X-Ray Crystallographic and NMR Studies of the Third KH Domain of hnRNP K in Complex with Single-Stranded Nucleic Acids

iMab antibody binds single-stranded cytosine-rich sequences and unfolds DNA i-motifs

i-Motifs (iMs) are non-canonical, four-stranded secondary structures formed by stacking of hemi-protonated CH+·C base pairs in cytosine-rich DNA sequences, predominantly at pH < 7. The presence of iM structures in cells was a matter of debate until the recent development of iM-specific antibody, iMab, which was instrumental for several studies that suggested the existence of iMs in live cells and their putative biological roles. We assessed the interaction of iMab with cytosine-rich oligonucleotides by biolayer interferometry (BLI), pull-down assay and bulk-FRET experiments. Our results suggest that binding of iMab to DNA oligonucleotides is governed by the presence of runs of at least two consecutive cytosines and is generally increased in acidic conditions, irrespectively of the capacity of the sequence to adopt, or not, an iM structure. Moreover, the results of the bulk-FRET assay indicate that interaction with iMab results in unfolding of iM structures even in acidic conditions, similarly to what has been observed with hnRNP K, well-studied single-stranded DNA binding protein. Taken together, our results strongly suggest that iMab actually binds to blocks of 2-3 cytosines in single-stranded DNA, and call for more careful interpretation of results obtained with this antibody.

Hnrnpk protects against osteoarthritis through targeting WWC1 mRNA and inhibiting Hippo signaling pathway

Osteoarthritis (OA) is an age-related or post-traumatic degenerative whole joint disease characterized by the rupture of articular cartilage homeostasis, the regulatory mechanisms of which remain elusive. This study identifies the essential role of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNPK) in maintaining articular cartilage homeostasis. Hnrnpk expression is markedly downregulated in human and mice OA cartilage. The deletion of Hnrnpk effectively accelerates the development of post-traumatic and age-dependent OA in mice. Mechanistically, the KH1 and KH2 domain of Hnrnpk bind and degrade the mRNA of WWC1. Hnrnpk deletion increases WWC1 expression, which in turn leads to the activation of Hippo signaling and ultimately aggravates OA. In particular, intra-articular injection of LPA and adeno-associated virus serotype 5 expressing WWC1 RNA interference ameliorates cartilage degeneration induced by Hnrnpk deletion, and intra-articular injection of adeno-associated virus serotype 5 expressing Hnrnpk protects against OA. Collectively, this study reveals the critical roles of Hnrnpk in inhibiting OA development through WWC1-dependent downregulation of Hippo signaling in chondrocytes and defines a potential target for the prevention and treatment of OA.

Structure-based prediction and characterization of photo-crosslinking in native protein-RNA complexes

UV-crosslinking of protein and RNA in direct contacts has been widely used to study protein-RNA complexes while our understanding of the photo-crosslinking mechanisms remains poor. This knowledge gap is due to the challenge of precisely mapping the crosslink sites in protein and RNA simultaneously in their native sequence and structural contexts. Here we systematically analyze protein-RNA interactions and photo-crosslinking by bridging crosslinked nucleotides and amino acids mapped using different assays with protein-RNA complex structures. We developed a computational method PxR3D-map which reliably predicts crosslink sites using structural information characterizing protein-RNA interaction interfaces. Analysis of the informative features revealed that photo-crosslinking is facilitated by base stacking with not only aromatic residues, but also dipeptide bonds that involve glycine, and distinct mechanisms are utilized by different RNA-binding domains. Our work suggests protein-RNA photo-crosslinking is highly selective in the cellular environment, which can guide data interpretation and further technology development for UV-crosslinking-based assays.

Insight into the mechanism of AML del(9q) progression: hnRNP K targets the myeloid master regulators CEBPA (C/EBPα) and SPI1 (PU.1)

Deletions on the long arm of chromosome 9 (del(9q)) are recurrent abnormalities in about 2 % of acute myeloid leukemia cases, which usually involve HNRNPK and are frequently associated with other known aberrations. Based on an Hnrnpk haploinsufficient mouse model, a recent study demonstrated a function of hnRNP K in pathogenesis of myeloid malignancies via the regulation of cellular proliferation and myeloid differentiation programs. Here, we provide evidence that reduced hnRNP K expression results in the dysregulated expression of C/EBPα and additional transcription factors. CyTOF analysis revealed monocytic skewing with increased levels of mature myeloid cells. To explore the role of hnRNP K during normal and pathological myeloid differentiation in humans, we characterized hnRNP K-interacting RNAs in human AML cell lines. Notably, RNA-sequencing revealed several mRNAs encoding key transcription factors involved in the regulation of myeloid differentiation as targets of hnRNP K. We showed that specific sequence motifs confer the interaction of SPI1 and CEBPA 5' and 3'UTRs with hnRNP K. The siRNA mediated reduction of hnRNP K in human AML cells resulted in an increase of PU.1 and C/EBPα that is most pronounced for the p30 isoform. The combinatorial treatment with the inducer of myeloid differentiation valproic acid resulted in increased C/EBPα expression and myeloid differentiation. Together, our results indicate that hnRNP K post-transcriptionally regulates the expression of myeloid master transcription factors. These novel findings can inaugurate novel options for targeted treatment of AML del(9q) by modulation of hnRNP K function.

Modes and model building in SHELXE

Density modification is a standard step to provide a route for routine structure solution by any experimental phasing method, with single-wavelength or multi-wavelength anomalous diffraction being the most popular methods, as well as to extend fragments or incomplete models into a full solution. The effect of density modification on the starting maps from either source is illustrated in the case of SHELXE. The different modes in which the program can run are reviewed; these include less well known uses such as reading external phase values and weights or phase distributions encoded in Hendrickson-Lattman coefficients. Typically in SHELXE, initial phases are calculated from experimental data, from a partial model or map, or from a combination of both sources. The initial phase set is improved and extended by density modification and, if the resolution of the data and the type of structure permits, polyalanine tracing. As a feature to systematically eliminate model bias from phases derived from predicted models, the trace can be set to exclude the area occupied by the starting model. The trace now includes an extension into the gamma position or hydrophobic and aromatic side chains if a sequence is provided, which is performed in every tracing cycle. Once a correlation coefficient of over 30% between the structure factors calculated from such a trace and the native data indicates that the structure has been solved, the sequence is docked in all model-building cycles and side chains are fitted if the map supports it. The extensions to the tracing algorithm brought in to provide a complete model are discussed. The improvement in phasing performance is assessed using a set of tests.

Why to target G-quadruplexes using peptides: Next-generation G4-interacting ligands

Guanine-rich oligonucleotides existing in both DNA and RNA are able to fold into four-stranded DNA secondary structures via Hoogsteen type hydrogen-bonding, where four guanines self-assemble into a square planar arrangement, which, when stacked upon each other, results in the formation of higher-order structures called G-quadruplexes. Their distribution is not random; they are more frequently present at telomeres, proto-oncogenic promoters, introns, 5'- and 3'-untranslated regions, stem cell markers, ribosome binding sites and so forth and are associated with various biological functions, all of which play a pivotal role in various incurable diseases like cancer and cellular ageing. Several studies have suggested that G-quadruplexes could not regulate biological processes by themselves; instead, various proteins take part in this regulation and can be important therapeutic targets. There are certain limitations in using whole G4-protein for therapeutics purpose because of its high manufacturing cost, laborious structure prediction, dynamic nature, unavailability for oral administration due to its degradation in the gut and inefficient penetration to reach the target site because of the large size. Hence, biologically active peptides can be the potential candidates for therapeutic intervention instead of the whole G4-protein complex. In this review, we aimed to clarify the biological roles of G4s, how we can identify them throughout the genome via bioinformatics, the proteins interacting with G4s and how G4-interacting peptide molecules may be the potential next-generation ligands for targeting the G4 motifs located in biologically important regions.

Structural basis for cloverleaf RNA-initiated viral genome replication

The genomes of positive-strand RNA viruses serve as a template for both protein translation and genome replication. In enteroviruses, a cloverleaf RNA structure at the 5' end of the genome functions as a switch to transition from viral translation to replication by interacting with host poly(C)-binding protein 2 (PCBP2) and the viral 3CDpro protein. We determined the structures of cloverleaf RNA from coxsackievirus and poliovirus. Cloverleaf RNA folds into an H-type four-way junction and is stabilized by a unique adenosine-cytidine-uridine (A•C-U) base triple involving the conserved pyrimidine mismatch region. The two PCBP2 binding sites are spatially proximal and are located on the opposite end from the 3CDpro binding site on cloverleaf. We determined that the A•C-U base triple restricts the flexibility of the cloverleaf stem-loops resulting in partial occlusion of the PCBP2 binding site, and elimination of the A•C-U base triple increases the binding affinity of PCBP2 to the cloverleaf RNA. Based on the cloverleaf structures and biophysical assays, we propose a new mechanistic model by which enteroviruses use the cloverleaf structure as a molecular switch to transition from viral protein translation to genome replication.

Capture RIC-seq reveals positional rules of PTBP1-associated RNA loops in splicing regulation

RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) bind at different positions of the pre-mRNA molecules to promote or reduce the usage of a particular exon. Seeking to understand the working principle of these positional effects, we develop a capture RIC-seq (CRIC-seq) method to enrich specific RBP-associated in situ proximal RNA-RNA fragments for deep sequencing. We determine hnRNPA1-, SRSF1-, and PTBP1-associated proximal RNA-RNA contacts and regulatory mechanisms in HeLa cells. Unexpectedly, the 3D RNA map analysis shows that PTBP1-associated loops in individual introns preferentially promote cassette exon splicing by accelerating asymmetric intron removal, whereas the loops spanning across cassette exon primarily repress splicing. These "positional rules" can faithfully predict PTBP1-regulated splicing outcomes. We further demonstrate that cancer-related splicing quantitative trait loci can disrupt RNA loops by reducing PTBP1 binding on pre-mRNAs to cause aberrant splicing in tumors. Our study presents a powerful method for exploring the functions of RBP-associated RNA-RNA proximal contacts in gene regulation and disease.

A cytosine-patch sequence motif identified in the conserved region of lincRNA-p21 interacts with the KH3 domain of hnRNPK

Long Intergenic Non-coding RNAs (lincRNAs) are the largest class of long non-coding RNAs in eukaryotes, originating from the genome's intergenic regions. A ∼4 ​kb long lincRNA-p21 is derived from a transcription unit next to the p21/Cdkn1a gene locus. LincRNA-p21 plays regulatory roles in p53-dependent transcriptional and translational repression through its physical association with proteins such as hnRNPK and HuR. It is also involved in the aberrant gene expression in different cancers. In this study, we have carried out a bioinformatics-based gene analysis and annotation of lincRNA-p21 to show that it is highly conserved in primates and identified two conserved domains in its sequence at the 5' and 3' terminal regions. hnRNPK has previously been shown to interact specifically with the 5' conserved region of lincRNA-p21. hnRNPK is known to bind preferentially to the pyrimidine-rich (poly C) nucleotide sequences in RNAs. Interestingly, we observed a single occurrence of a cytosine-rich patch (C-patch) consisting of a CUCCCGC sequence in the 5' conserved region of human lincRNA-p21, making it a putative hnRNPK binding motif. Using NMR and ITC experiments, we showed that the single-stranded C-patch containing RNA sequence motif interacts specifically with the KH3 domain of hnRNPK.

Mechanistic insights into poly(C)-binding protein hnRNP K resolving i-motif DNA secondary structures

I-motifs are four-strand noncanonical secondary structures formed by cytosine (C)-rich sequences in living cells. The structural dynamics of i-motifs play essential roles in many cellular processes, such as telomerase inhibition, DNA replication, and transcriptional regulation. In cells, the structural dynamics of the i-motif can be modulated by the interaction of poly(C)-binding proteins (PCBPs), and the interaction is closely related to human health, through modulating the transcription of oncogenes and telomere stability. Therefore, the mechanisms of how PCBPs interact with i-motif structures are fundamentally important. However, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. I-motif structures in the promoter of the c-MYC oncogene can be unfolded by heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNP K), a PCBP, to activate its transcription. Here, we selected this system as an example to comprehensively study the unfolding mechanisms. We found that the promoter sequence containing 5 C-runs preferred folding into type-1245 to type-1234 i-motif structures based on their folding stability, which was further confirmed by single-molecule FRET. In addition, we first revealed that the c-MYC i-motif structure was discretely resolved by hnRNP K through two intermediate states, which were assigned to the opposite hairpin and neighboring hairpin, as further confirmed by site mutations. Furthermore, we found all three KH (hnRNP K homology) domains of hnRNP K could unfold the c-MYC i-motif structure, and KH2 and KH3 were more active than KH1. In conclusion, this study may deepen our understanding of the interactions between i-motifs and PCBPs and may be helpful for drug development.

Biophysical characterisation of human LincRNA-p21 sense and antisense Alu inverted repeats

Human Long Intergenic Noncoding RNA-p21 (LincRNA-p21) is a regulatory noncoding RNA that plays an important role in promoting apoptosis. LincRNA-p21 is also critical in down-regulating many p53 target genes through its interaction with a p53 repressive complex. The interaction between LincRNA-p21 and the repressive complex is likely dependent on the RNA tertiary structure. Previous studies have determined the two-dimensional secondary structures of the sense and antisense human LincRNA-p21 AluSx1 IRs using SHAPE. However, there were no insights into its three-dimensional structure. Therefore, we in vitro transcribed the sense and antisense regions of LincRNA-p21 AluSx1 Inverted Repeats (IRs) and performed analytical ultracentrifugation, size exclusion chromatography, light scattering, and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) studies. Based on these studies, we determined low-resolution, three-dimensional structures of sense and antisense LincRNA-p21. By adapting previously known two-dimensional information, we calculated their sense and antisense high-resolution models and determined that they agree with the low-resolution structures determined using SAXS. Thus, our integrated approach provides insights into the structure of LincRNA-p21 Alu IRs. Our study also offers a viable pipeline for combining the secondary structure information with biophysical and computational studies to obtain high-resolution atomistic models for long noncoding RNAs.

Cytidine acetylation yields a hypoinflammatory synthetic messenger RNA

Synthetic messenger RNA (mRNA) is an emerging therapeutic platform with important applications in oncology and infectious disease. Effective mRNA medicines must be translated by the ribosome but not trigger a strong nucleic acid-mediated immune response. To expand the medicinal chemistry toolbox for these agents, here we report the properties of the naturally occurring nucleobase N4-acetylcytidine (ac4C) in synthetic mRNAs. We find that ac4C is compatible with, but does not enhance, protein production in the context of synthetic mRNA reporters. However, replacement of cytidine with ac4C diminishes inflammatory gene expression in immune cells caused by synthetic mRNAs. Chemoproteomic capture indicates that ac4C alters the protein interactome of synthetic mRNAs, reducing binding to cytidine-binding proteins and an immune sensor. Overall, our studies illustrate the unique ability of ac4C to modulate RNA-protein interactions and provide a foundation for using N4-cytidine acylation to fine-tune the properties of nucleic acid therapeutics.

Poly(rC)-binding proteins as pleiotropic regulators in hematopoiesis and hematological malignancy

Poly(rC)-binding proteins (PCBPs), a defined subfamily of RNA binding proteins, are characterized by their high affinity and sequence-specific interaction with poly-cytosine (poly-C). The PCBP family comprises five members, including hnRNP K and PCBP1-4. These proteins share a relatively similar structure motif, with triple hnRNP K homology (KH) domains responsible for recognizing and combining C-rich regions of mRNA and single- and double-stranded DNA. Numerous studies have indicated that PCBPs play a prominent role in hematopoietic cell growth, differentiation, and tumorigenesis at multiple levels of regulation. Herein, we summarized the currently available literature regarding the structural and functional divergence of various PCBP family members. Furthermore, we focused on their roles in normal hematopoiesis, particularly in erythropoiesis. More importantly, we also discussed and highlighted their involvement in carcinogenesis, including leukemia and lymphoma, aiming to clarify the pleiotropic roles and molecular mechanisms in the hematopoietic compartment.

Nuclear import receptors and hnRNPK mediates nuclear import and stress granule localization of SIRLOIN

The majority of lncRNAs and a small fraction of mRNAs localize in the cell nucleus to exert their functions. A SIRLOIN RNA motif was previously reported to drive its nuclear localization by the RNA-binding protein hnRNPK. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we report crystal structures of hnRNPK in complex with SIRLOIN, and with the nuclear import receptor (NIR) Impα1, respectively. The protein hnRNPK bound to SIRLOIN with multiple weak interactions, and interacted Impα1 using an independent high-affinity site. Forming a complex with hnRNPK and Impα1 was essential for the nuclear import and stress granule localization of SIRLOIN in semi-permeabilized cells. Nuclear import of SIRLOIN enhanced with increasing NIR concentrations, but its stress granule localization peaked at a low NIR concentration. Collectively, we propose a mechanism of SIRLOIN localization, in which NIRs functioned as drivers/regulators, and hnRNPK as an adaptor.

The control of polycomb repressive complexes by long noncoding RNAs

The polycomb repressive complexes 1 and 2 (PRCs; PRC1 and PRC2) are conserved histone-modifying enzymes that often function cooperatively to repress gene expression. The PRCs are regulated by long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in complex ways. On the one hand, specific lncRNAs cause the PRCs to engage with chromatin and repress gene expression over genomic regions that can span megabases. On the other hand, the PRCs bind RNA with seemingly little sequence specificity, and at least in the case of PRC2, direct RNA-binding has the effect of inhibiting the enzyme. Thus, some RNAs appear to promote PRC activity, while others may inhibit it. The reasons behind this apparent dichotomy are unclear. The most potent PRC-activating lncRNAs associate with chromatin and are predominantly unspliced or harbor unusually long exons. Emerging data imply that these lncRNAs promote PRC activity through internal RNA sequence elements that arise and disappear rapidly in evolutionary time. These sequence elements may function by interacting with common subsets of RNA-binding proteins that recruit or stabilize PRCs on chromatin. This article is categorized under: RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Recognition RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA-Protein Complexes RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Interactions: Functional Implications.

Proteomic analyses identify intracellular targets for Japanese encephalitis virus nonstructural protein 1 (NS1)

Japanese encephalitis is a zoonotic disease caused by Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). JEV nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) is involved in many crucial biological events during viral infection and immune suppression. To investigate the role of JEV NS1 in virus-infected cells, the molecules with which it interacts intracellularly were screened with a pull-down assay and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The interaction between heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNP K), vimentin and NS1 were verified with coimmunoprecipitation and confocal assays. Our results show that JEV NS1 interacts with vimentin, hnRNP K and colocalizes with cellular vimentin and hnRNP K. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that the expression of vimentin and hnRNP K were up-regulated in both NS1-transfected and JEV-infected cells. Knocking down vimentin and hnRNP K reduced viral replication while conversely, over-expression of vimentin and hnRNP K improved viral replication, suggesting an important role for this protein in the viral life cycle. Also, We found that vimentin also interacted with hnRNP K after overexpression of NS1 or JEV infection. These findings provide insight into the molecular mechanism of JEV replication and highlight the key role the NS1 in JEV infection.

Qki activates Srebp2-mediated cholesterol biosynthesis for maintenance of eye lens transparency

Defective cholesterol biosynthesis in eye lens cells is often associated with cataracts; however, how genes involved in cholesterol biosynthesis are regulated in lens cells remains unclear. Here, we show that Quaking (Qki) is required for the transcriptional activation of genes involved in cholesterol biosynthesis in the eye lens. At the transcriptome level, lens-specific Qki-deficient mice present downregulation of genes associated with the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway, resulting in a significant reduction of total cholesterol level in the eye lens. Mice with Qki depletion in lens epithelium display progressive accumulation of protein aggregates, eventually leading to cataracts. Notably, these defects are attenuated by topical sterol administration. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that Qki enhances cholesterol biosynthesis by recruiting Srebp2 and Pol II in the promoter regions of cholesterol biosynthesis genes. Supporting its function as a transcription co-activator, we show that Qki directly interacts with single-stranded DNA. In conclusion, we propose that Qki-Srebp2-mediated cholesterol biosynthesis is essential for maintaining the cholesterol level that protects lens from cataract development.

Localization of RNAs in the nucleus: cis- and trans- regulation

The subcellular localization of RNAs correlates with their function and how they are regulated. Most protein-coding mRNAs are exported into the cytoplasm for protein synthesis, while some mRNA species, long noncoding RNAs, and some regulatory element-associated unstable transcripts tend to be retained in the nucleus, where they function as a regulatory unit and/or are regulated by nuclear surveillance pathways. While the mechanisms regulating mRNA export and localization have been well summarized, the mechanisms governing nuclear retention of RNAs, especially of noncoding RNAs, are seldomly reviewed. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the mechanistic study of RNA nuclear retention, especially for noncoding RNAs, from the angle of cis-acting elements embedded in RNA transcripts and their interaction with trans-acting factors. We also try to illustrate the general principles of RNA nuclear retention and we discuss potential areas for future investigation.

Splicing factors: Insights into their regulatory network in alternative splicing in cancer

More than 95% of all human genes are alternatively spliced after transcription, which enriches the diversity of proteins and regulates transcript and/or protein levels. The splicing isoforms produced from the same gene can manifest distinctly, even exerting opposite effects. Mounting evidence indicates that the alternative splicing (AS) mechanism is ubiquitous in various cancers and drives the generation and maintenance of various hallmarks of cancer, such as enhanced proliferation, inhibited apoptosis, invasion and metastasis, and angiogenesis. Splicing factors (SFs) play pivotal roles in the recognition of splice sites and the assembly of spliceosomes during AS. In this review, we mainly discuss the similarities and differences of SF domains, the details of SF function in AS, the effect of SF-driven pathological AS on different hallmarks of cancer, and the main drivers of SF expression level and subcellular localization. In addition, we briefly introduce the application prospects of targeted therapeutic strategies, including small-molecule inhibitors, siRNAs and splice-switching oligonucleotides (SSOs), from three perspectives (drivers, SFs and pathological AS). Finally, we share our insights into the potential direction of research on SF-centric AS-related regulatory networks.

hnRNPK recognition of the B motif of Xist and other biological RNAs

Heterogeneous nuclear ribonuclear protein K (hnRNPK) is an abundant RNA-binding protein crucial for a wide variety of biological processes. While its binding preference for multi-cytosine-patch (C-patch) containing RNA is well documented, examination of binding to known cellular targets that contain C-patches reveals an unexpected breadth of binding affinities. Analysis of in-cell crosslinking data reinforces the notion that simple C-patch preference is not fully predictive of hnRNPK localization within transcripts. The individual RNA-binding domains of hnRNPK work together to interact with RNA tightly, with the KH3 domain being neither necessary nor sufficient for binding. Rather, the RG/RGG domain is implicated in providing essential contributions to RNA-binding, but not DNA-binding, affinity. hnRNPK is essential for X chromosome inactivation, where it interacts with Xist RNA specifically through the Xist B-repeat region. We use this interaction with an RNA motif derived from this B-repeat region to determine the RNA-structure dependence of C-patch recognition. While the location preferences of hnRNPK for C-patches are conformationally restricted within the hairpin, these structural constraints are relieved in the absence of RNA secondary structure. Together, these results illustrate how this multi-domain protein's ability to accommodate and yet discriminate between diverse cellular RNAs allows for its broad cellular functions.

hnRNP K Is a Novel Internal Ribosomal Entry Site-Transacting Factor That Negatively Regulates Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Translation and Replication and Is Antagonized by Viral 3C Protease

Cap-independent translation initiation on picornavirus mRNAs is mediated by an internal ribosomal entry site (IRES) in the 5' untranslated region. The regulation of internal initiation requires the interaction of IRES-transacting factors (ITAFs) with the IRES. In this study, we identified a novel ITAF, heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNP K), which negatively regulates foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) translation and viral replication. Further investigation revealed that the KH2 and KH3 domains of hnRNP K directly bind to domains II, III, and IV of the FMDV IRES, resulting in the inhibition of IRES-mediated translation by interfering with the recognition of another positive ITAF, polypyrimidine tract-binding protein (PTB). Conversely, hnRNP K-mediated inhibition was antagonized by the viral 3C protease through the cleavage of hnRNP K at the Glu-364 residue during FMDV infection. Interestingly, the N-terminal cleavage product, hnRNP K1-364, retained partial inhibitory effects on IRES activity, whereas the C-terminal cleavage product, hnRNP K364-465, became a positive regulator of FMDV replication. Our findings expand the current understanding of virus-host interactions concerning viral recruitment and the modulation of ITAFs, providing new insights into translational control during viral infection.IMPORTANCE The translation of picornaviral genome RNA mediated by the internal ribosomal entry site (IRES) is a crucial step for virus infections. Virus-host interactions play a critical role in the regulation of IRES-dependent translation, but the regulatory mechanism remains largely unknown. In this study, we identified an ITAF, hnRNP K, that negatively regulates FMDV replication by inhibiting viral IRES-mediated translation. In addition, we describe a novel translational regulation mechanism involving the proteolytic cleavage of hnRNP K by FMDV protease 3C. The cleavage of hnRNP K yields two cleavage products with opposite functions: the cleavage product hnRNP K1-364 retains a partial inhibitory effect on IRES activity, and the cleavage product hnRNP K364-465 becomes a positive regulator of FMDV replication. Our findings shed light on the effect of a novel ITAF on the translational regulation of picornavirus and provide new insights into translational control during viral infection.

Comparative structural analyses and nucleotide-binding characterization of the four KH domains of FUBP1

The FUBP1-FUSE complex is an essential component of a transcription molecular machinery that is necessary for tight regulation of expression of many key genes including c-Myc and p21. FUBP1 utilizes its four articulated KH modules, which function cooperatively, for FUSE nucleotide binding. To understand molecular mechanisms fundamental to the intermolecular interaction, we present a set of crystal structures, as well ssDNA-binding characterization of FUBP1 KH domains. All KH1-4 motifs were highly topologically conserved, and were able to interact with FUSE individually and independently. Nevertheless, differences in nucleotide binding properties among the four KH domains were evident, including higher nucleotide-binding potency for KH3 as well as diverse nucleotide sequence preferences. Variations in amino acid compositions at one side of the binding cleft responsible for nucleobase resulted in diverse shapes and electrostatic charge interaction, which might feasibly be a contributing factor for different nucleotide-binding propensities among KH1-4. Nonetheless, conservation of structure and nucleotide-binding property in all four KH motifs is essential for the cooperativity of multi KH modules present in FUBP1 towards nanomolar affinity for FUSE interaction. Comprehensive structural comparison and ssDNA binding characteristics of all four KH domains presented here provide molecular insights at a fundamental level that might be beneficial for elucidating the mechanisms of the FUBP1-FUSE interaction.

Bioinformatics and Molecular Insights to Anti-Metastasis Activity of Triethylene Glycol Derivatives

The anti-metastatic and anti-angiogenic activities of triethylene glycol derivatives have been reported. In this study, we investigated their molecular mechanism(s) using bioinformatics and experimental tools. By molecular dynamics analysis, we found that (i) triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TD-10) and tetraethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TD-11) can act as inhibitors of the catalytic domain of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-7 and MMP-9) by binding to the S1’ pocket of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and the catalytic Zn ion binding site of MMP-7, and that (ii) TD-11 can cause local disruption of the secondary structure of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) dimer and exhibit stable interaction at the binding interface of VEGFA receptor R1 complex. Cell-culture-based in vitro experiments showed anti-metastatic phenotypes as seen in migration and invasion assays in cancer cells by both TD-10 and TD-11. Underlying biochemical evidence revealed downregulation of VEGF and MMPs at the protein level; MMP-9 was also downregulated at the transcriptional level. By molecular analyses, we demonstrate that TD-10 and TD-11 target stress chaperone mortalin at the transcription and translational level, yielding decreased expression of vimentin, fibronectin and hnRNP-K, and increase in extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins (collagen IV and E-cadherin) endorsing reversal of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) signaling.

Synthesis and In silico Studies of N-acylhydrazone Derivatives as hnRNP K Ligands with Potential Anti-cancer Activity

Background:

A green and efficient synthetic methodology for a wide family of Nacylhydrazones (yields: 42-76%) using microwave irradiation is described, as well as their full characterization. Their potential antineoplastic activity was evaluated in vitro via EMSA by testing protein- DNA interactions. Among the 11 compounds tested, N-acylhydrazone derivative 5 bearing a hydroxyl group, showed the highest affinity to bind and inhibit the hnRNP K KH3 domain. Docking simulations of compound 5 showed three possible modes of interaction between the KH3 domain of hnRNP K protein and compound predict.

:

The N-acylhydrazones are knows as powerful chemical entities for Medicinal Chemistry, since it has been identified in a huge number of hit and lead compounds that act on various types of molecular targets, including in tumorigenesis processes.

Objective:

We evaluated their potential ability to inhibit the KH3 domain of the hnRNP K protein binding to single stranded DNA (ssDNA). Furthermore, a docking simulation was performed for the newly synthetized compounds to evaluate their interactions between proteins and N-acylhydrazine derivative.

Methods:

The N-acylhydrazone derivatives were synthetized through three reaction steps, from a simple and commercial substrate, using microwave irradiation as a green energy source. The N-acylhydrazone derivatives ability to bind with the hnRNP K protein was evaluated via EMSA by testing protein-DNA interactions. The docking simulations were performed in a Gold 5.2.2 software using 100 conformers, 10.000 operations, 95 mutations and 95 crossovers.

Results:

Eleven new N-acylhydrazone derivatives were synthetized using microwave showing yields between 42% and 76%. Among the eleven compounds tested, compound 5 was shown to be most capable to prevent the natural binding of hnRNP K protein to the oligonucleotide. Regarding the docking simulation, compound 5 can bind to the main binding residues of KH3 domain and compete with the natural ligand ssDNA of this protein.

Conclusion:

A green and efficient synthetic methodology for a wide family of N-acylhydrazones (yields: 42-76%) using microwave irradiation is described, as well as their full characterization. Their potential antineoplastic activity was evaluated in vitro via EMSA by testing protein-DNA interactions. Among the 11 compounds tested, N-acylhydrazone derivative 5 bearing a hydroxyl group, showed the highest affinity to bind and inhibit the hnRNP K KH3 domain. Docking simulations of compound 5 showed three possible modes of interaction between the KH3 domain of hnRNP K protein and compound predict.

RNA-Binding Proteins in Acute Leukemias

Acute leukemias are genetic diseases caused by translocations or mutations, which dysregulate hematopoiesis towards malignant transformation. However, the molecular mode of action is highly versatile and ranges from direct transcriptional to post-transcriptional control, which includes RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) as crucial regulators of cell fate. RBPs coordinate RNA dynamics, including subcellular localization, translational efficiency and metabolism, by binding to their target messenger RNAs (mRNAs), thereby controlling the expression of the encoded proteins. In view of the growing interest in these regulators, this review summarizes recent research regarding the most influential RBPs relevant in acute leukemias in particular. The reported RBPs, either dysregulated or as components of fusion proteins, are described with respect to their functional domains, the pathways they affect, and clinical aspects associated with their dysregulation or altered functions.

RNA-binding motifs of hnRNP K are critical for induction of antibody diversification by activation-induced cytidine deaminase

Activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) is the key enzyme for class switch recombination (CSR) and somatic hypermutation (SHM) to generate antibody memory. Previously, heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNP K) was shown to be required for AID-dependent DNA breaks. Here, we defined the function of major RNA-binding motifs of hnRNP K, GXXGs and RGGs in the K-homology (KH) and the K-protein-interaction (KI) domains, respectively. Mutation of GXXG, RGG, or both impaired CSR, SHM, and cMyc/IgH translocation equally, showing that these motifs were necessary for AID-dependent DNA breaks. AID-hnRNP K interaction is dependent on RNA; hence, mutation of these RNA-binding motifs abolished the interaction with AID, as expected. Some of the polypyrimidine sequence-carrying prototypical hnRNP K-binding RNAs, which participate in DNA breaks or repair bound to hnRNP K in a GXXG and RGG motif-dependent manner. Mutation of the GXXG and RGG motifs decreased nuclear retention of hnRNP K. Together with the previous finding that nuclear localization of AID is necessary for its function, lower nuclear retention of these mutants may worsen their functional deficiency, which is also caused by their decreased RNA-binding capacity. In summary, hnRNP K contributed to AID-dependent DNA breaks with all of its major RNA-binding motifs.

RIC-seq for global in situ profiling of RNA-RNA spatial interactions

Highly structured RNA molecules usually interact with each other, and associate with various RNA-binding proteins, to regulate critical biological processes. However, RNA structures and interactions in intact cells remain largely unknown. Here, by coupling proximity ligation mediated by RNA-binding proteins with deep sequencing, we report an RNA in situ conformation sequencing (RIC-seq) technology for the global profiling of intra- and intermolecular RNA-RNA interactions. This technique not only recapitulates known RNA secondary structures and tertiary interactions, but also facilitates the generation of three-dimensional (3D) interaction maps of RNA in human cells. Using these maps, we identify noncoding RNA targets globally, and discern RNA topological domains and trans-interacting hubs. We reveal that the functional connectivity of enhancers and promoters can be assigned using their pairwise-interacting RNAs. Furthermore, we show that CCAT1-5L-a super-enhancer hub RNA-interacts with the RNA-binding protein hnRNPK, as well as RNA derived from the MYC promoter and enhancer, to boost MYC transcription by modulating chromatin looping. Our study demonstrates the power and applicability of RIC-seq in discovering the 3D structures, interactions and regulatory roles of RNA.

Post-translational modification control of RNA-binding protein hnRNPK function

Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNPK), a ubiquitously occurring RNA-binding protein (RBP), can interact with numerous nucleic acids and various proteins and is involved in a number of cellular functions including transcription, translation, splicing, chromatin remodelling, etc. Through its abundant biological functions, hnRNPK has been implicated in cellular events including proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, DNA damage repair and the stress and immune responses. Thus, it is critical to understand the mechanism of hnRNPK regulation and its downstream effects on cancer and other diseases. A number of recent studies have highlighted that several post-translational modifications (PTMs) possibly play an important role in modulating hnRNPK function. Phosphorylation is the most widely occurring PTM in hnRNPK. For example, in vivo analyses of sites such as S116 and S284 illustrate the purpose of PTM of hnRNPK in altering its subcellular localization and its ability to bind target nucleic acids or proteins. Other PTMs such as methylation, ubiquitination, sumoylation, glycosylation and proteolytic cleavage are increasingly implicated in the regulation of DNA repair, cellular stresses and tumour growth. In this review, we describe the PTMs that impact upon hnRNPK function on gene expression programmes and different disease states. This knowledge is key in allowing us to better understand the mechanism of hnRNPK regulation.

hnRNP-K Targets Open Chromatin in Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells in Concert with Multiple Regulators

The transcription factor Oct4 plays a key regulatory role in the induction and maintenance of cellular pluripotency. In this article, we show that ubiquitous and multifunctional poly(C) DNA/RNA-binding protein hnRNP-K occupies Oct4 (Pou5f1) enhancers in embryonic stem cells (ESCs) but is dispensable for the initiation, maintenance, and downregulation of Oct4 gene expression. Nevertheless, hnRNP-K has an essential cell-autonomous function in ESCs to maintain their proliferation and viability. To better understand mechanisms of hnRNP-K action in ESCs, we have performed ChIP-seq analysis of genome-wide binding of hnRNP-K and identified several thousands of hnRNP-K target sites that are frequently co-occupied by pluripotency-related and common factors (Oct4, TATA-box binding protein, Sox2, Nanog, Otx2, etc.), as well as active histone marks. Furthermore, hnRNP-K localizes exclusively within open chromatin, implying its role in the onset and/or maintenance of this chromatin state. Stem Cells 2019;37:1018-1029.

RNA-Binding Proteins in the Control of LPS-Induced Macrophage Response

Innate immune response is triggered by pathogen components, like lipopolysaccharides (LPS) of gram-negative bacteria. LPS initiates Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling, which involves mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPK) and nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) in different pathway branches and ultimately induces inflammatory cytokine and chemokine expression, macrophage migration and phagocytosis. Timely gene transcription and post-transcriptional control of gene expression confer the adequate synthesis of signaling molecules. As trans-acting factors RNA binding proteins (RBPs) contribute significantly to the surveillance of gene expression. RBPs are involved in the regulation of mRNA processing, localization, stability and translation. Thereby they enable rapid cellular responses to inflammatory mediators and facilitate a coordinated systemic immune response. Specific RBP binding to conserved sequence motifs in their target mRNAs is mediated by RNA binding domains, like Zink-finger domains, RNA recognition motifs (RRM), and hnRNP K homology domains (KH), often arranged in modular arrays. In this review, we focus on RBPs Tristetraprolin (TTP), human antigen R (HUR), T-cell intracellular antigen 1 related protein (TIAR), and heterogeneous ribonuclear protein K (hnRNP K) in LPS induced macrophages as primary responding immune cells. We discuss recent experiments employing RNA immunoprecipitation and microarray analysis (RIP-Chip) and newly developed individual-nucleotide resolution crosslinking and immunoprecipitation (iCLIP), photoactivatable ribonucleoside-enhanced crosslinking (PAR-iCLIP) and RNA sequencing techniques (RNA-Seq). The global mRNA interaction profile analysis of TTP, HUR, TIAR, and hnRNP K exhibited valuable information about the post-transcriptional control of inflammation related gene expression with a broad impact on intracellular signaling and temporal cytokine expression.

Syntheses and evaluation of new Quinoline derivatives for inhibition of hnRNP K in regulating oncogene c-myc transcription

Aberrant overexpression of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNP K) is a key feature in oncogenesis and progression of many human cancers. hnRNP K has been found to be a transcriptional activator to up-regulate c-myc gene transcription, a critical proto-oncogene for regulation of cell growth and differentiation. Therefore, down-regulation of c-myc transcription by inhibiting hnRNP K through disrupting its binding to c-myc gene promoter is a potential approach for cancer therapy. In the present study, we synthesized and screened a series of Quinoline derivatives and evaluated their binding affinity for hnRNP K. Among these derivatives, (E)-1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-3-(4-morpholino-6-nitroquinolin-2-yl)prop-2-en-1-one (compound 25) was determined to be the first-reported hnRNP K binding ligand with its K_D values of 4.6 and 2.6 μM measured with SPR and MST, respectively. Subsequent evaluation showed that the binding of compound 25 to hnRNP K could disrupt its unfolding of c-myc promoter i-motif, resulting in down-regulation of c-myc transcription. Compound 25 showed a selective anti-proliferative effect on human cancer cell lines with IC₅₀ values ranged from 1.36 to 3.59 μM. Compound 25 exhibited good tumor growth inhibition in a Hela xenograft tumor model, which might be related to its binding with hnRNP K. These findings illustrated that inhibition of DNA-binding protein hnRNP K by compound 25 could be a new and selective strategy of regulating oncogene transcription instead of targeting promoter DNA secondary structures such as G-quadruplexes or i-motifs.

Structural characterization of a novel KH-domain containing plant chloroplast endonuclease

Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is a single celled alga that undergoes apoptosis in response to UV-C irradiation. UVI31+, a novel UV-inducible DNA endonuclease in C. reinhardtii, which normally localizes near cell wall and pyrenoid regions, gets redistributed into punctate foci within the whole chloroplast, away from the pyrenoid, upon UV-stress. Solution NMR structure of the first putative UV inducible endonuclease UVI31+ revealed an α₁–β₁–β₂–α₂–α₃–β₃ fold similar to BolA and type II KH-domain ubiquitous protein families. Three α−helices of UVI31+ constitute one side of the protein surface, which are packed to the other side, made of three-stranded β–sheet, with intervening hydrophobic residues. A twenty-three residues long polypeptide stretch (D54-H76) connecting β₁ and β₂ strands is found to be highly flexible. Interestingly, UVI31+ recognizes the DNA primarily through its β–sheet. We propose that the catalytic triad residues involving Ser114, His95 and Thr116 facilitate DNA endonuclease activity of UVI31+. Further, decreased endonuclease activity of the S114A mutant is consistent with the direct participation of Ser114 in the catalysis. This study provides the first structural description of a plant chloroplast endonuclease that is regulated by UV-stress response.

Biological functions, regulatory mechanisms, and disease relevance of RNA localization pathways

The asymmetric subcellular distribution of RNA molecules from their sites of transcription to specific compartments of the cell is an important aspect of post-transcriptional gene regulation. This involves the interplay of intrinsic cis-regulatory elements within the RNA molecules with trans-acting RNA-binding proteins and associated factors. Together, these interactions dictate the intracellular localization route of RNAs, whose downstream impacts have wide-ranging implications in cellular physiology. In this review, we examine the mechanisms underlying RNA localization and discuss their biological significance. We also review the growing body of evidence pointing to aberrant RNA localization pathways in the development and progression of diseases.

Handling FMRP and its molecular partners: Structural insights into Fragile X Syndrome

Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein (FMRP) is a RNA-binding protein (RBP) known to control different steps of mRNA metabolism, even though its complete function is not fully understood yet. Lack or mutations of FMRP lead to Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), the most common form of inherited intellectual disability and a leading monogenic cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). It is well established that FMRP has a multi-domain architecture, a feature that allows this RBP to be engaged in a large interaction network with numerous proteins and mRNAs or non-coding RNAs. Insights into the three-dimensional (3D) structure of parts of its three domains (N-terminus, central domain and C-terminus) were obtained using Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and X-ray diffraction, but the complete 3D arrangement of each domain with respect to the others is still missing. Here, we review the structural features of FMRP and of the network of its protein and RNA interactions. Understanding these aspects is the first necessary step towards the design of novel compounds for new therapeutic interventions in FXS.

Mechanism of β-actin mRNA Recognition by ZBP1

Zipcode binding protein 1 (ZBP1) is an oncofetal RNA-binding protein that mediates the transport and local translation of β-actin mRNA by the KH3-KH4 di-domain, which is essential for neuronal development. The high-resolution structures of KH3-KH4 with their respective target sequences show that KH4 recognizes a non-canonical GGA sequence via an enlarged and dynamic hydrophobic groove, whereas KH3 binding to a core CA sequence occurs with low specificity. A data-informed kinetic simulation of the two-step binding reaction reveals that the overall reaction is driven by the second binding event and that the moderate affinities of the individual interactions favor RNA looping. Furthermore, the concentration of ZBP1, but not of the target RNA, modulates the interaction, which explains the functional significance of enhanced ZBP1 expression during embryonic development.

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The dynamic groove of ZBP1’s KH4 domain allows recognition of a G-rich RNA sequence

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ZBP1’s KH3 and KH4 domains bind their target RNA sequences with similar affinities

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RNA looping drives the ZBP1-β-actin interaction

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The protein, rather than the RNA, concentration regulates ZBP1-β-actin mRNA binding

The human RNA-binding protein and E3 ligase MEX-3C binds the MEX-3-recognition element (MRE) motif with high affinity

MEX-3 is a K-homology (KH) domain-containing RNA-binding protein first identified as a translational repressor in Caenorhabditis elegans, and its four orthologs (MEX-3A-D) in human and mouse were subsequently found to have E3 ubiquitin ligase activity mediated by a RING domain and critical for RNA degradation. Current evidence implicates human MEX-3C in many essential biological processes and suggests a strong connection with immune diseases and carcinogenesis. The highly conserved dual KH domains in MEX-3 proteins enable RNA binding and are essential for the recognition of the 3'-UTR and post-transcriptional regulation of MEX-3 target transcripts. However, the molecular mechanisms of translational repression and the consensus RNA sequence recognized by the MEX-3C KH domain are unknown. Here, using X-ray crystallography and isothermal titration calorimetry, we investigated the RNA-binding activity and selectivity of human MEX-3C dual KH domains. Our high-resolution crystal structures of individual KH domains complexed with a noncanonical U-rich and a GA-rich RNA sequence revealed that the KH1/2 domains of human MEX-3C bound MRE10, a 10-mer RNA (5'-CAGAGUUUAG-3') consisting of an eight-nucleotide MEX-3-recognition element (MRE) motif, with high affinity. Of note, we also identified a consensus RNA motif recognized by human MEX-3C. The potential RNA-binding sites in the 3'-UTR of the human leukocyte antigen serotype (HLA-A2) mRNA were mapped with this RNA-binding motif and further confirmed by fluorescence polarization. The binding motif identified here will provide valuable information for future investigations of the functional pathways controlled by human MEX-3C and for predicting potential mRNAs regulated by this enzyme.

The DEAD-box protein DDX43 (HAGE) is a dual RNA-DNA helicase and has a K-homology domain required for full nucleic acid unwinding activity

The K-homology (KH) domain is a nucleic acid-binding domain present in many proteins but has not been reported in helicases. DDX43, also known as HAGE (helicase antigen gene), is a member of the DEAD-box protein family. It contains a helicase core domain in its C terminus and a potential KH domain in its N terminus. DDX43 is highly expressed in many tumors and is, therefore, considered a potential target for immunotherapy. Despite its potential as a therapeutic target, little is known about its activities. Here, we purified recombinant DDX43 protein to near homogeneity and found that it exists as a monomer in solution. Biochemical assays demonstrated that it is an ATP-dependent RNA and DNA helicase. Although DDX43 was active on duplex RNA regardless of the orientation of the single-stranded RNA tail, it preferred a 5' to 3' polarity on RNA and a 3' to 5' direction on DNA. Truncation mutations and site-directed mutagenesis confirmed that the KH domain in DDX43 is responsible for nucleic acid binding. Compared with the activity of the full-length protein, the C-terminal helicase domain had no unwinding activity on RNA substrates and had significantly reduced unwinding activity on DNA. Moreover, the full-length DDX43 protein, with single amino acid change in the KH domain, had reduced unwinding and binding activates on RNA and DNA substrates. Our results demonstrate that DDX43 is a dual helicase and the KH domain is required for its full unwinding activity.

Odorant Sensory Input Modulates DNA Secondary Structure Formation and Heterogeneous Ribonucleoprotein Recruitment on the Tyrosine Hydroxylase and Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase 1 Promoters in the Olfactory Bulb

Adaptation of neural circuits to changes in sensory input can modify several cellular processes within neurons, including neurotransmitter biosynthesis levels. For a subset of olfactory bulb interneurons, activity-dependent changes in GABA are reflected by corresponding changes in Glutamate decarboxylase 1 (Gad1) expression levels. Mechanisms regulating Gad1 promoter activity are poorly understood, but here we show that a conserved G:C-rich region in the mouse Gad1 proximal promoter region both recruits heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs) that facilitate transcription and forms single-stranded DNA secondary structures associated with transcriptional repression. This promoter architecture and function is shared with Tyrosine hydroxylase (Th), which is also modulated by odorant-dependent activity in the olfactory bulb. This study shows that the balance between DNA secondary structure formation and hnRNP binding on the mouse Th and Gad1 promoters in the olfactory bulb is responsive to changes in odorant-dependent sensory input. These findings reveal that Th and Gad1 share a novel transcription regulatory mechanism that facilitates sensory input-dependent regulation of dopamine and GABA expression.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Adaptation of neural circuits to changes in sensory input can modify several cellular processes within neurons, including neurotransmitter biosynthesis levels. This study shows that transcription of genes encoding rate-limiting enzymes for GABA and dopamine biosynthesis (Gad1 and Th, respectively) in the mammalian olfactory bulb is regulated by G:C-rich regions that both recruit heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs) to facilitate transcription and form single-stranded DNA secondary structures associated with repression. hnRNP binding and formation of DNA secondary structure on the Th and Gad1 promoters are mutually exclusive, and odorant sensory input levels regulate the balance between these regulatory features. These findings reveal that Th and Gad1 share a transcription regulatory mechanism that facilitates odorant-dependent regulation of dopamine and GABA expression levels.

Integrated structural biology to unravel molecular mechanisms of protein-RNA recognition

Recent advances in RNA sequencing technologies have greatly expanded our knowledge of the RNA landscape in cells, often with spatiotemporal resolution. These techniques identified many new (often non-coding) RNA molecules. Large-scale studies have also discovered novel RNA binding proteins (RBPs), which exhibit single or multiple RNA binding domains (RBDs) for recognition of specific sequence or structured motifs in RNA. Starting from these large-scale approaches it is crucial to unravel the molecular principles of protein-RNA recognition in ribonucleoprotein complexes (RNPs) to understand the underlying mechanisms of gene regulation. Structural biology and biophysical studies at highest possible resolution are key to elucidate molecular mechanisms of RNA recognition by RBPs and how conformational dynamics, weak interactions and cooperative binding contribute to the formation of specific, context-dependent RNPs. While large compact RNPs can be well studied by X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM, analysis of dynamics and weak interaction necessitates the use of solution methods to capture these properties. Here, we illustrate methods to study the structure and conformational dynamics of protein-RNA complexes in solution starting from the identification of interaction partners in a given RNP. Biophysical and biochemical techniques support the characterization of a protein-RNA complex and identify regions relevant in structural analysis. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is a powerful tool to gain information on folding, stability and dynamics of RNAs and characterize RNPs in solution. It provides crucial information that is complementary to the static pictures derived from other techniques. NMR can be readily combined with other solution techniques, such as small angle X-ray and/or neutron scattering (SAXS/SANS), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), and Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET), which provide information about overall shapes, internal domain arrangements and dynamics. Principles of protein-RNA recognition and current approaches are reviewed and illustrated with recent studies.

The Conservation and Function of RNA Secondary Structure in Plants

RNA transcripts fold into secondary structures via intricate patterns of base pairing. These secondary structures impart catalytic, ligand binding, and scaffolding functions to a wide array of RNAs, forming a critical node of biological regulation. Among their many functions, RNA structural elements modulate epigenetic marks, alter mRNA stability and translation, regulate alternative splicing, transduce signals, and scaffold large macromolecular complexes. Thus, the study of RNA secondary structure is critical to understanding the function and regulation of RNA transcripts. Here, we review the origins, form, and function of RNA secondary structure, focusing on plants. We then provide an overview of methods for probing secondary structure, from physical methods such as X-ray crystallography and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) imaging to chemical and nuclease probing methods. Combining these latter methods with high-throughput sequencing has enabled them to scale across whole transcriptomes, yielding tremendous new insights into the form and function of RNA secondary structure.

Translational control mediated by hnRNP K links NMHC IIA to erythroid enucleation

Post-transcriptional regulation is crucial for structural and functional alterations in erythropoiesis. Enucleation of erythroid progenitors precedes reticulocyte release into circulation. In enucleated cells, reticulocyte 15-lipoxygenase (r15-LOX, also known as ALOX15) initiates mitochondria degradation. Regulation of r15-LOX mRNA translation by hnRNP K determines timely r15-LOX synthesis in terminal maturation. K562 cells induced for erythroid maturation recapitulate enucleation and mitochondria degradation. HnRNP K depletion from maturing K562 cells results in enhanced enucleation, which even occurs independently of maturation. We performed RIP-Chip analysis to identify hnRNP K-interacting RNAs comprehensively. Non-muscle myosin heavy chain (NMHC) IIA (also known as MYH9) mRNA co-purified with hnRNP K from non-induced K562 cells, but not from mature cells. NMHC IIA protein increase in erythroid maturation at constant NMHC IIA mRNA levels indicates post-transcriptional regulation. We demonstrate that binding of hnRNP K KH domain 3 to a specific sequence element in the NMHC IIA mRNA 3'UTR mediates translation regulation in vitro Importantly, elevated NMHC IIA expression results in erythroid-maturation-independent enucleation as shown for hnRNP K depletion. Our data provide evidence that hnRNP-K-mediated regulation of NMHC IIA mRNA translation contributes to the control of enucleation in erythropoiesis.

Crystallographic and Computational Analyses of AUUCU Repeating RNA That Causes Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 10 (SCA10)

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 10 (SCA10) is caused by a pentanucleotide repeat expansion of r(AUUCU) within intron 9 of the ATXN10 pre-mRNA. The RNA causes disease by a gain-of-function mechanism in which it inactivates proteins involved in RNA biogenesis. Spectroscopic studies showed that r(AUUCU) repeats form a hairpin structure; however, there were no high-resolution structural models prior to this work. Herein, we report the first crystal structure of model r(AUUCU) repeats refined to 2.8 Å and analysis of the structure via molecular dynamics simulations. The r(AUUCU) tracts adopt an overall A-form geometry in which 3 × 3 nucleotide (5')UCU(3')/(3')UCU(5') internal loops are closed by AU pairs. Helical parameters of the refined structure as well as the corresponding electron density map on the crystallographic model reflect dynamic features of the internal loop. The computational analyses captured dynamic motion of the loop closing pairs, which can form single-stranded conformations with relatively low energies. Overall, the results presented here suggest the possibility for r(AUUCU) repeats to form metastable A-from structures, which can rearrange into single-stranded conformations and attract proteins such as heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (hnRNP K). The information presented here may aid in the rational design of therapeutics targeting this RNA.

Drosophila Imp iCLIP identifies an RNA assemblage coordinating F-actin formation

Background

Post-transcriptional RNA regulons ensure coordinated expression of monocistronic mRNAs encoding functionally related proteins. In this study, we employ a combination of RIP-seq and short- and long-wave individual-nucleotide resolution crosslinking and immunoprecipitation (iCLIP) technologies in Drosophila cells to identify transcripts associated with cytoplasmic ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) containing the RNA-binding protein Imp.

Results

We find extensive binding of Imp to 3′ UTRs of transcripts that are involved in F-actin formation. A common denominator of the RNA–protein interface is the presence of multiple motifs with a central UA-rich element flanked by CA-rich elements. Experiments in single cells and intact flies reveal compromised actin cytoskeletal dynamics associated with low Imp levels. The former shows reduced F-actin formation and the latter exhibits abnormal neuronal patterning. This demonstrates a physiological significance of the defined RNA regulon.

Conclusions

Our data imply that Drosophila Imp RNPs may function as cytoplasmic mRNA assemblages that encode proteins which participate in actin cytoskeletal remodeling. Thus, they may facilitate coordinated protein expression in sub-cytoplasmic locations such as growth cones.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13059-015-0687-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

KH-RNA interactions: back in the groove

The hnRNP K-homology (KH) domain is a single stranded nucleic acid binding domain that mediates RNA target recognition by a large group of gene regulators. The structure of the KH fold is well characterised and some initial rules for KH-RNA recognition have been drafted. However, recent findings have shown that these rules need to be revisited and have now provided a better understanding of how the domain can recognise a sequence landscape larger than previously thought as well as revealing the diversity of structural expansions to the KH domain. Finally, novel structural and functional data show how multiple KH domains act in a combinatorial fashion to both allow recognition of longer RNA motifs and remodelling of the RNA structure. These advances set the scene for a detailed molecular understanding of KH selection of the cellular targets.

i-Motif DNA: structure, stability and targeting with ligands

i-Motifs are four-stranded DNA secondary structures which can form in sequences rich in cytosine. Stabilised by acidic conditions, they are comprised of two parallel-stranded DNA duplexes held together in an antiparallel orientation by intercalated, cytosine-cytosine(+) base pairs. By virtue of their pH dependent folding, i-motif forming DNA sequences have been used extensively as pH switches for applications in nanotechnology. Initially, i-motifs were thought to be unstable at physiological pH, which precluded substantial biological investigation. However, recent advances have shown that this is not always the case and that i-motif stability is highly dependent on factors such as sequence and environmental conditions. In this review, we discuss some of the different i-motif structures investigated to date and the factors which affect their topology, stability and dynamics. Ligands which can interact with these structures are necessary to aid investigations into the potential biological functions of i-motif DNA and herein we review the existing i-motif ligands and give our perspective on the associated challenges with targeting this structure.

The transcriptional complex between the BCL2 i-motif and hnRNP LL is a molecular switch for control of gene expression that can be modulated by small molecules

In a companion paper (DOI: 10.021/ja410934b) we demonstrate that the C-rich strand of the cis-regulatory element in the BCL2 promoter element is highly dynamic in nature and can form either an i-motif or a flexible hairpin. Under physiological conditions these two secondary DNA structures are found in an equilibrium mixture, which can be shifted by the addition of small molecules that trap out either the i-motif (IMC-48) or the flexible hairpin (IMC-76). In cellular experiments we demonstrate that the addition of these molecules has opposite effects on BCL2 gene expression and furthermore that these effects are antagonistic. In this contribution we have identified a transcriptional factor that recognizes and binds to the BCL2 i-motif to activate transcription. The molecular basis for the recognition of the i-motif by hnRNP LL is determined, and we demonstrate that the protein unfolds the i-motif structure to form a stable single-stranded complex. In subsequent experiments we show that IMC-48 and IMC-76 have opposite, antagonistic effects on the formation of the hnRNP LL–i-motif complex as well as on the transcription factor occupancy at the BCL2 promoter. For the first time we propose that the i-motif acts as a molecular switch that controls gene expression and that small molecules that target the dynamic equilibrium of the i-motif and the flexible hairpin can differentially modulate gene expression.

Transport and translation of MBP mRNA is regulated differently by distinct hnRNP proteins

In the developing nervous system, abundant synthesis of myelin basic protein (MBP) in oligodendrocytes is required for the formation of compact myelin sheaths around axons. The MBP mRNA is known to be transported into the processes of oligodendrocytes. However, knowledge of the regulatory mechanisms that ensure the tight temporal and spatial control of MBP translation within these processes is limited. Here, we have identified novel regions within the 3'-UTR of the MBP mRNA that are responsible for the regulation of its translation, and we have demonstrated that each of the mRNA-binding proteins heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP)-A2, hnRNP-K and hnRNP-E1 serve distinct functions to regulate controlled and localized protein synthesis. hnRNP-A2 is responsible for mRNA transport, not for translational inhibition. By contrast, hnRNP-K and hnRNP-E1 play opposing roles in the translational regulation of MBP mRNA. We have identified shared binding sites within the 3'-UTR, and show that translation is promoted by the exchange of inhibitory hnRNP-E1 for stimulatory hnRNP-K. We further show that this molecular switch in the MBP messenger RNA-ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) complex, which regulates the synthesis of MBP, is important for the normal growth and extension of myelin sheets.