1
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Smith PR, Campbell ZT. RNA-binding proteins in pain. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2024; 15:e1843. [PMID: 38576117 PMCID: PMC11003723 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
RNAs are meticulously controlled by proteins. Through direct and indirect associations, every facet in the brief life of an mRNA is subject to regulation. RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) permeate biology. Here, we focus on their roles in pain. Chronic pain is among the largest challenges facing medicine and requires new strategies. Mounting pharmacologic and genetic evidence obtained in pre-clinical models suggests fundamental roles for a broad array of RBPs. We describe their diverse roles that span RNA modification, splicing, stability, translation, and decay. Finally, we highlight opportunities to expand our understanding of regulatory interactions that contribute to pain signaling. This article is categorized under: RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Interactions: Functional Implications Translation > Regulation RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick R. Smith
- Department of Anaesthesiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA 53792
| | - Zachary T. Campbell
- Department of Anaesthesiology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA 53792
- Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA 53792
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2
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Ye X, Yang W, Yi S, Zhao Y, Varani G, Jankowsky E, Yang F. Two distinct binding modes provide the RNA-binding protein RbFox with extraordinary sequence specificity. Nat Commun 2023; 14:701. [PMID: 36759600 PMCID: PMC9911399 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36394-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Specificity of RNA-binding proteins for target sequences varies considerably. Yet, it is not understood how certain few proteins achieve markedly higher sequence specificity than most others. Here we show that the RNA Recognition Motif of RbFox accomplishes extraordinary sequence specificity by employing functionally and structurally distinct binding modes. Affinity measurements of RbFox for all binding site variants reveal the existence of two distinct binding modes. The first exclusively accommodates cognate and closely related RNAs with high affinity. The second mode accommodates all other RNAs with reduced affinity by imposing large thermodynamic penalties on non-cognate sequences. NMR studies indicate marked structural differences between the two binding modes, including large conformational rearrangements distant from the RNA-binding site. Distinct binding modes by a single RNA-binding module explain extraordinary sequence selectivity and reveal an unknown layer of functional diversity, cross talk and regulation in RNA-protein interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Ye
- Center for RNA Science and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Wen Yang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Greater Bay Biomedical InnoCenter, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Soon Yi
- Center for RNA Science and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Yanan Zhao
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150080, China
| | - Gabriele Varani
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Eckhard Jankowsky
- Center for RNA Science and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
- Moderna Therapeutics, 200 Technology Square, Cambridge, MA, USA.
| | - Fan Yang
- School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, 150080, China.
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3
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Bheemireddy S, Sandhya S, Srinivasan N, Sowdhamini R. Computational tools to study RNA-protein complexes. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:954926. [PMID: 36275618 PMCID: PMC9585174 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.954926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA is the key player in many cellular processes such as signal transduction, replication, transport, cell division, transcription, and translation. These diverse functions are accomplished through interactions of RNA with proteins. However, protein–RNA interactions are still poorly derstood in contrast to protein–protein and protein–DNA interactions. This knowledge gap can be attributed to the limited availability of protein-RNA structures along with the experimental difficulties in studying these complexes. Recent progress in computational resources has expanded the number of tools available for studying protein-RNA interactions at various molecular levels. These include tools for predicting interacting residues from primary sequences, modelling of protein-RNA complexes, predicting hotspots in these complexes and insights into derstanding in the dynamics of their interactions. Each of these tools has its strengths and limitations, which makes it significant to select an optimal approach for the question of interest. Here we present a mini review of computational tools to study different aspects of protein-RNA interactions, with focus on overall application, development of the field and the future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sneha Bheemireddy
- Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Sankaran Sandhya
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Life and Allied Health Sciences, M.S. Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bengaluru, India
- *Correspondence: Sankaran Sandhya, ; Ramanathan Sowdhamini,
| | | | - Ramanathan Sowdhamini
- Molecular Biophysics Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
- National Centre for Biological Sciences, TIFR, GKVK Campus, Bangalore, India
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology, Bangalore, India
- *Correspondence: Sankaran Sandhya, ; Ramanathan Sowdhamini,
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4
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Jouravleva K, Vega-Badillo J, Zamore PD. Principles and pitfalls of high-throughput analysis of microRNA-binding thermodynamics and kinetics by RNA Bind-n-Seq. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2022; 2:100185. [PMID: 35475222 PMCID: PMC9017153 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2022.100185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
RNA Bind-n-Seq (RBNS) is a cost-effective, high-throughput method capable of identifying the sequence preferences of RNA-binding proteins and of qualitatively defining relative dissociation constants. Although RBNS is often described as an unbiased method, several factors may influence the outcome of the analysis. Here, we discuss these biases and present an analytical strategy to estimate absolute binding affinities from RBNS data, extend RBNS to kinetic studies, and develop a framework to compute relative association and dissociation rate constants. As proof of principle, we measured the equilibrium binding properties of mammalian Argonaute2 (AGO2) guided by eight microRNAs (miRNAs) and kinetic parameters for let-7a. The miRNA-binding site repertoires, dissociation constants, and kinetic parameters calculated from RBNS data using our methods correlate well with values measured by traditional ensemble and single-molecule approaches. Our data provide additional quantitative measurements for Argonaute-bound miRNA binding that should facilitate development of quantitative targeting rules for individual miRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Jouravleva
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Joel Vega-Badillo
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Phillip D. Zamore
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
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5
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Gerovac M, Vogel J, Smirnov A. The World of Stable Ribonucleoproteins and Its Mapping With Grad-Seq and Related Approaches. Front Mol Biosci 2021; 8:661448. [PMID: 33898526 PMCID: PMC8058203 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.661448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Macromolecular complexes of proteins and RNAs are essential building blocks of cells. These stable supramolecular particles can be viewed as minimal biochemical units whose structural organization, i.e., the way the RNA and the protein interact with each other, is directly linked to their biological function. Whether those are dynamic regulatory ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) or integrated molecular machines involved in gene expression, the comprehensive knowledge of these units is critical to our understanding of key molecular mechanisms and cell physiology phenomena. Such is the goal of diverse complexomic approaches and in particular of the recently developed gradient profiling by sequencing (Grad-seq). By separating cellular protein and RNA complexes on a density gradient and quantifying their distributions genome-wide by mass spectrometry and deep sequencing, Grad-seq charts global landscapes of native macromolecular assemblies. In this review, we propose a function-based ontology of stable RNPs and discuss how Grad-seq and related approaches transformed our perspective of bacterial and eukaryotic ribonucleoproteins by guiding the discovery of new RNA-binding proteins and unusual classes of noncoding RNAs. We highlight some methodological aspects and developments that permit to further boost the power of this technique and to look for exciting new biology in understudied and challenging biological models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milan Gerovac
- Institute of Molecular Infection Biology (IMIB), University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jörg Vogel
- Institute of Molecular Infection Biology (IMIB), University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Würzburg, Germany
| | - Alexandre Smirnov
- UMR 7156—Génétique Moléculaire, Génomique, Microbiologie (GMGM), University of Strasbourg, CNRS, Strasbourg, France
- University of Strasbourg Institute for Advanced Study (USIAS), Strasbourg, France
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6
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Gu C, Zhao K, Zhou N, Liu F, Xie F, Yu S, Feng Y, Chen L, Yang J, Tian F, Jiang G. UBAC2 promotes bladder cancer proliferation through BCRC-3/miRNA-182-5p/p27 axis. Cell Death Dis 2020; 11:733. [PMID: 32913183 PMCID: PMC7484802 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-020-02935-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Emerging evidences have demonstrated that ubiquitin-associated domain-containing protein 2 (UBAC2) is closely related to the occurrence and development of malignant tumors. However, the functions and underlying molecular mechanisms of UBAC2 in bladder cancer (BC) development have not been defined. In this study, we found that both UBAC2 mRNA and protein levels were upregulated in BC tissues and cell lines, and knockdown of UBAC2 inhibited BC cells proliferation both in vitro and in vivo. Meanwhile, Kaplan-Meier survival plots of 406 BC cases from TCGA database showed that higher expression of UBAC2 in BC patients was associated with lower survival rate. Mechanistic studies revealed that knockdown of UBAC2 increased the expression of p27 by posttranscriptional regulation. Our previous study indicated that circular RNA BCRC-3 (BCRC-3) promoted the expression of p27 through interacting with miR-182-5p, and reversed miR-182-5p-induced inhibition of p27 3'UTR activity. In the present study, we found that UBAC2 could bind to BCRC-3, and subsequently affected the interaction of BCRC-3 with miR-182-5p to inhibit the expression of p27. Furthermore, knockdown of BCRC-3 partly reversed the upregulation of p27 expression induced by knockdown of UBAC2. Our findings highlight a novel mechanism of UBAC2 in regulating p27 through affecting the function of BCRC-3, and provide a research basis for the diagnostic and therapeutic application of BC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaohui Gu
- Departments of Urology, Henan Institute of Urology and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Urological Tumor Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Keyuan Zhao
- Departments of Urology, Henan Institute of Urology and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Urological Tumor Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Naichun Zhou
- Departments of Urology, Henan Institute of Urology and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Urological Tumor Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Feng Liu
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Fei Xie
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266013, China
| | - Shunli Yu
- Departments of Urology, Henan Institute of Urology and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Urological Tumor Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Yongjie Feng
- Departments of Urology, Henan Institute of Urology and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Urological Tumor Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Long Chen
- Departments of Urology, Henan Institute of Urology and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Urological Tumor Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Jinjian Yang
- Departments of Urology, Henan Institute of Urology and Zhengzhou Key Laboratory for Molecular Biology of Urological Tumor Research, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China
| | - Fengyan Tian
- Departments of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, 450052, China.
| | - Guosong Jiang
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.
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7
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Ye X, Jankowsky E. High throughput approaches to study RNA-protein interactions in vitro. Methods 2020; 178:3-10. [PMID: 31494245 PMCID: PMC7071787 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2019.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 09/01/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
To understand the regulation of gene expression it is critical to determine how proteins interact with and discriminate between different RNAs. In this review, we discuss experimental techniques that utilize high throughput approaches to characterize the interactions of proteins with large numbers of RNAs in vitro. We describe the underlying principles for the main methods, briefly discuss their scope and limitations, and outline how insight from the techniques contributes to our understanding of specificity for RNA-protein interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Ye
- Center for RNA Science and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Eckhard Jankowsky
- Center for RNA Science and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States.
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8
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Shukla TN, Song J, Campbell ZT. Molecular entrapment by RNA: an emerging tool for disrupting protein-RNA interactions in vivo. RNA Biol 2020; 17:417-424. [PMID: 31957541 PMCID: PMC7237136 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2020.1717059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
mRNA function is controlled by RNA-binding proteins. The specificity of RNA-binding factors for their targets is critical in that it enables all subsequent regulation. Despite widespread recognition of the pervasive role RNA-binding proteins play in development and disease, they remain challenging to target with small molecules. A renaissance in RNA therapeutics has led to the identification of modifications that substantially increase RNA stability. When combined with information regarding specificity, a new class of oligonucleotide mimics has emerged as a means to competitively disrupt the regulation of endogenous substrates. These decoys have been used to inhibit RNA-binding proteins in living animals. Decoys will likely provide new insights into the expansive roles of RNA-binding proteins in biology and disease. Here, we describe examples where they have been used and discuss how they could be applied to new targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarjani N. Shukla
- The Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas-Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA
| | - Jane Song
- The Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas-Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA
| | - Zachary T. Campbell
- The Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas-Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA
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9
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Chakravarty AK, Smejkal T, Itakura AK, Garcia DM, Jarosz DF. A Non-amyloid Prion Particle that Activates a Heritable Gene Expression Program. Mol Cell 2019; 77:251-265.e9. [PMID: 31757755 PMCID: PMC6980676 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2019.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 08/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Spatiotemporal gene regulation is often driven by RNA-binding proteins that harbor long intrinsically disordered regions in addition to folded RNA-binding domains. We report that the disordered region of the evolutionarily ancient developmental regulator Vts1/Smaug drives self-assembly into gel-like condensates. These proteinaceous particles are not composed of amyloid, yet they are infectious, allowing them to act as a protein-based epigenetic element: a prion [SMAUG+]. In contrast to many amyloid prions, condensation of Vts1 enhances its function in mRNA decay, and its self-assembly properties are conserved over large evolutionary distances. Yeast cells harboring [SMAUG+] downregulate a coherent network of mRNAs and exhibit improved growth under nutrient limitation. Vts1 condensates formed from purified protein can transform naive cells to acquire [SMAUG+]. Our data establish that non-amyloid self-assembly of RNA-binding proteins can drive a form of epigenetics beyond the chromosome, instilling adaptive gene expression programs that are heritable over long biological timescales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anupam K Chakravarty
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University, 269 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Tina Smejkal
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University, 269 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Alan K Itakura
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, 269 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - David M Garcia
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University, 269 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Daniel F Jarosz
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University, 269 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; Department of Developmental Biology, Stanford University, 269 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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10
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Qiu C, Dutcher RC, Porter DF, Arava Y, Wickens M, Hall TM. Distinct RNA-binding modules in a single PUF protein cooperate to determine RNA specificity. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 47:8770-8784. [PMID: 31294800 PMCID: PMC7145691 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkz583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Revised: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PUF proteins, named for Drosophila Pumilio (PUM) and Caenorhabditis elegans fem-3-binding factor (FBF), recognize specific sequences in the mRNAs they bind and control. RNA binding by classical PUF proteins is mediated by a characteristic PUM homology domain (PUM-HD). The Puf1 and Puf2 proteins possess a distinct architecture and comprise a highly conserved subfamily among fungal species. Puf1/Puf2 proteins contain two types of RNA-binding domain: a divergent PUM-HD and an RNA recognition motif (RRM). They recognize RNAs containing UAAU motifs, often in clusters. Here, we report a crystal structure of the PUM-HD of a fungal Puf1 in complex with a dual UAAU motif RNA. Each of the two UAAU tetranucleotides are bound by a Puf1 PUM-HD forming a 2:1 protein-to-RNA complex. We also determined crystal structures of the Puf1 RRM domain that identified a dimerization interface. The PUM-HD and RRM domains act in concert to determine RNA-binding specificity: the PUM-HD dictates binding to UAAU, and dimerization of the RRM domain favors binding to dual UAAU motifs rather than a single UAAU. Cooperative action of the RRM and PUM-HD identifies a new mechanism by which multiple RNA-binding modules in a single protein collaborate to create a unique RNA-binding specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Qiu
- Epigenetics and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Robert C Dutcher
- Epigenetics and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Douglas F Porter
- Program in Epithelial Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Yoav Arava
- Department of Biology, Technion—Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 32000, Israel
| | - Marvin Wickens
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706, USA,Correspondence may also be addressed to Marvin Wickens. Tel: +1 608 263 0858; Fax: +1 608 262 9108;
| | - Traci M Tanaka Hall
- Epigenetics and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA,To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +1 984 287 3556; Fax: +1 310 480 3055;
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11
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de la Peña JBI, Song JJ, Campbell ZT. RNA control in pain: Blame it on the messenger. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2019; 10:e1546. [PMID: 31090211 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
mRNA function is meticulously controlled. We provide an overview of the integral role that posttranscriptional controls play in the perception of painful stimuli by sensory neurons. These specialized cells, termed nociceptors, precisely regulate mRNA polarity, translation, and stability. A growing body of evidence has revealed that targeted disruption of mRNAs and RNA-binding proteins robustly diminishes pain-associated behaviors. We propose that the use of multiple independent regulatory paradigms facilitates robust temporal and spatial precision of protein expression in response to a range of pain-promoting stimuli. This article is categorized under: RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease Translation > Translation Regulation RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Regulation of RNA Stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- June Bryan I de la Peña
- Department of Biological Sciences and the Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas, Dallas, Richardson, Texas
| | - Jane J Song
- Department of Biological Sciences and the Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas, Dallas, Richardson, Texas
| | - Zachary T Campbell
- Department of Biological Sciences and the Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas, Dallas, Richardson, Texas
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12
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Kulandaisamy A, Srivastava A, Kumar P, Nagarajan R, Priya SB, Gromiha MM. Identification and Analysis of Key Residues in Protein-RNA Complexes. IEEE/ACM TRANSACTIONS ON COMPUTATIONAL BIOLOGY AND BIOINFORMATICS 2018; 15:1436-1444. [PMID: 29993582 DOI: 10.1109/tcbb.2018.2834387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Protein-RNA complexes play important roles in various biological processes. The functions of protein-RNA complexes are dictated by their interactions, binding, stability, and affinity. In this work, we have identified the key residues (KRs), which are involved in both stability and binding. We found that 42 percent of considered proteins share common binding and stabilizing residues, whereas these residues are distinct in 58 percent of the proteins. Overall, 5 percent of stabilizing and 3 percent of binding residues serve as key residues. These residues are enriched with the combination of polar, charged, aliphatic, and aromatic residues. Analysis on subclasses of protein-RNA complexes based on protein structural class, function and RNA type showed that regulatory proteins, and complexes with single stranded RNA and rRNA have appreciable number of key residues. Specifically, Arg, Tyr, and Thr are preferred in most of the subclasses of protein-RNA complexes. In addition, residues with similar chemical behavior have different preferences to be KRs, such that Arg, Tyr, Val, and Thr are preferred over Lys, Trp, Ile, and Ser, respectively. Atomic level contacts revealed that charged and polar-nonpolar contacts are dominant in enzymes, polar in structural, and nonpolar in regulatory proteins. On the other hand, polar-nonpolar contacts are enriched in all these classes of protein-RNA complexes. Further, the influence of sequence and structural features such as conservation score, surrounding hydrophobicity, solvent accessibility, secondary structure, and long-range order in key residues are also discussed. We envisage that the present study provides insights to understand the structural and functional aspects of protein-RNA complexes.
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13
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Chen F, Sun H, Wang J, Zhu F, Liu H, Wang Z, Lei T, Li Y, Hou T. Assessing the performance of MM/PBSA and MM/GBSA methods. 8. Predicting binding free energies and poses of protein-RNA complexes. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2018; 24:1183-1194. [PMID: 29930024 PMCID: PMC6097651 DOI: 10.1261/rna.065896.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Molecular docking provides a computationally efficient way to predict the atomic structural details of protein-RNA interactions (PRI), but accurate prediction of the three-dimensional structures and binding affinities for PRI is still notoriously difficult, partly due to the unreliability of the existing scoring functions for PRI. MM/PBSA and MM/GBSA are more theoretically rigorous than most scoring functions for protein-RNA docking, but their prediction performance for protein-RNA systems remains unclear. Here, we systemically evaluated the capability of MM/PBSA and MM/GBSA to predict the binding affinities and recognize the near-native binding structures for protein-RNA systems with different solvent models and interior dielectric constants (εin). For predicting the binding affinities, the predictions given by MM/GBSA based on the minimized structures in explicit solvent and the GBGBn1 model with εin = 2 yielded the highest correlation with the experimental data. Moreover, the MM/GBSA calculations based on the minimized structures in implicit solvent and the GBGBn1 model distinguished the near-native binding structures within the top 10 decoys for 117 out of the 148 protein-RNA systems (79.1%). This performance is better than all docking scoring functions studied here. Therefore, the MM/GBSA rescoring is an efficient way to improve the prediction capability of scoring functions for protein-RNA systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fu Chen
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
- State Key Lab of CAD&CG, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai 200234, China
| | - Huiyong Sun
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Junmei Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15261, USA
| | - Feng Zhu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Hui Liu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
- State Key Lab of CAD&CG, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Tailong Lei
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
| | - Youyong Li
- Institute of Functional Nano and Soft Materials (FUNSOM), Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Tingjun Hou
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
- State Key Lab of CAD&CG, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China
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14
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Global pairwise RNA interaction landscapes reveal core features of protein recognition. Nat Commun 2018; 9:2511. [PMID: 29955037 PMCID: PMC6023938 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-04729-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA–protein interactions permeate biology. Transcription, translation, and splicing all hinge on the recognition of structured RNA elements by RNA-binding proteins. Models of RNA–protein interactions are generally limited to short linear motifs and structures because of the vast sequence sampling required to access longer elements. Here, we develop an integrated approach that calculates global pairwise interaction scores from in vitro selection and high-throughput sequencing. We examine four RNA-binding proteins of phage, viral, and human origin. Our approach reveals regulatory motifs, discriminates between regulated and non-regulated RNAs within their native genomic context, and correctly predicts the consequence of mutational events on binding activity. We design binding elements that improve binding activity in cells and infer mutational pathways that reveal permissive versus disruptive evolutionary trajectories between regulated motifs. These coupling landscapes are broadly applicable for the discovery and characterization of protein–RNA recognition at single nucleotide resolution. RNA–protein interactions often depend on the recognition of extended RNA elements but the identification of these motifs is challenging. Here, the authors present a global integrated approach to analyze RNA–protein binding landscapes, mapping extended RNA interaction motifs for four RNA-binding proteins.
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15
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Gallagher C, Ramos A. Joining the dots - protein-RNA interactions mediating local mRNA translation in neurons. FEBS Lett 2018; 592:2932-2947. [PMID: 29856909 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.13121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 05/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Establishing and maintaining the complex network of connections required for neuronal communication requires the transport and in situ translation of large groups of mRNAs to create local proteomes. In this Review, we discuss the regulation of local mRNA translation in neurons and the RNA-binding proteins that recognise RNA zipcode elements and connect the mRNAs to the cellular transport networks, as well as regulate their translation control. However, mRNA recognition by the regulatory proteins is mediated by the combinatorial action of multiple RNA-binding domains. This increases the specificity and affinity of the interaction, while allowing the protein to recognise a diverse set of targets and mediate a range of mechanisms for translational regulation. The structural and molecular understanding of the interactions can be used together with novel microscopy and transcriptome-wide data to build a mechanistic framework for the regulation of local mRNA translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Gallagher
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, University College London, UK.,The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Andres Ramos
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, University College London, UK
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16
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Harvey RF, Smith TS, Mulroney T, Queiroz RML, Pizzinga M, Dezi V, Villenueva E, Ramakrishna M, Lilley KS, Willis AE. Trans-acting translational regulatory RNA binding proteins. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2018; 9:e1465. [PMID: 29341429 PMCID: PMC5947564 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The canonical molecular machinery required for global mRNA translation and its control has been well defined, with distinct sets of proteins involved in the processes of translation initiation, elongation and termination. Additionally, noncanonical, trans-acting regulatory RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are necessary to provide mRNA-specific translation, and these interact with 5' and 3' untranslated regions and coding regions of mRNA to regulate ribosome recruitment and transit. Recently it has also been demonstrated that trans-acting ribosomal proteins direct the translation of specific mRNAs. Importantly, it has been shown that subsets of RBPs often work in concert, forming distinct regulatory complexes upon different cellular perturbation, creating an RBP combinatorial code, which through the translation of specific subsets of mRNAs, dictate cell fate. With the development of new methodologies, a plethora of novel RNA binding proteins have recently been identified, although the function of many of these proteins within mRNA translation is unknown. In this review we will discuss these methodologies and their shortcomings when applied to the study of translation, which need to be addressed to enable a better understanding of trans-acting translational regulatory proteins. Moreover, we discuss the protein domains that are responsible for RNA binding as well as the RNA motifs to which they bind, and the role of trans-acting ribosomal proteins in directing the translation of specific mRNAs. This article is categorized under: RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA-Protein Complexes Translation > Translation Regulation Translation > Translation Mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tom S. Smith
- Cambridge Centre for Proteomics, Department of BiochemistryUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | | | - Rayner M. L. Queiroz
- Cambridge Centre for Proteomics, Department of BiochemistryUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | | | | | - Eneko Villenueva
- Cambridge Centre for Proteomics, Department of BiochemistryUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | | | - Kathryn S. Lilley
- Cambridge Centre for Proteomics, Department of BiochemistryUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
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17
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Abstract
RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are typically thought of as proteins that bind RNA through one or multiple globular RNA-binding domains (RBDs) and change the fate or function of the bound RNAs. Several hundred such RBPs have been discovered and investigated over the years. Recent proteome-wide studies have more than doubled the number of proteins implicated in RNA binding and uncovered hundreds of additional RBPs lacking conventional RBDs. In this Review, we discuss these new RBPs and the emerging understanding of their unexpected modes of RNA binding, which can be mediated by intrinsically disordered regions, protein-protein interaction interfaces and enzymatic cores, among others. We also discuss the RNA targets and molecular and cellular functions of the new RBPs, as well as the possibility that some RBPs may be regulated by RNA rather than regulate RNA.
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18
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The devil is in the domain: understanding protein recognition of multiple RNA targets. Biochem Soc Trans 2017; 45:1305-1311. [DOI: 10.1042/bst20160362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Revised: 10/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
RNA regulation provides a finely tuned and highly co-ordinated control of gene expression. Regulation is mediated by hundreds to thousands of multi-functional RNA-binding proteins which often interact with large sets of RNAs. In this brief review, we focus on a recent work that highlights how the proteins use multiple RNA-binding domains to interact selectively with the different RNA targets. Deconvoluting the molecular complexity of the RNA regulatory network is essential to understanding cell differentiation and function, and requires accurate models for protein–RNA recognition and protein target selectivity. We discuss that the structural and molecular understanding of the key determinant of recognition, together with the availability of methods to examine protein–RNA interactions at the transcriptome level, may provide an avenue to establish these models.
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19
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Abstract
Cells are highly organized entities that rely on intricate addressing mechanisms to sort their constituent molecules to precise subcellular locations. These processes are crucial for cells to maintain their proper organization and carry out specialized functions in the body, consequently genetic perturbations that clog up these addressing systems can contribute to disease aetiology. The trafficking of RNA molecules represents an important layer in the control of cellular organization, a process that is both highly prevalent and for which features of the regulatory machineries have been deeply conserved evolutionarily. RNA localization is commonly driven by trans-regulatory factors, including RNA binding proteins at the core, which recognize specific cis-acting zipcode elements within the RNA transcripts. Here, we first review the functions and biological benefits of intracellular RNA trafficking, from the perspective of both coding and non-coding RNAs. Next, we discuss the molecular mechanisms that modulate this localization, emphasizing the diverse features of the cis- and trans-regulators involved, while also highlighting emerging technologies and resources that will prove instrumental in deciphering RNA targeting pathways. We then discuss recent findings that reveal how co-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms operating in the nucleus can dictate the downstream cytoplasmic localization of RNAs. Finally, we survey the growing number of human diseases in which RNA trafficking pathways are impacted, including spinal muscular atrophy, Alzheimer's disease, fragile X syndrome and myotonic dystrophy. Such examples highlight the need to further dissect RNA localization mechanisms, which could ultimately pave the way for the development of RNA-oriented diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled "Biochemistry of Synthetic Biology - Recent Developments" Guest Editor: Dr. Ilka Heinemann and Dr. Patrick O'Donoghue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Chin
- Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal (IRCM), 110 Avenue des Pins Ouest, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, 1001 Decarie Boulevard, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Eric Lécuyer
- Institut de recherches cliniques de Montréal (IRCM), 110 Avenue des Pins Ouest, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, 1001 Decarie Boulevard, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Montreal, 2900 Boulevard Edouard-Montpetit, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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20
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Miranda RG, Rojas M, Montgomery MP, Gribbin KP, Barkan A. RNA-binding specificity landscape of the pentatricopeptide repeat protein PPR10. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2017; 23:586-599. [PMID: 28108520 PMCID: PMC5340921 DOI: 10.1261/rna.059568.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) proteins comprise a large family of helical repeat proteins that influence gene expression in mitochondria and chloroplasts. PPR tracts can bind RNA via a modular one repeat-one nucleotide mechanism in which the nucleotide is specified by the identities of several amino acids in each repeat. This mode of recognition, the so-called PPR code, offers opportunities for the prediction of native PPR binding sites and the design of proteins to bind specified RNAs. However, a deep understanding of the parameters that dictate the affinity and specificity of PPR-RNA interactions is necessary to realize these goals. We report a comprehensive analysis of the sequence specificity of PPR10, a protein that binds similar RNA sequences of ∼18 nucleotides (nt) near the chloroplast atpH and psaJ genes in maize. We assessed the contribution of each nucleotide in the atpH binding site to PPR10 affinity in vitro by analyzing the effects of single-nucleotide changes at each position. In a complementary approach, the RNAs bound by PPR10 from partially randomized RNA pools were analyzed by deep sequencing. The results revealed three patches in which nucleotide identity has a major impact on binding affinity. These include 5 nt for which protein contacts were not observed in a PPR10-RNA crystal structure and 4 nt that are not explained by current views of the PPR code. These findings highlight aspects of PPR-RNA interactions that pose challenges for binding site prediction and design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael G Miranda
- Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon 97403, USA
| | - Margarita Rojas
- Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon 97403, USA
| | | | - Kyle P Gribbin
- Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon 97403, USA
| | - Alice Barkan
- Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon 97403, USA
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21
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Comprehensive and quantitative mapping of RNA-protein interactions across a transcribed eukaryotic genome. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:3619-3624. [PMID: 28325876 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1618370114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) control the fate of nearly every transcript in a cell. However, no existing approach for studying these posttranscriptional gene regulators combines transcriptome-wide throughput and biophysical precision. Here, we describe an assay that accomplishes this. Using commonly available hardware, we built a customizable, open-source platform that leverages the inherent throughput of Illumina technology for direct biophysical measurements. We used the platform to quantitatively measure the binding affinity of the prototypical RBP Vts1 for every transcript in the Saccharomyces cerevisiae genome. The scale and precision of these measurements revealed many previously unknown features of this well-studied RBP. Our transcribed genome array (TGA) assayed both rare and abundant transcripts with equivalent proficiency, revealing hundreds of low-abundance targets missed by previous approaches. These targets regulated diverse biological processes including nutrient sensing and the DNA damage response, and implicated Vts1 in de novo gene "birth." TGA provided single-nucleotide resolution for each binding site and delineated a highly specific sequence and structure motif for Vts1 binding. Changes in transcript levels in vts1Δ cells established the regulatory function of these binding sites. The impact of Vts1 on transcript abundance was largely independent of where it bound within an mRNA, challenging prevailing assumptions about how this RBP drives RNA degradation. TGA thus enables a quantitative description of the relationship between variant RNA structures, affinity, and in vivo phenotype on a transcriptome-wide scale. We anticipate that TGA will provide similarly comprehensive and quantitative insights into the function of virtually any RBP.
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22
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Integrated structural biology to unravel molecular mechanisms of protein-RNA recognition. Methods 2017; 118-119:119-136. [PMID: 28315749 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2017.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Revised: 02/19/2017] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
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.
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23
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Deciphering the mRNP Code: RNA-Bound Determinants of Post-Transcriptional Gene Regulation. Trends Biochem Sci 2017; 42:369-382. [PMID: 28268044 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2017.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Revised: 01/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Eukaryotic cells determine the final protein output of their genetic program not only by controlling transcription but also by regulating the localization, translation and turnover rates of their mRNAs. Ultimately, the fate of any given mRNA is determined by the ensemble of all associated RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), non-coding RNAs and metabolites collectively known as the messenger ribonucleoprotein particle (mRNP). Although many mRNA-associated factors have been identified over the past years, little is known about the composition of individual mRNPs and the cooperation of their constituents. In this review we discuss recent progress that has been made on how this 'mRNP code' is established on individual transcripts and how it is interpreted during gene expression in eukaryotic cells.
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24
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Rules of RNA specificity of hnRNP A1 revealed by global and quantitative analysis of its affinity distribution. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:2206-2211. [PMID: 28193894 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1616371114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1 (hnRNP A1) is a multipurpose RNA-binding protein (RBP) involved in normal and pathological RNA metabolism. Transcriptome-wide mapping and in vitro evolution identify consensus hnRNP A1 binding motifs; however, such data do not reveal how surrounding RNA sequence and structural context modulate affinity. We determined the affinity of hnRNP A1 for all possible sequence variants (n = 16,384) of the HIV exon splicing silencer 3 (ESS3) 7-nt apical loop. Analysis of the affinity distribution identifies the optimal motif 5'-YAG-3' and shows how its copy number, position in the loop, and loop structure modulate affinity. For a subset of ESS3 variants, we show that specificity is determined by association rate constants and that variants lacking the minimal sequence motif bind competitively with consensus RNA. Thus, the results reveal general rules of specificity of hnRNP A1 and provide a quantitative framework for understanding how it discriminates between alternative competing RNA ligands in vivo.
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25
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Walia RR, El-Manzalawy Y, Honavar VG, Dobbs D. Sequence-Based Prediction of RNA-Binding Residues in Proteins. Methods Mol Biol 2017; 1484:205-235. [PMID: 27787829 PMCID: PMC5796408 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-6406-2_15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Identifying individual residues in the interfaces of protein-RNA complexes is important for understanding the molecular determinants of protein-RNA recognition and has many potential applications. Recent technical advances have led to several high-throughput experimental methods for identifying partners in protein-RNA complexes, but determining RNA-binding residues in proteins is still expensive and time-consuming. This chapter focuses on available computational methods for identifying which amino acids in an RNA-binding protein participate directly in contacting RNA. Step-by-step protocols for using three different web-based servers to predict RNA-binding residues are described. In addition, currently available web servers and software tools for predicting RNA-binding sites, as well as databases that contain valuable information about known protein-RNA complexes, RNA-binding motifs in proteins, and protein-binding recognition sites in RNA are provided. We emphasize sequence-based methods that can reliably identify interfacial residues without the requirement for structural information regarding either the RNA-binding protein or its RNA partner.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yasser El-Manzalawy
- College of Information Sciences and Technology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Vasant G Honavar
- College of Information Sciences and Technology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Drena Dobbs
- Genetics, Development and Cell Biology Department, Iowa State University, 3112 Molecular Biology Building, Ames, IA, 50011-3650, USA.
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26
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Nicholson CO, Friedersdorf M, Keene JD. Quantifying RNA binding sites transcriptome-wide using DO-RIP-seq. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2017; 23:32-46. [PMID: 27742911 PMCID: PMC5159647 DOI: 10.1261/rna.058115.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2016] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and noncoding RNAs orchestrate post-transcriptional processes through the recognition of specific sites on targeted transcripts. Thus, understanding the connection between binding to specific sites and active regulation of the whole transcript is essential. Many immunoprecipitation techniques have been developed that identify either whole transcripts or binding sites of RBPs on each transcript using cell lysates. However, none of these methods simultaneously measures the strength of each binding site and quantifies binding to whole transcripts. In this study, we compare current procedures and present digestion optimized (DO)-RIP-seq, a simple method that locates and quantifies RBP binding sites using a continuous metric. We have used the RBP HuR/ELAVL1 to demonstrate that DO-RIP-seq can quantify HuR binding sites with high coverage across the entire human transcriptome, thereby generating metrics of relative RNA binding strength. We demonstrate that this quantitative enrichment of binding sites is proportional to the relative in vitro binding strength for these sites. In addition, we used DO-RIP-seq to quantify and compare HuR's binding to whole transcripts, thus allowing for seamless integration of binding site data with whole-transcript measurements. Finally, we demonstrate that DO-RIP-seq is useful for identifying functional mRNA target sets and binding sites where combinatorial interactions between HuR and AGO-microRNAs regulate the fate of the transcripts. Our data indicate that DO-RIP-seq will be useful for quantifying RBP binding events that regulate dynamic biological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cindo O Nicholson
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Center for RNA Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Matthew Friedersdorf
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Center for RNA Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Jack D Keene
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Center for RNA Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
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27
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Re A, Waldron L, Quattrone A. Control of Gene Expression by RNA Binding Protein Action on Alternative Translation Initiation Sites. PLoS Comput Biol 2016; 12:e1005198. [PMID: 27923063 PMCID: PMC5140048 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1005198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcript levels do not faithfully predict protein levels, due to post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression mediated by RNA binding proteins (RBPs) and non-coding RNAs. We developed a multivariate linear regression model integrating RBP levels and predicted RBP-mRNA regulatory interactions from matched transcript and protein datasets. RBPs significantly improved the accuracy in predicting protein abundance of a portion of the total modeled mRNAs in three panels of tissues and cells and for different methods employed in the detection of mRNA and protein. The presence of upstream translation initiation sites (uTISs) at the mRNA 5’ untranslated regions was strongly associated with improvement in predictive accuracy. On the basis of these observations, we propose that the recently discovered widespread uTISs in the human genome can be a previously unappreciated substrate of translational control mediated by RBPs. Gene expression is a dynamic program by which the information stored in the genome is rendered functional by production and degradation of two types of macromolecules, RNAs and proteins. mRNAs are templates for proteins; therefore we expect correspondence between quantities of mRNAs and proteins. Genome-wide studies instead indicate a marked discrepancy between them, when considering their steady-state levels or their variations across different conditions. We employed linear regression approaches with paired mRNA/protein datasets in order to develop a model predicting the protein level of a gene from both the mRNA level and the protein levels of RBPs inferred to bind the mRNA untranslated regions. The results of our analyses restricted the utility of RBPs to improve accuracy of predicted protein abundance to a small fraction of the total modelled genes, and identified a novel association of the improvement induced by RBPs with the presence of upstream translation sites. This finding suggests a new avenue of experimental studies aimed at exploring the hypothesis that RBPs could influence protein abundance by changing the preference for certain translation initiation sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Re
- Laboratory of Translational Genomics, Centre for Integrative Biology, University of Trento, Polo Scientifico e Tecnologico Fabio Ferrari, Trento, Italy
- * E-mail: (AR); (LW); (AQ)
| | - Levi Waldron
- City University of New York Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail: (AR); (LW); (AQ)
| | - Alessandro Quattrone
- Laboratory of Translational Genomics, Centre for Integrative Biology, University of Trento, Polo Scientifico e Tecnologico Fabio Ferrari, Trento, Italy
- * E-mail: (AR); (LW); (AQ)
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28
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Zhang J, Kong L, Guo S, Bu M, Guo Q, Xiong Y, Zhu N, Qiu C, Yan X, Chen Q, Zhang H, Zhuang J, Wang Q, Zhang SS, Shen Y, Chen M. hnRNPs and ELAVL1 cooperate with uORFs to inhibit protein translation. Nucleic Acids Res 2016; 45:2849-2864. [PMID: 27789685 PMCID: PMC5389705 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkw991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Most of our knowledge about translation regulatory mechanisms comes from studies on lower organisms. However, the translation control system of higher organisms is less understood. Here we find that in 5΄ untranslated region (5΄UTR) of human Annexin II receptor (AXIIR) mRNA, there are two upstream open reading frames (uORFs) acting in a fail-safe manner to inhibit the translation from the main AUG. These uORFs are unfavorable for re-initiation after termination of uORF translation. Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A2B1 (hnRNPA2B1), hnRNPA0 and ELAV like RNA binding protein 1 (ELAVL1) bind to the 5΄UTR of AXIIR mRNA. They focus the translation of uORFs on uORF1 and attenuate leaky scanning that bypasses uORFs. The cooperation between the two uORFs and the three proteins formed a multiple fail-safe system that tightly inhibits the translation of downstream AXIIR. Such cooperation between multiple molecules and elements reflects that higher organism develops a complex translation regulatory system to achieve accurate and flexible gene expression control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiewen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Lijuan Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Sichao Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Mengmeng Bu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Qian Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Yuan Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Ning Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Chuan Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Xuejing Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Qian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Hongfei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Junling Zhuang
- Department of Hematology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Qiong Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Xi Jing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710032, China
| | - Samuel S Zhang
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PN 17033, USA
| | - Yan Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Meihong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100005, China
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29
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Lou TF, Weidmann CA, Killingsworth J, Tanaka Hall TM, Goldstrohm AC, Campbell ZT. Integrated analysis of RNA-binding protein complexes using in vitro selection and high-throughput sequencing and sequence specificity landscapes (SEQRS). Methods 2016; 118-119:171-181. [PMID: 27729296 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2016.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2016] [Revised: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) collaborate to control virtually every aspect of RNA function. Tremendous progress has been made in the area of global assessment of RBP specificity using next-generation sequencing approaches both in vivo and in vitro. Understanding how protein-protein interactions enable precise combinatorial regulation of RNA remains a significant problem. Addressing this challenge requires tools that can quantitatively determine the specificities of both individual proteins and multimeric complexes in an unbiased and comprehensive way. One approach utilizes in vitro selection, high-throughput sequencing, and sequence-specificity landscapes (SEQRS). We outline a SEQRS experiment focused on obtaining the specificity of a multi-protein complex between Drosophila RBPs Pumilio (Pum) and Nanos (Nos). We discuss the necessary controls in this type of experiment and examine how the resulting data can be complemented with structural and cell-based reporter assays. Additionally, SEQRS data can be integrated with functional genomics data to uncover biological function. Finally, we propose extensions of the technique that will enhance our understanding of multi-protein regulatory complexes assembled onto RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzu-Fang Lou
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, United States
| | - Chase A Weidmann
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Jordan Killingsworth
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States
| | - Traci M Tanaka Hall
- Epigenetics and Stem Cell Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, United States
| | - Aaron C Goldstrohm
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, United States; Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States
| | - Zachary T Campbell
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, United States.
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Lin HC, Zhao J, Niland CN, Tran B, Jankowsky E, Harris ME. Analysis of the RNA Binding Specificity Landscape of C5 Protein Reveals Structure and Sequence Preferences that Direct RNase P Specificity. Cell Chem Biol 2016; 23:1271-1281. [PMID: 27693057 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2016.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Revised: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
RNA binding proteins (RBPs) are typically involved in non-equilibrium cellular processes, and specificity can arise from differences in ground state, transition state, or product states of the binding reactions for alternative RNAs. Here, we use high-throughput methods to measure and analyze the RNA association kinetics and equilibrium binding affinity for all possible sequence combinations in the precursor tRNA binding site of C5, the essential protein subunit of Escherichia coli RNase P. The results show that the RNA sequence specificity of C5 arises due to favorable RNA-protein interactions that stabilize the transition state for association and bound enzyme-substrate complex. Specificity is further impacted by unfavorable RNA structure involving the C5 binding site in the ground state. The results illustrate a comprehensive quantitative approach for analysis of RNA binding specificity, and show how both RNA structure and sequence preferences of an essential protein subunit direct the specificity of a ribonucleoprotein enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsuan-Chun Lin
- Department of Biochemistry, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Jing Zhao
- Department of Biochemistry, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Courtney N Niland
- Department of Biochemistry, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Brandon Tran
- Department of Biochemistry, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Eckhard Jankowsky
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for RNA Molecular Biology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Michael E Harris
- Department of Biochemistry, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA.
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31
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Shemesh CS, Yu RZ, Gaus HJ, Seth PP, Swayze EE, Bennett FC, Geary RS, Henry SP, Wang Y. Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Investigations of ION-353382, a Model Antisense Oligonucleotide: Using Alpha-2-Macroglobulin and Murinoglobulin Double-Knockout Mice. Nucleic Acid Ther 2016; 26:223-35. [PMID: 27031383 DOI: 10.1089/nat.2016.0607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate the pharmacokinetics (PKs) and pharmacodynamics (PDs) for ION-353382, an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) targeting scavenger receptor class B type I (SRB1) mRNA, using alpha-2-macroglobulin (A2M), murinoglobulin double-knockout (DKO), and wild-type mice. Wild-type and DKO homozygous mice were administered a single subcutaneous injection of ION-353382 at 0, 5, 15, 30, and 60 mg/kg. Mice were sacrificed at 72 h with plasma and organs harvested. Both liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to determine ASO exposure with real-time PCR for SRB1 expression. Immunohistochemistry was evaluated to explore hepatic uptake of ASOs. The total plasma protein binding and profiling was assessed. Finally, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis identified protein expression differences. PK exposures were comparable between wild-type and DKO mice in plasma, liver, and kidney, yet a near twofold reduction in EC50 was revealed for DKO mice based on an inhibitory effect liver exposure response model. Total plasma protein binding and profiling revealed no major dissimilarities between both groups. Plasma proteome fingerprinting confirmed protein expression variations related to A2M. Histological examination revealed enhanced ASO distribution into hepatocytes and less nonparenchymal uptake for DKO mice compared to wild-type mice. Knocking out A2M showed improved PD activities without an effect on total plasma and tissue exposure kinetics. Binding to A2M could mediate ASOs to nonproductive compartments, and thus, decreased binding of ASOs to A2M could potentially improve ASO pharmacology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colby S Shemesh
- 1 Department of Pharmacokinetics and Clinical Pharmacology, Ionis Pharmaceuticals , Carlsbad, California
| | - Rosie Z Yu
- 1 Department of Pharmacokinetics and Clinical Pharmacology, Ionis Pharmaceuticals , Carlsbad, California
| | - Hans J Gaus
- 2 Department of Structural Biology, Ionis Pharmaceuticals , Carlsbad, California
| | - Punit P Seth
- 3 Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Ionis Pharmaceuticals , Carlsbad, California
| | - Eric E Swayze
- 3 Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Ionis Pharmaceuticals , Carlsbad, California
| | - Frank C Bennett
- 4 Department of Research Biology, Ionis Pharmaceuticals , Carlsbad, California
| | - Richard S Geary
- 5 Department of Clinical Development, Ionis Pharmaceuticals , Carlsbad, California
| | - Scott P Henry
- 6 Department of Toxicology, Ionis Pharmaceuticals , Carlsbad, California
| | - Yanfeng Wang
- 1 Department of Pharmacokinetics and Clinical Pharmacology, Ionis Pharmaceuticals , Carlsbad, California
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32
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Brule CE, Dean KM, Grayhack EJ. RNA-ID, a Powerful Tool for Identifying and Characterizing Regulatory Sequences. Methods Enzymol 2016; 572:237-53. [PMID: 27241757 PMCID: PMC6750727 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2016.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2023]
Abstract
The identification and analysis of sequences that regulate gene expression is critical because regulated gene expression underlies biology. RNA-ID is an efficient and sensitive method to discover and investigate regulatory sequences in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, using fluorescence-based assays to detect green fluorescent protein (GFP) relative to a red fluorescent protein (RFP) control in individual cells. Putative regulatory sequences can be inserted either in-frame or upstream of a superfolder GFP fusion protein whose expression, like that of RFP, is driven by the bidirectional GAL1,10 promoter. In this chapter, we describe the methodology to identify and study cis-regulatory sequences in the RNA-ID system, explaining features and variations of the RNA-ID reporter, as well as some applications of this system. We describe in detail the methods to analyze a single regulatory sequence, from construction of a single GFP variant to assay of variants by flow cytometry, as well as modifications required to screen libraries of different strains simultaneously. We also describe subsequent analyses of regulatory sequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Brule
- Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - K M Dean
- Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - E J Grayhack
- Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, United States.
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33
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Abstract
Pumilio is an RNA-binding protein originally identified in Drosophila, with a Puf domain made up of eight Puf repeats, three helix bundles arranged in a rainbow architecture, where each repeat recognizes a single base of the RNA-binding sequence. The eight-base recognition sequence can therefore be modified simply via mutation of the repeat that recognizes the base to be changed and this is understood in detail via high-resolution crystal structures. The binding mechanism is also altered in a variety of homologues from different species, with bases flipped out from the binding site to regenerate a consensus sequence. Thus Pumilios can be designed with bespoke RNA recognition sequences and can be fused to nucleases, split GFP, etc. as tools in vitro and in cells.
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Abstract
Cytoskeleton-dependent RNA transport and local translation in axons are gaining increased attention as key processes in the maintenance and functioning of neurons. Specific axonal transcripts have been found to play roles in many aspects of axonal physiology including axon guidance, axon survival, axon to soma communication, injury response and regeneration. This axonal transcriptome requires long-range transport that is achieved by motor proteins carrying transcripts as messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) complexes along microtubules. Other than transport, the mRNP complex plays a major role in the generation, maintenance, and regulation of the axonal transcriptome. Identification of axonal RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and analyses of the dynamics of their mRNPs are of high interest to the field. Here, we describe methods for the study of interactions between RNA and proteins in axons. First, we describe a protocol for identifying binding proteins for an RNA of interest by using RNA affinity chromatography. Subsequently, we discuss immunoprecipitation (IP) methods allowing the dissection of protein-RNA and protein-protein interactions in mRNPs under various physiological conditions.
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