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Gao M. Me31B: a key repressor in germline regulation and beyond. Biosci Rep 2024; 44:BSR20231769. [PMID: 38606619 PMCID: PMC11065648 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20231769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Maternally Expressed at 31B (Me31B), an evolutionarily conserved ATP-dependent RNA helicase, plays an important role in the development of the germline across diverse animal species. Its cellular functionality has been posited as a translational repressor, participating in various RNA metabolism pathways to intricately regulate the spatiotemporal expression of RNAs. Despite its evident significance, the precise role and mechanistic underpinnings of Me31B remain insufficiently understood. This article endeavors to comprehensively review historic and recent research on Me31B, distill the major findings, discern generalizable patterns in Me31B's functions across different research contexts, and provide insights into its fundamental role and mechanism of action. The primary focus of this article centers on elucidating the role of Drosophila Me31B within the germline, while concurrently delving into pertinent research on its orthologs within other species and cellular systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Gao
- Biology Department, Indiana University Northwest, Gary, IN, U.S.A
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2
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Protein expression reveals a molecular sexual identity of avian primordial germ cells at pre-gonadal stages. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19236. [PMID: 34584135 PMCID: PMC8478952 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98454-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In poultry, in vitro propagated primordial germ cells (PGCs) represent an important tool for the cryopreservation of avian genetic resources. However, several studies have highlighted sexual differences exhibited by PGCs during in vitro propagation, which may compromise their reproductive capacities. To understand this phenomenon, we compared the proteome of pregonadal migratory male (ZZ) and female (ZW) chicken PGCs propagated in vitro by quantitative proteomic analysis using a GeLC-MS/MS strategy. Many proteins were found to be differentially abundant in chicken male and female PGCs indicating their early sexual identity. Many of the proteins more highly expressed in male PGCs were encoded by genes localised to the Z sex chromosome. This suggests that the known lack of dosage compensation of the transcription of Z-linked genes between sexes persists at the protein level in PGCs, and that this may be a key factor of their autonomous sex differentiation. We also found that globally, protein differences do not closely correlate with transcript differences indicating a selective translational mechanism in PGCs. Male and female PGC expressed protein sets were associated with differential biological processes and contained proteins known to be biologically relevant for male and female germ cell development, respectively. We also discovered that female PGCs have a higher capacity to uptake proteins from the cell culture medium than male PGCs. This study presents the first evidence of an early predetermined sex specific cell fate of chicken PGCs and their sexual molecular specificities which will enable the development of more precise sex-specific in vitro culture conditions for the preservation of avian genetic resources.
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Courchaine EM, Barentine AES, Straube K, Lee DR, Bewersdorf J, Neugebauer KM. DMA-tudor interaction modules control the specificity of in vivo condensates. Cell 2021; 184:3612-3625.e17. [PMID: 34115980 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2021.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Biomolecular condensation is a widespread mechanism of cellular compartmentalization. Because the "survival of motor neuron protein" (SMN) is implicated in the formation of three different membraneless organelles (MLOs), we hypothesized that SMN promotes condensation. Unexpectedly, we found that SMN's globular tudor domain was sufficient for dimerization-induced condensation in vivo, whereas its two intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) were not. Binding to dimethylarginine (DMA) modified protein ligands was required for condensate formation by the tudor domains in SMN and at least seven other fly and human proteins. Remarkably, asymmetric versus symmetric DMA determined whether two distinct nuclear MLOs-gems and Cajal bodies-were separate or "docked" to one another. This substructure depended on the presence of either asymmetric or symmetric DMA as visualized with sub-diffraction microscopy. Thus, DMA-tudor interaction modules-combinations of tudor domains bound to their DMA ligand(s)-represent versatile yet specific regulators of MLO assembly, composition, and morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward M Courchaine
- Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Andrew E S Barentine
- Cell Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Korinna Straube
- Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | | | - Joerg Bewersdorf
- Cell Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Biomedical Engineering, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Karla M Neugebauer
- Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Cell Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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4
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Mukherjee N, Mukherjee C. Germ cell ribonucleoprotein granules in different clades of life: From insects to mammals. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2021; 12:e1642. [PMID: 33555143 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Ribonucleoprotein (RNP) granules are no newcomers in biology. Found in all life forms, ranging across taxa, these membrane-less "organelles" have been classified into different categories based on their composition, structure, behavior, function, and localization. Broadly, they can be listed as stress granules (SGs), processing bodies (PBs), neuronal granules (NGs), and germ cell granules (GCGs). Keeping in line with the topic of this review, RNP granules present in the germ cells have been implicated in a wide range of cellular functions including cellular specification, differentiation, proliferation, and so forth. The mechanisms used by them can be diverse and many of them remain partly obscure and active areas of research. GCGs can be of different types in different organisms and at different stages of development, with multiple types coexisting in the same cell. In this review, the different known subcategories of GCGs have been studied with respect to five distinct model organisms, namely, Drosophila, Caenorhabditis elegans, Xenopus, Zebrafish, and mammals. Of them, the cytoplasmic polar granules in Drosophila, P granules in C. elegans, balbiani body in Xenopus and Zebrafish, and chromatoid bodies in mammals have been specifically emphasized upon. A descriptive account of the same has been provided along with insights into our current understanding of their functional significance with respect to cellular events relating to different developmental and reproductive processes. This article is categorized under: RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA-Protein Complexes RNA Export and Localization > RNA Localization RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease.
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Hyjek‐Składanowska M, Bajczyk M, Gołębiewski M, Nuc P, Kołowerzo‐Lubnau A, Jarmołowski A, Smoliński DJ. Core spliceosomal Sm proteins as constituents of cytoplasmic mRNPs in plants. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 103:1155-1173. [PMID: 32369637 PMCID: PMC7540296 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.14792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, research has increasingly focused on the key role of post-transcriptional regulation of messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) function and turnover. As a result of the complexity and dynamic nature of mRNPs, the full composition of a single mRNP complex remains unrevealed and mRNPs are poorly described in plants. Here we identify canonical Sm proteins as part of the cytoplasmic mRNP complex, indicating their function in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression in plants. Sm proteins comprise an evolutionarily ancient family of small RNA-binding proteins involved in pre-mRNA splicing. The latest research indicates that Sm could also impact on mRNA at subsequent stages of its life cycle. In this work we show that in the microsporocyte cytoplasm of Larix decidua, the European larch, Sm proteins accumulate within distinct cytoplasmic bodies, also containing polyadenylated RNA. To date, several types of cytoplasmic bodies involved in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression have been described, mainly in animal cells. Their role and molecular composition in plants remain less well established, however. A total of 222 mRNA transcripts have been identified as cytoplasmic partners for Sm proteins. The specific colocalization of these mRNAs with Sm proteins within cytoplasmic bodies has been confirmed via microscopic analysis. The results from this work support the hypothesis, that evolutionarily conserved Sm proteins have been adapted to perform a whole repertoire of functions related to the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression in Eukaryota. This adaptation presumably enabled them to coordinate the interdependent processes of splicing element assembly, mRNA maturation and processing, and mRNA translation regulation, and its degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malwina Hyjek‐Składanowska
- Department of Cellular and Molecular BiologyNicolaus Copernicus UniveristyLwowska 187‐100TorunPoland
- Centre For Modern Interdisciplinary TechnologiesNicolaus Copernicus UniversityWilenska 487‐100TorunPoland
- Present address:
Laboratory of Protein StructureInternational Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology4 Trojdena St.02‐109WarsawPoland
| | - Mateusz Bajczyk
- Department of Gene ExpressionInstitute of Molecular Biology and BiotechnologyAdam Mickiewicz UniversityUmultowska 89Poznan61‐614Poland
| | - Marcin Gołębiewski
- Centre For Modern Interdisciplinary TechnologiesNicolaus Copernicus UniversityWilenska 487‐100TorunPoland
- Department of Plant Physiology and BiotechnologyNicolaus Copernicus UniveristyLwowska 187‐100TorunPoland
| | - Przemysław Nuc
- Department of Gene ExpressionInstitute of Molecular Biology and BiotechnologyAdam Mickiewicz UniversityUmultowska 89Poznan61‐614Poland
| | - Agnieszka Kołowerzo‐Lubnau
- Department of Cellular and Molecular BiologyNicolaus Copernicus UniveristyLwowska 187‐100TorunPoland
- Centre For Modern Interdisciplinary TechnologiesNicolaus Copernicus UniversityWilenska 487‐100TorunPoland
| | - Artur Jarmołowski
- Department of Gene ExpressionInstitute of Molecular Biology and BiotechnologyAdam Mickiewicz UniversityUmultowska 89Poznan61‐614Poland
| | - Dariusz Jan Smoliński
- Department of Cellular and Molecular BiologyNicolaus Copernicus UniveristyLwowska 187‐100TorunPoland
- Centre For Modern Interdisciplinary TechnologiesNicolaus Copernicus UniversityWilenska 487‐100TorunPoland
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6
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Maccallini P, Bavasso F, Scatolini L, Bucciarelli E, Noviello G, Lisi V, Palumbo V, D'Angeli S, Cacchione S, Cenci G, Ciapponi L, Wakefield JG, Gatti M, Raffa GD. Intimate functional interactions between TGS1 and the Smn complex revealed by an analysis of the Drosophila eye development. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1008815. [PMID: 32453722 PMCID: PMC7289441 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Trimethylguanosine synthase 1 (TGS1) is a conserved enzyme that mediates formation of the trimethylguanosine cap on several RNAs, including snRNAs and telomerase RNA. Previous studies have shown that TGS1 binds the Survival Motor Neuron (SMN) protein, whose deficiency causes spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Here, we analyzed the roles of the Drosophila orthologs of the human TGS1 and SMN genes. We show that the Drosophila TGS1 protein (dTgs1) physically interacts with all subunits of the Drosophila Smn complex (Smn, Gem2, Gem3, Gem4 and Gem5), and that a human TGS1 transgene rescues the mutant phenotype caused by dTgs1 loss. We demonstrate that both dTgs1 and Smn are required for viability of retinal progenitor cells and that downregulation of these genes leads to a reduced eye size. Importantly, overexpression of dTgs1 partially rescues the eye defects caused by Smn depletion, and vice versa. These results suggest that the Drosophila eye model can be exploited for screens aimed at the identification of genes and drugs that modify the phenotypes elicited by Tgs1 and Smn deficiency. These modifiers could help to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying SMA pathogenesis and devise new therapies for this genetic disease. We explored the functional relationships between TGS1 and SMN using Drosophila as model organism. TGS1 is an enzyme that modifies the structure of the 5’-end of several RNAs, including telomerase RNA and the small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) that are required for messenger RNA maturation. The SMN protein regulates snRNAs biogenesis and mutations in human SMN cause Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a devastating disorder characterized by neurodegeneration, progressive paralysis and death. We show that mutations in the Drosophila TGS1 (dTgs1) gene cause lethality, which is rescued by a human TGS1 transgene. We also show that the dTgs1 protein physically interacts with all subunits of the Smn complex, and that downregulation of either dTgs1 or Smn leads to a reduced Drosophila eye size. Notably, overexpression of dTgs1 partially rescues the eye defects caused by Smn knockdown, and vice versa, indicating that these genes cooperate in eye development. These results suggest that the eye model can be exploited for screens aimed at detection of chemical and genetic modifiers of the eye mutant phenotype elicited by dTgs1 and Smn deficiency, providing new clues about SMA pathogenesis and potential therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Maccallini
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “C Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Bavasso
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “C Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Livia Scatolini
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “C Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Gemma Noviello
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “C Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Veronica Lisi
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “C Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Palumbo
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “C Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Simone D'Angeli
- Dipartimento di Biologia Ambientale, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Cacchione
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “C Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cenci
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “C Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Istituto Pasteur, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Ciapponi
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “C Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - James G. Wakefield
- Biosciences/Living Systems Institute, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Maurizio Gatti
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “C Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Istituto di Biologia e Patologia Molecolari (IBPM) del CNR, Rome, Italy
- * E-mail: (MG); (GDR)
| | - Grazia Daniela Raffa
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie “C Darwin”, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- * E-mail: (MG); (GDR)
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7
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Raimer AC, Singh SS, Edula MR, Paris-Davila T, Vandadi V, Spring AM, Matera AG. Temperature-sensitive spinal muscular atrophy-causing point mutations lead to SMN instability, locomotor defects and premature lethality in Drosophila. Dis Model Mech 2020; 13:dmm043307. [PMID: 32501283 PMCID: PMC7325441 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.043307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is the leading genetic cause of death in young children, arising from homozygous deletion or mutation of the survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene. SMN protein expressed from a paralogous gene, SMN2, is the primary genetic modifier of SMA; small changes in overall SMN levels cause dramatic changes in disease severity. Thus, deeper insight into mechanisms that regulate SMN protein stability should lead to better therapeutic outcomes. Here, we show that SMA patient-derived missense mutations in the Drosophila SMN Tudor domain exhibit a pronounced temperature sensitivity that affects organismal viability, larval locomotor function and adult longevity. These disease-related phenotypes are domain specific and result from decreased SMN stability at elevated temperature. This system was utilized to manipulate SMN levels during various stages of Drosophila development. Owing to a large maternal contribution of mRNA and protein, Smn is not expressed zygotically during embryogenesis. Interestingly, we find that only baseline levels of SMN are required during larval stages, whereas high levels of the protein are required during pupation. This previously uncharacterized period of elevated SMN expression, during which the majority of adult tissues are formed and differentiated, could be an important and translationally relevant developmental stage in which to study SMN function. Taken together, these findings illustrate a novel in vivo role for the SMN Tudor domain in maintaining SMN homeostasis and highlight the necessity for high SMN levels at crucial developmental time points that are conserved from Drosophila to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda C Raimer
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Integrative Program for Biological and Genome Sciences, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Suhana S Singh
- Integrative Program for Biological and Genome Sciences, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Maina R Edula
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Tamara Paris-Davila
- Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Vasudha Vandadi
- Integrative Program for Biological and Genome Sciences, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Ashlyn M Spring
- Integrative Program for Biological and Genome Sciences, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - A Gregory Matera
- Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Integrative Program for Biological and Genome Sciences, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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8
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Chang WF, Xu J, Lin TY, Hsu J, Hsieh-Li HM, Hwu YM, Liu JL, Lu CH, Sung LY. Survival Motor Neuron Protein Participates in Mouse Germ Cell Development and Spermatogonium Maintenance. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030794. [PMID: 31991812 PMCID: PMC7037566 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The defective human survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene leads to spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), the most common genetic cause of infant mortality. We previously reported that loss of SMN results in rapid differentiation of Drosophila germline stem cells and mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs), indicating that SMN also plays important roles in germ cell development and stem cell biology. Here, we show that in healthy mice, SMN is highly expressed in the gonadal tissues, prepubertal spermatogonia, and adult spermatocytes, whereas low SMN expression is found in differentiated spermatid and sperm. In SMA-like mice, the growth of testis tissues is retarded, accompanied with gamete development abnormalities and loss of the spermatogonia-specific marker. Consistently, knockdown of Smn1 in spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) leads to a compromised regeneration capacity in vitro and in vivo in transplantation experiments. In SMA-like mice, apoptosis and accumulation of the R-loop structure were significantly elevated, indicating that SMN plays a critical role in the survival of male germ cells. The present work demonstrates that SMN, in addition to its critical roles in neuronal development, participates in mouse germ cell and spermatogonium maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Fang Chang
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan; (W.-F.C.); (T.-Y.L.); (J.H.)
| | - Jie Xu
- Center for Advanced Models for Translational Sciences and Therapeutics, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
| | - Tzu-Ying Lin
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan; (W.-F.C.); (T.-Y.L.); (J.H.)
| | - Jing Hsu
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan; (W.-F.C.); (T.-Y.L.); (J.H.)
| | - Hsiu-Mei Hsieh-Li
- Department of Life Science, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 116, Taiwan;
| | - Yuh-Ming Hwu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 10449, Taiwan;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mackay Medical College, New Taipei City 252, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mackay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing, and Management, Taipei 11260, Taiwan
| | - Ji-Long Liu
- MRC Functional Genomics Unit, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 2JD, UK;
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai 201210, China
| | - Chung-Hao Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 10449, Taiwan;
- Correspondence: (C.-H.L.); (L.-Y.S.)
| | - Li-Ying Sung
- Institute of Biotechnology, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan; (W.-F.C.); (T.-Y.L.); (J.H.)
- Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan
- Animal Resource Center, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (C.-H.L.); (L.-Y.S.)
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van Leeuwen W, Rabouille C. Cellular stress leads to the formation of membraneless stress assemblies in eukaryotic cells. Traffic 2019; 20:623-638. [PMID: 31152627 PMCID: PMC6771618 DOI: 10.1111/tra.12669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
In cells at steady state, two forms of cell compartmentalization coexist: membrane-bound organelles and phase-separated membraneless organelles that are present in both the nucleus and the cytoplasm. Strikingly, cellular stress is a strong inducer of the reversible membraneless compartments referred to as stress assemblies. Stress assemblies play key roles in survival during cell stress and in thriving of cells upon stress relief. The two best studied stress assemblies are the RNA-based processing-bodies (P-bodies) and stress granules that form in response to oxidative, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), osmotic and nutrient stress as well as many others. Interestingly, P-bodies and stress granules are heterogeneous with respect to both the pathways that lead to their formation and their protein and RNA content. Furthermore, in yeast and Drosophila, nutrient stress also leads to the formation of many other types of prosurvival cytoplasmic stress assemblies, such as metabolic enzymes foci, proteasome storage granules, EIF2B bodies, U-bodies and Sec bodies, some of which are not RNA-based. Nutrient stress leads to a drop in cytoplasmic pH, which combined with posttranslational modifications of granule contents, induces phase separation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wessel van Leeuwen
- Hubrecht Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciencesand University Medical Center UtrechtUtrechtthe Netherlands
| | - Catherine Rabouille
- Hubrecht Institute of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciencesand University Medical Center UtrechtUtrechtthe Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Science of Cells and SystemsUniversity Medical Center GroningenGroningenthe Netherlands
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10
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Aquilina B, Cauchi RJ. Modelling motor neuron disease in fruit flies: Lessons from spinal muscular atrophy. J Neurosci Methods 2018; 310:3-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2018.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2017] [Revised: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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11
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Genetic screen identifies a requirement for SMN in mRNA localisation within the Drosophila oocyte. BMC Res Notes 2018; 11:378. [PMID: 29895323 PMCID: PMC5998591 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-018-3496-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) results from insufficient levels of the survival motor neuron (SMN) protein. Drosophila is conducive to large-scale genetic-modifier screens which can reveal novel pathways underpinning the disease mechanism. We tested the ability of a large collection of genomic deletions to enhance SMN-dependent lethality. To test our design, we asked whether our study can identify loci containing genes identified in previous genetic screens. Our objective was to find a common link between genes flagged in independent screens, which would allow us to expose novel functions for SMN in vivo. Results Out of 128 chromosome deficiency lines, 12 (9.4%) were found to consistently depress adult viability when crossed to SMN loss-of-function heterozygotes. In their majority, the enhancing deletions harboured genes that were previously identified as genetic modifiers, hence, validating the design of the screen. Importantly, gene overlap allowed us to flag genes with a role in post-transcriptional regulation of mRNAs that are crucial for determining the axes of the oocyte and future embryo. We find that SMN is also required for the correct localisation of gurken and oskar mRNAs in oocytes. These findings extend the role of SMN in oogenesis by identifying a key requirement for mRNA trafficking. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13104-018-3496-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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12
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Jiang D, Zou X, Zhang C, Chen J, Li Z, Wang Y, Deng Z, Wang L, Chen S. Gemin5 plays a role in unassembled-U1 snRNA disposal in SMN-deficient cells. FEBS Lett 2018. [PMID: 29537490 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.13031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Gemin5 acts as a U1 small nuclear RNA (snRNA)-binding protein in U1 small nuclear ribonucleic protein (snRNP) biogenesis. Here, we report a role for Gemin5 in unassembled U1 snRNP disposal under survival of motor neuron (SMN) protein-deficient conditions. We demonstrate that non-Sm protein-associated U1 snRNA and U1A are enriched in cytoplasmic granules and colocalize to P bodies in SMN-deficient cells. Immunoprecipitation assays show increased associations of the U1 snRNP component U1A with P body components and Gemin5 in SMN-deficient cells. More importantly, Gemin5 knockdown eliminates the unassembled U1 snRNP granules and rescues U1 snRNA levels in SMN-deficient cells. Taken together, our study provides direct evidence that Gemin5 is involved in unassembled-U1 snRNA disposal under conditions of SMN deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongxu Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Brain Center, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, China
- Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Xuan Zou
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Brain Center, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Brain Center, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, China
| | - Jincao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Brain Center, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, China
| | - Zhiqiang Li
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Brain Center, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, China
| | - Yunfu Wang
- Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
| | - Zixin Deng
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Brain Center, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, China
| | - Liangrong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Brain Center, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, China
| | - Shi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Brain Center, Zhongnan Hospital, Wuhan University, China
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13
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Abstract
Gemin3, also known as DDX20 or DP103, is a DEAD-box RNA helicase which is involved in more than one cellular process. Though RNA unwinding has been determined in vitro, it is surprisingly not required for all of its activities in cellular metabolism. Gemin3 is an essential gene, present in Amoeba and Metazoa. The highly conserved N-terminus hosts the helicase core, formed of the helicase- and DEAD-domains, which, based on crystal structure determination, have key roles in RNA binding. The C-terminus of Gemin3 is highly divergent between species and serves as the interaction site for several accessory factors that could recruit Gemin3 to its target substrates and/or modulate its function. This review article focuses on the known roles of Gemin3, first as a core member of the survival motor neuron (SMN) complex, in small nuclear ribonucleoprotein biogenesis. Although mechanistic details are lacking, a critical function for Gemin3 in this pathway is supported by numerous in vitro and in vivo studies. Gene expression activities of Gemin3 are next underscored, mainly messenger ribonucleoprotein trafficking, gene silencing via microRNA processing, and transcriptional regulation. The involvement of Gemin3 in abnormal cell signal transduction pathways involving p53 and NF-κB is also highlighted. Finally, the clinical implications of Gemin3 deregulation are discussed including links to spinal muscular atrophy, poliomyelitis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and cancer. Impressive progress made over the past two decades since the discovery of Gemin3 bodes well for further work that refines the mechanism(s) underpinning its multiple activities.
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14
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Liu JL. The Cytoophidium and Its Kind: Filamentation and Compartmentation of Metabolic Enzymes. Annu Rev Cell Dev Biol 2016; 32:349-372. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-cellbio-111315-124907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Long Liu
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3PT, United Kingdom;
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China;
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15
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Hyjek M, Wojciechowska N, Rudzka M, Kołowerzo-Lubnau A, Smoliński DJ. Spatial regulation of cytoplasmic snRNP assembly at the cellular level. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2015; 66:7019-30. [PMID: 26320237 PMCID: PMC4765780 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erv399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs) play a crucial role in pre-mRNA splicing in all eukaryotic cells. In contrast to the relatively broad knowledge on snRNP assembly within the nucleus, the spatial organization of the cytoplasmic stages of their maturation remains poorly understood. Nevertheless, sparse research indicates that, similar to the nuclear steps, the crucial processes of cytoplasmic snRNP assembly may also be strictly spatially regulated. In European larch microsporocytes, it was determined that the cytoplasmic assembly of snRNPs within a cell might occur in two distinct spatial manners, which depend on the rate of de novo snRNP formation in relation to the steady state of these particles within the nucleus. During periods of moderate expression of splicing elements, the cytoplasmic assembly of snRNPs occurred diffusely throughout the cytoplasm. Increased expression of both Sm proteins and U snRNA triggered the accumulation of these particles within distinct, non-membranous RNP-rich granules, which are referred to as snRNP-rich cytoplasmic bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malwina Hyjek
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Lwowska 1, Toruń, 87-100, Poland Centre For Modern Interdisciplinary Technologies, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Wileńska 4, 87-100 Toruń Poland
| | - Natalia Wojciechowska
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Lwowska 1, Toruń, 87-100, Poland Department of General Botany, Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Biology, A. Mickiewicz University, Umultowska 89, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
| | - Magda Rudzka
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Lwowska 1, Toruń, 87-100, Poland Centre For Modern Interdisciplinary Technologies, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Wileńska 4, 87-100 Toruń Poland
| | - Agnieszka Kołowerzo-Lubnau
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Lwowska 1, Toruń, 87-100, Poland Centre For Modern Interdisciplinary Technologies, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Wileńska 4, 87-100 Toruń Poland
| | - Dariusz Jan Smoliński
- Department of Cell Biology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Lwowska 1, Toruń, 87-100, Poland Centre For Modern Interdisciplinary Technologies, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Wileńska 4, 87-100 Toruń Poland
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16
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Edens BM, Ajroud-Driss S, Ma L, Ma YC. Molecular mechanisms and animal models of spinal muscular atrophy. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 2015; 1852:685-92. [PMID: 25088406 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2014.07.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2014] [Revised: 07/21/2014] [Accepted: 07/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), the leading genetic cause of infant mortality, is characterized by the degeneration of spinal motor neurons and muscle atrophy. Although the genetic cause of SMA has been mapped to the Survival Motor Neuron1 (SMN1) gene, mechanisms underlying selective motor neuron degeneration in SMA remain largely unknown. Here we review the latest developments and our current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying SMA pathogenesis, focusing on the animal model systems that have been developed, as well as new diagnostic and treatment strategies that have been identified using these model systems. This article is part of a special issue entitled: Neuromuscular Diseases: Pathology and Molecular Pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany M Edens
- Departments of Pediatrics, Neurology and Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago Research Center, IL 60611, Chicago
| | | | - Long Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410078, China
| | - Yong-Chao Ma
- Departments of Pediatrics, Neurology and Physiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago Research Center, IL 60611, Chicago.
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17
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Tastan ÖY, Liu JL. Visualizing Cytoophidia Expression in Drosophila Follicle Cells via Immunohistochemistry. Methods Mol Biol 2015; 1328:179-189. [PMID: 26324438 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-2851-4_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
We describe a user-friendly immunohistochemical approach for the detection of protein localization in Drosophila ovaries, here focusing on CTP synthase. This approach mainly uses fluorescently labeled antibodies to detect single, double, or multiple antigens. We provide a step-by-step protocol with detailed notes and tips, a simplified method that can also be adapted to detect protein localization beyond Drosophila ovaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ömür Y Tastan
- MRC Functional Genomics Unit, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3PT, UK
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18
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Kloc M, Jedrzejowska I, Tworzydlo W, Bilinski SM. Balbiani body, nuage and sponge bodies--term plasm pathway players. ARTHROPOD STRUCTURE & DEVELOPMENT 2014; 43:341-8. [PMID: 24398038 DOI: 10.1016/j.asd.2013.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2013] [Revised: 11/28/2013] [Accepted: 12/18/2013] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
In many animal species, germ cells are specified by maternally provided, often asymmetrically localized germ cell determinant, termed the germ plasm. It has been shown that in model organisms such as Xenopus laevis, Danio rerio and Drosophila melanogaster germ plasm components (various proteins, mRNAs and mitochondria) are delivered to the proper position within the egg cell by germline specific organelles, i.e. Balbiani bodies, nuage accumulations and/or sponge bodies. In the present article, we review the current knowledge on morphology, molecular composition and functioning of these organelles in main lineages of arthropods and different ovary types on the backdrop of data derived from the studies of the model vertebrate species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malgorzata Kloc
- The Houston Methodist Hospital, The Houston Methodist Hospital Research Institute, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Izabela Jedrzejowska
- Department of Animal Developmental Biology, Institute of Experimental Biology, University of Wroclaw, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Waclaw Tworzydlo
- Department of Developmental Biology and Morphology of Invertebrates, Institute of Zoology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland
| | - Szczepan M Bilinski
- Department of Developmental Biology and Morphology of Invertebrates, Institute of Zoology, Jagiellonian University, Krakow, Poland.
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19
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Cauchi RJ. Gem depletion: amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and spinal muscular atrophy crossover. CNS Neurosci Ther 2014; 20:574-81. [PMID: 24645792 DOI: 10.1111/cns.12242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2013] [Revised: 01/25/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The determining factor of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), the most common motor neuron degenerative disease of childhood, is the survival motor neuron (SMN) protein. SMN and its Gemin associates form a complex that is indispensible for the biogenesis of small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs), which constitute the building blocks of spliceosomes. It is as yet unclear whether a decreased capacity of SMN in snRNP assembly, and, hence, transcriptome abnormalities, account for the specific neuromuscular phenotype in SMA. Across metazoa, the SMN-Gemins complex concentrates in multiple nuclear gems that frequently neighbour or overlap Cajal bodies. The number of gems has long been known to be a faithful indicator of SMN levels, which are linked to SMA severity. Intriguingly, a flurry of recent studies have revealed that depletion of this nuclear structure is also a signature feature of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the most common adult-onset motor neuron disease. This review discusses such a surprising crossover in addition to highlighting the most recent work on the intricate world of spliceosome building, which seems to be at the heart of motor neuron physiology and survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben J Cauchi
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, University of Malta, Msida 2080, Malta
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20
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SMN is required for the maintenance of embryonic stem cells and neuronal differentiation in mice. Brain Struct Funct 2014; 220:1539-53. [PMID: 24633826 DOI: 10.1007/s00429-014-0743-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2013] [Accepted: 02/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Survival motor neuron (SMN) is the determining factor in spinal muscular atrophy, the most common genetic cause of childhood mortality. We have previously found that SMN regulates stem cell division, proliferation and differentiation in Drosophila. However, it is unknown whether a similar effect exists in vertebrates. Here, we show that SMN is enriched in highly proliferative embryonic stem cells (ESCs) in mice and reduction of SMN impairs the pluripotency of ESCs. Moreover, we find that SMN reduction activates ERK signaling and affects neuronal differentiation in vitro. Teratomas with reduced SMN grow more slowly and show weaker signals of neuronal differentiation than those with a normal level of SMN. Finally, we show that over-expression of SMN is protective for ESCs from retinoic acid-induced differentiation. Taken together, our results suggest that SMN plays a role in the maintenance of pluripotent ESCs and neuronal differentiation in mice.
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21
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The Gemin associates of survival motor neuron are required for motor function in Drosophila. PLoS One 2013; 8:e83878. [PMID: 24391840 PMCID: PMC3877121 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0083878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2013] [Accepted: 11/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Membership of the survival motor neuron (SMN) complex extends to nine factors, including the SMN protein, the product of the spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) disease gene, Gemins 2-8 and Unrip. The best-characterised function of this macromolecular machine is the assembly of the Sm-class of uridine-rich small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) particles and each SMN complex member has a key role during this process. So far, however, only little is known about the function of the individual Gemin components in vivo. Here, we make use of the Drosophila model organism to uncover loss-of-function phenotypes of Gemin2, Gemin3 and Gemin5, which together with SMN form the minimalistic fly SMN complex. We show that ectopic overexpression of the dead helicase Gem3(ΔN) mutant or knockdown of Gemin3 result in similar motor phenotypes, when restricted to muscle, and in combination cause lethality, hence suggesting that Gem3(ΔN) overexpression mimics a loss-of-function. Based on the localisation pattern of Gem3(ΔN), we predict that the nucleus is the primary site of the antimorphic or dominant-negative mechanism of Gem3(ΔN)-mediated interference. Interestingly, phenotypes induced by human SMN overexpression in Drosophila exhibit similarities to those induced by overexpression of Gem3(ΔN). Through enhanced knockdown we also uncover a requirement of Gemin2, Gemin3 and Gemin5 for viability and motor behaviour, including locomotion as well as flight, in muscle. Notably, in the case of Gemin3 and Gemin5, such function also depends on adequate levels of the respective protein in neurons. Overall, these findings lead us to speculate that absence of any one member is sufficient to arrest the SMN-Gemins complex function in a nucleocentric pathway, which is critical for motor function in vivo.
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22
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Ishikawa H, Nobe Y, Izumikawa K, Yoshikawa H, Miyazawa N, Terukina G, Kurokawa N, Taoka M, Yamauchi Y, Nakayama H, Isobe T, Takahashi N. Identification of truncated forms of U1 snRNA reveals a novel RNA degradation pathway during snRNP biogenesis. Nucleic Acids Res 2013; 42:2708-24. [PMID: 24311566 PMCID: PMC3936765 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkt1271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) plays pivotal roles in pre-mRNA splicing and in regulating mRNA length and isoform expression; however, the mechanism of U1 snRNA quality control remains undetermined. Here, we describe a novel surveillance pathway for U1 snRNP biogenesis. Mass spectrometry-based RNA analysis showed that a small population of SMN complexes contains truncated forms of U1 snRNA (U1-tfs) lacking the Sm-binding site and stem loop 4 but containing a 7-monomethylguanosine 5′ cap and a methylated first adenosine base. U1-tfs form a unique SMN complex, are shunted to processing bodies and have a turnover rate faster than that of mature U1 snRNA. U1-tfs are formed partly from the transcripts of U1 genes and partly from those lacking the 3′ box elements or having defective SL4 coding regions. We propose that U1 snRNP biogenesis is under strict quality control: U1 transcripts are surveyed at the 3′-terminal region and U1-tfs are diverted from the normal U1 snRNP biogenesis pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideaki Ishikawa
- Department of Applied Biological Science, Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai-cho, Fuchu-shi, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan, Metabolome Division, Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology (CREST), Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST), Sanbancho 5, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0075, Japan, Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Sciences and Engineering, Tokyo Metropolitan University, 1-1 Minamiosawa, Hachiouji-shi, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan, Department of Bioengineering, United Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, 3-5-8 Saiwai-cho, Fuchu-shi, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan and Biomolecular Characterization Team, RIKEN Advanced Science Institute, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
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23
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Schisa JA. Effects of stress and aging on ribonucleoprotein assembly and function in the germ line. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2013; 5:231-46. [PMID: 24523207 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Revised: 10/03/2013] [Accepted: 10/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In a variety of cell types, ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes play critical roles in regulating RNA metabolism. The germ line contains RNPs found also in somatic cells, such as processing (P) bodies and stress granules, as well as several RNPs unique to the germ line, including germ granules, nuage, Balbiani bodies, P granules, U bodies, and sponge bodies. Recent advances have identified a conserved response of germ line RNPs to environmental stresses such as nutritional stress and heat shock. The RNPs increase significantly in size based on cytology; their morphology and subcellular localization changes, and their composition changes. These dynamic changes are reversible when stresses diminish, and similar changes occur in response to aging or extended meiotic arrest prior to fertilization of oocytes. Intriguing correlations exist between the dynamics of the RNPs and the microtubule cytoskeleton and its motor proteins, suggesting a possible mechanism for the assembly and dissociation of the large RNP granules. Similarly, coordinated changes of the nuclear membrane and endoplasmic reticulum may also help unravel the regulatory mechanisms of RNP dynamics. Based on their composition, the RNPs are thought to regulate mRNA decay and/or translation, and initial support for some of these roles is now at hand. Ultimately, the question of why RNP remodeling occurs to such a large extent during a variety of stresses and aging remains to be fully answered, but a current attractive hypothesis is that the plasticity promotes the maintenance of oocyte quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Schisa
- Department of Biology, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI, USA
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24
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Klusza S, Novak A, Figueroa S, Palmer W, Deng WM. Prp22 and spliceosome components regulate chromatin dynamics in germ-line polyploid cells. PLoS One 2013; 8:e79048. [PMID: 24244416 PMCID: PMC3820692 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0079048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2013] [Accepted: 09/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
During Drosophila oogenesis, the endopolyploid nuclei of germ-line nurse cells undergo a dramatic shift in morphology as oogenesis progresses; the easily-visible chromosomes are initially polytenic during the early stages of oogenesis before they transiently condense into a distinct '5-blob' configuration, with subsequent dispersal into a diffuse state. Mutations in many genes, with diverse cellular functions, can affect the ability of nurse cells to fully decondense their chromatin, resulting in a '5-blob arrest' phenotype that is maintained throughout the later stages of oogenesis. However, the mechanisms and significance of nurse-cell (NC) chromatin dispersal remain poorly understood. Here, we report that a screen for modifiers of the 5-blob phenotype in the germ line isolated the spliceosomal gene peanuts, the Drosophila Prp22. We demonstrate that reduction of spliceosomal activity through loss of peanuts promotes decondensation defects in NC nuclei during mid-oogenesis. We also show that the Prp38 spliceosomal protein accumulates in the nucleoplasm of nurse cells with impaired peanuts function, suggesting that spliceosomal recycling is impaired. Finally, we reveal that loss of additional spliceosomal proteins impairs the full decondensation of NC chromatin during later stages of oogenesis, suggesting that individual spliceosomal subcomplexes modulate expression of the distinct subset of genes that are required for correct morphology in endopolyploid nurse cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Klusza
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America
| | - Amanda Novak
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America
| | - Shirelle Figueroa
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America
| | - William Palmer
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America
| | - Wu-Min Deng
- Department of Biological Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America
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25
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Moser JJ, Fritzler MJ. Relationship of other cytoplasmic ribonucleoprotein bodies (cRNPB) to GW/P bodies. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2013; 768:213-42. [PMID: 23224973 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-5107-5_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
GW/P body components are involved in the post-transcriptional -processing of messenger RNA (mRNA) through the RNA interference and 5' → 3' mRNA degradation pathways, as well as functioning in mRNA transport and stabilization. It is currently thought that the relevant mRNA silencing and degrading factors are partitioned to these cytoplasmic microdomains thus effecting post-transcriptional regulation and the prevention of accidental degradation of functional mRNA. Although much attention has focused on GW/P bodies, a variety of other cytoplasmic RNP bodies (cRNPB) also have highly specialized functions and have been shown to interact or co-localize with components of GW/P bodies. These cRNPB include neuronal transport RNP granules, stress granules, RNP-rich cytoplasmic germline granules or chromatoid bodies, sponge bodies, cytoplasmic prion protein-induced RNP granules, U bodies and TAM bodies. Of clinical relevance, autoantibodies directed against protein and miRNA components of GW/P bodies have been associated with autoimmune diseases, neurological diseases and cancer. Understanding the molecular function of GW/P bodies and their interactions with other cRNPB may provide clues to the etiology or pathogenesis of diseases associated with autoantibodies directed to these structures. This chapter will focus on the similarities and differences of the various cRNPB as an approach to understanding their functional relationships to GW/P bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna J Moser
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
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26
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Behavioral and electrophysiological outcomes of tissue-specific Smn knockdown in Drosophila melanogaster. Brain Res 2012; 1489:66-80. [PMID: 23103409 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2012.10.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2012] [Revised: 10/17/2012] [Accepted: 10/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Severe reduction in Survival Motor Neuron 1 (SMN1) protein in humans causes Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a debilitating childhood disease that leads to progressive impairment of the neuro-muscular system. Although previous studies have attempted to identify the tissue(s) in which SMN1 loss most critically leads to disease, tissue-specific functions for this widely expressed protein still remain unclear. Here, we have leveraged RNA interference methods to manipulate SMN function selectively in Drosophila neurons or muscles followed by behavioral and electrophysiological analysis. High resolution measurement of motor performance shows profound alterations in locomotor patterns following pan-neuronal knockdown of SMN. Further, locomotor phenotypes can be elicited by SMN knockdown in motor neurons, supporting previous demonstrations of motor neuron-specific SMN function in mice. Electrophysiologically, SMN modulation in muscles reveals largely normal synaptic transmission, quantal release and trans-synaptic homeostatic compensation at the larval neuro-muscular junction. Neuronal SMN knockdown does not alter baseline synaptic transmission, the dynamics of synaptic depletion or acute homeostatic compensation. However, chronic glutamate receptor-dependent developmental homeostasis at the neuro-muscular junction is strongly attenuated following reduction of SMN in neurons. Together, these results support a distributed model of SMN function with distinct neuron-specific roles that are likely to be compromised following global loss of SMN in patients. While complementary to, and in broad agreement with, recent mouse studies that suggest a strong necessity for SMN in neurons, our results uncover a hitherto under-appreciated role for SMN in homeostatic regulatory mechanisms at motor synapses.
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Abstract
Gems or 'Gemini of Cajal bodies' are spherical nuclear aggregates of SMN (survival of motor neurons) complexes that frequently overlap Cajal bodies. Although described and characterized in mammalian tissues, gems have not been reported in invertebrates. Stimulation of gem formation in the fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster was investigated through the constitutive overexpression of a fluorescently tagged transgene of a DEAD-box SMN complex member, Gemin3, in wild-type tissues. Although expression was predominantly cytoplasmic in the larval brain cells, Gemin3 was found enriched in multiple discrete bright foci in the nuclei of several tissues including epidermis, muscle and gut. Similar to their mammalian counterparts, Drosophila gems contained endogenous SMN and at times overlapped with Cajal bodies. These findings support the hypothesis that gems are storage sites for excess nuclear SMN complexes and their frequent association with Cajal bodies might imply recruitment for nuclear ribonucleoprotein assembly reactions.
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28
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Cauchi RJ. Conserved requirement for DEAD-box RNA helicase Gemin3 in Drosophila oogenesis. BMC Res Notes 2012; 5:120. [PMID: 22361416 PMCID: PMC3392723 DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-5-120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2011] [Accepted: 02/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background DEAD-box RNA helicase Gemin3 is an essential protein since its deficiency is lethal in both vertebrates and invertebrates. In addition to playing a role in transcriptional regulation and RNA silencing, as a core member of the SMN (survival of motor neurons) complex, Gemin3 is required for the biogenesis of spliceosomal snRNPs (small nuclear ribonucleoproteins), and axonal mRNA metabolism. Studies in the mouse and C. elegans revealed that loss of Gemin3 function has a negative impact on ovarian physiology and development. Findings This work reports on the generation and characterisation of gemin3 mutant germline clones in Drosophila adult females. Gemin3 was found to be required for the completion of oogenesis and its loss led to egg polarity defects, oocyte mislocalisation, and abnormal chromosome morphology. Canonical Cajal bodies were absent in the majority of gemin3 mutant egg chambers and histone locus bodies displayed an atypical morphology. snRNP distribution was perturbed so that on gemin3 loss, snRNP cytoplasmic aggregates (U bodies) were only visible in wild type. Conclusions These findings establish a conserved requirement for Gemin3 in Drosophila oogenesis. Furthermore, in view of the similarity to the phenotypes described previously in smn mutant germ cells, the present results confirm the close functional relationship between SMN and Gemin3 on a cellular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben J Cauchi
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine & Surgery, University of Malta, Msida MSD 2080, Malta G.C.
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29
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Buckingham M, Liu JL. U bodies respond to nutrient stress in Drosophila. Exp Cell Res 2011; 317:2835-44. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2011.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2011] [Revised: 09/01/2011] [Accepted: 09/04/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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30
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Grice SJ, Sleigh JN, Liu JL, Sattelle DB. Invertebrate models of spinal muscular atrophy: insights into mechanisms and potential therapeutics. Bioessays 2011; 33:956-65. [PMID: 22009672 DOI: 10.1002/bies.201100082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Invertebrate genetic models with their tractable neuromuscular systems are effective vehicles for the study of human nerve and muscle disorders. This is exemplified by insights made into spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) using the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster and the nematode worm Caenorhabditis elegans. For speed and economy, these invertebrates offer convenient, whole-organism platforms for genetic screening as well as RNA interference (RNAi) and chemical library screens, permitting the rapid testing of hypotheses related to disease mechanisms and the exploration of new therapeutic routes and drug candidates. Here, we discuss recent developments encompassing synaptic physiology, RNA processing, and screening of compound and genome-scale RNAi libraries, showcasing the importance of invertebrate SMA models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart J Grice
- MRC Functional Genomics Unit, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Periodic expression of Sm proteins parallels formation of nuclear Cajal bodies and cytoplasmic snRNP-rich bodies. Histochem Cell Biol 2011; 136:527-41. [PMID: 21904826 PMCID: PMC3192945 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-011-0861-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/24/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs) play a fundamental role in pre-mRNA processing in the nucleus. The biogenesis of snRNPs involves a sequence of events that occurs in both the nucleus and cytoplasm. Despite the wealth of biochemical information about the cytoplasmic assembly of snRNPs, little is known about the spatial organization of snRNPs in the cytoplasm. In the cytoplasm of larch microsporocytes, a cyclic appearance of bodies containing small nuclear RNA (snRNA) and Sm proteins was observed during anther meiosis. We observed a correlation between the occurrence of cytoplasmic snRNP bodies, the levels of Sm proteins, and the dynamic formation of Cajal bodies. Larch microsporocytes were used for these studies. This model is characterized by natural fluctuations in the level of RNA metabolism, in which periods of high transcriptional activity are separated from periods of low transcriptional activity. In designing experiments, the authors considered the differences between the nuclear and cytoplasmic phases of snRNP maturation and generated a hypothesis about the direct participation of Sm proteins in a molecular switch triggering the formation of Cajal bodies.
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Current research on SMN protein and treatment strategies for spinal muscular atrophy. Neuromuscul Disord 2011; 22:193-7. [PMID: 21820901 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmd.2011.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2011] [Revised: 04/20/2011] [Accepted: 06/06/2011] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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Survival motor neuron protein regulates stem cell division, proliferation, and differentiation in Drosophila. PLoS Genet 2011; 7:e1002030. [PMID: 21490958 PMCID: PMC3072375 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1002030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2010] [Accepted: 02/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy is a severe neurogenic disease that is caused by mutations in the human survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene. SMN protein is required for the assembly of small nuclear ribonucleoproteins and a dramatic reduction of the protein leads to cell death. It is currently unknown how the reduction of this ubiquitously essential protein can lead to tissue-specific abnormalities. In addition, it is still not known whether the disease is caused by developmental or degenerative defects. Using the Drosophila system, we show that SMN is enriched in postembryonic neuroblasts and forms a concentration gradient in the differentiating progeny. In addition to the developing Drosophila larval CNS, Drosophila larval and adult testes have a striking SMN gradient. When SMN is reduced in postembryonic neuroblasts using MARCM clonal analysis, cell proliferation and clone formation defects occur. These SMN mutant neuroblasts fail to correctly localise Miranda and have reduced levels of snRNAs. When SMN is removed, germline stem cells are lost more frequently. We also show that changes in SMN levels can disrupt the correct timing of cell differentiation. We conclude that highly regulated SMN levels are essential to drive timely cell proliferation and cell differentiation. Spinal muscular atrophy is a debilitating disease that affects the motor nervous system. The disease is caused by the reduction of the protein survival motor neuron (SMN), which is involved in the assembly of ubiquitous small nuclear ribonucleoproteins. As SMN is required in every cell, it is important to understand the differential functionality of the protein within developing tissues. In this paper, we identify stem cells as having the highest levels of SMN. The concentration of SMN then decreases in a declining gradient until it reaches its lowest level in differentiated cells. SMN reduction, using clonal analysis, slows stem cell division and can lead to stem cell loss. These defects correlate with a reduction in the U2 and U5 small nuclear RNAs and with the mislocalisation of Miranda protein in postembryonic neuroblasts. In addition, we show that the overexpression of SMN can change the timing of development and cell differentiation. This research highlights possible mechanisms explaining how SMN expression alterations may affect tissue development.
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Nuage morphogenesis becomes more complex: two translocation pathways and two forms of nuage coexist in Drosophila germline syncytia. Cell Tissue Res 2011; 344:169-81. [PMID: 21365220 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-011-1145-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2010] [Accepted: 02/03/2011] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
We have developed a simple and reliable method of preserving antigen immunoreactivity with concomitant excellent retention of the cell ultrastructure. Using this method, we have been able to follow the origin and developmental stages of nuage accumulations within the nurse cell/oocyte syncytium in the ovary of the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, at the ultrastructural level. We have found two morphologically and biochemically distinct forms of nuage material in the nurse cell cytoplasm: translocating accumulations of nuage containing the Vasa protein, termed sponge bodies and stationary polymorphic accumulations of nuage enriched in Argonaute and Survival of motor neuron proteins. Immunogold labeling combined with confocal fluorescent and ultrastructural analyses have revealed that the Vasa-containing nuage accumulations remain closely associated with the cisternae of the endoplasmic reticulum throughout their lifetimes. The migration mechanism of the Vasa-positive nuage appears distinct from the microtubule-dependent translocation of oskar ribonucleoprotein complexes. We postulate that these two distinct nuage translocation pathways converge in the formation of the polar granules within the polar/germ plasm of the oocyte posterior pole. We also provide morphological and immunocytochemical evidence that these polymorphic nuage accumulations correspond to the recently described cytoplasmic domains termed U body-P body complexes.
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Wang Y, Mijares M, Gall MD, Turan T, Javier A, Bornemann DJ, Manage K, Warrior R. Drosophila variable nurse cells encodes arrest defective 1 (ARD1), the catalytic subunit of the major N-terminal acetyltransferase complex. Dev Dyn 2011; 239:2813-27. [PMID: 20882681 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.22418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the Drosophila variable nurse cells (vnc) gene result in female sterility and oogenesis defects, including egg chambers with too many or too few nurse cells. We show that vnc corresponds to Arrest Defective1 (Ard1) and encodes the catalytic subunit of NatA, the major N-terminal acetyl-transferase complex. While N-terminal acetylation is one of the most prevalent covalent protein modifications in eukaryotes, analysis of its role in development has been challenging since mutants that compromise NatA activity have not been described in any multicellular animal. Our data show that reduced ARD1 levels result in pleiotropic oogenesis defects including abnormal cyst encapsulation, desynchronized cystocyte division, disrupted nurse cell chromosome dispersion, and abnormal chorion patterning, consistent with the wide range of predicted NatA substrates. Furthermore, we find that loss of Ard1 affects cell survival/proliferation and is lethal for the animal, providing the first demonstration that this modification is essential in higher eukaryotes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California 92697, USA
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Liu JL. Intracellular compartmentation of CTP synthase in Drosophila. J Genet Genomics 2010; 37:281-96. [PMID: 20513629 DOI: 10.1016/s1673-8527(09)60046-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2010] [Accepted: 05/06/2010] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Compartmentation is essential for the localization of biological processes within a eukaryotic cell. ATP synthase localizes to organelles such as mitochondria and chloroplasts. By contrast, little is known about the subcellular distribution of CTP synthase, the critical enzyme in the production of CTP, a high-energy molecule similar to ATP. Here I describe the identification of a novel intracellular structure containing CTP synthase, termed the cytoophidium, in Drosophila cells. I find that cytoophidia are present in all major cell types in the ovary and exist in a wide range of tissues such as brain, gut, trachea, testis, accessory gland, salivary gland and lymph gland. In addition, I find CTP synthase-containing cytoophidia in other fruit fly species. The observation of compartmentation of CTP synthase now permits a broad range of questions to be addressed concerning not only the structure and function of cytoophidia but also the organization and regulation of CTP synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Long Liu
- Medical Research Council Functional Genomics Unit, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3QX, United Kingdom.
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Cauchi RJ, Sanchez-Pulido L, Liu JL. Drosophila SMN complex proteins Gemin2, Gemin3, and Gemin5 are components of U bodies. Exp Cell Res 2010; 316:2354-64. [PMID: 20452345 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2010.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2010] [Revised: 03/25/2010] [Accepted: 05/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Uridine-rich small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (U snRNPs) play key roles in pre-mRNA processing in the nucleus. The assembly of most U snRNPs takes place in the cytoplasm and is facilitated by the survival motor neuron (SMN) complex. Discrete cytoplasmic RNA granules called U bodies have been proposed to be specific sites for snRNP assembly because they contain U snRNPs and SMN. U bodies invariably associate with P bodies, which are involved in mRNA decay and translational control. However, it remains unknown whether other SMN complex proteins also localise to U bodies. In Drosophila there are four SMN complex proteins, namely SMN, Gemin2/CG10419, Gemin3 and Gemin5/Rigor mortis. Drosophila Gemin3 was originally identified as the Drosophila orthologue of human and yeast Dhh1, a component of P bodies. Through an in silico analysis of the DEAD-box RNA helicases we confirmed that Gemin3 is the bona fide Drosophila orthologue of vertebrate Gemin3 whereas the Drosophila orthologue of Dhh1 is Me31B. We then made use of the Drosophila egg chamber as a model system to study the subcellular distribution of the Gemin proteins as well as Me31B. Our cytological investigations show that Gemin2, Gemin3 and Gemin5 colocalise with SMN in U bodies. Although they are excluded from P bodies, as components of U bodies, Gemin2, Gemin3 and Gemin5 are consistently found associated with P bodies, wherein Me31B resides. In addition to a role in snRNP biogenesis, SMN complexes residing in U bodies may also be involved in mRNP assembly and/or transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben J Cauchi
- MRC Functional Genomics Unit, Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QX, UK
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NANOS2 interacts with the CCR4-NOT deadenylation complex and leads to suppression of specific RNAs. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2010; 107:3594-9. [PMID: 20133598 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0908664107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Nanos is one of the evolutionarily conserved proteins implicated in germ cell development. We have previously shown that NANOS2 plays an important role in both the maintenance and sexual development of germ cells. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these events have remained elusive. In our present study, we found that NANOS2 localizes to the P-bodies, known centers of RNA degradation that are abundantly accumulated in male gonocytes. We further identified by immunoprecipitation that the components of the CCR4-NOT deadenylation complex are NANOS2-interacting proteins and found that NANOS2 promotes the localization of CNOT proteins to P-bodies in vivo. We also elucidated that the NANOS2/CCR4-NOT complex has deadenylase activity in vitro, and that some of the RNAs implicated in meiosis interact with NANOS2 and are accumulated in its absence. Our current data thus indicate that the expression of these RNA molecules is normally suppressed via a NANOS2-mediated mechanism. We propose from our current findings that NANOS2-interacting RNAs may be recruited to P-bodies and degraded by the enzymes contained therein through NANOS2-mediated deadenylation.
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