Folding of group II introns: a model system for large, multidomain RNAs?

Categorizing 161 plant (streptophyte) mitochondrial group II introns into 29 families of related paralogues finds only limited links between intron mobility and intron-borne maturases

Group II introns are common in the two endosymbiotic organelle genomes of the plant lineage. Chloroplasts harbor 22 positionally conserved group II introns whereas their occurrence in land plant (embryophyte) mitogenomes is highly variable and specific for the seven major clades: liverworts, mosses, hornworts, lycophytes, ferns, gymnosperms and flowering plants. Each plant group features "signature selections" of ca. 20-30 paralogues from a superset of altogether 105 group II introns meantime identified in embryophyte mtDNAs, suggesting massive intron gains and losses along the backbone of plant phylogeny. We report on systematically categorizing plant mitochondrial group II introns into "families", comprising evidently related paralogues at different insertion sites, which may even be more similar than their respective orthologues in phylogenetically distant taxa. Including streptophyte (charophyte) algae extends our sampling to 161 and we sort 104 streptophyte mitochondrial group II introns into 25 core families of related paralogues evidently arising from retrotransposition events. Adding to discoveries of only recently created intron paralogues, hypermobile introns and twintrons, our survey led to further discoveries including previously overlooked "fossil" introns in spacer regions or e.g., in the rps8 pseudogene of lycophytes. Initially excluding intron-borne maturase sequences for family categorization, we added an independent analysis of maturase phylogenies and find a surprising incongruence between intron mobility and the presence of intron-borne maturases. Intriguingly, however, we find that several examples of nuclear splicing factors meantime characterized simultaneously facilitate splicing of independent paralogues now placed into the same intron families. Altogether this suggests that plant group II intron mobility, in contrast to their bacterial counterparts, is not intimately linked to intron-encoded maturases.

Thoughts on how to think (and talk) about RNA structure

Recent events have pushed RNA research into the spotlight. Continued discoveries of RNA with unexpected diverse functions in healthy and diseased cells, such as the role of RNA as both the source and countermeasure to a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, are igniting a new passion for understanding this functionally and structurally versatile molecule. Although RNA structure is key to function, many foundational characteristics of RNA structure are misunderstood, and the default state of RNA is often thought of and depicted as a single floppy strand. The purpose of this perspective is to help adjust mental models, equipping the community to better use the fundamental aspects of RNA structural information in new mechanistic models, enhance experimental design to test these models, and refine data interpretation. We discuss six core observations focused on the inherent nature of RNA structure and how to incorporate these characteristics to better understand RNA structure. We also offer some ideas for future efforts to make validated RNA structural information available and readily used by all researchers.

An overview of RNA splicing and functioning of splicing factors in land plant chloroplasts

RNA splicing refers to a process by which introns of a pre-mRNA are excised and the exons at both ends are joined together. Chloroplast introns are inherently self-splicing ribozymes, but over time, they have lost self-splicing ability due to the degeneration of intronic elements. Thus, the splicing of chloroplast introns relies heavily on nuclear-encoded splicing factors, which belong to diverse protein families. Different splicing factors and their shared intron targets are supposed to form ribonucleoprotein particles (RNPs) to facilitate intron splicing. As characterized in a previous review, around 14 chloroplast intron splicing factors were identified until 2010. However, only a few genetic and biochemical evidence has shown that these splicing factors are required for the splicing of one or several introns. The roles of splicing factors are generally believed to facilitate intron folding; however, the precise role of each protein in RNA splicing remains ambiguous. This may be because the precise binding site of most of these splicing factors remains unexplored. In the last decade, several new splicing factors have been identified. Also, several splicing factors were found to bind to specific sequences within introns, which enhanced the understanding of splicing factors. Here, we summarize recent progress on the splicing factors in land plant chloroplasts and discuss their possible roles in chloroplast RNA splicing based on previous studies.

Assembly factors chaperone ribosomal RNA folding by isolating helical junctions that are prone to misfolding

While RNAs are known to misfold, the underlying molecular causes have been mainly studied in fragments of biologically relevant larger RNAs. As these small RNAs are dominated by secondary structures, misfolding of these secondary structures remains the most-explored cause for global RNA misfolding. Conversely, how RNA chaperones function in a biological context to promote native folding beyond duplex annealing remains unknown. Here, in a combination of dimethylsulfate mutational profiling with sequencing (DMS-MaPseq), structural analyses, biochemical experiments, and yeast genetics, we show that three-helix junctions are prone to misfolding during assembly of the small ribosomal subunit in vivo. We identify ubiquitous roles for ribosome assembly factors in chaperoning their folding by preventing the formation of premature tertiary interactions, which otherwise kinetically trap misfolded junctions, thereby blocking further progress in the assembly cascade. While these protein chaperones act indirectly by binding the interaction partners of junctions, our analyses also suggest direct roles for small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) in binding and chaperoning helical junctions during transcription. While these assembly factors do not utilize energy to ameliorate misfolding, our data demonstrate how their dissociation renders reversible folding steps irreversible, thereby driving native folding and assembly and setting up a timer that dictates the propensity of misfolded intermediates to escape quality control. Finally, the data demonstrate that RNA chaperones act locally on individual tertiary interactions, in contrast to protein chaperones, which globally unfold misfolded proteins.

Exon and protein positioning in a pre-catalytic group II intron RNP primed for splicing

Group II introns are the putative progenitors of nuclear spliceosomal introns and use the same two-step splicing pathway. In the cell, the intron RNA forms a ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex with the intron-encoded protein (IEP), which is essential for splicing. Although structures of spliced group II intron RNAs and RNP complexes have been characterized, structural insights into the splicing process remain enigmatic due to lack of pre-catalytic structural models. Here, we report two cryo-EM structures of endogenously produced group II intron RNPs trapped in their pre-catalytic state. Comparison of the catalytically activated precursor RNP to its previously reported spliced counterpart allowed identification of key structural rearrangements accompanying splicing, including a remodeled active site and engagement of the exons. Importantly, altered RNA-protein interactions were observed upon splicing among the RNP complexes. Furthermore, analysis of the catalytically inert precursor RNP demonstrated the structural impact of the formation of the active site on RNP architecture. Taken together, our results not only fill a gap in understanding the structural basis of IEP-assisted group II intron splicing, but also provide parallels to evolutionarily related spliceosomal splicing.

Base-pair ambiguity and the kinetics of RNA folding

Background

A pairings of nucleotide sequences. Given this forbidding free-energy landscape, mechanisms have evolved that contribute to a directed and efficient folding process, including catalytic proteins and error-detecting chaperones. Among structural RNA molecules we make a distinction between “bound” molecules, which are active as part of ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes, and “unbound,” with physiological functions performed without necessarily being bound in RNP complexes. We hypothesized that unbound molecules, lacking the partnering structure of a protein, would be more vulnerable than bound molecules to kinetic traps that compete with native stem structures. We defined an “ambiguity index”—a normalized function of the primary and secondary structure of an individual molecule that measures the number of kinetic traps available to nucleotide sequences that are paired in the native structure, presuming that unbound molecules would have lower indexes. The ambiguity index depends on the purported secondary structure, and was computed under both the comparative (“gold standard”) and an equilibrium-based prediction which approximates the minimum free energy (MFE) structure. Arguing that kinetically accessible metastable structures might be more biologically relevant than thermodynamic equilibrium structures, we also hypothesized that MFE-derived ambiguities would be less effective in separating bound and unbound molecules.

Results

We have introduced an intuitive and easily computed function of primary and secondary structures that measures the availability of complementary sequences that could disrupt the formation of native stems on a given molecule—an ambiguity index. Using comparative secondary structures, the ambiguity index is systematically smaller among unbound than bound molecules, as expected. Furthermore, the effect is lost when the presumably more accurate comparative structure is replaced instead by the MFE structure.

Conclusions

A statistical analysis of the relationship between the primary and secondary structures of non-coding RNA molecules suggests that stem-disrupting kinetic traps are substantially less prevalent in molecules not participating in RNP complexes. In that this distinction is apparent under the comparative but not the MFE secondary structure, the results highlight a possible deficiency in structure predictions when based upon assumptions of thermodynamic equilibrium.

Structural accommodations accompanying splicing of a group II intron RNP

Group II introns, the putative progenitors of spliceosomal introns and retrotransposons, are ribozymes that are capable of self-splicing and DNA invasion. In the cell, group II introns form ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes with an intron-encoded protein, which is essential to folding, splicing and retromobility of the intron. To understand the structural accommodations underlying splicing, in preparation for retromobility, we probed the endogenously expressed Lactococcus lactis Ll.LtrB group II intron RNP using SHAPE. The results, which are consistent in vivo and in vitro, provide insights into the dynamics of the intron RNP as well as RNA-RNA and RNA-protein interactions. By comparing the excised intron RNP with mutant RNPs in the precursor state, confined SHAPE profile differences were observed, indicative of rearrangements at the active site as well as disengagement at the functional RNA-protein interface in transition between the two states. The exon-binding sequences in the intron RNA, which interact with the 5' exon and the target DNA, show increased flexibility after splicing. In contrast, stability of major tertiary and protein interactions maintains the scaffold of the RNA through the splicing transition, while the active site is realigned in preparation for retromobility.

The pentatricopeptide repeat protein MTSF2 stabilizes a nad1 precursor transcript and defines the 3΄ end of its 5΄-half intron

RNA expression in plant mitochondria implies a large number of post-transcriptional events in which transcript processing and stabilization are essential. In this study, we analyzed the function of the Arabidopsis mitochondrial stability factor 2 gene (MTSF2) and show that the encoded pentatricopeptide repeat protein is essential for the accumulation of stable nad1 mRNA. The production of mature nad1 requires the assembly of three independent RNA precursors via two trans-splicing reactions. Genetic analyses revealed that the lack of nad1 in mtsf2 mutants results from the specific destabilization of the nad1 exons 2-3 precursor transcript. We further demonstrated that MTSF2 binds to its 3΄ extremity with high affinity, suggesting a protective action by blocking exoribonuclease progression. By defining the 3΄ end of nad1 exons 2-3 precursor, MTSF2 concomitantly determines the 3΄ extremity of the first half of the trans-intron found at the end of the transcript. Therefore, binding of the MTSF2 protein to nad1 exons 2-3 precursor evolved both to stabilize the transcript and to define a 3΄ extremity compatible with the trans-splicing reaction needed to reconstitute mature nad1. We thus reveal that the range of transcripts stabilized by association with protective protein on their 3΄ end concerns also mitochondrial precursor transcripts.

Group II Intron Self-Splicing

Group II introns are large, autocatalytic ribozymes that catalyze RNA splicing and retrotransposition. Splicing by group II introns plays a major role in the metabolism of plants, fungi, and yeast and contributes to genetic variation in many bacteria. Group II introns have played a major role in genome evolution, as they are likely progenitors of spliceosomal introns, retroelements, and other machinery that controls genetic variation and stability. The structure and catalytic mechanism of group II introns have recently been elucidated through a combination of genetics, chemical biology, solution biochemistry, and crystallography. These studies reveal a dynamic machine that cycles progressively through multiple conformations as it stimulates the various stages of splicing. A central active site, containing a reactive metal ion cluster, catalyzes both steps of self-splicing. These studies provide insights into RNA structure, folding, and catalysis, as they raise new questions about the behavior of RNA machines.

Resolving sugar puckers in RNA excited states exposes slow modes of repuckering dynamics

Recent studies have shown that RNAs exist in dynamic equilibrium with short-lived low-abundance 'excited states' that form by reshuffling base pairs in and around non-canonical motifs. These conformational states are proposed to be rich in non-canonical motifs and to play roles in the folding and regulatory functions of non-coding RNAs but their structure proves difficult to characterize given their transient nature. Here, we describe an approach for determining sugar pucker conformation in RNA excited states through nuclear magnetic resonance measurements of C1΄ and C4΄ rotating frame spin relaxation (R1ρ) in uniformly 13C/15N labeled RNA samples. Application to HIV-1 TAR exposed slow modes of sugar repuckering dynamics at the μs and ms timescale accompanying transitions between non-helical (C2΄-endo) to helical (C3΄-endo) conformations during formation of two distinct excited states. In contrast, we did not obtain any evidence for slow sugar repuckering dynamics for nucleotides in a variety of structural contexts that do not undergo non-helical to helical transitions. Our results outline a route for significantly improving the conformational characterization of RNA excited states and suggest that slow modes of repuckering dynamics gated by transient changes in secondary structure are quite common in RNA.

Structural Insights into the Mechanism of Group II Intron Splicing

While the major architectural features and active-site components of group II introns have been known for almost a decade, information on the individual stages of splicing has been lacking. Recent advances in crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) have provided major new insights into the structure of intact lariat introns. Conformational changes that mediate the steps of splicing and retrotransposition are being elucidated, revealing the dynamic, highly coordinated motions that are required for group II intron activity. Finally, these ribozymes can now be viewed in their larger, more natural context as components of holoenzymes that include encoded maturase proteins. These studies expand our understanding of group II intron structural diversity and evolution, while setting the stage for rigorous mechanistic analysis of RNA splicing machines.

Visualizing the secondary and tertiary architectural domains of lncRNA RepA

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are important for gene expression, but little is known about their structures. RepA is a 1.6-kb mouse lncRNA comprising the same sequence as the 5' region of Xist, including A and F repeats. It has been proposed to facilitate the initiation and spread of X-chromosome inactivation, although its exact role is poorly understood. To gain insight into the molecular mechanism of RepA and Xist, we determined a complete phylogenetically validated secondary-structural map of RepA through SHAPE and DMS chemical probing of a homogeneously folded RNA in vitro. We combined UV-cross-linking experiments with RNA modeling methods to produce a three-dimensional model of RepA functional domains demonstrating that tertiary architecture exists within lncRNA molecules and occurs within specific functional modules. This work provides a foundation for understanding of the evolution and functional properties of RepA and Xist and offers a framework for exploring architectural features of other lncRNAs.

Group II introns: versatile ribozymes and retroelements

Group II introns are catalytic RNAs (ribozymes) and retroelements found in the genomes of bacteria, archaebacteria, and organelles of some eukaryotes. The prototypical retroelement form consists of a structurally conserved RNA and a multidomain reverse transcriptase protein, which interact with each other to mediate splicing and mobility reactions. A wealth of biochemical, cross-linking, and X-ray crystal structure studies have helped to reveal how the two components cooperate to carry out the splicing and mobility reactions. In addition to the standard retroelement form, group II introns have evolved into derivative forms by either losing specific splicing or mobility characteristics, or becoming functionally specialized. Of particular interest are the eukaryotic derivatives-the spliceosome, spliceosomal introns, and non-LTR retroelements-which together make up approximately half of the human genome. On a practical level, the properties of group II introns have been exploited to develop group II intron-based biotechnological tools. WIREs RNA 2016, 7:341-355. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1339 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.

Crystal structure of group II intron domain 1 reveals a template for RNA assembly

Although the importance of large noncoding RNAs is increasingly appreciated, our understanding of their structures and architectural dynamics remains limited. In particular, we know little about RNA folding intermediates and how they facilitate the productive assembly of RNA tertiary structures. Here, we report the crystal structure of an obligate intermediate that is required during the earliest stages of group II intron folding. Composed of domain 1 from the Oceanobacillus iheyensis group II intron (266 nucleotides), this intermediate retains native-like features but adopts a compact conformation in which the active site cleft is closed. Transition between this closed and the open (native) conformation is achieved through discrete rotations of hinge motifs in two regions of the molecule. The open state is then stabilized by sequential docking of downstream intron domains, suggesting a 'first come, first folded' strategy that may represent a generalizable pathway for assembly of large RNA and ribonucleoprotein structures.

The role of Mg(II) in DNA cleavage site recognition in group II intron ribozymes: solution structure and metal ion binding sites of the RNA-DNA complex

Group II intron ribozymes catalyze the cleavage of (and their reinsertion into) DNA and RNA targets using a Mg2(+)-dependent reaction. The target is cleaved 3' to the last nucleotide of intron binding site 1 (IBS1), one of three regions that form base pairs with the intron's exon binding sites (EBS1 to -3).We solved the NMR solution structure of the d3' hairpin of the Sc.ai5γ intron containing EBS1 in its 11-nucleotide loop in complex with the dIBS1 DNA 7-mer and compare it with the analogous RNA-RNA contact. The EBS1-dIBS1 helix is slightly flexible and non-symmetric. NMR data reveal two major groove binding sites for divalent metal ions at the EBS1-dIBS1 helix, and surface plasmon resonance experiments show that low concentrations of Mg2(+) considerably enhance the affinity of dIBS1 for EBS1. Our results indicate that identification of both RNA and DNA IBS1 targets, presentation of the scissile bond, and stabilization of the structure by metal ions are governed by the overall structure of EBS1-dIBS1 and the surrounding loop nucleotides but are irrespective of different EBS1-(d)IBS1 geometries and interstrand affinities.

Looking at LncRNAs with the ribozyme toolkit

A diverse population of large RNA molecules controls every aspect of cellular function, and yet we know very little about their molecular structures. However, robust technologies developed for visualizing ribozymes and riboswitches, together with new approaches for mapping RNA inside cells, provide the foundation for visualizing the structures of long noncoding RNAs, mRNAs, and viral RNAs, thereby facilitating new mechanistic insights.

Mapping RNA structure in vitro using nucleobase-specific probes

RNAs have to adopt specific three-dimensional structures to fulfill their biological functions. Therefore exploring RNA structure is of interest to understand RNA-dependent processes. Chemical probing in vitro is a very powerful tool to investigate RNA molecules under a variety of conditions. Among the most frequently used chemical reagents are the nucleobase-specific probes dimethyl sulfate (DMS), 1-cyclohexyl-3-(2-morpholinoethyl) carbodiimide metho-p-toluenesulfonate (CMCT) and β-ethoxy-α-ketobutyraldehyde (kethoxal). These chemical reagents modify nucleotides which are not involved in hydrogen bonding or protected by a ligand, such as proteins or metabolites. Upon performing modification reactions with all three chemicals the accessibility of all four nucleobases can be determined. With this fast and inexpensive method local changes in RNA secondary and tertiary structure, as well as the formation of contacts between RNA and its ligands can be detected independent of the RNA's length.

Principles of ion recognition in RNA: insights from the group II intron structures

Metal ions promote both RNA folding and catalysis, thus being essential in stabilizing the structure and determining the function of large RNA molecules, including group II introns. The latter are self-splicing metalloribozymes, containing a heteronuclear four-metal-ion center within the active site. In addition to these catalytic ions, group II introns bind many other structural ions, including delocalized ions that bind the RNA diffusively and well-ordered ions that bind the RNA tightly with high occupancy. The latter ions, which can be studied by biophysical methods, have not yet been analyzed systematically. Here, we compare crystal structures of the group IIC intron from Oceanobacillus iheyensis and classify numerous site-bound ions, which are primarily localized in the intron core and near long-range tertiary contacts. Certain ion-binding sites resemble motifs observed in known RNA structures, while others are idiosyncratic to the group II intron. Particularly interesting are (1) ions proximal to the active site, which may participate in splicing together with the catalytic four-metal-ion center, (2) organic ions that bind regions predicted to interact with intron-encoded proteins, and (3) unusual monovalent ions bound to GU wobble pairs, GA mismatches, the S-turn, the tetraloop-receptor, and the T-loop. Our analysis extends the general principles by which ions participate in RNA structural organization and it will aid in the determination and interpretation of future RNA structures.

A hierarchical model for assembly of eukaryotic 60S ribosomal subunit domains

Despite having structures for eukaryotic large ribosomal subunits, it has been unclear how these ribonucleoprotein complexes are constructed in living cells. Here, Gamalinda et al. used proteomics to assay changes in the levels of ribosomal protein and assembly factors in preribosomes upon depletion of ribosomal proteins that function in 60S assembly. The results show that the eukaryotic 60S ribosomal subunits are assembled in a hierarchical fashion. This study further reveals striking differences and similarities between bacterial and eukaryotic large ribosomal subunits, providing insights into the evolution of RNA–protein particles.

Despite having high-resolution structures for eukaryotic large ribosomal subunits, it remained unclear how these ribonucleoprotein complexes are constructed in living cells. Nevertheless, knowing where ribosomal proteins interact with ribosomal RNA (rRNA) provides a strategic platform to investigate the connection between spatial and temporal aspects of 60S subunit biogenesis. We previously found that the function of individual yeast large subunit ribosomal proteins (RPLs) in precursor rRNA (pre-rRNA) processing correlates with their location in the structure of mature 60S subunits. This observation suggested that there is an order by which 60S subunits are formed. To test this model, we used proteomic approaches to assay changes in the levels of ribosomal proteins and assembly factors in preribosomes when RPLs functioning in early, middle, and late steps of pre-60S assembly are depleted. Our results demonstrate that structural domains of eukaryotic 60S ribosomal subunits are formed in a hierarchical fashion. Assembly begins at the convex solvent side, followed by the polypeptide exit tunnel, the intersubunit side, and finally the central protuberance. This model provides an initial paradigm for the sequential assembly of eukaryotic 60S subunits. Our results reveal striking differences and similarities between assembly of bacterial and eukaryotic large ribosomal subunits, providing insights into how these RNA–protein particles evolved.

Sizing up long non-coding RNAs: do lncRNAs have secondary and tertiary structure?

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a key role in many important areas of epigenetics, stem cell biology, cancer, signaling and brain function. This emerging class of RNAs constitutes a large fraction of the transcriptome, with thousands of new lncRNAs reported each year. The molecular mechanisms of these RNAs are not well understood. Currently, very little structural data exist. We review the available lncRNA sequence and secondary structure data. Since almost no tertiary information is available for lncRNAs, we review crystallographic structures for other RNA systems and discuss the possibilities for lncRNAs in the context of existing constraints.

Chemical probing of RNA in living cells

RNAs need to adopt a specific architecture to exert their task in cells. While significant progress has been made in describing RNA folding landscapes in vitro, understanding intracellular RNA structure formation is still in its infancy. This is in part due to the complex nature of the cellular environment but also to the limited availability of suitable methodologies. To assess the intracellular structure of large RNAs, we recently applied a chemical probing technique and a metal-induced cleavage assay in vivo. These methods are based on the fact that small molecules, like dimethyl sulfate (DMS), or metal ions, such as Pb(2+), penetrate and spread throughout the cell very fast. Hence, these chemicals are able to modify accessible RNA residues or to induce cleavage of the RNA strand in the vicinity of a metal ion in living cells. Mapping of these incidents allows inferring information on the intracellular conformation, metal ion binding sites or ligand-induced structural changes of the respective RNA molecule. Importantly, in vivo chemical probing can be easily adapted to study RNAs in different cell types.

Visualizing the ai5γ group IIB intron

It has become apparent that much of cellular metabolism is controlled by large well-folded noncoding RNA molecules. In addition to crystallographic approaches, computational methods are needed for visualizing the 3D structure of large RNAs. Here, we modeled the molecular structure of the ai5γ group IIB intron from yeast using the crystal structure of a bacterial group IIC homolog. This was accomplished by adapting strategies for homology and de novo modeling, and creating a new computational tool for RNA refinement. The resulting model was validated experimentally using a combination of structure-guided mutagenesis and RNA structure probing. The model provides major insights into the mechanism and regulation of splicing, such as the position of the branch-site before and after the second step of splicing, and the location of subdomains that control target specificity, underscoring the feasibility of modeling large functional RNA molecules.

Group II intron-ribosome association protects intron RNA from degradation

The influence of the cellular environment on the structures and properties of catalytic RNAs is not well understood, despite great interest in ribozyme function. Here we report on ribosome association of group II introns, which are ribozymes that are important because of their putative ancestry to spliceosomal introns and retrotransposons, their retromobility via an RNA intermediate, and their application as gene delivery agents. We show that group II intron RNA, in complex with the intron-encoded protein from the native Lactoccocus lactis host, associates strongly with ribosomes in vivo. Ribosomes have little effect on intron ribozyme activities; rather, the association with host ribosomes protects the intron RNA against degradation by RNase E, an enzyme previously shown to be a silencer of retromobility in Escherichia coli. The ribosome interacts strongly with the intron, exerting protective effects in vivo and in vitro, as demonstrated by genetic and biochemical experiments. These results are consistent with the ribosome influencing the integrity of catalytic RNAs in bacteria in the face of degradative nucleases that regulate intron mobility.

Predicted group II intron lineages E and F comprise catalytically active ribozymes

Group II introns are self-splicing, retrotransposable ribozymes that contribute to gene expression and evolution in most organisms. The ongoing identification of new group II introns and recent bioinformatic analyses have suggested that there are novel lineages, which include the group IIE and IIF introns. Because the function and biochemical activity of group IIE and IIF introns have never been experimentally tested and because these introns appear to have features that distinguish them from other introns, we set out to determine if they were indeed self-splicing, catalytically active RNA molecules. To this end, we transcribed and studied a set of diverse group IIE and IIF introns, quantitatively characterizing their in vitro self-splicing reactivity, ionic requirements, and reaction products. In addition, we used mutational analysis to determine the relative role of the EBS-IBS 1 and 2 recognition elements during splicing by these introns. We show that group IIE and IIF introns are indeed distinct active intron families, with different reactivities and structures. We show that the group IIE introns self-splice exclusively through the hydrolytic pathway, while group IIF introns can also catalyze transesterifications. Intriguingly, we observe one group IIF intron that forms circular intron. Finally, despite an apparent EBS2-IBS2 duplex in the sequences of these introns, we find that this interaction plays no role during self-splicing in vitro. It is now clear that the group IIE and IIF introns are functional ribozymes, with distinctive properties that may be useful for biotechnological applications, and which may contribute to the biology of host organisms.

Identification of a chloroplast ribonucleoprotein complex containing trans-splicing factors, intron RNA, and novel components

Maturation of chloroplast psaA pre-mRNA from the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii requires the trans-splicing of two split group II introns. Several nuclear-encoded trans-splicing factors are required for the correct processing of psaA mRNA. Among these is the recently identified Raa4 protein, which is involved in splicing of the tripartite intron 1 of the psaA precursor mRNA. Part of this tripartite group II intron is the chloroplast encoded tscA RNA, which is specifically bound by Raa4. Using Raa4 as bait in a combined tandem affinity purification and mass spectrometry approach, we identified core components of a multisubunit ribonucleoprotein complex, including three previously identified trans-splicing factors (Raa1, Raa3, and Rat2). We further detected tscA RNA in the purified protein complex, which seems to be specific for splicing of the tripartite group II intron. A yeast-two hybrid screen and co-immunoprecipitation identified chloroplast-localized Raa4-binding protein 1 (Rab1), which specifically binds tscA RNA from the tripartite psaA group II intron. The yeast-two hybrid system provides evidence in support of direct interactions between Rab1 and four trans-splicing factors. Our findings contribute to our knowledge of chloroplast multisubunit ribonucleoprotein complexes and are discussed in support of the generally accepted view that group II introns are the ancestors of the eukaryotic spliceosomal introns.

Rise of the RNA machines: exploring the structure of long non-coding RNAs

Novel, profound and unexpected roles of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging in critical aspects of gene regulation. Thousands of lncRNAs have been recently discovered in a wide range of mammalian systems, related to development, epigenetics, cancer, brain function and hereditary disease. The structural biology of these lncRNAs presents a brave new RNA world, which may contain a diverse zoo of new architectures and mechanisms. While structural studies of lncRNAs are in their infancy, we describe existing structural data for lncRNAs, as well as crystallographic studies of other RNA machines and their implications for lncRNAs. We also discuss the importance of dynamics in RNA machine mechanism. Determining commonalities between lncRNA systems will help elucidate the evolution and mechanistic role of lncRNAs in disease, creating a structural framework necessary to pursue lncRNA-based therapeutics.

Throwing a monkey wrench in the motor: targeting DExH/D box proteins with small molecule inhibitors

DExH/D box proteins are molecular motors that utilize the energy derived from NTP hydrolysis to perform work - from helicases that remodel RNA to RNPases that alter RNA-protein complexes. Members of this class of proteins are uniquely placed along the RNA information highway to regulate the flow of genetic information. They have been implicated in a number of nodal points encompassing nuclear, cytoplasmic, and organellar RNA-based processes. The identification and characterization of three unique natural products that selectively inhibit the activity of eukaryotic initiation factor (eIF)4A (DDX2) has provided proof-of-principle that the activity of DExH/D box family members can be selectively targeted. Extending these achievements to other DExH/D box proteins is an important future challenge for drugging this family of proteins. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The Biology of RNA helicases - Modulation for life.

The structural stabilization of the κ three-way junction by Mg(II) represents the first step in the folding of a group II intron

Folding of group II introns is characterized by a first slow compaction of domain 1 (D1) followed by the rapid docking of other domains to this scaffold. D1 compaction initiates in a small subregion encompassing the κ and ζ elements. These two tertiary elements are also the major interaction sites with domain 5 to form the catalytic core. Here, we provide the first characterization of the structure adopted at an early folding step and show that the folding control element can be narrowed down to the three-way junction with the κ motif. In our nuclear magnetic resonance studies of this substructure derived from the yeast mitochondrial group II intron Sc.ai5γ, we show that a high affinity Mg(II) ion stabilizes the κ element and enables coaxial stacking between helices d′ and d′′, favoring a rigid duplex across the three-way junction. The κ-element folds into a stable GAAA-tetraloop motif and engages in A-minor interactions with helix d′. The addition of cobalt(III)hexammine reveals three distinct binding sites. The Mg(II)-promoted structural rearrangement and rigidification of the D1 core can be identified as the first micro-step of D1 folding.

Mss116p: a DEAD-box protein facilitates RNA folding

RNA folding is an essential aspect underlying RNA-mediated cellular processes. Many RNAs, including large, multi-domain ribozymes, are capable of folding to the native, functional state without assistance of a protein cofactor in vitro. In the cell, trans-acting factors, such as proteins, are however known to modulate the structure and thus the fate of an RNA. DEAD-box proteins, including Mss116p, were recently found to assist folding of group I and group II introns in vitro and in vivo. The underlying mechanism(s) have been studied extensively to explore the contribution of ATP hydrolysis and duplex unwinding in helicase-stimulated intron splicing. Here we summarize the ongoing efforts to understand the novel role of DEAD-box proteins in RNA folding.

Cleavage mediated by the catalytic domain of bacterial RNase P RNA

Like other RNA molecules, RNase P RNA (RPR) is composed of domains, and these have different functions. Here, we provide data demonstrating that the catalytic (C) domain of Escherichia coli (Eco) RPR when separated from the specificity (S) domain mediates cleavage using various model RNA hairpin loop substrates. Compared to full-length Eco RPR, the rate constant, k(obs), of cleavage for the truncated RPR (CP RPR) was reduced 30- to 13,000-fold depending on substrate. Specifically, the structural architecture of the -1/+73 played a significant role where a C(-1)/G(+73) pair had the most dramatic effect on k(obs). Substitution of A(248) (E. coli numbering), positioned near the cleavage site in the RNase P-substrate complex, with G in the CP RPR resulted in 30-fold improvement in rate. In contrast, strengthening the interaction between the RPR and the 3' end of the substrate only had a modest effect. Interestingly, although deleting the S-domain gave a reduction in the rate, it resulted in a less erroneous RPR with respect to cleavage site selection. These data support and extend our understanding of the coupling between the distal interaction between the S-domain and events at the active site. Our findings will also be discussed with respect to the structure of RPR derived from different organisms.

Selective forces for the origin of spliceosomes

It has been proposed that eukaryotic spliceosomes evolved from bacterial group II introns via constructive neutral changes. However, a more likely interpretation is that spliceosomes and group II introns share a common undefined RNA ancestor--a proto-spliceosome. Although, the constructive neutral evolution may have probably played some roles in the development of complexity including the evolution of modern spliceosomes, in fact, the origin, losses and the retention of spliceosomes can be explained straight-forwardly mainly by positive and negative selection: (1) proto-spliceosomes evolved in the RNA world as a mechanism to excise functional RNAs from an RNA genome and to join non-coding information (ancestral to exons) possibly designed to be degraded. (2) The complexity of proto-spliceosomes increased with the invention of protein synthesis in the RNP world and they were adopted for (a) the addition of translation signal to RNAs via trans-splicing, and for (b) the exon-shuffling such as to join together exons coding separate protein domains, to translate them as a single unit and thus to facilitate the molecular interaction of protein domains needed to be assembled to functional catalytic complexes. (3) Finally, the spliceosomes were adopted for cis-splicing of (mainly) non-coding information (contemporary introns) to yield translatable mRNAs. (4) Spliceosome-negative organisms (i.e., prokaryotes) have been selected in the DNA-protein world to save a lot of energy. (5) Spliceosome-positive organisms (i.e., eukaryotes) have been selected, because they have been completely spliceosome-dependent.

Raa4 is a trans-splicing factor that specifically binds chloroplast tscA intron RNA

During trans-splicing of discontinuous organellar introns, independently transcribed coding sequences are joined together to generate a continuous mRNA. The chloroplast psaA gene from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii encoding the P(700) core protein of photosystem I (PSI) is split into three exons and two group IIB introns, which are both spliced in trans. Using forward genetics, we isolated a novel PSI mutant, raa4, with a defect in trans-splicing of the first intron. Complementation analysis identified the affected gene encoding the 112.4 kDa Raa4 protein, which shares no strong sequence identity with other known proteins. The chloroplast localization of the protein was confirmed by confocal fluorescence microscopy, using a GFP-tagged Raa4 fusion protein. RNA-binding studies showed that Raa4 binds specifically to domains D2 and D3, but not to other conserved domains of the tripartite group II intron. Raa4 may play a role in stabilizing folding intermediates or functionally active structures of the split intron RNA.

Kinetic characterization of group II intron folding and splicing

Group II introns are large self-splicing ribozymes found in bacterial genomes, in organelles of plants and fungi, and even in some animal organisms. Many organellar group II introns interrupt important housekeeping genes; therefore, their splicing is critical for the survival of the host organism. Group II introns are versatile catalytic RNAs: they facilitate their own excision from a pre-mRNA, they promote ligation of exons to form a translation-competent mature mRNA; they can act like mobile genomic elements and insert themselves into RNA and DNA targets with remarkable precision, which makes them attractive tools for genetic engineering. The first step in characterization of any group II intron is the evaluation of its catalytic activity and its ability to properly fold into the native functionally active structure. This chapter describes kinetic assays used to characterize folding and catalytic properties of group II intron-derived ribozymes.

Contribution of base-pairing interactions between group II intron fragments during trans-splicing in vivo

Group II introns are mobile genetic elements that self-splice from pre-mRNA transcripts. Some fragmented group II introns found in chloroplastic and mitochondrial genomes are able to assemble and splice in trans. The Ll.LtrB group II intron from the Gram-positive bacterium Lactococcus lactis was shown to splice in trans when fragmented at various locations throughout its structure. Here we used Ll.LtrB to assess the contribution of base-pairing interactions between intron fragments during trans-splicing in vivo. By comparing closely located fragmentation sites, we show that Ll.LtrB trans-splices more efficiently when base-pairing interactions can occur between the two intron fragments. Disruptions and stepwise restorations of specific base-pairing interactions between intron fragments resulted respectively in significant reductions and recoveries of the Ll.LtrB trans-splicing efficiency. Finally, although we confirm that LtrA is an important co-factor for trans-splicing, its overexpression cannot compensate for the reduction in trans-splicing efficiency when the potential base-pairing interactions between intron fragments are disrupted. These findings demonstrate the important contribution of base-pairing interactions for the assembly of group II intron fragments during trans-splicing and rationalizes why such interactions were evolutionarily conserved in natural trans-splicing group II introns.

Cleavage mediated by the P15 domain of bacterial RNase P RNA

Independently folded domains in RNAs frequently adopt identical tertiary structures regardless of whether they are in isolation or are part of larger RNA molecules. This is exemplified by the P15 domain in the RNA subunit (RPR) of the universally conserved endoribonuclease P, which is involved in the processing of tRNA precursors. One of its domains, encompassing the P15 loop, binds to the 3'-end of tRNA precursors resulting in the formation of the RCCA-RNase P RNA interaction (interacting residues underlined) in the bacterial RPR-substrate complex. The function of this interaction was hypothesized to anchor the substrate, expose the cleavage site and result in re-coordination of Mg(2+) at the cleavage site. Here we show that small model-RNA molecules (~30 nt) carrying the P15-loop mediated cleavage at the canonical RNase P cleavage site with significantly reduced rates compared to cleavage with full-size RPR. These data provide further experimental evidence for our model that the P15 domain contributes to both substrate binding and catalysis. Our data raises intriguing evolutionary possibilities for 'RNA-mediated' cleavage of RNA.

Activation of RIG-I-like receptor signal transduction

Mammalian cells have the ability to recognize virus infection and mount a powerful antiviral response. Pattern recognition receptor proteins detect molecular signatures of virus infection and activate antiviral signaling cascades. The RIG-I-like receptors are cytoplasmic DExD/H box proteins that can specifically recognize virus-derived RNA species as a molecular feature discriminating the pathogen from the host. The RIG-I-like receptor family is composed of three homologous proteins, RIG-I, MDA5, and LGP2. All of these proteins can bind double-stranded RNA species with varying affinities via their conserved DExD/H box RNA helicase domains and C-terminal regulatory domains. The recognition of foreign RNA by the RLRs activates enzymatic functions and initiates signal transduction pathways resulting in the production of antiviral cytokines and the establishment of a broadly effective cellular antiviral state that protects neighboring cells from infection and triggers innate and adaptive immune systems. The propagation of this signal via the interferon antiviral system has been studied extensively, while the precise roles for enzymatic activities of the RNA helicase domain in antiviral responses are only beginning to be elucidated. Here, current models for RLR ligand recognition and signaling are reviewed.

New insights into the fundamental role of topological constraints as a determinant of two-way junction conformation

Recent studies have shown that topological constraints encoded at the RNA secondary structure level involving basic steric and stereochemical forces can significantly restrict the orientations sampled by helices across two-way RNA junctions. Here, we formulate these topological constraints in greater quantitative detail and use this topological framework to rationalize long-standing but poorly understood observations regarding the basic behavior of RNA two-way junctions. Notably, we show that the asymmetric nature of the A-form helix and the finite length of a bulge provide a physical basis for the experimentally observed directionality and bulge-length amplitude dependence of bulge induced inter-helical bends. We also find that the topologically allowed space can be modulated by variations in sequence, particularly with the addition of non-canonical GU base pairs at the junction, and, surprisingly, by the length of the 5′ and 3′ helices. A survey of two-way RNA junctions in the protein data bank confirms that junction residues have a strong preference to adopt looped-in, non-canonically base-paired conformations, providing a route for extending our bulge-directed framework to internal loop motifs and implying a simplified link between secondary and tertiary structure. Finally, our results uncover a new simple mechanism for coupling junction-induced topological constraints with tertiary interactions.

ATP-dependent roles of the DEAD-box protein Mss116p in group II intron splicing in vitro and in vivo

The yeast DEAD-box protein Mss116p functions as a general RNA chaperone in splicing mitochondrial group I and group II introns. For most of its functions, Mss116p is thought to use ATP-dependent RNA unwinding to facilitate RNA structural transitions, but it has been suggested to assist in the folding of one group II intron (aI5γ) primarily by stabilizing a folding intermediate. Here we compare three aI5γ constructs: one with long exons, one with short exons, and a ribozyme construct lacking exons. The long exons result in slower splicing, suggesting that they misfold and/or stabilize nonnative intronic structures. Nevertheless, Mss116p acceleration of all three constructs depends on ATP and is inhibited by mutations that compromise RNA unwinding, suggesting similar mechanisms. Results of splicing assays and a new two-stage assay that separates ribozyme folding and catalysis indicate that maximal folding of all three constructs by Mss116p requires ATP-dependent RNA unwinding. ATP-independent activation is appreciable for only a subpopulation of the minimal ribozyme construct and not for constructs containing exons. As expected for a general RNA chaperone, Mss116p can also disrupt the native ribozyme, which can refold after Mss116p removal. Finally, using yeast strains with mitochondrial DNA containing only the single intron aI5γ, we show that Mss116p mutants promote splicing in vivo to degrees that correlate with their residual ATP-dependent RNA-unwinding activities. Together, our results indicate that, although DEAD-box proteins play multiple roles in RNA folding, the physiological function of Mss116p in aI5γ splicing includes a requirement for ATP-dependent local unfolding, allowing the conversion of nonfunctional RNA structure into functional RNA structure.

RNA folding in living cells

RNA folding is the most essential process underlying RNA function. While significant progress has been made in understanding the forces driving RNA folding in vitro, exploring the rules governing intracellular RNA structure formation is still in its infancy. The cellular environment hosts a great diversity of factors that potentially influence RNA folding in vivo. For example, the nature of transcription and translation is known to shape the folding landscape of RNA molecules. Trans-acting factors such as proteins, RNAs and metabolites, among others, are also able to modulate the structure and thus the fate of an RNA. Here we summarize the ongoing efforts to uncover how RNA folds in living cells.

DEAD-box protein facilitated RNA folding in vivo

In yeast mitochondria the DEAD-box helicase Mss116p is essential for respiratory growth by acting as group I and group II intron splicing factor. Here we provide the first structure-based insights into how Mss116p assists RNA folding in vivo. Employing an in vivo chemical probing technique, we mapped the structure of the ai5γ group II intron in different genetic backgrounds to characterize its intracellular fold. While the intron adopts the native conformation in the wt yeast strain, we found that the intron is able to form most of its secondary structure, but lacks its tertiary fold in the absence of Mss116p. This suggests that ai5γ is largely unfolded in the mss116-knockout strain and requires the protein at an early step of folding. Notably, in this unfolded state misfolded substructures have not been observed. As most of the protein-induced conformational changes are located within domain D1, Mss116p appears to facilitate the formation of this largest domain, which is the scaffold for docking of other intron domains. These findings suggest that Mss116p assists the ordered assembly of the ai5γ intron in vivo.

A group II intron encodes a functional LAGLIDADG homing endonuclease and self-splices under moderate temperature and ionic conditions

A group II intron encoding a protein belonging to the LAGLIDADG family of homing endonucleases was identified in the mitochondrial rns gene of the filamentous fungus Leptographium truncatum, and the catalytic activities of both the intron and its encoded protein were characterized. A model of the RNA secondary structure indicates that the intron is a member of the IIB1 subclass and the open reading frame is inserted in ribozyme domain III. In vitro assays carried out with two versions of the intron, one in which the open reading frame was removed and the other in which it was present, demonstrate that both versions of the intron readily self-splice at 37 degrees C and at a concentration of MgCl(2) as low as 6 mM. The open reading frame encodes a functional LAGLIDADG homing endonuclease that cleaves 2 (top strand) and 6 (bottom strand) nucleotides (nt) upstream of the intron insertion site, generating 4 nt 3' OH overhangs. In vitro splicing assays carried out in the absence and presence of the intron-encoded protein indicate that the protein does not enhance intron splicing, and RNA-binding assays show that the protein does not appear to bind to the intron RNA precursor transcript. These findings raise intriguing questions concerning the functional and evolutionary relationships of the two components of this unique composite element.

The tertiary structure of group II introns: implications for biological function and evolution

Group II introns are some of the largest ribozymes in nature, and they are a major source of information about RNA assembly and tertiary structural organization. These introns are of biological significance because they are self-splicing mobile elements that have migrated into diverse genomes and played a major role in the genomic organization and metabolism of most life forms. The tertiary structure of group II introns has been the subject of many phylogenetic, genetic, biochemical and biophysical investigations, all of which are consistent with the recent crystal structure of an intact group IIC intron from the alkaliphilic eubacterium Oceanobacillus iheyensis. The crystal structure reveals that catalytic intron domain V is enfolded within the other intronic domains through an elaborate network of diverse tertiary interactions. Within the folded core, DV adopts an activated conformation that readily binds catalytic metal ions and positions them in a manner appropriate for reaction with nucleic acid targets. The tertiary structure of the group II intron reveals new information on motifs for RNA architectural organization, mechanisms of group II intron catalysis, and the evolutionary relationships among RNA processing systems. Guided by the structure and the wealth of previous genetic and biochemical work, it is now possible to deduce the probable location of DVI and the site of additional domains that contribute to the function of the highly derived group IIB and IIA introns.

Nuclearly encoded splicing factors implicated in RNA splicing in higher plant organelles

Plant organelles arose from two independent endosymbiosis events. Throughout evolutionary history, tight control of chloroplasts and mitochondria has been gained by the nucleus, which regulates most steps of organelle genome expression and metabolism. In particular, RNA maturation, including RNA splicing, is highly dependent on nuclearly encoded splicing factors. Most introns in organelles are group II introns, whose catalytic mechanism closely resembles that of the nuclear spliceosome. Plant group II introns have lost the ability to self-splice in vivo and require nuclearly encoded proteins as cofactors. Since the first splicing factor was identified in chloroplasts more than 10 years ago, many other proteins have been shown to be involved in splicing of one or more introns in chloroplasts or mitochondria. These new proteins belong to a variety of different families of RNA binding proteins and provide new insights into ribonucleo-protein complexes and RNA splicing machineries in organelles. In this review, we describe how splicing factors, encoded by the nucleus and targeted to the organelles, take part in post-transcriptional steps in higher plant organelle gene expression. We go on to discuss the potential for these factors to regulate organelle gene expression.

A DEAD-box protein, AtRH36, is essential for female gametophyte development and is involved in rRNA biogenesis in Arabidopsis

DEAD-box RNA helicases are involved in RNA metabolism, including pre-mRNA splicing, ribosome biogenesis, RNA decay and gene expression. In this study, we identified a homolog of the RH36 gene, AtRH36, which encodes a DEAD-box protein in Arabidopsis thaliana. The gene was expressed ubiquitously throughout the plant. The AtRH36 fused to green fluorescent protein was localized in the nucleus. Homozygosity for the Arabidopsis atrh36 mutants, atrh36-1 and atrh36-2, could not be obtained. Progeny of selfed Arabidopsis atrh36 heterozygote plants were obtained at a heterozygote to wild-type ratio of 1 : 1, which suggested that the AtRH36 gene was involved in gametogenesis. Therefore, we performed a reciprocal cross to determine whether AtRH36 was involved in female gametophyte development. Female gametogenesis was delayed in atrh36-1, and asynchronous development of the female gametophytes was found within a single pistil. Knock-down of AtRH36 gave a pleiotropic phenotype and led to the accumulation of unprocessed 18S pre-rRNA. These results suggest that AtRH36 is essential for mitotic division during female gametogenesis and plays an important role in rRNA biogenesis in Arabidopsis.

Comparison of mitochondrial and chloroplast genome segments from three onion (Allium cepa L.) cytoplasm types and identification of a trans-splicing intron of cox2

To study genetic relatedness of two male sterility-inducing cytotypes, the phylogenetic relationship among three cytotypes of onions (Allium cepa L.) was assessed by analyzing polymorphisms of the mitochondrial DNA organization and chloroplast sequences. The atp6 gene and a small open reading frame, orf22, did not differ between the normal and CMS-T cytotypes, but two SNPs and one 4-bp insertion were identified in CMS-S cytotype. Partial sequences of the chloroplast ycf2 gene were integrated in the upstream sequence of the cob gene via short repeat sequence-mediated recombination. However, this chloroplast DNA-integrated organization was detected only in CMS-S. Interestingly, disruption of a group II intron of cox2 was identified for the first time in this study. Like other trans-splicing group II introns in mitochondrial genomes, fragmentation of the intron occurred in domain IV. Two variants of each exon1 and exon2 flanking sequences were identified. The predominant types of four variants were identical in both the normal and the CMS-T cytotypes. These predominant types existed as sublimons in CMS-S cytotypes. Altogether, no differences were identified between normal and CMS-T, but significant differences in gene organization and nucleotide sequences were identified in CMS-S, suggesting recent origin of CMS-T male-sterility from the normal cytotype.