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Werry N, Russell SJ, Sivakumar R, Miller S, Hickey K, Larmer S, Lohuis M, Librach C, LaMarre J. piRNA expression patterns in high vs. low fertility bovine sperm. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2024; 70:183-194. [PMID: 38924761 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2024.2364742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are 24-32 nucleotide RNA sequences primarily expressed in germ cells and developing embryos that suppress transposable element expression to protect genomic integrity during epigenetic reprogramming events. We characterized the expression of piRNA sequences and their encoding clusters in sperm samples from an idiopathic fertility model of Holstein bulls with high and low Sire Conception Rates. The piRNA populations were determined to be mostly similar between fertility conditions when investigated by principal component and differential expression analysis, suggesting that a high degree of conservation in the piRNA system is likely necessary for the production of viable sperm. Both fertility conditions demonstrated evidence of 'ping-pong' activity - a secondary biogenesis pathway associated with active transposable element targeting and suppression. Most sperm-borne piRNAs were between 29-30 nucleotides in length and originated from 226 clusters across the genome, with the exception of chromosome 20. Mapping analysis revealed abundant targeting of several transposable element families, suggesting a suppressive function of sperm piRNAs consistent with their established roles. Expression of genes targeted by sperm-borne piRNAs is significantly reduced throughout early embryogenesis compared to the mRNA population. Limited transposable element expression is known to be essential for spermatogenesis, thus epigenetic regulation of this pathway is likely to influence sperm quality and fertilizing capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Werry
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Raamkumaar Sivakumar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Clifford Librach
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jonathan LaMarre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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2
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Pan X, Dai W, Wang Z, Li S, Sun T, Miao N. PIWI-Interacting RNAs: A Pivotal Regulator in Neurological Development and Disease. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:653. [PMID: 38927589 PMCID: PMC11202748 DOI: 10.3390/genes15060653] [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: 04/13/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), a class of small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) with 24-32 nucleotides (nt), were initially identified in the reproductive system. Unlike microRNAs (miRNAs) or small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), piRNAs normally guide P-element-induced wimpy testis protein (PIWI) families to slice extensively complementary transposon transcripts without the seed pairing. Numerous studies have shown that piRNAs are abundantly expressed in the brain, and many of them are aberrantly regulated in central neural system (CNS) disorders. However, the role of piRNAs in the related developmental and pathological processes is unclear. The elucidation of piRNAs/PIWI would greatly improve the understanding of CNS development and ultimately lead to novel strategies to treat neural diseases. In this review, we summarized the relevant structure, properties, and databases of piRNAs and their functional roles in neural development and degenerative disorders. We hope that future studies of these piRNAs will facilitate the development of RNA-based therapeutics for CNS disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Nan Miao
- Center for Precision Medicine, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Sciences, Huaqiao University, Xiamen 361021, China; (X.P.); (W.D.); (Z.W.); (S.L.); (T.S.)
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3
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Fakhro KA, Awwad J, Garibova S, Saraiva LR, Avella M. Conserved genes regulating human sex differentiation, gametogenesis and fertilization. J Transl Med 2024; 22:473. [PMID: 38764035 PMCID: PMC11103854 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05162-2] [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: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The study of the functional genome in mice and humans has been instrumental for describing the conserved molecular mechanisms regulating human reproductive biology, and for defining the etiologies of monogenic fertility disorders. Infertility is a reproductive disorder that includes various conditions affecting a couple's ability to achieve a healthy pregnancy. Recent advances in next-generation sequencing and CRISPR/Cas-mediated genome editing technologies have facilitated the identification and characterization of genes and mechanisms that, if affected, lead to infertility. We report established genes that regulate conserved functions in fundamental reproductive processes (e.g., sex determination, gametogenesis, and fertilization). We only cover genes the deletion of which yields comparable fertility phenotypes in both rodents and humans. In the case of newly-discovered genes, we report the studies demonstrating shared cellular and fertility phenotypes resulting from loss-of-function mutations in both species. Finally, we introduce new model systems for the study of human reproductive biology and highlight the importance of studying human consanguineous populations to discover novel monogenic causes of infertility. The rapid and continuous screening and identification of putative genetic defects coupled with an efficient functional characterization in animal models can reveal novel mechanisms of gene function in human reproductive tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid A Fakhro
- Research Branch, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- Weill Cornell Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Johnny Awwad
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- Obstetrics & Gynecology, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
- Vincent Memorial Obstetrics & Gynecology Service, The Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Luis R Saraiva
- Research Branch, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Matteo Avella
- Research Branch, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar.
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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4
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Hou L, Liu W, Zhang H, Li R, Liu M, Shi H, Wu L. Divergent composition and transposon-silencing activity of small RNAs in mammalian oocytes. Genome Biol 2024; 25:80. [PMID: 38532500 PMCID: PMC10964541 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-024-03214-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Small RNAs are essential for germ cell development and fertilization. However, fundamental questions remain, such as the level of conservation in small RNA composition between species and whether small RNAs control transposable elements in mammalian oocytes. RESULTS Here, we use high-throughput sequencing to profile small RNAs and poly(A)-bearing long RNAs in oocytes of 12 representative vertebrate species (including 11 mammals). The results show that miRNAs are generally expressed in the oocytes of each representative species (although at low levels), whereas endo-siRNAs are specific to mice. Notably, piRNAs are predominant in oocytes of all species (except mice) and vary widely in length. We find PIWIL3-associated piRNAs are widespread in mammals and generally lack 3'-2'-O-methylation. Additionally, sequence identity is low between homologous piRNAs in different species, even among those present in syntenic piRNA clusters. Despite the species-specific divergence, piRNAs retain the capacity to silence younger TE subfamilies in oocytes. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, our findings illustrate a high level of diversity in the small RNA populations of mammalian oocytes. Furthermore, we identify sequence features related to conserved roles of small RNAs in silencing TEs, providing a large-scale reference for future in-depth study of small RNA functions in oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Hou
- Key Laboratory of RNA Science and Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Key Laboratory of RNA Science and Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Hongdao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of RNA Science and Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Ronghong Li
- Key Laboratory of RNA Science and Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Miao Liu
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Huijuan Shi
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ligang Wu
- Key Laboratory of RNA Science and Engineering, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.
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Sala L, Kumar M, Prajapat M, Chandrasekhar S, Cosby RL, La Rocca G, Macfarlan TS, Awasthi P, Chari R, Kruhlak M, Vidigal JA. AGO2 silences mobile transposons in the nucleus of quiescent cells. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2023; 30:1985-1995. [PMID: 37985687 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-023-01151-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Argonaute 2 (AGO2) is a cytoplasmic component of the miRNA pathway, with essential roles in development and disease. Yet little is known about its regulation in vivo. Here we show that in quiescent mouse splenocytes, AGO2 localizes almost exclusively to the nucleus. AGO2 subcellular localization is modulated by the Pi3K-AKT-mTOR pathway, a well-established regulator of quiescence. Signaling through this pathway in proliferating cells promotes AGO2 cytoplasmic accumulation, at least in part by stimulating the expression of TNRC6, an essential AGO2 binding partner in the miRNA pathway. In quiescent cells in which mTOR signaling is low, AGO2 accumulates in the nucleus, where it binds to young mobile transposons co-transcriptionally to repress their expression via its catalytic domain. Our data point to an essential but previously unrecognized nuclear role for AGO2 during quiescence as part of a genome-defense system against young mobile elements and provide evidence of RNA interference in the soma of mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Sala
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institute, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Manish Kumar
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institute, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Mahendra Prajapat
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institute, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Srividya Chandrasekhar
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institute, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Rachel L Cosby
- The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
- The National Institute for General Medical Sciences, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Gaspare La Rocca
- Cancer Biology and Genetics Program, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Todd S Macfarlan
- The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Parirokh Awasthi
- Laboratory Animal Sciences Program, Frederick National Lab for Cancer Research, The National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Raj Chari
- Laboratory Animal Sciences Program, Frederick National Lab for Cancer Research, The National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Michael Kruhlak
- CCR Confocal Microscopy Core Facility, National Cancer Institute, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Joana A Vidigal
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institute, The National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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6
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Hou M, Wang Q, Zhang J, Zhao R, Cao Y, Yu S, Wang K, Chen Y, Ma Z, Sun X, Zhang Y, Li J. Differential Expression of miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs between Ovaries and Testes in Common Carp ( Cyprinus carpio). Cells 2023; 12:2631. [PMID: 37998366 PMCID: PMC10670750 DOI: 10.3390/cells12222631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Female common carp grow faster than male individuals, implying that rearing females could be more profitable in aquaculture. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) serve as versatile regulators with multiple functions in diverse biological processes. However, the roles of ncRNAs in the sex differentiation of common carp are less studied. In this study, we investigated the expression profiles of ncRNAs, including miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs, in the gonads to comprehend the roles of ncRNAs in sex differentiation in common carp. A substantial number of differentially expressed (DE) ncRNAs in ovaries and testes were identified. Some miRNAs, notably miR-205, miR-214, and miR-460-5p, might modulate hormone synthesis and thus maintain sex. A novel miRNA, novel_158, was predicted to suppress the expression of foxl3. DE lncRNAs were associated with oocyte meiosis, GnRH signaling pathways, and steroid biosynthesis, while DE circRNA target genes were enriched in the WNT signaling pathway and MAPK signaling pathway. We also analyzed ncRNA-mRNA interactions to shed light on the crosstalk between competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs), which is the critical mechanism by which lncRNAs and circRNAs function. Some lncRNAs and circRNAs may be able to competitively bind novel_313, a new miRNA, and thus regulate hsd17β3. Our research will provide a valuable resource for understanding the genetic basis of gonadal differentiation and development in common carp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxi Hou
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genomics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and Beijing Key Laboratory of Fishery Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Beijing 100141, China; (M.H.); (Q.W.); (J.Z.); (R.Z.); (Y.C.); (S.Y.); (X.S.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Qi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genomics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and Beijing Key Laboratory of Fishery Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Beijing 100141, China; (M.H.); (Q.W.); (J.Z.); (R.Z.); (Y.C.); (S.Y.); (X.S.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Jin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genomics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and Beijing Key Laboratory of Fishery Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Beijing 100141, China; (M.H.); (Q.W.); (J.Z.); (R.Z.); (Y.C.); (S.Y.); (X.S.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Ran Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genomics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and Beijing Key Laboratory of Fishery Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Beijing 100141, China; (M.H.); (Q.W.); (J.Z.); (R.Z.); (Y.C.); (S.Y.); (X.S.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Yiming Cao
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genomics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and Beijing Key Laboratory of Fishery Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Beijing 100141, China; (M.H.); (Q.W.); (J.Z.); (R.Z.); (Y.C.); (S.Y.); (X.S.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Shuangting Yu
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genomics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and Beijing Key Laboratory of Fishery Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Beijing 100141, China; (M.H.); (Q.W.); (J.Z.); (R.Z.); (Y.C.); (S.Y.); (X.S.); (Y.Z.)
- Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Kaikuo Wang
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; (K.W.); (Y.C.); (Z.M.)
| | - Yingjie Chen
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; (K.W.); (Y.C.); (Z.M.)
| | - Ziyao Ma
- National Demonstration Center for Experimental Fisheries Science Education, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; (K.W.); (Y.C.); (Z.M.)
| | - Xiaoqing Sun
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genomics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and Beijing Key Laboratory of Fishery Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Beijing 100141, China; (M.H.); (Q.W.); (J.Z.); (R.Z.); (Y.C.); (S.Y.); (X.S.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Yan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genomics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and Beijing Key Laboratory of Fishery Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Beijing 100141, China; (M.H.); (Q.W.); (J.Z.); (R.Z.); (Y.C.); (S.Y.); (X.S.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Jiongtang Li
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Genomics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and Beijing Key Laboratory of Fishery Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Beijing 100141, China; (M.H.); (Q.W.); (J.Z.); (R.Z.); (Y.C.); (S.Y.); (X.S.); (Y.Z.)
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7
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Loubalova Z, Konstantinidou P, Haase AD. Themes and variations on piRNA-guided transposon control. Mob DNA 2023; 14:10. [PMID: 37660099 PMCID: PMC10474768 DOI: 10.1186/s13100-023-00298-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are responsible for preventing the movement of transposable elements in germ cells and protect the integrity of germline genomes. In this review, we examine the common elements of piRNA-guided silencing as well as the differences observed between species. We have categorized the mechanisms of piRNA biogenesis and function into modules. Individual PIWI proteins combine these modules in various ways to produce unique PIWI-piRNA pathways, which nevertheless possess the ability to perform conserved functions. This modular model incorporates conserved core mechanisms and accommodates variable co-factors. Adaptability is a hallmark of this RNA-based immune system. We believe that considering the differences in germ cell biology and resident transposons in different organisms is essential for placing the variations observed in piRNA biology into context, while still highlighting the conserved themes that underpin this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Loubalova
- National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Parthena Konstantinidou
- National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Astrid D Haase
- National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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8
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Lv X, Xiao W, Lai Y, Zhang Z, Zhang H, Qiu C, Hou L, Chen Q, Wang D, Gao Y, Song Y, Shui X, Chen Q, Qin R, Liang S, Zeng W, Shi A, Li J, Wu L. The non-redundant functions of PIWI family proteins in gametogenesis in golden hamsters. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5267. [PMID: 37644029 PMCID: PMC10465502 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40650-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The piRNA pathway is essential for female fertility in golden hamsters and likely humans, but not in mice. However, the role of individual PIWIs in mammalian reproduction remains poorly understood outside of mice. Here, we describe the expression profiles, subcellular localization, and knockout-associated reproductive defects for all four PIWIs in golden hamsters. In female golden hamsters, PIWIL1 and PIWIL3 are highly expressed throughout oogenesis and early embryogenesis, while knockout of PIWIL1 leads to sterility, and PIWIL3 deficiency results in subfertility with lagging zygotic development. PIWIL1 can partially compensate for TE silencing in PIWIL3 knockout females, but not vice versa. PIWIL1 and PIWIL4 are the predominant PIWIs expressed in adult and postnatal testes, respectively, while PIWIL2 is present at both stages. Loss of any PIWI expressed in testes leads to sterility and severe but distinct spermatogenesis disorders. These findings illustrate the non-redundant regulatory functions of PIWI-piRNAs in gametogenesis and early embryogenesis in golden hamsters, facilitating study of their role in human fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Wen Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Yana Lai
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jiangsu Laboratory Animal Center, Jiangsu Animal Experimental Center of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Cell Biology, Animal Core facility, Key Laboratory of Model Animal, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Zhaozhen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jiangsu Laboratory Animal Center, Jiangsu Animal Experimental Center of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Cell Biology, Animal Core facility, Key Laboratory of Model Animal, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Hongdao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Chen Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jiangsu Laboratory Animal Center, Jiangsu Animal Experimental Center of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Cell Biology, Animal Core facility, Key Laboratory of Model Animal, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Li Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Qin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jiangsu Laboratory Animal Center, Jiangsu Animal Experimental Center of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Cell Biology, Animal Core facility, Key Laboratory of Model Animal, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Duanduan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Yun Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jiangsu Laboratory Animal Center, Jiangsu Animal Experimental Center of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Cell Biology, Animal Core facility, Key Laboratory of Model Animal, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yuanyuan Song
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Xinjia Shui
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Qinghua Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jiangsu Laboratory Animal Center, Jiangsu Animal Experimental Center of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Cell Biology, Animal Core facility, Key Laboratory of Model Animal, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Ruixin Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jiangsu Laboratory Animal Center, Jiangsu Animal Experimental Center of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Cell Biology, Animal Core facility, Key Laboratory of Model Animal, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Shuang Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jiangsu Laboratory Animal Center, Jiangsu Animal Experimental Center of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Cell Biology, Animal Core facility, Key Laboratory of Model Animal, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Wentao Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jiangsu Laboratory Animal Center, Jiangsu Animal Experimental Center of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Cell Biology, Animal Core facility, Key Laboratory of Model Animal, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Aimin Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jiangsu Laboratory Animal Center, Jiangsu Animal Experimental Center of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Cell Biology, Animal Core facility, Key Laboratory of Model Animal, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
| | - Jianmin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Jiangsu Laboratory Animal Center, Jiangsu Animal Experimental Center of Medicine and Pharmacy, Department of Cell Biology, Animal Core facility, Key Laboratory of Model Animal, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cardiovascular Disease Translational Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
| | - Ligang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.
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9
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Mann JM, Wei C, Chen C. How genetic defects in piRNA trimming contribute to male infertility. Andrology 2023; 11:911-917. [PMID: 36263612 PMCID: PMC10115909 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In germ cells, small non-coding PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) work to silence harmful transposons to maintain genomic stability and regulate gene expression to ensure fertility. However, these piRNAs must undergo a series of steps during biogenesis to be properly loaded onto PIWI proteins and reach the correct nucleotide length. This review is focused on what we are learning about a crucial step in this process, piRNA trimming, in which pre-piRNAs are shortened to final lengths of 21-35 nucleotides. Recently, the 3'-5' exonuclease trimmer has been identified in various models as PNLDC1/PARN-1. Mutations of the piRNA trimmers in vivo lead to increased transposon expression, elevated levels of untrimmed pre-piRNAs, decreased piRNA stability, and male infertility. Here, we will discuss the role of piRNA trimmers in piRNA biogenesis and function, describe consequences of piRNA trimmer mutations using mammalian models and human patients, and examine future avenues of piRNA trimming-related study for clinical advancements for male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey M. Mann
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Chao Wei
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
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10
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Stalker L, Backx AG, Tscherner AK, Russell SJ, Foster RA, LaMarre J. cDNA Cloning of Feline PIWIL1 and Evaluation of Expression in the Testis of the Domestic Cat. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119346. [PMID: 37298298 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The PIWI clade of Argonaute proteins is essential for spermatogenesis in all species examined to date. This protein family binds specific classes of small non-coding RNAs known as PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) which together form piRNA-induced silencing complexes (piRISCs) that are recruited to specific RNA targets through sequence complementarity. These complexes facilitate gene silencing through endonuclease activity and guided recruitment of epigenetic silencing factors. PIWI proteins and piRNAs have been found to play multiple roles in the testis including the maintenance of genomic integrity through transposon silencing and facilitating the turnover of coding RNAs during spermatogenesis. In the present study, we report the first characterization of PIWIL1 in the male domestic cat, a mammalian system predicted to express four PIWI family members. Multiple transcript variants of PIWIL1 were cloned from feline testes cDNA. One isoform shows high homology to PIWIL1 from other mammals, however, the other has characteristics of a "slicer null" isoform, lacking the domain required for endonuclease activity. Expression of PIWIL1 in the male cat appears limited to the testis and correlates with sexual maturity. RNA-immunoprecipitation revealed that feline PIWIL1 binds small RNAs with an average size of 29 nt. Together, these data suggest that the domestic cat has two PIWIL1 isoforms expressed in the mature testis, at least one of which interacts with piRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne Stalker
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Alanna G Backx
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Allison K Tscherner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Stewart J Russell
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Robert A Foster
- Department of Pathobiology, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W12, Canada
| | - Jonathan LaMarre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
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11
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Non-Coding RNAs as Biomarkers for Embryo Quality and Pregnancy Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065751. [PMID: 36982824 PMCID: PMC10052053 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in in vitro fertilization (IVF), there is still a lack of non-invasive and reliable biomarkers for selecting embryos with the highest developmental and implantation potential. Recently, small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) have been identified in biological fluids, and extracellular sncRNAs are explored as diagnostic biomarkers in the prediction of IVF outcomes. To determine the predictive role of sncRNAs in embryo quality and IVF outcomes, a systematic review and meta-analysis was performed. Articles were retrieved from PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science from 1990 to 31 July 2022. Eighteen studies that met the selection criteria were analyzed. In total, 22 and 47 different sncRNAs were found to be dysregulated in follicular fluid (FF) and embryo spent culture medium (SCM), respectively. MiR-663b, miR-454 and miR-320a in FF and miR-20a in SCM showed consistent dysregulation in two different studies. The meta-analysis indicated the potential predictive performance of sncRNAs as non-invasive biomarkers, with a pooled area under curve (AUC) value of 0.81 (95% CI 0.78, 0.844), a sensitivity of 0.79 (95% CI 0.72, 0.85), a specificity of 0.67 (95% CI 0.52, 0.79) and a diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) of 8 (95% CI 5, 12). Significant heterogeneity was identified among studies in sensitivity (I2 = 46.11%) and specificity (I2 = 89.73%). This study demonstrates that sncRNAs may distinguish embryos with higher developmental and implantation potentials. They can be promising non-invasive biomarkers for embryo selection in ART. However, the significant heterogeneity among studies highlights the demand for prospective multicenter studies with optimized methods and adequate sample sizes in the future.
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12
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Editing the Genome of the Golden Hamster (Mesocricetus auratus). Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2637:247-254. [PMID: 36773152 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3016-7_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
The golden (Syrian) hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) is a small rodent belonging to the Cricetidae family. Golden hamsters have several unique characteristics that are advantageous in the study of reproductive and developmental biology: a highly stable 4-day estrous cycle, a high responsiveness to conventional superovulation methods, and a shortest gestation period (16 days) known among eutherian mammals. Besides these advantages, the technical ease of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in this species has contributed much to our understanding of the basic mechanisms of mammalian fertilization. However, the exceptionally strong in vitro developmental block of hamster embryos, especially at the two-cell stage, has hampered the production of genetically modified hamsters, which has resulted in limited use of this species for biomedical research. However, the recently developed in vivo genome editing method (improved genome editing via oviductal nucleic acid delivery, i-GONAD) has overcome this shortcoming and made production of gene-edited hamsters much easier than before. This method has the potential to provide a means of reexamining genes whose functions cannot be identified using mouse models, thus leading to the better understanding of gene functions in mammals. In this chapter, we present our procedure for editing the genome of the golden hamster using i-GONAD.
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13
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Wang X, Ramat A, Simonelig M, Liu MF. Emerging roles and functional mechanisms of PIWI-interacting RNAs. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2023; 24:123-141. [PMID: 36104626 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-022-00528-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 61.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs that associate with proteins of the PIWI clade of the Argonaute family. First identified in animal germ line cells, piRNAs have essential roles in germ line development. The first function of PIWI-piRNA complexes to be described was the silencing of transposable elements, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the germ line genome. Later studies provided new insights into the functions of PIWI-piRNA complexes by demonstrating that they regulate protein-coding genes. Recent studies of piRNA biology, including in new model organisms such as golden hamsters, have deepened our understanding of both piRNA biogenesis and piRNA function. In this Review, we discuss the most recent advances in our understanding of piRNA biogenesis, the molecular mechanisms of piRNA function and the emerging roles of piRNAs in germ line development mainly in flies and mice, and in infertility, cancer and neurological diseases in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Anne Ramat
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Martine Simonelig
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France.
| | - Mo-Fang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China. .,Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China. .,School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China.
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14
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Chen W, Zhao Z, Cen S, Lv D, Wu J, Zhou X, Yang T, Zhao T, Hou L, Mao X. Exposure to elevated temperature affects the expression of PIWI-interacting RNAs and associated transcripts in mouse testes. Andrology 2023; 11:724-737. [PMID: 36603597 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to heat waves could result in adverse effects on human health, especially in male testicles. PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) is a novel type of small non-coding RNA, which can notably impact mRNA turnover and preserve germline maintenance in germline cells. However, piRNA's expression status when adapting to testicular heat stress remains largely unclear. OBJECTIVES To investigate the function and mechanisms of relevant piRNAs during testicular heat stress. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, a mouse testicular heat stress model was constructed, and the testes were removed for piRNA-sequencing. Bioinformatics analysis was used to discover the differential expressed piRNAs, piRNA clusters, and enriched pathways. A cell heat stress model was constructed to validate the top five upregulated piRNAs. Proliferation and apoptosis assays were utilized to validate the function of selected piRNA. Bioinformatics prediction, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry were used to illustrate the downstream mechanisms. RESULTS Through the bioinformatics analysis, we identified the differential expression profile and enriched pathways of piRNAs and piRNA clusters during testicular hyperthermia. Besides, piR-020492 was proved to be upregulated in heat stress mouse testes and a germ cell model. A series of in vitro assays illustrated that an overexpression of piR-020492 could restrain the proliferation and promote the apoptosis of mouse germ cells. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis of piRNA-generating genes in the testicular heat stress model and piR-020492 targeting genes showed that the overlap pathways are adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and insulin pathways. Validation experiments demonstrated that the key genes of AMPK and insulin pathway exhibit differential expression after an overexpression of piR-020492 or testicular heat stress. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION In conclusion, our findings revealed the expression profile of piRNAs in testicular heat stress and illustrated the function and mechanisms of piR-020492 in germ cells, which could provide novel insights into the mechanism of hyperthermia-induced testicular injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbin Chen
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhang Zhao
- Department of Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Shengren Cen
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Daojun Lv
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jun Wu
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xumin Zhou
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Taowei Yang
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Tianxin Zhao
- Department of Urology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Longlong Hou
- Department of Neonatal Surgery, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiangming Mao
- Department of Urology, Zhujiang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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15
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Human Endogenous Retroviruses: Friends and Foes in Urology Clinics. Int Neurourol J 2022; 26:275-287. [PMID: 36599336 PMCID: PMC9816444 DOI: 10.5213/inj.2244284.142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are originated from ancient exogenous retroviruses, which infected human germ line cells millions of years ago. HERVs have generally lost their replication and retrotransposition abilities, but adopted physiological roles in human biology. Though mostly inactive, HERVs can be reactivated by internal and external factors such as inflammations and environmental conditions. Their aberrant expression can participate in various human malignancies with complex etiology. This review describes the features and functions of HERVs in urological subjects, such as urological cancers and human reproduction. It provides the current knowledge of the HERVs and useful insights helping practice in urology clinics.
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16
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Zhu L, Zhou T, Iyyappan R, Ming H, Dvoran M, Wang Y, Chen Q, Roberts RM, Susor A, Jiang Z. High-resolution ribosome profiling reveals translational selectivity for transcripts in bovine preimplantation embryo development. Development 2022; 149:280468. [PMID: 36227586 PMCID: PMC9687001 DOI: 10.1242/dev.200819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
High-resolution ribosome fractionation and low-input ribosome profiling of bovine oocytes and preimplantation embryos has enabled us to define the translational landscapes of early embryo development at an unprecedented level. We analyzed the transcriptome and the polysome- and non-polysome-bound RNA profiles of bovine oocytes (germinal vesicle and metaphase II stages) and early embryos at the two-cell, eight-cell, morula and blastocyst stages, and revealed four modes of translational selectivity: (1) selective translation of non-abundant mRNAs; (2) active, but modest translation of a selection of highly expressed mRNAs; (3) translationally suppressed abundant to moderately abundant mRNAs; and (4) mRNAs associated specifically with monosomes. A strong translational selection of low-abundance transcripts involved in metabolic pathways and lysosomes was found throughout bovine embryonic development. Notably, genes involved in mitochondrial function were prioritized for translation. We found that translation largely reflected transcription in oocytes and two-cell embryos, but observed a marked shift in the translational control in eight-cell embryos that was associated with the main phase of embryonic genome activation. Subsequently, transcription and translation become more synchronized in morulae and blastocysts. Taken together, these data reveal a unique spatiotemporal translational regulation that accompanies bovine preimplantation development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linkai Zhu
- School of Animal Sciences, AgCenter, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Tong Zhou
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV 89557-0352, USA
| | - Rajan Iyyappan
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Germ Cells, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, CAS, 277 21 Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | - Hao Ming
- School of Animal Sciences, AgCenter, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Michal Dvoran
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Germ Cells, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, CAS, 277 21 Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | - Yinjuan Wang
- School of Animal Sciences, AgCenter, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Qi Chen
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - R Michael Roberts
- Department of Animal Sciences, Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211-7310, USA
| | - Andrej Susor
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Germ Cells, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics, CAS, 277 21 Liběchov, Czech Republic
| | - Zongliang Jiang
- School of Animal Sciences, AgCenter, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
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17
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Deng Y, Feng Y, Lv Z, He J, Chen X, Wang C, Yuan M, Xu T, Gao W, Chen D, Zhu H, Hou D. Machine learning models identify ferroptosis-related genes as potential diagnostic biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease. Front Aging Neurosci 2022; 14:994130. [PMID: 36262887 PMCID: PMC9575464 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2022.994130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a complex, and multifactorial neurodegenerative disease. Previous studies have revealed that oxidative stress, synaptic toxicity, autophagy, and neuroinflammation play crucial roles in the progress of AD, however, its pathogenesis is still unclear. Recent researches have indicated that ferroptosis, an iron-dependent programmed cell death, might be involved in the pathogenesis of AD. Therefore, we aim to screen correlative ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) in the progress of AD to clarify insights into the diagnostic value. Interestingly, we identified eight FRGs were significantly differentially expressed in AD patients. 10,044 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were finally identified by differential expression analysis. The following step was investigating the function of DEGs using gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Weight gene correlation analysis was performed to explore ten modules and 104 hub genes. Subsequently, based on machine learning algorithms, we constructed diagnostic classifiers to select characteristic genes. Through the multivariable logistic regression analysis, five features (RAF1, NFKBIA, MOV10L1, IQGAP1, FOXO1) were then validated, which composed a diagnostic model of AD. Thus, our findings not only developed genetic diagnostics strategy, but set a direction for further study of the disease pathogenesis and therapy targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyao Deng
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Hospital of Changsha, Changsha, China
| | - Yanjin Feng
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhicheng Lv
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First People’s Hospital of Chenzhou, Chenzhou, China
| | - Jinli He
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xun Chen
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chen Wang
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Mingyang Yuan
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ting Xu
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wenzhe Gao
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Dongjie Chen
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hongwei Zhu
- Department of Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Deren Hou
- Department of Neurology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Deren Hou,
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18
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Wang X, Gou LT, Liu MF. Noncanonical Functions of PIWIL1/piRNAs in animal male germ cells and human diseases. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:101-108. [PMID: 35403682 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PIWI proteins and PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are specifically expressed in animal germlines and play essential roles during gametogenesis in animals. The primary function of PIWI/piRNAs is known to silence transposable elements for protecting genome integrity in animal germlines, while their roles beyond silencing transposons are also documented by us and others. In particular, we show that mouse PIWIL1 (MIWI)/piRNAs play a dual role in regulating protein-coding genes in mouse spermatids through interacting with different protein factors in a developmental stage-dependent manner, including translationally activating a subset of ARE-containing mRNAs in round spermatids and inducing massive mRNA degradation in late spermatids. We further show that MIWI is eliminated through the ubiquitin-26S proteasome pathway during late spermiogenesis. By exploring the biological function of MIWI ubiquitination by APC/C, we identified ubiquitination-deficient mutations in human PIWIL1 of infertile men and further established their causative role in male infertility in mouse model, supporting PIWIL1 as a human male infertility-relevant gene. Additionally, we reported that PIWIL1, aberrantly induced in human tumors, functions as an oncoprotein in a piRNA-independent manner in cancer cells. In the current review, we summarize our latest findings regarding the roles and mechanisms of PIWIL1 and piRNAs in mouse spermatids and human diseases, and discuss the related works in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.,School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Lan-Tao Gou
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Mo-Fang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.,School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China.,School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai 201210, China
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19
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Hasegawa A, Mochida K, Nakamura A, Miyagasako R, Ohtsuka M, Hatakeyama M, Ogura A. Use of anti-inhibin monoclonal antibody for increasing the litter size of mouse strains and its application to i-GONAD. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:605-618. [PMID: 35368067 PMCID: PMC9382380 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The litter size of mouse strains is determined by the number of oocytes naturally ovulated. Many attempts have been made to increase litter sizes by conventional superovulation regimens (e.g., using equine or human gonadotropins, eCG/hCG but had limited success because of unexpected decreases in the numbers of embryos surviving to term. Here, we examined whether rat-derived anti-inhibin monoclonal antibodies (AIMAs) could be used for this purpose. When C57BL/6 female mice were treated with an AIMA and mated, the number of healthy offspring per mouse increased by 1.4-fold (11.9 vs. 8.6 in controls). By contrast, treatment with eCG/hCG or anti-inhibin serum resulted in fewer offspring than in nontreated controls. The overall efficiency of production based on all females treated (including nonpregnant ones) was improved 2.4 times with AIMA compared with nontreated controls. The AIMA treatment was also effective in ICR mice, increasing the litter size from 15.3 to 21.2 pups. We then applied this technique to an in vivo genome-editing method (improved genome-editing via oviductal nucleic acid delivery, i-GONAD) to produce C57BL/6 mice deficient for tyrosinase. The mean litter size following i-GONAD increased from 4.8 to 7.3 after the AIMA treatment and genetic modifications were confirmed in 80/88 (91%) of the offspring. Thus, AIMA treatment is a promising method for increasing the litter size of mice and may be applied for the easy proliferation of mouse colonies as well as in vivo genetic manipulation, especially when the mouse strains are sensitive to handling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayumi Hasegawa
- RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Keiji Mochida
- RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Ayaka Nakamura
- Support Center for Medical Research and Education, Tokai University, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Rico Miyagasako
- Division of Basic Medical Science and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Tokai University, Kanagawa Japan
| | - Masato Ohtsuka
- Division of Basic Medical Science and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, Tokai University, Kanagawa Japan
- The Institute of Medical Sciences, Tokai University, Kanagawa, Japan
| | | | - Atsuo Ogura
- RIKEN BioResource Research Center, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
- Graduate School of Life and Environmental Science, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
- Center for Disease Biology and Integrative Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
- RIKEN Cluster for Pioneering Research, Wako, Saitama, Japan
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20
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Almeida MV, Vernaz G, Putman AL, Miska EA. Taming transposable elements in vertebrates: from epigenetic silencing to domestication. Trends Genet 2022; 38:529-553. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2022.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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21
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Jiang ZY, Fan HY. Five questions toward mRNA degradation in oocytes and preimplantation embryos: When, who, to whom, how, and why? Biol Reprod 2022; 107:62-75. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
RNA, the primary product of the genome, is subject to various biological events during its lifetime. During mammalian gametogenesis and early embryogenesis, germ cells and preimplantation embryos undergo marked changes in the transcriptome, including mRNA turnover. Various factors, including specialized proteins, RNAs, and organelles, function in an intricate degradation system, and the degradation selectivity is determined by effectors and their target mRNAs. RNA homeostasis regulators and surveillance factors function in the global transcriptome of oocytes and somatic cells. Other factors, including BTG4, PABPN1L, the CCR4-NOT subunits, CNOT6L and CNOT7, and TUTs, are responsible for two maternal mRNA avalanches: M- and Z-decay. In this review, we discuss recent advances in mRNA degradation mechanisms in mammalian oocytes and preimplantation embryos. We focused on the studies in mice, as a model mammalian species, and on RNA turnover effectors and the cis-elements in targeting RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Yan Jiang
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Heng-Yu Fan
- Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
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22
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Haase AD. An introduction to PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) in the context of metazoan small RNA silencing pathways. RNA Biol 2022; 19:1094-1102. [PMID: 36217279 PMCID: PMC9559041 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2022.2132359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
PIWI proteins and their associated PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) constitute a small RNA-based adaptive immune system that restricts the deleterious activity of mobile genetic elements to protect genome integrity. Self/nonself discrimination is at the very core of successful defence and relies on complementary base-pairing in RNA-guided immunity. How the millions of piRNA sequences faithfully discriminate between self and nonself and how they adapt to novel genomic invaders remain key outstanding questions in genome biology. This review aims to introduce principles of piRNA silencing in the context of metazoan small RNA pathways. A distinct feature of piRNAs is their origin from single-stranded instead of double-stranded RNA precursors, and piRNAs require a unique set of processing factors. Novel nucleases, helicases and RNA binding proteins have been identified in piRNA biology, and while we are starting to understand some mechanisms of piRNA biogenesis and function, this diverse and prolific class of small RNAs remains full of surprises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid D Haase
- National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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23
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He C, Wang K, Gao Y, Wang C, Li L, Liao Y, Hu K, Liang M. Roles of Noncoding RNA in Reproduction. Front Genet 2021; 12:777510. [PMID: 34956326 PMCID: PMC8695933 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.777510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization predicts that infertility will be the third major health threat after cancer and cardiovascular disease, and will become a hot topic in medical research. Studies have shown that epigenetic changes are an important component of gametogenesis and related reproductive diseases. Epigenetic regulation of noncoding RNA (ncRNA) is appropriate and is a research hotspot in the biomedical field; these include long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), microRNA (miRNA), and PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA). As vital members of the intracellular gene regulatory network, they affect various life activities of cells. LncRNA functions as a molecular bait, molecular signal and molecular scaffold in the body through molecular guidance. miRNAs are critical regulators of gene expression; they mainly control the stability or translation of their target mRNA after transcription. piRNA functions mainly through silencing genomic transposable elements and the post-transcriptional regulation of mRNAs in animal germ cells. Current studies have shown that these ncRNAs also play significant roles in the reproductive system and are involved in the regulation of essential cellular events in spermatogenesis and follicular development. The abnormal expression of ncRNA is closely linked to testicular germ cell tumors, poly cystic ovary syndrome and other diseases. This paper briefly presents the research on the reproductive process and reproductive diseases involving ncRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Ke Hu
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
| | - Meng Liang
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, China
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24
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Wang J, Shi Y, Zhou H, Zhang P, Song T, Ying Z, Yu H, Li Y, Zhao Y, Zeng X, He S, Chen R. piRBase: integrating piRNA annotation in all aspects. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 50:D265-D272. [PMID: 34871445 PMCID: PMC8728152 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab1012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Piwi-interacting RNAs are a type of small noncoding RNA that have various functions. piRBase is a manually curated resource focused on assisting piRNA functional analysis. piRBase release v3.0 is committed to providing more comprehensive piRNA related information. The latest release covers >181 million unique piRNA sequences, including 440 datasets from 44 species. More disease-related piRNAs and piRNA targets have been collected and displayed. The regulatory relationships between piRNAs and targets have been visualized. In addition to the reuse and expansion of the content in the previous version, the latest version has additional new content, including gold standard piRNA sets, piRNA clusters, piRNA variants, splicing-junction piRNAs, and piRNA expression data. In addition, the entire web interface has been redesigned to provide a better experience for users. piRBase release v3.0 is free to access, browse, search, and download at http://bigdata.ibp.ac.cn/piRBase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Wang
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yirong Shi
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Honghong Zhou
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,National Genomics Data Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Tingrui Song
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Zhiye Ying
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Haopeng Yu
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yanyan Li
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yi Zhao
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Key Laboratory of Intelligent Information Processing, Advanced Computer Research Center, Institute of Computing Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Xiaoxi Zeng
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Shunmin He
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,National Genomics Data Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Runsheng Chen
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,National Genomics Data Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Guangdong Geneway Decoding Bio-Tech Co. Ltd, Foshan 528316, China
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25
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Ding D, Chen C. Cracking the egg: A breakthrough in piRNA function in mammalian oocytes and embryos. Biol Reprod 2021; 106:6-8. [PMID: 34725680 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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26
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The birth of piRNAs: how mammalian piRNAs are produced, originated, and evolved. Mamm Genome 2021; 33:293-311. [PMID: 34724117 PMCID: PMC9114089 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-021-09927-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), small noncoding RNAs 24–35 nucleotides long, are essential for animal fertility. They play critical roles in a range of functions, including transposable element suppression, gene expression regulation, imprinting, and viral defense. In mammals, piRNAs are the most abundant small RNAs in adult testes and the only small RNAs that direct epigenetic modification of chromatin in the nucleus. The production of piRNAs is a complex process from transcription to post-transcription, requiring unique machinery often distinct from the biogenesis of other RNAs. In mice, piRNA biogenesis occurs in specialized subcellular locations, involves dynamic developmental regulation, and displays sexual dimorphism. Furthermore, the genomic loci and sequences of piRNAs evolve much more rapidly than most of the genomic regions. Understanding piRNA biogenesis should reveal novel RNA regulations recognizing and processing piRNA precursors and the forces driving the gain and loss of piRNAs during animal evolution. Such findings may provide the basis for the development of engineered piRNAs capable of modulating epigenetic regulation, thereby offering possible single-dose RNA therapy without changing the genomic DNA. In this review, we focus on the biogenesis of piRNAs in mammalian adult testes that are derived from long non-coding RNAs. Although piRNA biogenesis is believed to be evolutionarily conserved from fruit flies to humans, recent studies argue for the existence of diverse, mammalian-specific RNA-processing pathways that convert precursor RNAs into piRNAs, perhaps associated with the unique features of mammalian piRNAs or germ cell development. We end with the discussion of major questions in the field, including substrate recognition and the birth of new piRNAs.
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27
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The piRNA pathway is essential for generating functional oocytes in golden hamsters. Nat Cell Biol 2021; 23:1013-1022. [PMID: 34489574 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-021-00750-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are predominantly expressed in germ cells and function in gametogenesis in various species. However, Piwi-deficient female mice are fertile and mouse oocytes express a panel of small RNAs that do not appear to be widely representative of mammals. Thus, the function of piRNAs in mammalian oogenesis remains largely unclear. Here, we generated Piwil1- and Mov10l1-deficient golden hamsters and found that all female and male mutants were sterile, with severe defects in embryogenesis and spermatogenesis, respectively. In Piwil1-deficient female hamsters, the oocytes and embryos displayed aberrant transposon accumulation and extensive transcriptomic dysregulation, and the embryos were arrested at the two-cell stage with impaired zygotic genome activation. Moreover, PIWIL1-piRNAs exert a non-redundant function in silencing endogenous retroviruses in the oocytes and embryos. Together, our findings demonstrate that piRNAs are indispensable for generating functional germ cells in golden hamsters and show the value of this model species for piRNA studies in gametogenesis, especially those related to female infertility.
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28
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29
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Production of functional oocytes requires maternally expressed PIWI genes and piRNAs in golden hamsters. Nat Cell Biol 2021; 23:1002-1012. [PMID: 34489571 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-021-00745-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Many animals have a conserved adaptive genome defence system known as the Piwi-interacting RNA (piRNA) pathway, which is essential for germ cell development and function. Disruption of individual mouse Piwi genes results in male but not female sterility, leading to the assumption that PIWI genes play little or no role in mammalian oocytes. Here, we report the generation of PIWI-defective golden hamsters, which have defects in the production of functional oocytes. The mechanisms involved vary among the hamster PIWI genes, whereby the lack of PIWIL1 has a major impact on gene expression, including hamster-specific young transposon de-silencing, whereas PIWIL3 deficiency has little impact on gene expression in oocytes, although DNA methylation was reduced to some extent in PIWIL3-deficient oocytes. Our findings serve as the foundation for developing useful models to study the piRNA pathway in mammalian oocytes, including humans.
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