1
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Kuang S, Pollard KS. Exploring the roles of RNAs in chromatin architecture using deep learning. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6373. [PMID: 39075082 PMCID: PMC11286850 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50573-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: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have highlighted the impact of both transcription and transcripts on 3D genome organization, particularly its dynamics. Here, we propose a deep learning framework, called AkitaR, that leverages both genome sequences and genome-wide RNA-DNA interactions to investigate the roles of chromatin-associated RNAs (caRNAs) on genome folding in HFFc6 cells. In order to disentangle the cis- and trans-regulatory roles of caRNAs, we have compared models with nascent transcripts, trans-located caRNAs, open chromatin data, or DNA sequence alone. Both nascent transcripts and trans-located caRNAs improve the models' predictions, especially at cell-type-specific genomic regions. Analyses of feature importance scores reveal the contribution of caRNAs at TAD boundaries, chromatin loops and nuclear sub-structures such as nuclear speckles and nucleoli to the models' predictions. Furthermore, we identify non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) known to regulate chromatin structures, such as MALAT1 and NEAT1, as well as several new RNAs, RNY5, RPPH1, POLG-DT and THBS1-IT1, that might modulate chromatin architecture through trans-interactions in HFFc6. Our modeling also suggests that transcripts from Alus and other repetitive elements may facilitate chromatin interactions through trans R-loop formation. Our findings provide insights and generate testable hypotheses about the roles of caRNAs in shaping chromatin organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuzhen Kuang
- Gladstone Institute of Data Science and Biotechnology, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Katherine S Pollard
- Gladstone Institute of Data Science and Biotechnology, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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2
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Patarca R, Haseltine WA. Potential Transcriptional Enhancers in Coronaviruses: From Infectious Bronchitis Virus to SARS-CoV-2. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8012. [PMID: 39125583 PMCID: PMC11311688 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2024] [Revised: 07/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Coronaviruses constitute a global threat to human and animal health. It is essential to investigate the long-distance RNA-RNA interactions that approximate remote regulatory elements in strategies, including genome circularization, discontinuous transcription, and transcriptional enhancers, aimed at the rapid replication of their large genomes, pathogenicity, and immune evasion. Based on the primary sequences and modeled RNA-RNA interactions of two experimentally defined coronaviral enhancers, we detected via an in silico primary and secondary structural analysis potential enhancers in various coronaviruses, from the phylogenetically ancient avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) to the recently emerged SARS-CoV-2. These potential enhancers possess a core duplex-forming region that could transition between closed and open states, as molecular switches directed by viral or host factors. The duplex open state would pair with remote sequences in the viral genome and modulate the expression of downstream crucial genes involved in viral replication and host immune evasion. Consistently, variations in the predicted IBV enhancer region or its distant targets coincide with cases of viral attenuation, possibly driven by decreased open reading frame (ORF)3a immune evasion protein expression. If validated experimentally, the annotated enhancer sequences could inform structural prediction tools and antiviral interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Patarca
- ACCESS Health International, 384 West Lane, Ridgefield, CT 06877, USA;
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Dr, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA
| | - William A. Haseltine
- ACCESS Health International, 384 West Lane, Ridgefield, CT 06877, USA;
- Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Dr, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA
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3
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Ye R, Zhao H, Wang X, Xue Y. Technological advancements in deciphering RNA-RNA interactions. Mol Cell 2024:S1097-2765(24)00543-4. [PMID: 39047724 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2024.06.036] [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: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
RNA-RNA interactions (RRIs) can dictate RNA molecules to form intricate higher-order structures and bind their RNA substrates in diverse biological processes. To elucidate the function, binding specificity, and regulatory mechanisms of various RNA molecules, especially the vast repertoire of non-coding RNAs, advanced technologies and methods that globally map RRIs are extremely valuable. In the past decades, many state-of-the-art technologies have been developed for this purpose. This review focuses on those high-throughput technologies for the global mapping of RRIs. We summarize the key concepts and the pros and cons of different technologies. In addition, we highlight the novel biological insights uncovered by these RRI mapping methods and discuss the future challenges for appreciating the crucial roles of RRIs in gene regulation across bacteria, viruses, archaea, and mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Ye
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetic Regulation and Intervention, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Hailian Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetic Regulation and Intervention, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Female Fertility Promotion, Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yuanchao Xue
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetic Regulation and Intervention, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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4
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Cantarella S, Vezzoli M, Carnevali D, Morselli M, Zemke NR, Montanini B, Daussy CF, Wodrich H, Teichmann M, Pellegrini M, Berk AJ, Dieci G, Ferrari R. Adenovirus small E1A directs activation of Alu transcription at YAP/TEAD- and AP-1-bound enhancers through interactions with the EP400 chromatin remodeler. Nucleic Acids Res 2024:gkae615. [PMID: 39011896 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Alu retrotransposons, which form the largest family of mobile DNA elements in the human genome, have recently come to attention as a potential source of regulatory novelties, most notably by participating in enhancer function. Even though Alu transcription by RNA polymerase III is subjected to tight epigenetic silencing, their expression has long been known to increase in response to various types of stress, including viral infection. Here we show that, in primary human fibroblasts, adenovirus small e1a triggered derepression of hundreds of individual Alus by promoting TFIIIB recruitment by Alu-bound TFIIIC. Epigenome profiling revealed an e1a-induced decrease of H3K27 acetylation and increase of H3K4 monomethylation at derepressed Alus, making them resemble poised enhancers. The enhancer nature of e1a-targeted Alus was confirmed by the enrichment, in their upstream regions, of the EP300/CBP acetyltransferase, EP400 chromatin remodeler and YAP1 and FOS transcription factors. The physical interaction of e1a with EP400 was critical for Alu derepression, which was abrogated upon EP400 ablation. Our data suggest that e1a targets a subset of enhancer Alus whose transcriptional activation, which requires EP400 and is mediated by the e1a-EP400 interaction, may participate in the manipulation of enhancer activity by adenoviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Cantarella
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Marco Vezzoli
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Davide Carnevali
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Marco Morselli
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Nathan R Zemke
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Barbara Montanini
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Coralie F Daussy
- Bordeaux University, CNRS UMR 5234, Fundamental Microbiology and Pathogenicity, Bordeaux, France
| | - Harald Wodrich
- Bordeaux University, CNRS UMR 5234, Fundamental Microbiology and Pathogenicity, Bordeaux, France
| | - Martin Teichmann
- Bordeaux University, Inserm U 1312, Bordeaux Institute of Oncology, 33076 Bordeaux, France
| | - Matteo Pellegrini
- Department of Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Arnold J Berk
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Giorgio Dieci
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Roberto Ferrari
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
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5
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Morales-Vicente DA, Tahira AC, Woellner-Santos D, Amaral MS, Berzoti-Coelho MG, Verjovski-Almeida S. The Human Developing Cerebral Cortex Is Characterized by an Elevated De Novo Expression of Long Noncoding RNAs in Excitatory Neurons. Mol Biol Evol 2024; 41:msae123. [PMID: 38913688 PMCID: PMC11221658 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/msae123] [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: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The outstanding human cognitive capacities are computed in the cerebral cortex, a mammalian-specific brain region and the place of massive biological innovation. Long noncoding RNAs have emerged as gene regulatory elements with higher evolutionary turnover than mRNAs. The many long noncoding RNAs identified in neural tissues make them candidates for molecular sources of cerebral cortex evolution and disease. Here, we characterized the genomic and cellular shifts that occurred during the evolution of the long noncoding RNA repertoire expressed in the developing cerebral cortex and explored putative roles for these long noncoding RNAs in the evolution of the human brain. Using transcriptomics and comparative genomics, we comprehensively annotated the cortical transcriptomes of humans, rhesus macaques, mice, and chickens and classified human cortical long noncoding RNAs into evolutionary groups as a function of their predicted minimal ages. Long noncoding RNA evolutionary groups showed differences in expression levels, splicing efficiencies, transposable element contents, genomic distributions, and transcription factor binding to their promoters. Furthermore, older long noncoding RNAs showed preferential expression in germinative zones, outer radial glial cells, and cortical inhibitory (GABAergic) neurons. In comparison, younger long noncoding RNAs showed preferential expression in cortical excitatory (glutamatergic) neurons, were enriched in primate and human-specific gene co-expression modules, and were dysregulated in neurodevelopmental disorders. These results suggest different evolutionary routes for older and younger cortical long noncoding RNAs, highlighting old long noncoding RNAs as a possible source of molecular evolution of conserved developmental programs; conversely, we propose that the de novo expression of primate- and human-specific young long noncoding RNAs is a putative source of molecular evolution and dysfunction of cortical excitatory neurons, warranting further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Morales-Vicente
- Laboratório de Ciclo Celular, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana C Tahira
- Laboratório de Ciclo Celular, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daisy Woellner-Santos
- Laboratório de Ciclo Celular, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Murilo S Amaral
- Laboratório de Ciclo Celular, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria G Berzoti-Coelho
- Laboratório de Ciclo Celular, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sergio Verjovski-Almeida
- Laboratório de Ciclo Celular, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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6
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Stasevich EM, Simonova AV, Bogomolova EA, Murashko MM, Uvarova AN, Zheremyan EA, Korneev KV, Schwartz AM, Kuprash DV, Demin DE. Cut from the same cloth: RNAs transcribed from regulatory elements. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2024; 1867:195049. [PMID: 38964653 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2024.195049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
A certain degree of chromatin openness is necessary for the activity of transcription-regulating regions within the genome, facilitating accessibility to RNA polymerases and subsequent synthesis of regulatory element RNAs (regRNAs) from these regions. The rapidly increasing number of studies underscores the significance of regRNAs across diverse cellular processes and diseases, challenging the paradigm that these transcripts are non-functional transcriptional noise. This review explores the multifaceted roles of regRNAs in human cells, encompassing rather well-studied entities such as promoter RNAs and enhancer RNAs (eRNAs), while also providing insights into overshadowed silencer RNAs and insulator RNAs. Furthermore, we assess notable examples of shorter regRNAs, like miRNAs, snRNAs, and snoRNAs, playing important roles. Expanding our discourse, we deliberate on the potential usage of regRNAs as biomarkers and novel targets for cancer and other human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Stasevich
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - A V Simonova
- Laboratory of Intracellular Signaling in Health and Disease, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - E A Bogomolova
- Laboratory of Intracellular Signaling in Health and Disease, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia; Moscow Center for Advanced Studies, Moscow, Russia
| | - M M Murashko
- Laboratory of Intracellular Signaling in Health and Disease, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia; Moscow Center for Advanced Studies, Moscow, Russia
| | - A N Uvarova
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - E A Zheremyan
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - K V Korneev
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - A M Schwartz
- Department of Human Biology, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
| | - D V Kuprash
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - D E Demin
- Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia.
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7
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Liang Y, Wang T. LINE1 mediates long-range DNA interactions. Nat Genet 2024; 56:1328-1330. [PMID: 38965415 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-024-01824-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Yonghao Liang
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
- Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
- Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
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8
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Talley MJ, Longworth MS. Retrotransposons in embryogenesis and neurodevelopment. Biochem Soc Trans 2024; 52:1159-1171. [PMID: 38716891 DOI: 10.1042/bst20230757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Retrotransposable elements (RTEs) are genetic elements that can replicate and insert new copies into different genomic locations. RTEs have long been identified as 'parasitic genes', as their mobilization can cause mutations, DNA damage, and inflammation. Interestingly, high levels of retrotransposon activation are observed in early embryogenesis and neurodevelopment, suggesting that RTEs may possess functional roles during these stages of development. Recent studies demonstrate that RTEs can function as transcriptional regulatory elements through mechanisms such as chromatin organization and noncoding RNAs. It is clear, however, that RTE expression and activity must be restrained at some level during development, since overactivation of RTEs during neurodevelopment is associated with several developmental disorders. Further investigation is needed to understand the importance of RTE expression and activity during neurodevelopment and the balance between RTE-regulated development and RTE-mediated pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary Jo Talley
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, U.S.A
| | - Michelle S Longworth
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, U.S.A
- Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH 44195, U.S.A
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9
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Cao X, Zhang Y, Ding Y, Wan Y. Identification of RNA structures and their roles in RNA functions. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024:10.1038/s41580-024-00748-6. [PMID: 38926530 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-024-00748-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
The development of high-throughput RNA structure profiling methods in the past decade has greatly facilitated our ability to map and characterize different aspects of RNA structures transcriptome-wide in cell populations, single cells and single molecules. The resulting high-resolution data have provided insights into the static and dynamic nature of RNA structures, revealing their complexity as they perform their respective functions in the cell. In this Review, we discuss recent technical advances in the determination of RNA structures, and the roles of RNA structures in RNA biogenesis and functions, including in transcription, processing, translation, degradation, localization and RNA structure-dependent condensates. We also discuss the current understanding of how RNA structures could guide drug design for treating genetic diseases and battling pathogenic viruses, and highlight existing challenges and future directions in RNA structure research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinang Cao
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Genome Institute of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yueying Zhang
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, John Innes Centre, Norwich, UK
| | - Yiliang Ding
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, John Innes Centre, Norwich, UK.
| | - Yue Wan
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology, Genome Institute of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
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10
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Deaville LA, Berrens RV. Technology to the rescue: how to uncover the role of transposable elements in preimplantation development. Biochem Soc Trans 2024; 52:1349-1362. [PMID: 38752836 DOI: 10.1042/bst20231262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs) are highly expressed in preimplantation development. Preimplantation development is the phase when the cells of the early embryo undergo the first cell fate choice and change from being totipotent to pluripotent. A range of studies have advanced our understanding of TEs in preimplantation, as well as their epigenetic regulation and functional roles. However, many questions remain about the implications of TE expression during early development. Challenges originate first due to the abundance of TEs in the genome, and second because of the limited cell numbers in preimplantation. Here we review the most recent technological advancements promising to shed light onto the role of TEs in preimplantation development. We explore novel avenues to identify genomic TE insertions and improve our understanding of the regulatory mechanisms and roles of TEs and their RNA and protein products during early development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauryn A Deaville
- Institute for Developmental and Regenerative Medicine, Oxford University, IMS-Tetsuya Nakamura Building, Old Road Campus, Roosevelt Dr, Oxford OX3 7TY, U.K
- Department of Paediatrics, Oxford University, Level 2, Children's Hospital, John Radcliffe Headington, Oxford OX3 9DU, U.K
- MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Oxford University, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DS, U.K
| | - Rebecca V Berrens
- Institute for Developmental and Regenerative Medicine, Oxford University, IMS-Tetsuya Nakamura Building, Old Road Campus, Roosevelt Dr, Oxford OX3 7TY, U.K
- Department of Paediatrics, Oxford University, Level 2, Children's Hospital, John Radcliffe Headington, Oxford OX3 9DU, U.K
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11
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Wang ZY, Ge LP, Ouyang Y, Jin X, Jiang YZ. Targeting transposable elements in cancer: developments and opportunities. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189143. [PMID: 38936517 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189143] [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: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs), comprising nearly 50% of the human genome, have transitioned from being perceived as "genomic junk" to key players in cancer progression. Contemporary research links TE regulatory disruptions with cancer development, underscoring their therapeutic potential. Advances in long-read sequencing, computational analytics, single-cell sequencing, proteomics, and CRISPR-Cas9 technologies have enriched our understanding of TEs' clinical implications, notably their impact on genome architecture, gene regulation, and evolutionary processes. In cancer, TEs, including long interspersed element-1 (LINE-1), Alus, and long terminal repeat (LTR) elements, demonstrate altered patterns, influencing both tumorigenic and tumor-suppressive mechanisms. TE-derived nucleic acids and tumor antigens play critical roles in tumor immunity, bridging innate and adaptive responses. Given their central role in oncology, TE-targeted therapies, particularly through reverse transcriptase inhibitors and epigenetic modulators, represent a novel avenue in cancer treatment. Combining these TE-focused strategies with existing chemotherapy or immunotherapy regimens could enhance efficacy and offer a new dimension in cancer treatment. This review delves into recent TE detection advancements, explores their multifaceted roles in tumorigenesis and immune regulation, discusses emerging diagnostic and therapeutic approaches centered on TEs, and anticipates future directions in cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Yu Wang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Li-Ping Ge
- Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yang Ouyang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Xi Jin
- Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yi-Zhou Jiang
- Department of Breast Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center; Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China.
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12
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Liang L, Xue Y. NAP-seq: unveiling the hidden world of noncapped RNAs. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2024:10.1007/s11427-024-2623-5. [PMID: 38874712 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-024-2623-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Liang Liang
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetic Regulation and Intervention, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Yuanchao Xue
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetic Regulation and Intervention, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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13
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Yang S, Kim SH, Yang E, Kang M, Joo JY. Molecular insights into regulatory RNAs in the cellular machinery. Exp Mol Med 2024; 56:1235-1249. [PMID: 38871819 PMCID: PMC11263585 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-024-01239-6] [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: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
It is apparent that various functional units within the cellular machinery are derived from RNAs. The evolution of sequencing techniques has resulted in significant insights into approaches for transcriptome studies. Organisms utilize RNA to govern cellular systems, and a heterogeneous class of RNAs is involved in regulatory functions. In particular, regulatory RNAs are increasingly recognized to participate in intricately functioning machinery across almost all levels of biological systems. These systems include those mediating chromatin arrangement, transcription, suborganelle stabilization, and posttranscriptional modifications. Any class of RNA exhibiting regulatory activity can be termed a class of regulatory RNA and is typically represented by noncoding RNAs, which constitute a substantial portion of the genome. These RNAs function based on the principle of structural changes through cis and/or trans regulation to facilitate mutual RNA‒RNA, RNA‒DNA, and RNA‒protein interactions. It has not been clearly elucidated whether regulatory RNAs identified through deep sequencing actually function in the anticipated mechanisms. This review addresses the dominant properties of regulatory RNAs at various layers of the cellular machinery and covers regulatory activities, structural dynamics, modifications, associated molecules, and further challenges related to therapeutics and deep learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumin Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Hanyang University, Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hyun Kim
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Hanyang University, Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Eunjeong Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Hanyang University, Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Mingon Kang
- Department of Computer Science, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, 89154, USA
| | - Jae-Yeol Joo
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Hanyang University, Ansan, Gyeonggi-do, 15588, Republic of Korea.
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14
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Long Y, Wendel JF, Zhang X, Wang M. Evolutionary insights into the organization of chromatin structure and landscape of transcriptional regulation in plants. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 29:638-649. [PMID: 38061928 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2023.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
Development of complex traits necessitates the functioning and coordination of intricate regulatory networks involving multiple genes. Understanding 3D chromatin structure can facilitate insight into the regulation of gene expression by regulatory elements. This potential, of visualizing the role of chromatin organization in the evolution and function of regulatory elements, remains largely unexplored. Here, we describe new perspectives that arise from the dual considerations of sequence variation of regulatory elements and chromatin structure, with a special focus on whole-genome doubling or polyploidy. We underscore the significance of hierarchical chromatin organization in gene regulation during evolution. In addition, we describe strategies for exploring chromatin organization in future investigations of regulatory evolution in plants, enabling insights into the evolutionary influence of regulatory elements on gene expression and, hence, phenotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuexuan Long
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jonathan F Wendel
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Xianlong Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Maojun Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China.
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15
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Lee K, Ku J, Ku D, Kim Y. Inverted Alu repeats: friends or foes in the human transcriptome. Exp Mol Med 2024; 56:1250-1262. [PMID: 38871814 PMCID: PMC11263572 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-024-01177-3] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Alu elements are highly abundant primate-specific short interspersed nuclear elements that account for ~10% of the human genome. Due to their preferential location in gene-rich regions, especially in introns and 3' UTRs, Alu elements can exert regulatory effects on the expression of both host and neighboring genes. When two Alu elements with inverse orientations are positioned in close proximity, their transcription results in the generation of distinct double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs), known as inverted Alu repeats (IRAlus). IRAlus are key immunogenic self-dsRNAs and post-transcriptional cis-regulatory elements that play a role in circular RNA biogenesis, as well as RNA transport and stability. Recently, IRAlus dsRNAs have emerged as regulators of transcription and activators of Z-DNA-binding proteins. The formation and activity of IRAlus can be modulated through RNA editing and interactions with RNA-binding proteins, and misregulation of IRAlus has been implicated in several immune-associated disorders. In this review, we summarize the emerging functions of IRAlus dsRNAs, the regulatory mechanisms governing IRAlus activity, and their relevance in the pathogenesis of human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keonyong Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Jayoung Ku
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Doyeong Ku
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoosik Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
- Graduate School of Engineering Biology, KAIST, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
- KAIST Institute for BioCentury (KIB), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
- KAIST Institute for Health Science and Technology (KIHST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
- BioProcess Engineering Research Center and BioInformatics Research Center, KAIST, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea.
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16
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Kojima S. Investigating mobile element variations by statistical genetics. Hum Genome Var 2024; 11:23. [PMID: 38816353 PMCID: PMC11140006 DOI: 10.1038/s41439-024-00280-1] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The integration of structural variations (SVs) in statistical genetics provides an opportunity to understand the genetic factors influencing complex human traits and disease. Recent advances in long-read technology and variant calling methods for short reads have improved the accurate discovery and genotyping of SVs, enabling their use in expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) analysis and genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Mobile elements are DNA sequences that insert themselves into various genome locations. Insertional polymorphisms of mobile elements between humans, called mobile element variations (MEVs), contribute to approximately 25% of human SVs. We recently developed a variant caller that can accurately identify and genotype MEVs from biobank-scale short-read whole-genome sequencing (WGS) datasets and integrate them into statistical genetics. The use of MEVs in eQTL analysis and GWAS has a minimal impact on the discovery of genome loci associated with gene expression and disease; most disease-associated haplotypes can be identified by single nucleotide variations (SNVs). On the other hand, it helps make hypotheses about causal variants or effector variants. Focusing on MEVs, we identified multiple MEVs that contribute to differential gene expression and one of them is a potential cause of skin disease, emphasizing the importance of the integration of MEVs in medical genetics. Here, I will provide an overview of MEVs, MEV calling from WGS, and the integration of MEVs in statistical genetics. Finally, I will discuss the unanswered questions about MEVs, such as rare variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shohei Kojima
- Genome Immunobiology RIKEN Hakubi Research Team, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, 230-0045, Japan.
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17
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McShane A, Narayanan IV, Paulsen MT, Ashaka M, Blinkiewicz H, Yang NT, Magnuson B, Bedi K, Wilson TE, Ljungman M. Characterizing nascent transcription patterns of PROMPTs, eRNAs, and readthrough transcripts in the ENCODE4 deeply profiled cell lines. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.09.588612. [PMID: 38645116 PMCID: PMC11030308 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.09.588612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Arising as co-products of canonical gene expression, transcription-associated lincRNAs, such as promoter upstream transcripts (PROMPTs), enhancer RNAs (eRNAs), and readthrough (RT) transcripts, are often regarded as byproducts of transcription, although they may be important for the expression of nearby genes. We identified regions of nascent expression of these lincRNA in 16 human cell lines using Bru-seq techniques, and found distinctly regulated patterns of PROMPT, eRNA, and RT transcription using the diverse biochemical approaches in the ENCODE4 deeply profiled cell lines collection. Transcription of these lincRNAs was influenced by sequence-specific features and the local or 3D chromatin landscape. However, these sequence and chromatin features do not describe the full spectrum of lincRNA expression variability we identify, highlighting the complexity of their regulation. This may suggest that transcription-associated lincRNAs are not merely byproducts, but rather that the transcript itself, or the act of its transcription, is important for genomic function.
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18
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Ferrer J, Dimitrova N. Transcription regulation by long non-coding RNAs: mechanisms and disease relevance. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024; 25:396-415. [PMID: 38242953 PMCID: PMC11045326 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-023-00694-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) outnumber protein-coding transcripts, but their functions remain largely unknown. In this Review, we discuss the emerging roles of lncRNAs in the control of gene transcription. Some of the best characterized lncRNAs have essential transcription cis-regulatory functions that cannot be easily accomplished by DNA-interacting transcription factors, such as XIST, which controls X-chromosome inactivation, or imprinted lncRNAs that direct allele-specific repression. A growing number of lncRNA transcription units, including CHASERR, PVT1 and HASTER (also known as HNF1A-AS1) act as transcription-stabilizing elements that fine-tune the activity of dosage-sensitive genes that encode transcription factors. Genetic experiments have shown that defects in such transcription stabilizers often cause severe phenotypes. Other lncRNAs, such as lincRNA-p21 (also known as Trp53cor1) and Maenli (Gm29348) contribute to local activation of gene transcription, whereas distinct lncRNAs influence gene transcription in trans. We discuss findings of lncRNAs that elicit a function through either activation of their transcription, transcript elongation and processing or the lncRNA molecule itself. We also discuss emerging evidence of lncRNA involvement in human diseases, and their potential as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Ferrer
- Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology (BIST), Barcelona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Madrid, Spain.
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| | - Nadya Dimitrova
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
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19
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Narumi S, Nagasaki K, Kiriya M, Uehara E, Akiba K, Tanase-Nakao K, Shimura K, Abe K, Sugisawa C, Ishii T, Miyako K, Hasegawa Y, Maruo Y, Muroya K, Watanabe N, Nishihara E, Ito Y, Kogai T, Kameyama K, Nakabayashi K, Hata K, Fukami M, Shima H, Kikuchi A, Takayama J, Tamiya G, Hasegawa T. Functional variants in a TTTG microsatellite on 15q26.1 cause familial nonautoimmune thyroid abnormalities. Nat Genet 2024; 56:869-876. [PMID: 38714868 PMCID: PMC11096107 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-024-01735-5] [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: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Insufficient thyroid hormone production in newborns is referred to as congenital hypothyroidism. Multinodular goiter (MNG), characterized by an enlarged thyroid gland with multiple nodules, is usually seen in adults and is recognized as a separate disorder from congenital hypothyroidism. Here we performed a linkage analysis of a family with both nongoitrous congenital hypothyroidism and MNG and identified a signal at 15q26.1. Follow-up analyses with whole-genome sequencing and genetic screening in congenital hypothyroidism and MNG cohorts showed that changes in a noncoding TTTG microsatellite on 15q26.1 were frequently observed in congenital hypothyroidism (137 in 989) and MNG (3 in 33) compared with controls (3 in 38,722). Characterization of the noncoding variants with epigenomic data and in vitro experiments suggested that the microsatellite is located in a thyroid-specific transcriptional repressor, and its activity is disrupted by the variants. Collectively, we presented genetic evidence linking nongoitrous congenital hypothyroidism and MNG, providing unique insights into thyroid abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Narumi
- Department of Pediatrics, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Keisuke Nagasaki
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Homeostatic Regulation and Development, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Mitsuo Kiriya
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Medical Technology, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Erika Uehara
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuhisa Akiba
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tokyo Metropolitan Children's Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kanako Tanase-Nakao
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Shimura
- Department of Pediatrics, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kiyomi Abe
- Department of Pediatrics, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chiho Sugisawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ito Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Ishii
- Department of Pediatrics, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenichi Miyako
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fukuoka Children's Hospital, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Hasegawa
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Tokyo Metropolitan Children's Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Maruo
- Department of Pediatrics, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Japan
| | - Koji Muroya
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Japan
| | | | - Eijun Nishihara
- Center for Excellence in Thyroid Care, Kuma Hospital, Kobe, Japan
| | - Yuka Ito
- Department of Genetic Diagnosis and Laboratory Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University, Mibu, Japan
| | - Takahiko Kogai
- Department of Genetic Diagnosis and Laboratory Medicine, Dokkyo Medical University, Mibu, Japan
| | - Kaori Kameyama
- Department of Pathology, Showa University Northern Yokohama Hospital, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Nakabayashi
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Biology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenichiro Hata
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Biology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Human Molecular Genetics, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Maki Fukami
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirohito Shima
- Department of Pediatrics, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Atsuo Kikuchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Jun Takayama
- Department of AI and Innovative Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Integrative Genomics, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization (ToMMo) Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
- Statistical Genetics Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Gen Tamiya
- Department of AI and Innovative Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
- Department of Integrative Genomics, Tohoku Medical Megabank Organization (ToMMo) Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
- Statistical Genetics Team, RIKEN Center for Advanced Intelligence Project, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomonobu Hasegawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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20
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Yu H, Zhao J, Shen Y, Qiao L, Liu Y, Xie G, Chang S, Ge T, Li N, Chen M, Li H, Zhang J, Wang X. The dynamic landscape of enhancer-derived RNA during mouse early embryo development. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114077. [PMID: 38592974 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Enhancer-derived RNAs (eRNAs) play critical roles in diverse biological processes by facilitating their target gene expression. However, the abundance and function of eRNAs in early embryos are not clear. Here, we present a comprehensive eRNA atlas by systematically integrating publicly available datasets of mouse early embryos. We characterize the transcriptional and regulatory network of eRNAs and show that different embryo developmental stages have distinct eRNA expression and regulatory profiles. Paternal eRNAs are activated asymmetrically during zygotic genome activation (ZGA). Moreover, we identify an eRNA, MZGAe1, which plays an important function in regulating mouse ZGA and early embryo development. MZGAe1 knockdown leads to a developmental block from 2-cell embryo to blastocyst. We create an online data portal, M2ED2, to query and visualize eRNA expression and regulation. Our study thus provides a systematic landscape of eRNA and reveals the important role of eRNAs in regulating mouse early embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Yu
- Westlake Genomics and Bioinformatics Lab, Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou 310024, China; School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China; Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China; School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; The First Affiliated Hospital, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China; Institute of Life Sciences, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China.
| | - Jing Zhao
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China
| | - Yuxuan Shen
- Center of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, and Bone Marrow Transplantation Center of the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Lu Qiao
- Westlake Genomics and Bioinformatics Lab, Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou 310024, China; School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China; Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Yuheng Liu
- HPC Center, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Guanglei Xie
- Westlake Genomics and Bioinformatics Lab, Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou 310024, China; School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China; Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Shuhui Chang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Tingying Ge
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Nan Li
- HPC Center, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Ming Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Hu Li
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Center for Individualized Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55904, USA
| | - Jin Zhang
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 311121, China; Center of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, and Bone Marrow Transplantation Center of the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China.
| | - Xi Wang
- Westlake Genomics and Bioinformatics Lab, Westlake Laboratory of Life Sciences and Biomedicine, Hangzhou 310024, China; School of Life Sciences, Westlake University, Hangzhou 310024, China; Westlake Institute for Advanced Study, Hangzhou 310024, China.
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21
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Patty BJ, Hainer SJ. Widespread impact of nucleosome remodelers on transcription at cis-regulatory elements. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.12.589208. [PMID: 38659863 PMCID: PMC11042195 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.12.589208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Nucleosome remodeling complexes and other regulatory factors work in concert to build a chromatin environment that directs the expression of a distinct set of genes in each cell using cis-regulatory elements (CREs), such as promoters and enhancers, that drive transcription of both mRNAs and CRE-associated non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Two classes of CRE-associated ncRNAs include upstream antisense RNAs (uaRNAs), which are transcribed divergently from a shared mRNA promoter, and enhancer RNAs (eRNAs), which are transcribed bidirectionally from active enhancers. The complicated network of CRE regulation by nucleosome remodelers remains only partially explored, with a focus on a select, limited number of remodelers. We endeavored to elucidate a remodeler-based regulatory network governing CRE-associated transcription (mRNA, eRNA, and uaRNA) in murine embryonic stem (ES) cells to test the hypothesis that many SNF2-family nucleosome remodelers collaborate to regulate the coding and non-coding transcriptome via alteration of underlying nucleosome architecture. Using depletion followed by transient transcriptome sequencing (TT-seq), we identified thousands of misregulated mRNAs and CRE-associated ncRNAs across the remodelers examined, identifying novel contributions by understudied remodelers in the regulation of coding and noncoding transcription. Our findings suggest that mRNA and eRNA transcription are coordinately co-regulated, while mRNA and uaRNAs sharing a common promoter are independently regulated. Subsequent mechanistic studies suggest that while remodelers SRCAP and CHD8 modulate transcription through classical mechanisms such as transcription factors and histone variants, a broad set of remodelers including SMARCAL1 indirectly contribute to transcriptional regulation through maintenance of genomic stability and proper Integrator complex localization. This study systematically examines the contribution of SNF2-remodelers to the CRE-associated transcriptome, identifying at least two classes for remodeler action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J. Patty
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA USA
| | - Sarah J. Hainer
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA USA
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA USA
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22
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Walter NG. Are non-protein coding RNAs junk or treasure?: An attempt to explain and reconcile opposing viewpoints of whether the human genome is mostly transcribed into non-functional or functional RNAs. Bioessays 2024; 46:e2300201. [PMID: 38351661 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202300201] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
The human genome project's lasting legacies are the emerging insights into human physiology and disease, and the ascendance of biology as the dominant science of the 21st century. Sequencing revealed that >90% of the human genome is not coding for proteins, as originally thought, but rather is overwhelmingly transcribed into non-protein coding, or non-coding, RNAs (ncRNAs). This discovery initially led to the hypothesis that most genomic DNA is "junk", a term still championed by some geneticists and evolutionary biologists. In contrast, molecular biologists and biochemists studying the vast number of transcripts produced from most of this genome "junk" often surmise that these ncRNAs have biological significance. What gives? This essay contrasts the two opposing, extant viewpoints, aiming to explain their bases, which arise from distinct reference frames of the underlying scientific disciplines. Finally, it aims to reconcile these divergent mindsets in hopes of stimulating synergy between scientific fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils G Walter
- Center for RNA Biomedicine, Single Molecule Analysis Group, Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
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23
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Wang G, Lee-Yow Y, Chang HY. Approaches to probe and perturb long noncoding RNA functions in diseases. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2024; 85:102158. [PMID: 38412563 PMCID: PMC10987257 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2024.102158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a class of RNA molecules exceeding 200 nucleotides in length that lack long open-reading frames. Transcribed predominantly by RNA polymerase II (>500nt), lncRNAs can undergo splicing and are produced from various regions of the genome, including intergenic regions, introns, and in antisense orientation to protein-coding genes. Aberrations in lncRNA expression or function have been associated with a wide variety of diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and neurodegeneration. Despite the growing recognition of select lncRNAs as key players in cellular processes and diseases, several challenges obscure a comprehensive understanding of their functional landscape. Recent technological innovations, such as in sequencing, affinity-based techniques, imaging, and RNA perturbation, have advanced functional characterization and mechanistic understanding of disease-associated lncRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guiping Wang
- Center for Personal Dynamic Regulomes, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA. https://twitter.com/@Guiping_W
| | - Yannick Lee-Yow
- Center for Personal Dynamic Regulomes, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA. https://twitter.com/@yooaaooy
| | - Howard Y Chang
- Center for Personal Dynamic Regulomes, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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24
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Alfonso-Gonzalez C, Hilgers V. (Alternative) transcription start sites as regulators of RNA processing. Trends Cell Biol 2024:S0962-8924(24)00033-3. [PMID: 38531762 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2024.02.010] [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: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Alternative transcription start site usage (ATSS) is a widespread regulatory strategy that enables genes to choose between multiple genomic loci for initiating transcription. This mechanism is tightly controlled during development and is often altered in disease states. In this review, we examine the growing evidence highlighting a role for transcription start sites (TSSs) in the regulation of mRNA isoform selection during and after transcription. We discuss how the choice of transcription initiation sites influences RNA processing and the importance of this crosstalk for cell identity and organism function. We also speculate on possible mechanisms underlying the integration of transcriptional and post-transcriptional processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Alfonso-Gonzalez
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, 79108 Freiburg, Germany; Faculty of Biology, Albert Ludwigs University, 79104 Freiburg, Germany; International Max Planck Research School for Molecular and Cellular Biology (IMPRS- MCB), 79108 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Valérie Hilgers
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, 79108 Freiburg, Germany.
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25
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Lozovska A, Korovesi AG, Dias A, Lopes A, Fowler DA, Martins GG, Nóvoa A, Mallo M. Tgfbr1 controls developmental plasticity between the hindlimb and external genitalia by remodeling their regulatory landscape. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2509. [PMID: 38509075 PMCID: PMC10954616 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46870-z] [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: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The hindlimb and external genitalia of present-day tetrapods are thought to derive from an ancestral common primordium that evolved to generate a wide diversity of structures adapted for efficient locomotion and mating in the ecological niche occupied by the species. We show that despite long evolutionary distance from the ancestral condition, the early primordium of the mouse external genitalia preserved the capacity to take hindlimb fates. In the absence of Tgfbr1, the pericloacal mesoderm generates an extra pair of hindlimbs at the expense of the external genitalia. It has been shown that the hindlimb and the genital primordia share many of their key regulatory factors. Tgfbr1 controls the response to those factors by modulating the accessibility status of regulatory elements that control the gene regulatory networks leading to the formation of genital or hindlimb structures. Our work uncovers a remarkable tissue plasticity with potential implications in the evolution of the hindlimb/genital area of tetrapods, and identifies an additional mechanism for Tgfbr1 activity that might also contribute to the control of other physiological or pathological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasiia Lozovska
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua da Quinta Grande 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Artemis G Korovesi
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua da Quinta Grande 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - André Dias
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua da Quinta Grande 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Portugal
- Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alexandre Lopes
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua da Quinta Grande 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Donald A Fowler
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua da Quinta Grande 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Gabriel G Martins
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua da Quinta Grande 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Ana Nóvoa
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua da Quinta Grande 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Moisés Mallo
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Rua da Quinta Grande 6, 2780-156, Oeiras, Portugal.
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26
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He L, Sun H, Wang H. 3D organization of enhancers in MuSCs. Curr Top Dev Biol 2024; 158:407-431. [PMID: 38670714 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2024.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Skeletal muscle stem cells (MuSCs), also known as satellite cells, are essential for muscle growth and injury induced regeneration. In healthy adult muscle, MuSCs remain in a quiescent state located in a specialized niche beneath the basal lamina. Upon injury, these dormant MuSCs can quickly activate to re-enter the cell cycle and differentiate into new myofibers, while a subset undergoes self-renewal and returns to quiescence to restore the stem cell pool. The myogenic lineage progression is intricately controlled by complex intrinsic and extrinsic cues and coupled with dynamic transcriptional programs. In transcriptional regulation, enhancers are key regulatory elements controlling spatiotemporal gene expression through physical contacting promoters of target genes. The three-dimensional (3D) chromatin architecture is known to orchestrate the establishment of proper enhancer-promoter interactions throughout development and aging. However, studies dissecting the 3D organization of enhancers in MuSCs are just emerging. Here, we provide an overview of the general properties of enhancers and newly developed methods for assessing their activity. In particular, we summarize recent discoveries regarding the 3D rewiring of enhancers during MuSC specification, lineage progression as well as aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangqiang He
- Department of Chemical Pathology, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China; Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
| | - Hao Sun
- Department of Chemical Pathology, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China
| | - Huating Wang
- Center for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine, Hong Kong Science Park, New Territories, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China; Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, P.R. China.
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27
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Kawasaki K, Fukaya T. Regulatory landscape of enhancer-mediated transcriptional activation. Trends Cell Biol 2024:S0962-8924(24)00020-5. [PMID: 38355349 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2024.01.008] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Enhancers are noncoding regulatory elements that instruct spatial and temporal specificity of gene transcription in response to a variety of intrinsic and extrinsic signals during development. Although it has long been postulated that enhancers physically interact with target promoters through the formation of stable loops, recent studies have changed this static view: sequence-specific transcription factors (TFs) and coactivators are dynamically recruited to enhancers and assemble so-called transcription hubs. Dynamic assembly of transcription hubs appears to serve as a key scaffold to integrate regulatory information encoded by surrounding genome and biophysical properties of transcription machineries. In this review, we outline emerging new models of transcriptional regulation by enhancers and discuss future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Kawasaki
- Laboratory of Transcription Dynamics, Research Center for Biological Visualization, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan
| | - Takashi Fukaya
- Laboratory of Transcription Dynamics, Research Center for Biological Visualization, Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan; Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan.
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28
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Zhao H, Cai Z, Rao J, Wu D, Ji L, Ye R, Wang D, Chen J, Cao C, Hu N, Shu T, Zhu P, Wang J, Zhou X, Xue Y. SARS-CoV-2 RNA stabilizes host mRNAs to elicit immunopathogenesis. Mol Cell 2024; 84:490-505.e9. [PMID: 38128540 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.11.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 RNA interacts with host factors to suppress interferon responses and simultaneously induces cytokine release to drive the development of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, how SARS-CoV-2 hijacks host RNAs to elicit such imbalanced immune responses remains elusive. Here, we analyzed SARS-CoV-2 RNA in situ structures and interactions in infected cells and patient lung samples using RIC-seq. We discovered that SARS-CoV-2 RNA forms 2,095 potential duplexes with the 3' UTRs of 205 host mRNAs to increase their stability by recruiting RNA-binding protein YBX3 in A549 cells. Disrupting the SARS-CoV-2-to-host RNA duplex or knocking down YBX3 decreased host mRNA stability and reduced viral replication. Among SARS-CoV-2-stabilized host targets, NFKBIZ was crucial for promoting cytokine production and reducing interferon responses, probably contributing to cytokine storm induction. Our study uncovers the crucial roles of RNA-RNA interactions in the immunopathogenesis of RNA viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 and provides valuable host targets for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailian Zhao
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhaokui Cai
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Jian Rao
- National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens and Christophe Mérieux Laboratory, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Di Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Lei Ji
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Rong Ye
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Di Wang
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Juan Chen
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Changchang Cao
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Naijing Hu
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ting Shu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Ping Zhu
- Guangdong Cardiovascular Institute, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510100, China
| | - Jianwei Wang
- National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens and Christophe Mérieux Laboratory, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.
| | - Xi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China.
| | - Yuanchao Xue
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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29
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Liang Y, Qu X, Shah NM, Wang T. Towards targeting transposable elements for cancer therapy. Nat Rev Cancer 2024; 24:123-140. [PMID: 38228901 DOI: 10.1038/s41568-023-00653-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs) represent almost half of the human genome. Historically deemed 'junk DNA', recent technological advancements have stimulated a wave of research into the functional impact of TEs on gene-regulatory networks in evolution and development, as well as in diseases including cancer. The genetic and epigenetic evolution of cancer involves the exploitation of TEs, whereby TEs contribute directly to cancer-specific gene activities. This Review provides a perspective on the role of TEs in cancer as being a 'double-edged sword', both promoting cancer evolution and representing a vulnerability that could be exploited in cancer therapy. We discuss how TEs affect transcriptome regulation and other cellular processes in cancer. We highlight the potential of TEs as therapeutic targets for cancer. We also summarize technical hurdles in the characterization of TEs with genomic assays. Last, we outline open questions and exciting future research avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonghao Liang
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
- Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Xuan Qu
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
- Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Nakul M Shah
- Division of Cancer Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
- Center for Genome Sciences and Systems Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA.
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30
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Stévant I, Gonen N, Poulat F. Transposable elements acquire time- and sex-specific transcriptional and epigenetic signatures along mouse fetal gonad development. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 11:1327410. [PMID: 38283992 PMCID: PMC10811072 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1327410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Gonadal sex determination in mice is a complex and dynamic process, which is crucial for the development of functional reproductive organs. The expression of genes involved in this process is regulated by a variety of genetic and epigenetic mechanisms. Recently, there has been increasing evidence that transposable elements (TEs), which are a class of mobile genetic elements, play a significant role in regulating gene expression during embryogenesis and organ development. In this study, we aimed to investigate the involvement of TEs in the regulation of gene expression during mouse embryonic gonadal development. Through bioinformatics analysis, we aimed to identify and characterize specific TEs that operate as regulatory elements for sex-specific genes, as well as their potential mechanisms of regulation. We identified TE loci expressed in a time- and sex-specific manner along fetal gonad development that correlate positively and negatively with nearby gene expression, suggesting that their expression is integrated to the gonadal regulatory network. Moreover, chromatin accessibility and histone post-transcriptional modification analyses in differentiating supporting cells revealed that TEs are acquiring a sex-specific signature for promoter-, enhancer-, and silencer-like elements, with some of them being proximal to critical sex-determining genes. Altogether, our study introduces TEs as the new potential players in the gene regulatory network that controls gonadal development in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Stévant
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences and the Institute of Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS UMR9002 University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Nitzan Gonen
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences and the Institute of Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Francis Poulat
- Institute of Human Genetics, CNRS UMR9002 University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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31
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Guo Y, Li TD, Modzelewski AJ, Siomi H. Retrotransposon renaissance in early embryos. Trends Genet 2024; 40:39-51. [PMID: 37949723 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2023.10.010] [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: 07/22/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Despite being the predominant genetic elements in mammalian genomes, retrotransposons were often dismissed as genomic parasites with ambiguous biological significance. However, recent studies reveal their functional involvement in early embryogenesis, encompassing crucial processes such as zygotic genome activation (ZGA) and cell fate decision. This review underscores the paradigm shift in our understanding of retrotransposon roles during early preimplantation development, as well as their rich functional reservoir that is exploited by the host to provide cis-regulatory elements, noncoding RNAs, and functional proteins. The rapid advancement in long-read sequencing, low input multiomics profiling, advanced in vitro systems, and precise gene editing techniques encourages further dissection of retrotransposon functions that were once obscured by the intricacies of their genomic footprints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youjia Guo
- Department of Molecular Biology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Ten D Li
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-4539, USA
| | - Andrew J Modzelewski
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-4539, USA.
| | - Haruhiko Siomi
- Department of Molecular Biology, Keio University School of Medicine, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan; Human Biology Microbiome Quantum Research Center (WPI-Bio2Q), Keio University, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan.
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32
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Feitosa MF, Lin SJ, Acharya S, Thyagarajan B, Wojczynski MK, Kuipers AL, Kulminski A, Christensen K, Zmuda JM, Brent MR, Province MA. Discovery of genomic and transcriptomic pleiotropy between kidney function and soluble receptor for advanced glycation end-products using correlated meta-analyses: The Long Life Family Study (LLFS). MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.12.27.23300583. [PMID: 38234834 PMCID: PMC10793516 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.27.23300583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have increased oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, which may escalate the production of advanced glycation end-products (AGE). High soluble receptor for AGE (sRAGE) and low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) levels are associated with CKD and aging. We evaluated whether eGFR calculated from creatinine and cystatin C share pleiotropic genetic factors with sRAGE. We employed whole-genome sequencing and correlated meta-analyses on combined genomewide association study (GWAS) p -values in 4,182 individuals (age range: 24-110) from the Long Life Family Study (LLFS). We also conducted transcriptome-wide association studies (TWAS) on whole blood in a subset of 1,209 individuals. We identified 59 pleiotropic GWAS loci ( p <5×10 -8 ) and 17 TWAS genes (Bonferroni- p <2.73×10 -6 ) for eGFR traits and sRAGE. TWAS genes, LSP1 and MIR23AHG , were associated with eGFR and sRAGE located within GWAS loci, lncRNA- KCNQ1OT1 and CACNA1A/CCDC130 , respectively. GWAS variants were eQTLs in the kidney glomeruli and tubules, and GWAS genes predicted kidney carcinoma. TWAS genes harbored eQTLs in the kidney, predicted kidney carcinoma, and connected enhancer-promoter variants with kidney function-related phenotypes at p <5×10 -8 . Additionally, higher allele frequencies of protective variants for eGFR traits were detected in LLFS than in ALFA-Europeans and TOPMed, suggesting better kidney function in healthy-aging LLFS than in general populations. Integrating genomic annotation and transcriptional gene activity revealed the enrichment of genetic elements in kidney function and kidney diseases. The identified pleiotropic loci and gene expressions for eGFR and sRAGE suggest their underlying shared genetic effects and highlight their roles in kidney- and aging-related signaling pathways.
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33
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Liu X, Chen M, Qu X, Liu W, Dou Y, Liu Q, Shi D, Jiang M, Li H. Cis-Regulatory Elements in Mammals. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:343. [PMID: 38203513 PMCID: PMC10779164 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010343] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In cis-regulatory elements, enhancers and promoters with complex molecular interactions are used to coordinate gene transcription through physical proximity and chemical modifications. These processes subsequently influence the phenotypic characteristics of an organism. An in-depth exploration of enhancers and promoters can substantially enhance our understanding of gene regulatory networks, shedding new light on mammalian development, evolution and disease pathways. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the intrinsic structural attributes, detection methodologies as well as the operational mechanisms of enhancers and promoters, coupled with the relevant novel and innovative investigative techniques used to explore their actions. We further elucidated the state-of-the-art research on the roles of enhancers and promoters in the realms of mammalian development, evolution and disease, and we conclude with forward-looking insights into prospective research avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mingsheng Jiang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530005, China
| | - Hui Li
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530005, China
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34
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Dall'Agnese A, Young R. Regulatory architecture of cell identity genes and housekeeping genes. Trends Cell Biol 2023; 33:1010-1013. [PMID: 37775397 PMCID: PMC10873096 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2023.08.007] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Gene regulation and chromosome architecture are intimately linked. Genes with prominent roles in cell identity are often regulated by clusters of enhancer elements. By contrast, a recent study shows housekeeping genes are often regulated through clustering of promoters. We discuss here new regulatory insights for these two types of genes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Richard Young
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA; Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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35
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Tam PLF, Leung D. The Molecular Impacts of Retrotransposons in Development and Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16418. [PMID: 38003607 PMCID: PMC10671454 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216418] [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: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Retrotransposons are invasive genetic elements that constitute substantial portions of mammalian genomes. They have the potential to influence nearby gene expression through their cis-regulatory sequences, reverse transcription machinery, and the ability to mold higher-order chromatin structures. Due to their multifaceted functions, it is crucial for host fitness to maintain strict regulation of these parasitic sequences to ensure proper growth and development. This review explores how subsets of retrotransposons have undergone evolutionary exaptation to enhance the complexity of mammalian genomes. It also highlights the significance of regulating these elements, drawing on recent studies conducted in human and murine systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe Lut Fei Tam
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong SAR, China;
| | - Danny Leung
- Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong SAR, China;
- Center for Epigenomics Research, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong SAR, China
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36
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Kuang S, Pollard KS. Exploring the Roles of RNAs in Chromatin Architecture Using Deep Learning. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.10.22.563498. [PMID: 37961712 PMCID: PMC10634726 DOI: 10.1101/2023.10.22.563498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies have highlighted the impact of both transcription and transcripts on 3D genome organization, particularly its dynamics. Here, we propose a deep learning framework, called AkitaR, that leverages both genome sequences and genome-wide RNA-DNA interactions to investigate the roles of chromatin-associated RNAs (caRNAs) on genome folding in HFFc6 cells. In order to disentangle the cis- and trans-regulatory roles of caRNAs, we compared models with nascent transcripts, trans-located caRNAs, open chromatin data, or DNA sequence alone. Both nascent transcripts and trans-located caRNAs improved the models' predictions, especially at cell-type-specific genomic regions. Analyses of feature importance scores revealed the contribution of caRNAs at TAD boundaries, chromatin loops and nuclear sub-structures such as nuclear speckles and nucleoli to the models' predictions. Furthermore, we identified non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) known to regulate chromatin structures, such as MALAT1 and NEAT1, as well as several novel RNAs, RNY5, RPPH1, POLG-DT and THBS1-IT, that might modulate chromatin architecture through trans-interactions in HFFc6. Our modeling also suggests that transcripts from Alus and other repetitive elements may facilitate chromatin interactions through trans R-loop formation. Our findings provide new insights and generate testable hypotheses about the roles of caRNAs in shaping chromatin organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuzhen Kuang
- Gladstone Institute of Data Science and Biotechnology, San Francisco, CA
| | - Katherine S. Pollard
- Gladstone Institute of Data Science and Biotechnology, San Francisco, CA
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
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37
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Calandrelli R, Wen X, Charles Richard JL, Luo Z, Nguyen TC, Chen CJ, Qi Z, Xue S, Chen W, Yan Z, Wu W, Zaleta-Rivera K, Hu R, Yu M, Wang Y, Li W, Ma J, Ren B, Zhong S. Genome-wide analysis of the interplay between chromatin-associated RNA and 3D genome organization in human cells. Nat Commun 2023; 14:6519. [PMID: 37845234 PMCID: PMC10579264 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42274-7] [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: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The interphase genome is dynamically organized in the nucleus and decorated with chromatin-associated RNA (caRNA). It remains unclear whether the genome architecture modulates the spatial distribution of caRNA and vice versa. Here, we generate a resource of genome-wide RNA-DNA and DNA-DNA contact maps in human cells. These maps reveal the chromosomal domains demarcated by locally transcribed RNA, hereafter termed RNA-defined chromosomal domains. Further, the spreading of caRNA is constrained by the boundaries of topologically associating domains (TADs), demonstrating the role of the 3D genome structure in modulating the spatial distribution of RNA. Conversely, stopping transcription or acute depletion of RNA induces thousands of chromatin loops genome-wide. Activation or suppression of the transcription of specific genes suppresses or creates chromatin loops straddling these genes. Deletion of a specific caRNA-producing genomic sequence promotes chromatin loops that straddle the interchromosomal target sequences of this caRNA. These data suggest a feedback loop where the 3D genome modulates the spatial distribution of RNA, which in turn affects the dynamic 3D genome organization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Calandrelli
- Shu Chien-Gene Lay Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Xingzhao Wen
- Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | | | - Zhifei Luo
- Shu Chien-Gene Lay Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Tri C Nguyen
- Shu Chien-Gene Lay Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Chien-Ju Chen
- Bioinformatics and Systems Biology Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Zhijie Qi
- Shu Chien-Gene Lay Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Shuanghong Xue
- Shu Chien-Gene Lay Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Weizhong Chen
- Shu Chien-Gene Lay Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Zhangming Yan
- Shu Chien-Gene Lay Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Weixin Wu
- Shu Chien-Gene Lay Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Kathia Zaleta-Rivera
- Shu Chien-Gene Lay Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Rong Hu
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Center for Epigenomics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Miao Yu
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Yuchuan Wang
- Computational Biology Department, School of Computer Science, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Wenbo Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jian Ma
- Computational Biology Department, School of Computer Science, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Bing Ren
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Center for Epigenomics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Sheng Zhong
- Shu Chien-Gene Lay Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
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38
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Gunsalus LM, Keiser MJ, Pollard KS. In silico discovery of repetitive elements as key sequence determinants of 3D genome folding. CELL GENOMICS 2023; 3:100410. [PMID: 37868032 PMCID: PMC10589630 DOI: 10.1016/j.xgen.2023.100410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Natural and experimental genetic variants can modify DNA loops and insulating boundaries to tune transcription, but it is unknown how sequence perturbations affect chromatin organization genome wide. We developed a deep-learning strategy to quantify the effect of any insertion, deletion, or substitution on chromatin contacts and systematically scored millions of synthetic variants. While most genetic manipulations have little impact, regions with CTCF motifs and active transcription are highly sensitive, as expected. Our unbiased screen and subsequent targeted experiments also point to noncoding RNA genes and several families of repetitive elements as CTCF-motif-free DNA sequences with particularly large effects on nearby chromatin interactions, sometimes exceeding the effects of CTCF sites and explaining interactions that lack CTCF. We anticipate that our disruption tracks may be of broad interest and utility as a measure of 3D genome sensitivity, and our computational strategies may serve as a template for biological inquiry with deep learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M. Gunsalus
- Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Michael J. Keiser
- Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Kavli Institute for Fundamental Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Katherine S. Pollard
- Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Bakar Computational Health Sciences Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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Wen X, Zhong S. Alu transposable elements rewire enhancer-promoter network through RNA pairing. Mol Cell 2023; 83:3234-3235. [PMID: 37738962 PMCID: PMC11075628 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
A recent study by Liang et al.1 reveals that interacting enhancer RNAs (eRNAs) and promoter-transcribed upstream antisense RNAs (uaRNAs) can identify enhancer-promoter interactions. Complementary sequences within the interacting eRNAs and uaRNAs, predominantly Alu sequences, confer the specificity for eRNA-uaRNA pairing and hence enhancer-promoter recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingzhao Wen
- Program in Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Sheng Zhong
- Program in Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA; Shu Chien-Gene Lay Department of Bioengineering, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA.
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40
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Minton K. Alu sequences promote long-distance relationships. Nat Rev Genet 2023; 24:588. [PMID: 37500764 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-023-00642-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
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