900 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1232466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
In plants, alternative splicing is a crucial mechanism for regulating gene expression at the post-transcriptional level, which leads to diverse proteins by generating multiple mature mRNA isoforms and diversify the gene regulation. Due to the complexity and variability of this process, accurate identification of splicing events is a vital step in studying alternative splicing. This article presents the application of alternative splicing algorithms with or without reference genomes in plants, as well as the integration of advanced deep learning techniques for improved detection accuracy. In addition, we also discuss alternative splicing studies in the pan-genomic background and the usefulness of integrated strategies for fully profiling alternative splicing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Shen
- Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chenyang Hu
- Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, China
- Shanxi Key Lab of Chinese Jujube, College of Life Science, Yan’an University, Yan’an, Shanxi, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hao He
- Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Deng Yang
- Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jirong Zhao
- Shanxi Key Lab of Chinese Jujube, College of Life Science, Yan’an University, Yan’an, Shanxi, China
| | - Xiaozeng Yang
- Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, China
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6
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Myburgh MW, Schwerdtfeger KS, Cripwell RA, van Zyl WH, Viljoen-Bloom M. Promoters and introns as key drivers for enhanced gene expression in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. ADVANCES IN APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY 2023; 124:1-29. [PMID: 37597945 DOI: 10.1016/bs.aambs.2023.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
The transcription of genes in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae is governed by multiple layers of regulatory elements and proteins, cooperating to ensure optimum expression of the final protein product based on the cellular requirements. Promoters have always been regarded as the most important determinant of gene transcription, but introns also play a key role in the expression of intron-encoding genes. Some introns can enhance transcription when introduced either promoter-proximal or embedded in the open reading frame of genes. However, the outcome is seldom predictable, with some introns increasing or decreasing transcription depending on the promoter and reporter gene employed. This chapter provides an overview of the general structure and function of promoters and introns and how they may cooperate during transcription to allow intron-mediated enhancement of gene expression. Since S. cerevisiae is a suitable host for recombinant protein production on a commercial level, stronger and more controllable promoters are in high demand. Enhanced gene expression can be achieved via promoter engineering, which may include introns that increase the efficacy of recombinant expression cassettes. Different models for the role of introns in transcription are briefly discussed to show how these intervening sequences can actively interact with the transcription machinery. Furthermore, recent examples of improved protein production via the introduction of promoter-proximal introns are highlighted to showcase the potential value of intron-mediated enhancement of gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rosemary Anne Cripwell
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, South Africa
| | - Willem Heber van Zyl
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, South Africa
| | - Marinda Viljoen-Bloom
- Department of Microbiology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, South Africa.
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7
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Enders M, Neumann P, Dickmanns A, Ficner R. Structure and function of spliceosomal DEAH-box ATPases. Biol Chem 2023; 404:851-866. [PMID: 37441768 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2023-0157] [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: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Splicing of precursor mRNAs is a hallmark of eukaryotic cells, performed by a huge macromolecular machine, the spliceosome. Four DEAH-box ATPases are essential components of the spliceosome, which play an important role in the spliceosome activation, the splicing reaction, the release of the spliced mRNA and intron lariat, and the disassembly of the spliceosome. An integrative approach comprising X-ray crystallography, single particle cryo electron microscopy, single molecule FRET, and molecular dynamics simulations provided deep insights into the structure, dynamics and function of the spliceosomal DEAH-box ATPases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marieke Enders
- Department of Molecular Structural Biology, Institute for Microbiology and Genetics, Göttingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB), Georg-August-University Göttingen, Justus-von-Liebig-Weg 11, D-37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Piotr Neumann
- Department of Molecular Structural Biology, Institute for Microbiology and Genetics, Göttingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB), Georg-August-University Göttingen, Justus-von-Liebig-Weg 11, D-37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Achim Dickmanns
- Department of Molecular Structural Biology, Institute for Microbiology and Genetics, Göttingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB), Georg-August-University Göttingen, Justus-von-Liebig-Weg 11, D-37077 Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ralf Ficner
- Department of Molecular Structural Biology, Institute for Microbiology and Genetics, Göttingen Center for Molecular Biosciences (GZMB), Georg-August-University Göttingen, Justus-von-Liebig-Weg 11, D-37077 Göttingen, Germany
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8
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Wang H, Wang R, Fang J. A spliceosome-associated gene signature aids in predicting prognosis and tumor microenvironment of hepatocellular carcinoma. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:204765. [PMID: 37301543 PMCID: PMC10292887 DOI: 10.18632/aging.204765] [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: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Splicing alterations have been shown to be key tumorigenesis drivers. In this study, we identified a novel spliceosome-related genes (SRGs) signature to predict the overall survival (OS) of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A total of 25 SRGs were identified from the GSE14520 dataset (training set). Univariate and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analyses were utilized to construct the signature using genes with predictive significance. We then constructed a risk model using six SRGs (BUB3, IGF2BP3, RBM3, ILF3, ZC3H13, and CCT3). The reliability and predictive power of the gene signature were validated in two validation sets (TCGA and GSE76427 dataset). Patients in training and validation sets were divided into high and low-risk groups based on the gene signature. Patients in high-risk groups exhibited a poorer OS than in low-risk groups both in the training set and two validation sets. Next, risk score, BCLC staging, TNM staging, and multinodular were combined in a nomogram for OS prediction, and the decision curve analysis (DCA) curve exhibited the excellent prediction performance of the nomogram. The functional enrichment analyses demonstrated high-risk score patients were closely related to multiple oncology characteristics and invasive-related pathways, such as Cell cycle, DNA replication, and Spliceosome. Different compositions of the tumor microenvironment and immunocyte infiltration ratio might contribute to the prognostic difference between high and low-risk score groups. In conclusion, a spliceosome-related six-gene signature exhibited good performance for predicting the OS of patients with HCC, which may aid in clinical decision-making for individual treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaxiang Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Taihe Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, Hubei, China
| | - Ruling Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Taihe Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan 442000, Hubei, China
| | - Jian Fang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Medicine, The Third People’s Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou 350108, Fujian, China
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9
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Sinha S, Pindi C, Ahsan M, Arantes PR, Palermo G. Machines on Genes through the Computational Microscope. J Chem Theory Comput 2023; 19:1945-1964. [PMID: 36947696 PMCID: PMC10104023 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jctc.2c01313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Macromolecular machines acting on genes are at the core of life's fundamental processes, including DNA replication and repair, gene transcription and regulation, chromatin packaging, RNA splicing, and genome editing. Here, we report the increasing role of computational biophysics in characterizing the mechanisms of "machines on genes", focusing on innovative applications of computational methods and their integration with structural and biophysical experiments. We showcase how state-of-the-art computational methods, including classical and ab initio molecular dynamics to enhanced sampling techniques, and coarse-grained approaches are used for understanding and exploring gene machines for real-world applications. As this review unfolds, advanced computational methods describe the biophysical function that is unseen through experimental techniques, accomplishing the power of the "computational microscope", an expression coined by Klaus Schulten to highlight the extraordinary capability of computer simulations. Pushing the frontiers of computational biophysics toward a pragmatic representation of large multimegadalton biomolecular complexes is instrumental in bridging the gap between experimentally obtained macroscopic observables and the molecular principles playing at the microscopic level. This understanding will help harness molecular machines for medical, pharmaceutical, and biotechnological purposes.
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Hollmann NM, Jagtap PKA, Linse JB, Ullmann P, Payr M, Murciano B, Simon B, Hub JS, Hennig J. Upstream of N-Ras C-terminal cold shock domains mediate poly(A) specificity in a novel RNA recognition mode and bind poly(A) binding protein. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:1895-1913. [PMID: 36688322 PMCID: PMC9976900 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac1277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA binding proteins (RBPs) often engage multiple RNA binding domains (RBDs) to increase target specificity and affinity. However, the complexity of target recognition of multiple RBDs remains largely unexplored. Here we use Upstream of N-Ras (Unr), a multidomain RBP, to demonstrate how multiple RBDs orchestrate target specificity. A crystal structure of the three C-terminal RNA binding cold-shock domains (CSD) of Unr bound to a poly(A) sequence exemplifies how recognition goes beyond the classical ππ-stacking in CSDs. Further structural studies reveal several interaction surfaces between the N-terminal and C-terminal part of Unr with the poly(A)-binding protein (pAbp). All interactions are validated by mutational analyses and the high-resolution structures presented here will guide further studies to understand how both proteins act together in cellular processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nele Merret Hollmann
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany.,Collaboration for joint PhD degree between EMBL and Heidelberg University, Faculty of Biosciences, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Pravin Kumar Ankush Jagtap
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany.,Chair of Biochemistry IV, Biophysical Chemistry, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Johanna-Barbara Linse
- Theoretical Physics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany.,Center for Biophysics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Philip Ullmann
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marco Payr
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany.,Collaboration for joint PhD degree between EMBL and Heidelberg University, Faculty of Biosciences, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Brice Murciano
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Bernd Simon
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jochen S Hub
- Theoretical Physics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany.,Center for Biophysics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Janosch Hennig
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany.,Chair of Biochemistry IV, Biophysical Chemistry, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
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11
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Wang J, Xiao X, Li S, Jiang H, Sun W, Wang P, Zhang Q. Landscape of pathogenic variants in six pre-mRNA processing factor genes for retinitis pigmentosa based on large in-house data sets and database comparisons. Acta Ophthalmol 2022; 100:e1412-e1425. [PMID: 35138024 DOI: 10.1111/aos.15104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Variants in six genes encoding pre-mRNA processing factors (PRPFs) are a common cause of autosomal dominant retinitis pigmentosa (ADRP). This study aims to determine the characteristics of potential pathogenic variants (PPVs) in the six genes. METHODS Variants in six PRPF genes were identified from in-house exome sequencing data. PPVs were identified based on comparative bioinformatics analysis, clinical phenotypes and the ACMG/AMP guidelines. The features of PPVs were revealed by comparative analysis of in-house data set, gnomAD and previously published literature. RESULTS Totally, 36 heterozygous PPVs, including 19 novels, were detected from 45 families, which contributed to 4.4% (45/1019) of RP cases. These PPVs were distributed in PRPF31 (17/45, 37.8%), SNRNP200 (12/45, 26.7%), PRPF8 (10/45, 22.2%) and PRPF3 (6/45, 13.3%) but not in PRPF6 or PRPF4. Different types of PPVs were predominant in different PRPF genes, such as loss-of-function variants in PRPF31 and missense variants in the five remaining genes. The clustering of PPVs in specific regions was observed in SNRNP200, PRPF8 and PRPF3. The pathogenicity for certain classes of variants in these genes, such as loss-of-function variants in PRPF6 and missense variants in PRPF31 and PRPF4, requires careful consideration and further validation. The predominant fundus changes were early macular involvement, widespread RPE atrophy and pigmentation in the mid- and far-peripheral retina. CONCLUSION Systemic comparative analysis may shed light on the characterization of PPVs in these genes. Our findings provide a brief landscape of PPVs in PRPF genes and the associated phenotypes and emphasize the careful classification of pathogenicity for certain types of variants that warrant further characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junwen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xueshan Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shiqiang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hongmei Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenmin Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Panfeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qingjiong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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12
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Mechanisms of germ cell survival and plasticity in Caenorhabditis elegans. Biochem Soc Trans 2022; 50:1517-1526. [PMID: 36196981 PMCID: PMC9704514 DOI: 10.1042/bst20220878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Animals constantly encounter environmental and physiological stressors that threaten survival and fertility. Somatic stress responses and germ cell arrest/repair mechanisms are employed to withstand such challenges. The Caenorhabditis elegans germline combats stress by initiating mitotic germ cell quiescence to preserve genome integrity, and by removing meiotic germ cells to prevent inheritance of damaged DNA or to tolerate lack of germline nutrient supply. Here, we review examples of germline recovery from distinct stressors - acute starvation and defective splicing - where quiescent mitotic germ cells resume proliferation to repopulate a germ line following apoptotic removal of meiotic germ cells. These protective mechanisms reveal the plastic nature of germline stem cells.
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13
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Hu Z, Li M, Huo Z, Chen L, Liu S, Deng K, Lu X, Chen S, Fu Y, Xu A. U1 snRNP proteins promote proximal alternative polyadenylation sites by directly interacting with 3' end processing core factors. J Mol Cell Biol 2022; 14:6694001. [PMID: 36073763 PMCID: PMC9926334 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjac054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In eukaryotic cells, both alternative splicing and alternative polyadenylation (APA) play essential roles in the gene regulation network. U1 small ribonucleoprotein particle (U1 snRNP) is a major component of spliceosome, and U1 snRNP complex can suppress proximal APA sites through crosstalking with 3' end processing factors. However, here we show that both knockdown and overexpression of SNRPA, SNRPC, SNRNP70, and SNRPD2, the U1 snRNP proteins, promote the usage of proximal APA sites at the transcriptome level. SNRNP70 can drive the phase transition of PABPN1 from droplet to aggregate, which may reduce the repressive effects of PABPN1 on the proximal APA sites. Additionally, SNRNP70 can also promote the proximal APA sites by recruiting CPSF6, suggesting that the function of CPSF6 on APA is related with other RNA-binding proteins and cell context-dependent. Consequently, these results reveal that, on the contrary to U1 snRNP complex, the free proteins of U1 snRNP complex can promote proximal APA sites through the interaction with 3' end processing machinery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Liutao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Susu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Ke Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xin Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Shangwu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | | | - Anlong Xu
- Correspondence to: Anlong Xu, E-mail:
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14
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Zhang Y, Wang X, Wang H, Jiang Y, Xu Z, Luo L. Elevated Small Nuclear Ribonucleoprotein Polypeptide an Expression Correlated With Poor Prognosis and Immune Infiltrates in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Front Oncol 2022; 12:893107. [PMID: 35860579 PMCID: PMC9290672 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.893107] [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: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundElevated Small Nuclear Ribonucleoprotein Polypeptide A (SNRPA) can enhance tumor cell growth and proliferation in various cancers. However, rarely studies focus on the comprehensive analysis of SNRPA in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).MethodsTCGA and GEO databases were used to analyze the mRNA expression of SNRPA in HCC. Protein expression of SNAPA was validated using immunohistochemistry. Stably transfected HCC cells were used to investigate the role of SNRPA in the progression of HCC. The functional enrichment analysis was utilized for the biological function prediction. The CIBERSORT and ssGSEA algorithms were used to evaluate the composition of the tumor microenvironment and immunocyte infiltration ratio.ResultsThe SNRPA expression was upregulated in HCC and positively correlated with tumor stage and grade. SNRPA overexpression were independent risk factors for poor overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS). In patients with early-stage disease, low alpha-fetoprotein expression, and better differentiation, SNRPA still exhibited the excellent prognostic value. Knockdown of SNRPA inhibited the proliferation and migration while promoting the apoptosis of HCC cells. Higher methylation of the CpG site cg16596691 correlated with longer OS in HCC patients. Genes co-expressed with SNRPA were overexpressed in HCC and correlated with shorter OS. The GO and KEGG enrichment analysis showed that SNRPA expression was related to mRNA splicing, spliceosome signaling. GSEA demonstrated that the main enrichment pathway of SNRPA-related differential genes was spliceosome signaling, cell cycle signaling, P53 signaling pathway, T cell receptor signaling pathway, natural killer cell-mediated signaling. CIBERSORT and ssGSEA algorithm revealed that SNRPA was mainly associated with the higher proportion of CD8+T cells, T cells follicular helper, T cells regulatory, Macrophages M0, and the lower proportion of T cells CD4 memory resting, NK cells resting, Monocytes, and Mast cells resting.ConclusionElevated SNRPA enhances tumor cell proliferation and correlated with poor prognosis and immune infiltrates in patients with HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youfu Zhang
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Xuyang Wang
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
| | - Huaxiang Wang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fuzong Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistic Team, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yi Jiang
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, The Fuzong Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistic Team, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhidan Xu
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
- *Correspondence: Laibang Luo, ; Zhidan Xu,
| | - Laibang Luo
- Department of Organ Transplantation, Jiangxi Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang Medical College, Nanchang, China
- *Correspondence: Laibang Luo, ; Zhidan Xu,
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15
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Glasser E, Maji D, Biancon G, Puthenpeedikakkal A, Cavender C, Tebaldi T, Jenkins J, Mathews D, Halene S, Kielkopf C. Pre-mRNA splicing factor U2AF2 recognizes distinct conformations of nucleotide variants at the center of the pre-mRNA splice site signal. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:5299-5312. [PMID: 35524551 PMCID: PMC9128377 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The essential pre-mRNA splicing factor U2AF2 (also called U2AF65) identifies polypyrimidine (Py) tract signals of nascent transcripts, despite length and sequence variations. Previous studies have shown that the U2AF2 RNA recognition motifs (RRM1 and RRM2) preferentially bind uridine-rich RNAs. Nonetheless, the specificity of the RRM1/RRM2 interface for the central Py tract nucleotide has yet to be investigated. We addressed this question by determining crystal structures of U2AF2 bound to a cytidine, guanosine, or adenosine at the central position of the Py tract, and compared U2AF2-bound uridine structures. Local movements of the RNA site accommodated the different nucleotides, whereas the polypeptide backbone remained similar among the structures. Accordingly, molecular dynamics simulations revealed flexible conformations of the central, U2AF2-bound nucleotide. The RNA binding affinities and splicing efficiencies of structure-guided mutants demonstrated that U2AF2 tolerates nucleotide substitutions at the central position of the Py tract. Moreover, enhanced UV-crosslinking and immunoprecipitation of endogenous U2AF2 in human erythroleukemia cells showed uridine-sensitive binding sites, with lower sequence conservation at the central nucleotide positions of otherwise uridine-rich, U2AF2-bound splice sites. Altogether, these results highlight the importance of RNA flexibility for protein recognition and take a step towards relating splice site motifs to pre-mRNA splicing efficiencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliezra Glasser
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, and the Center for
RNA Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and
Dentistry, Rochester,
NY 14642, USA
| | - Debanjana Maji
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, and the Center for
RNA Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and
Dentistry, Rochester,
NY 14642, USA
| | - Giulia Biancon
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine and
Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine,
New Haven,
CT 06520, USA
| | | | - Chapin E Cavender
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, and the Center for
RNA Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and
Dentistry, Rochester,
NY 14642, USA
| | - Toma Tebaldi
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine and
Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine,
New Haven,
CT 06520, USA
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology
(CIBIO), University of
Trento, Trento, Italy
| | - Jermaine L Jenkins
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, and the Center for
RNA Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and
Dentistry, Rochester,
NY 14642, USA
| | - David H Mathews
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, and the Center for
RNA Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and
Dentistry, Rochester,
NY 14642, USA
| | - Stephanie Halene
- Section of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine and
Yale Cancer Center, Yale University School of Medicine,
New Haven,
CT 06520, USA
- Yale Center for RNA Science and Medicine, Yale University
School of Medicine, New Haven,
CT 06520, USA
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of
Medicine, New Haven,
CT 06520, USA
| | - Clara L Kielkopf
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, and the Center for
RNA Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and
Dentistry, Rochester,
NY 14642, USA
- Wilmot Cancer Institute, University of Rochester School of
Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester,
NY 14642, USA
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16
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Liu J, Gu L, Zhang D, Li W. Determining the Prognostic Value of Spliceosome-Related Genes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:759792. [PMID: 35281269 PMCID: PMC8907852 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.759792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The spliceosome plays an important role in mRNA alternative splicing and is aberrantly expressed in several tumors. However, the potential roles of spliceosome-related genes in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain poorly understood. Materials and Methods: Patient data were acquired from public databases. Expression differences and survival analyses were used to assess the importance of spliceosome-related genes in HCC prognosis. To explore the potential regulatory mechanisms of these genes, a protein-protein interaction network was constructed and screened using univariate and multivariate Cox regression and random forest analyses. This was used to create a five-gene prognostic model. The prognostic value and predictive power of the five-gene signature were assessed using the Kaplan-Meier and time-dependent receiver operating characteristic analyses in the training set. These results were further validated in an independent external set. To facilitate clinical application, a nomogram was prepared to predict the overall survival of HCC patients. The relative expression of five genes was detected using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results: The analysis revealed that LSM1-7, SNRPB, SNRPD1-3, SNRPE, SNRPF, SNRPG, and SNRPN could be used as prognostic biomarkers in HCC patients. Moreover, the five-gene risk model could clearly distinguish between the high-and low-risk groups. Furthermore, the risk model was associated with the tumor mutation burden, immune cell infiltration of CD8+ T cells, natural killer T cells, M2 macrophages, and immune checkpoint inhibitors, which also demonstrated the predictive efficacy of this risk model in HCC immunotherapy. Conclusion: Spliceosome-related genes and the five-gene signature could serve as novel prognostic biomarkers for HCC patients, aiding clinical patient monitoring and follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Yue Bei People’s Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Shaoguan, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- Medical Research Center, Yue Bei People’s Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Shaoguan, China
| | - Liming Gu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Immunopathology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Center of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Dangui Zhang
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Second Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Wenli Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Yue Bei People’s Hospital, Shantou University Medical College, Shaoguan, China
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17
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Roles of mRNA poly(A) tails in regulation of eukaryotic gene expression. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2022; 23:93-106. [PMID: 34594027 PMCID: PMC7614307 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-021-00417-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 86.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In eukaryotes, poly(A) tails are present on almost every mRNA. Early experiments led to the hypothesis that poly(A) tails and the cytoplasmic polyadenylate-binding protein (PABPC) promote translation and prevent mRNA degradation, but the details remained unclear. More recent data suggest that the role of poly(A) tails is much more complex: poly(A)-binding protein can stimulate poly(A) tail removal (deadenylation) and the poly(A) tails of stable, highly translated mRNAs at steady state are much shorter than expected. Furthermore, the rate of translation elongation affects deadenylation. Consequently, the interplay between poly(A) tails, PABPC, translation and mRNA decay has a major role in gene regulation. In this Review, we discuss recent work that is revolutionizing our understanding of the roles of poly(A) tails in the cytoplasm. Specifically, we discuss the roles of poly(A) tails in translation and control of mRNA stability and how poly(A) tails are removed by exonucleases (deadenylases), including CCR4-NOT and PAN2-PAN3. We also discuss how deadenylation rate is determined, the integration of deadenylation with other cellular processes and the function of PABPC. We conclude with an outlook for the future of research in this field.
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18
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Wang H, Xu F, Lu L, Yang F, Huang X, Lv L, Hu H, Jiang Y. The diagnostic and prognostic significance of small nuclear ribonucleoprotein Sm D1 aberrantly high expression in hepatocellular carcinoma. J Cancer 2022; 13:184-201. [PMID: 34976182 PMCID: PMC8692702 DOI: 10.7150/jca.65225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Small nuclear ribonucleoprotein Sm D1 (SNRPD1), one of the crucial genes encoding core spliceosome components, was abnormally highly expressed in multiple types of tumors. In this study, we investigated the diagnostic and prognostic significance of SNRPD1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The investigation of datasets from GEO and TCGA databases revealed that SNRPD1 expression in HCC was significantly higher than adjacent normal liver tissues, which was validated by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Both GO, KEGG analysis showed that the SNRPD1 co-expressed genes mainly enriched in Cell division, Nuclear import, mRNA splicing via spliceosome, Ribosome, Cell cycle, etc. Survival analysis from the GSE14520 dataset and 154 HCC cohorts exhibited a significant association of high SNRPD1 expression with poor overall survival and recurrence-free survival. ROC analysis showed that the abnormally high SNRPD1 mRNA expression has diagnostic significance in distinguishing between HCC and normal liver tissue (AUC = 0.819). Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) demonstrated that the high expression of SNRPD1 might regulate HCC tumorigenesis and progression by affecting the cell cycle, mismatch repair, DNA replication, and RNA degradation, etc. The luciferase report assay revealed that SNRPD1 was the direct target gene of miR-100 manifested by decreased SNRPD1 expression and luciferase activity in the HCC cells upon miR-100 overexpression. Finally, SNRPD1 may as an oncogene affecting the progression of HCC through regulates the mTOR pathway and autophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huaxiang Wang
- The Fuzong Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, PR China
| | - Fengfeng Xu
- The Fuzong Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, PR China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistic Team, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, PR China
| | - Lingling Lu
- The Fuzong Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, PR China
| | - Fang Yang
- The Fuzong Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, PR China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistic Team, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, PR China
| | - Xinghua Huang
- The Fuzong Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, PR China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistic Team, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, PR China
| | - Lizhi Lv
- The Fuzong Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, PR China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistic Team, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, PR China
| | - Huanzhang Hu
- The Fuzong Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, PR China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistic Team, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, PR China
| | - Yi Jiang
- The Fuzong Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, PR China
- Department of Hepatobiliary Surgery, 900 Hospital of the Joint Logistic Team, Fuzhou, Fujian 350025, PR China
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19
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Zhang J, Liu W, Li G, Xu C, Nie X, Qin D, Wang Q, Lu X, Liu J, Li L. BCAS2 is involved in alternative splicing and mouse oocyte development. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22128. [PMID: 34972250 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202101279r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Alternative splicing (AS) is an important mechanism to regulate organogenesis and fertility. Breast carcinoma amplified sequence 2 (BCAS2) is one of the core components of the PRP19 complex, a multiple function complex including splicing, and it is involved in the initiation of meiosis through regulating AS in male mice. However, the role of BCAS2 in mouse oogenesis remains largely unknown. In this study, we found that BCAS2 was highly expressed in the oocytes of primordial follicles. Vasa-Cre-mediated deletion of Bcas2 caused poor oocyte quality, abnormal oogenesis and follicular development. The deletion of Bcas2 in mouse oocytes caused alteration in 991 AS events that corresponded to 706 genes, including Pabpc1l, Nobox, Zfp207, Mybl2, Prc1, and Spc25, which were associated with oogenesis and spindle assembly. Moreover, the disruption of BCAS2 led to degradation of PRP19 core proteins in mouse oocytes. These results suggested that BCAS2 was involved in the AS of functional genes through PRP19 complex during mouse oocyte development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wenbo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guangyue Li
- Key Laboratory of Saline-Alkali Vegetation Ecology Restoration, Ministry of Education, College of Life Science, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Chengpeng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoqing Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Dandan Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qizhi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xukun Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jianqiao Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China.,Key Laboratory for Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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20
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Genomic Mapping of Splicing-Related Genes Identify Amplifications in LSM1, CLNS1A, and ILF2 in Luminal Breast Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13164118. [PMID: 34439272 PMCID: PMC8391113 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13164118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The alternative splicing (AS) process is highly relevant, affecting most of the hallmarks of cancer, such as proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Our study evaluated alterations in 304 splicing-related genes and their prognosis value in breast cancer patients. Amplifications in CLNS1A, LSM1, and ILF2 genes in luminal patients were significantly associated with poor outcome. Downregulation of these genes in luminal cell lines showed an antiproliferative effect. Pharmacological modulation of transcription and RNA regulation is key for the optimal development of therapeutic strategies against key proteins. Administration of a BET inhibitor and BET-PROTAC reduced the expression of these identified genes and displayed a significant antiproliferative effect on these cell models. In conclusion, we describe novel splicing genes amplified in luminal breast tumors that are associated with detrimental prognosis and can be modulated pharmacologically. It opens the door for further studies confirming the effect of these genes in patients treated with BET inhibitors. Abstract Alternative splicing is an essential biological process, which increases the diversity and complexity of the human transcriptome. In our study, 304 splicing pathway-related genes were evaluated in tumors from breast cancer patients (TCGA dataset). A high number of alterations were detected, including mutations and copy number alterations (CNAs), although mutations were less frequently present compared with CNAs. In the four molecular subtypes, 14 common splice genes showed high level amplification in >5% of patients. Certain genes were only amplified in specific breast cancer subtypes. Most altered genes in each molecular subtype clustered to a few chromosomal regions. In the Luminal subtype, amplifications of LSM1, CLNS1A, and ILF2 showed a strong significant association with prognosis. An even more robust association with OS and RFS was observed when expression of these three genes was combined. Inhibition of LSM1, CLNS1A, and ILF2, using siRNA in MCF7 and T47D cells, showed a decrease in cell proliferation. The mRNA expression of these genes was reduced by treatment with BET inhibitors, a family of epigenetic modulators. We map the presence of splicing-related genes in breast cancer, describing three novel genes, LSM1, CLNS1A, and ILF2, that have an oncogenic role and can be modulated with BET inhibitors.
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21
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TSSC4 is a component of U5 snRNP that promotes tri-snRNP formation. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3646. [PMID: 34131137 PMCID: PMC8206348 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23934-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
U5 snRNP is a complex particle essential for RNA splicing. U5 snRNPs undergo intricate biogenesis that ensures that only a fully mature particle assembles into a splicing competent U4/U6•U5 tri-snRNP and enters the splicing reaction. During splicing, U5 snRNP is substantially rearranged and leaves as a U5/PRPF19 post-splicing particle, which requires re-generation before the next round of splicing. Here, we show that a previously uncharacterized protein TSSC4 is a component of U5 snRNP that promotes tri-snRNP formation. We provide evidence that TSSC4 associates with U5 snRNP chaperones, U5 snRNP and the U5/PRPF19 particle. Specifically, TSSC4 interacts with U5-specific proteins PRPF8, EFTUD2 and SNRNP200. We also identified TSSC4 domains critical for the interaction with U5 snRNP and the PRPF19 complex, as well as for TSSC4 function in tri-snRNP assembly. TSSC4 emerges as a specific chaperone that acts in U5 snRNP de novo biogenesis as well as post-splicing recycling. The correct assembly and recycling of the multicomponent spliceosome remains largely elusive. Here, the authors show that a previously uncharacterized protein TSSC4 associates with de novo formed spliceosomal U5 snRNP as well as with a post-splicing U5-PRPF19 particle, and that TSSC4 is important for assembly of the splicing competent tri-snRNP.
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22
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Ratni H, Scalco RS, Stephan AH. Risdiplam, the First Approved Small Molecule Splicing Modifier Drug as a Blueprint for Future Transformative Medicines. ACS Med Chem Lett 2021; 12:874-877. [PMID: 34141064 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.0c00659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Not too long ago, the concept of selectively targeting mRNA with small molecules was perceived as a formidable scientific challenge. The discovery of small molecule splicing modifiers and the development of risdiplam for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) have firmly established proof of concept for this exciting new platform and transformed a scientific curiosity into a viable technology to target disease. Today, several approaches to target mRNA with small molecules, supported by biophysical and screening methods, are in place to deliver new drugs with high therapeutic relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasane Ratni
- pRED, Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Renata S. Scalco
- pRED, Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Alexander H. Stephan
- pRED, Pharma Research & Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Grenzacherstrasse 124, 4070 Basel, Switzerland
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23
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Biology of the mRNA Splicing Machinery and Its Dysregulation in Cancer Providing Therapeutic Opportunities. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22105110. [PMID: 34065983 PMCID: PMC8150589 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of messenger RNA (mRNA) processing—in particular mRNA splicing—is a hallmark of cancer. Compared to normal cells, cancer cells frequently present aberrant mRNA splicing, which promotes cancer progression and treatment resistance. This hallmark provides opportunities for developing new targeted cancer treatments. Splicing of precursor mRNA into mature mRNA is executed by a dynamic complex of proteins and small RNAs called the spliceosome. Spliceosomes are part of the supraspliceosome, a macromolecular structure where all co-transcriptional mRNA processing activities in the cell nucleus are coordinated. Here we review the biology of the mRNA splicing machinery in the context of other mRNA processing activities in the supraspliceosome and present current knowledge of its dysregulation in lung cancer. In addition, we review investigations to discover therapeutic targets in the spliceosome and give an overview of inhibitors and modulators of the mRNA splicing process identified so far. Together, this provides insight into the value of targeting the spliceosome as a possible new treatment for lung cancer.
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24
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Gerovac M, Vogel J, Smirnov A. The World of Stable Ribonucleoproteins and Its Mapping With Grad-Seq and Related Approaches. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:661448. [PMID: 33898526 PMCID: PMC8058203 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.661448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Macromolecular complexes of proteins and RNAs are essential building blocks of cells. These stable supramolecular particles can be viewed as minimal biochemical units whose structural organization, i.e., the way the RNA and the protein interact with each other, is directly linked to their biological function. Whether those are dynamic regulatory ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) or integrated molecular machines involved in gene expression, the comprehensive knowledge of these units is critical to our understanding of key molecular mechanisms and cell physiology phenomena. Such is the goal of diverse complexomic approaches and in particular of the recently developed gradient profiling by sequencing (Grad-seq). By separating cellular protein and RNA complexes on a density gradient and quantifying their distributions genome-wide by mass spectrometry and deep sequencing, Grad-seq charts global landscapes of native macromolecular assemblies. In this review, we propose a function-based ontology of stable RNPs and discuss how Grad-seq and related approaches transformed our perspective of bacterial and eukaryotic ribonucleoproteins by guiding the discovery of new RNA-binding proteins and unusual classes of noncoding RNAs. We highlight some methodological aspects and developments that permit to further boost the power of this technique and to look for exciting new biology in understudied and challenging biological models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milan Gerovac
- Institute of Molecular Infection Biology (IMIB), University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jörg Vogel
- Institute of Molecular Infection Biology (IMIB), University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Würzburg, Germany
| | - Alexandre Smirnov
- UMR 7156—Génétique Moléculaire, Génomique, Microbiologie (GMGM), University of Strasbourg, CNRS, Strasbourg, France
- University of Strasbourg Institute for Advanced Study (USIAS), Strasbourg, France
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25
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An RNA-centric historical narrative around the Protein Data Bank. J Biol Chem 2021; 296:100555. [PMID: 33744291 PMCID: PMC8080527 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2021.100555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Some of the amazing contributions brought to the scientific community by the Protein Data Bank (PDB) are described. The focus is on nucleic acid structures with a bias toward RNA. The evolution and key roles in science of the PDB and other structural databases for nucleic acids illustrate how small initial ideas can become huge and indispensable resources with the unflinching willingness of scientists to cooperate globally. The progress in the understanding of the molecular interactions driving RNA architectures followed the rapid increase in RNA structures in the PDB. That increase was consecutive to improvements in chemical synthesis and purification of RNA molecules, as well as in biophysical methods for structure determination and computer technology. The RNA modeling efforts from the early beginnings are also described together with their links to the state of structural knowledge and technological development. Structures of RNA and of its assemblies are physical objects, which, together with genomic data, allow us to integrate present-day biological functions and the historical evolution in all living species on earth.
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26
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Bai R, Wan R, Wang L, Xu K, Zhang Q, Lei J, Shi Y. Structure of the activated human minor spliceosome. Science 2021; 371:science.abg0879. [PMID: 33509932 DOI: 10.1126/science.abg0879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The minor spliceosome mediates splicing of the rare but essential U12-type precursor messenger RNA. Here, we report the atomic features of the activated human minor spliceosome determined by cryo-electron microscopy at 2.9-angstrom resolution. The 5' splice site and branch point sequence of the U12-type intron are recognized by the U6atac and U12 small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs), respectively. Five newly identified proteins stabilize the conformation of the catalytic center: The zinc finger protein SCNM1 functionally mimics the SF3a complex of the major spliceosome, the RBM48-ARMC7 complex binds the γ-monomethyl phosphate cap at the 5' end of U6atac snRNA, the U-box protein PPIL2 coordinates loop I of U5 snRNA and stabilizes U5 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP), and CRIPT stabilizes U12 snRNP. Our study provides a framework for the mechanistic understanding of the function of the human minor spliceosome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Bai
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Xihu District, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China.,Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Xihu District, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China.,Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Xihu District, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ruixue Wan
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Xihu District, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China. .,Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Xihu District, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China.,Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Xihu District, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology and Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Kui Xu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology and Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Qiangfeng Zhang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology and Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Jianlin Lei
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology and Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.,Technology Center for Protein Sciences, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yigong Shi
- Key Laboratory of Structural Biology of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Xihu District, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China. .,Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Xihu District, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China.,Institute of Biology, Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Xihu District, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China.,Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology and Beijing Frontier Research Center for Biological Structure, Tsinghua-Peking Joint Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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27
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Borišek J, Casalino L, Saltalamacchia A, Mays SG, Malcovati L, Magistrato A. Atomic-Level Mechanism of Pre-mRNA Splicing in Health and Disease. Acc Chem Res 2021; 54:144-154. [PMID: 33317262 DOI: 10.1021/acs.accounts.0c00578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Intron removal from premature-mRNA (pre-mRNA splicing) is an essential part of gene expression and regulation that is required for the production of mature, protein-coding mRNA. The spliceosome (SPL), a majestic machine composed of five small nuclear RNAs and hundreds of proteins, behaves as an eminent transcriptome tailor, efficiently performing splicing as a protein-directed metallo-ribozyme. To select and excise long and diverse intronic sequences with single-nucleotide precision, the SPL undergoes a continuous compositional and conformational remodeling, forming eight distinct complexes throughout each splicing cycle. Splicing fidelity is of paramount importance to preserve the integrity of the proteome. Mutations in splicing factors can severely compromise the accuracy of this machinery, leading to aberrant splicing and altered gene expression. Decades of biochemical and genetic studies have provided insights into the SPL's composition and function, but its complexity and plasticity have prevented an in-depth mechanistic understanding. Single-particle cryogenic electron microscopy techniques have ushered in a new era for comprehending eukaryotic gene regulation, providing several near-atomic resolution structures of the SPL from yeast and humans. Nevertheless, these structures represent isolated snapshots of the splicing process and are insufficient to exhaustively assess the function of each SPL component and to unravel particular facets of the splicing mechanism in a dynamic environment.In this Account, building upon our contributions in this field, we discuss the role of biomolecular simulations in uncovering the mechanistic intricacies of eukaryotic splicing in health and disease. Specifically, we showcase previous applications to illustrate the role of atomic-level simulations in elucidating the function of specific proteins involved in the architectural reorganization of the SPL along the splicing cycle. Moreover, molecular dynamics applications have uniquely contributed to decrypting the channels of communication required for critical functional transitions of the SPL assemblies. They have also shed light on the role of carcinogenic mutations in the faithful selection of key intronic regions and the molecular mechanism of splicing modulators. Additionally, we emphasize the role of quantum-classical molecular dynamics in unraveling the chemical details of pre-mRNA cleavage in the SPL and in its evolutionary ancestors, group II intron ribozymes. We discuss methodological pitfalls of multiscale calculations currently used to dissect the splicing mechanism, presenting future challenges in this field. The results highlight how atomic-level simulations can enrich the interpretation of experimental results. We envision that the synergy between computational and experimental approaches will aid in developing innovative therapeutic strategies and revolutionary gene modulation tools to fight the over 200 human diseases associated with splicing misregulation, including cancer and neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jure Borišek
- Theory Department, National Institute of Chemistry, Ljubljana 1001, Slovenia
| | - Lorenzo Casalino
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | | | | | - Luca Malcovati
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia 27100, Italy
- Department of Hematology, IRCCS S. Matteo Hospital Foundation, Pavia 27100, Italy
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28
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Hollmann NM, Jagtap PKA, Masiewicz P, Guitart T, Simon B, Provaznik J, Stein F, Haberkant P, Sweetapple LJ, Villacorta L, Mooijman D, Benes V, Savitski MM, Gebauer F, Hennig J. Pseudo-RNA-Binding Domains Mediate RNA Structure Specificity in Upstream of N-Ras. Cell Rep 2020; 32:107930. [PMID: 32697992 PMCID: PMC7383231 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.107930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) commonly feature multiple RNA-binding domains (RBDs), which provide these proteins with a modular architecture. Accumulating evidence supports that RBP architectural modularity and adaptability define the specificity of their interactions with RNA. However, how multiple RBDs recognize their cognate single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) sequences in concert remains poorly understood. Here, we use Upstream of N-Ras (Unr) as a model system to address this question. Although reported to contain five ssRNA-binding cold-shock domains (CSDs), we demonstrate that Unr includes an additional four CSDs that do not bind RNA (pseudo-RBDs) but are involved in mediating RNA tertiary structure specificity by reducing the conformational heterogeneity of Unr. Disrupting the interactions between canonical and non-canonical CSDs impacts RNA binding, Unr-mediated translation regulation, and the Unr-dependent RNA interactome. Taken together, our studies reveal a new paradigm in protein-RNA recognition, where interactions between RBDs and pseudo-RBDs select RNA tertiary structures, influence RNP assembly, and define target specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nele Merret Hollmann
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany; Collaboration for Joint PhD Degree between EMBL and Heidelberg University, Faculty of Biosciences, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Pawel Masiewicz
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tanit Guitart
- Gene Regulation, Stem Cells and Cancer Programme, Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bernd Simon
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jan Provaznik
- Genomics Core Facility, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Frank Stein
- Proteomics Core Facility, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Per Haberkant
- Proteomics Core Facility, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lara Jayne Sweetapple
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Laura Villacorta
- Genomics Core Facility, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dylan Mooijman
- Developmental Biology Unit, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Vladimir Benes
- Genomics Core Facility, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Mikhail M Savitski
- Proteomics Core Facility, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany; Genome Biology Unit, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Fátima Gebauer
- Gene Regulation, Stem Cells and Cancer Programme, Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Janosch Hennig
- Structural and Computational Biology Unit, EMBL Heidelberg, Meyerhofstraße 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany.
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29
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Suñé-Pou M, Limeres MJ, Moreno-Castro C, Hernández-Munain C, Suñé-Negre JM, Cuestas ML, Suñé C. Innovative Therapeutic and Delivery Approaches Using Nanotechnology to Correct Splicing Defects Underlying Disease. Front Genet 2020; 11:731. [PMID: 32760425 PMCID: PMC7373156 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternative splicing of pre-mRNA contributes strongly to the diversity of cell- and tissue-specific protein expression patterns. Global transcriptome analyses have suggested that >90% of human multiexon genes are alternatively spliced. Alterations in the splicing process cause missplicing events that lead to genetic diseases and pathologies, including various neurological disorders, cancers, and muscular dystrophies. In recent decades, research has helped to elucidate the mechanisms regulating alternative splicing and, in some cases, to reveal how dysregulation of these mechanisms leads to disease. The resulting knowledge has enabled the design of novel therapeutic strategies for correction of splicing-derived pathologies. In this review, we focus primarily on therapeutic approaches targeting splicing, and we highlight nanotechnology-based gene delivery applications that address the challenges and barriers facing nucleic acid-based therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Suñé-Pou
- Drug Development Service (SDM), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María J Limeres
- Institute of Research in Microbiology and Medical Parasitology (IMPaM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cristina Moreno-Castro
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine "López-Neyra" (IPBLN-CSIC), Granada, Spain
| | - Cristina Hernández-Munain
- Department of Cell Biology and Immunology, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine "López-Neyra" (IPBLN-CSIC), Granada, Spain
| | - Josep M Suñé-Negre
- Drug Development Service (SDM), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María L Cuestas
- Institute of Research in Microbiology and Medical Parasitology (IMPaM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carlos Suñé
- Department of Molecular Biology, Institute of Parasitology and Biomedicine "López-Neyra" (IPBLN-CSIC), Granada, Spain
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30
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Liu S, Li B, Liang Q, Liu A, Qu L, Yang J. Classification and function of RNA-protein interactions. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2020; 11:e1601. [PMID: 32488992 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Almost all RNAs need to interact with proteins to fully exert their functions, and proteins also bind to RNAs to act as regulators. It has now become clear that RNA-protein interactions play important roles in many biological processes among organisms. Despite the great progress that has been made in the field, there is still no precise classification system for RNA-protein interactions, which makes it challenging to further decipher the functions and mechanisms of these interactions. In this review, we propose four different categories of RNA-protein interactions according to their basic characteristics: RNA motif-dependent RNA-protein interactions, RNA structure-dependent RNA-protein interactions, RNA modification-dependent RNA-protein interactions, and RNA guide-based RNA-protein interactions. Moreover, the integration of different types of RNA-protein interactions and the regulatory factors implicated in these interactions are discussed. Furthermore, we emphasize the functional diversity of these four types of interactions in biological processes and disease development and assess emerging trends in this exciting research field. This article is categorized under: RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Interactions: Functional Implications RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Recognition RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shurong Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiaoxia Liang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Anrui Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lianghu Qu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianhua Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Interventional Medicine, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, China
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31
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Loyer P, Trembley JH. Roles of CDK/Cyclin complexes in transcription and pre-mRNA splicing: Cyclins L and CDK11 at the cross-roads of cell cycle and regulation of gene expression. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2020; 107:36-45. [PMID: 32446654 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2020.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cyclin Dependent Kinases (CDKs) represent a large family of serine/threonine protein kinases that become active upon binding to a Cyclin regulatory partner. CDK/cyclin complexes recently identified, as well as "canonical" CDK/Cyclin complexes regulating cell cycle, are implicated in the regulation of gene expression via the phosphorylation of key components of the transcription and pre-mRNA processing machineries. In this review, we summarize the role of CDK/cyclin-dependent phosphorylation in the regulation of transcription and RNA splicing and highlight recent findings that indicate the involvement of CDK11/cyclin L complexes at the cross-roads of cell cycle, transcription and RNA splicing. Finally, we discuss the potential of CDK11 and Cyclins L as therapeutic targets in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Loyer
- INSERM, INRAE, Univ Rennes, NuMeCan, Nutrition Metabolisms and Cancer, Rennes, France.
| | - Janeen H Trembley
- Research Service, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USA; Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA; Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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32
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Fry M. Ontologically simple theories do not indicate the true nature of complex biological systems: three test cases. HISTORY AND PHILOSOPHY OF THE LIFE SCIENCES 2020; 42:17. [PMID: 32346811 DOI: 10.1007/s40656-020-00310-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
A longstanding philosophical premise perceives simplicity as a desirable attribute of scientific theories. One of several raised justifications for this notion is that simple theories are more likely to indicate the true makeup of natural systems. Qualitatively parsimonious hypotheses and theories keep to a minimum the number of different postulated entities within a system. Formulation of such ontologically simple working hypotheses proved to be useful in the experimental probing of narrowly defined bio systems. It is less certain, however, whether qualitatively parsimonious theories are effective indicators of the true nature of complex biological systems. This paper assesses the success of ontologically simple theories in envisaging the makeup of three complex systems in bacteriology, immunology, and molecular biology. Evidence shows that parsimonious theories completely misconstrued the actual ontologically complex constitutions of the three examined systems. Since evolution and selective pressures typically produce ontologically intricate rather than simple bio systems, qualitatively parsimonious theories are mostly inapt indicators of the true nature of complex biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Fry
- Department of Biochemistry, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israel Institute of Technology, POB 9649, 31096, Bat Galim, Haifa, Israel.
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33
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Roles and mechanisms of alternative splicing in cancer - implications for care. Nat Rev Clin Oncol 2020; 17:457-474. [PMID: 32303702 DOI: 10.1038/s41571-020-0350-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 359] [Impact Index Per Article: 89.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Removal of introns from messenger RNA precursors (pre-mRNA splicing) is an essential step for the expression of most eukaryotic genes. Alternative splicing enables the regulated generation of multiple mRNA and protein products from a single gene. Cancer cells have general as well as cancer type-specific and subtype-specific alterations in the splicing process that can have prognostic value and contribute to every hallmark of cancer progression, including cancer immune responses. These splicing alterations are often linked to the occurrence of cancer driver mutations in genes encoding either core components or regulators of the splicing machinery. Of therapeutic relevance, the transcriptomic landscape of cancer cells makes them particularly vulnerable to pharmacological inhibition of splicing. Small-molecule splicing modulators are currently in clinical trials and, in addition to splice site-switching antisense oligonucleotides, offer the promise of novel and personalized approaches to cancer treatment.
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