1
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Montano C, Flores-Arenas C, Carpenter S. LncRNAs, nuclear architecture and the immune response. Nucleus 2024; 15:2350182. [PMID: 38738760 PMCID: PMC11093052 DOI: 10.1080/19491034.2024.2350182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression and can mediate their effects in both the nucleus and cytoplasm. Some of the best-characterized lncRNAs are localized within the nucleus, where they modulate the nuclear architecture and influence gene expression. In this review, we discuss the role of lncRNAs in nuclear architecture in the context of their gene regulatory functions in innate immunity. Here, we discuss various approaches to functionally characterize nuclear-localized lncRNAs and the challenges faced in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christy Montano
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
| | - Cristina Flores-Arenas
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
| | - Susan Carpenter
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
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2
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Chakraborty S, Mishra J, Roy A, Niharika, Manna S, Baral T, Nandi P, Patra S, Patra SK. Liquid-liquid phase separation in subcellular assemblages and signaling pathways: Chromatin modifications induced gene regulation for cellular physiology and functions including carcinogenesis. Biochimie 2024; 223:74-97. [PMID: 38723938 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2024.05.007] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024]
Abstract
Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) describes many biochemical processes, including hydrogel formation, in the integrity of macromolecular assemblages and existence of membraneless organelles, including ribosome, nucleolus, nuclear speckles, paraspeckles, promyelocytic leukemia (PML) bodies, Cajal bodies (all exert crucial roles in cellular physiology), and evidence are emerging day by day. Also, phase separation is well documented in generation of plasma membrane subdomains and interplay between membranous and membraneless organelles. Intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) of biopolymers/proteins are the most critical sticking regions that aggravate the formation of such condensates. Remarkably, phase separated condensates are also involved in epigenetic regulation of gene expression, chromatin remodeling, and heterochromatinization. Epigenetic marks on DNA and histones cooperate with RNA-binding proteins through their IDRs to trigger LLPS for facilitating transcription. How phase separation coalesces mutant oncoproteins, orchestrate tumor suppressor genes expression, and facilitated cancer-associated signaling pathways are unravelling. That autophagosome formation and DYRK3-mediated cancer stem cell modification also depend on phase separation is deciphered in part. In view of this, and to linchpin insight into the subcellular membraneless organelle assembly, gene activation and biological reactions catalyzed by enzymes, and the downstream physiological functions, and how all these events are precisely facilitated by LLPS inducing organelle function, epigenetic modulation of gene expression in this scenario, and how it goes awry in cancer progression are summarized and presented in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhajit Chakraborty
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Jagdish Mishra
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Ankan Roy
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Niharika
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Soumen Manna
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Tirthankar Baral
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Piyasa Nandi
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India
| | - Subhajit Patra
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology, Bhopal, India
| | - Samir Kumar Patra
- Epigenetics and Cancer Research Laboratory, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Group, Department of Life Science, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela, India.
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3
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Dror I, Tan T, Plath K. A critical role for X-chromosome architecture in mammalian X-chromosome dosage compensation. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2024; 87:102235. [PMID: 39053028 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2024.102235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
To regulate gene expression, the macromolecular components of the mammalian interphase nucleus are spatially organized into a myriad of functional compartments. Over the past decade, increasingly sophisticated genomics, microscopy, and functional approaches have probed this organization in unprecedented detail. These investigations have linked chromatin-associated noncoding RNAs to specific nuclear compartments and uncovered mechanisms by which these RNAs establish such domains. In this review, we focus on the long non-coding RNA Xist and summarize new evidence demonstrating the significance of chromatin reconfiguration in creating the inactive X-chromosome compartment. Differences in chromatin compaction correlate with distinct levels of gene repression on the X-chromosome, potentially explaining how human XIST can induce chromosome-wide dampening and silencing of gene expression at different stages of human development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Dror
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Tiao Tan
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Kathrin Plath
- Department of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Brain Research Institute, Graduate Program in the Biosciences, Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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4
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Zou LS, Cable DM, Barrera-Lopez IA, Zhao T, Murray E, Aryee MJ, Chen F, Irizarry RA. Detection of allele-specific expression in spatial transcriptomics with spASE. Genome Biol 2024; 25:180. [PMID: 38978101 PMCID: PMC11229351 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-024-03317-4] [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: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Spatial transcriptomics technologies permit the study of the spatial distribution of RNA at near-single-cell resolution genome-wide. However, the feasibility of studying spatial allele-specific expression (ASE) from these data remains uncharacterized. Here, we introduce spASE, a computational framework for detecting and estimating spatial ASE. To tackle the challenges presented by cell type mixtures and a low signal to noise ratio, we implement a hierarchical model involving additive mixtures of spatial smoothing splines. We apply our method to allele-resolved Visium and Slide-seq from the mouse cerebellum and hippocampus and report new insight into the landscape of spatial and cell type-specific ASE therein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luli S Zou
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Data Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Dylan M Cable
- Department of Data Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, MIT, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | | | - Tongtong Zhao
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Evan Murray
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Martin J Aryee
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Data Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Fei Chen
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Rafael A Irizarry
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Department of Data Sciences, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
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5
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Montano C, Covarrubias S, Malekos E, Katzman S, Carpenter S. Identification and Functional Characterization of lncRNAs involved in Human Monocyte-to-Macrophage Differentiation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.20.599925. [PMID: 38979363 PMCID: PMC11230152 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.20.599925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) make up the largest portion of RNA produced from the human genome, but only a small fraction have any ascribed functions. Although the role of protein-coding genes in macrophage biology has been studied extensively, our understanding of the role played by lncRNAs in this context is still in its early stages. There are over 20,000 lncRNAs in the human genome therefore, attempting to select a lncRNA to characterize functionally can be a challenge. Here we describe two approaches to identify and functionally characterize lncRNAs involved in monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation. The first involves the use of RNA-seq to infer possible functions and the second involves a high throughput functional screen. We examine the advantages and disadvantages of these methodologies and the pipelines for validation that assist in determining functional lncRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christy Montano
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Sergio Covarrubias
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Eric Malekos
- Department of Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Sol Katzman
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, California, USA
| | - Susan Carpenter
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California Santa Cruz, California, USA
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6
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Palihati M, Saitoh N. RNA in chromatin organization and nuclear architecture. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2024; 86:102176. [PMID: 38490161 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2024.102176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
In the cell nucleus, genomic DNA is surrounded by nonmembranous nuclear bodies. This might result from specific regions of the genome being transcribed into long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which tend to remain at the sites of their own transcription. The lncRNAs seed the nuclear bodies by recruiting and concentrating proteins and RNAs, which undergo liquid-liquid-phase separation, and form molecular condensates, the so-called nuclear bodies. These nuclear bodies may provide appropriate environments for gene activation or repression. Notably, lncRNAs also contribute to three-dimensional genome structure by mediating long-range chromatin interactions. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms by which lncRNAs regulate gene expression through shaping chromatin and nuclear architectures. We also explore lncRNAs' potential as a therapeutic target for cancer, because lncRNAs are often expressed in a disease-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maierdan Palihati
- Division of Cancer Biology, The Cancer Institute of JFCR, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Noriko Saitoh
- Division of Cancer Biology, The Cancer Institute of JFCR, 3-8-31 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan.
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7
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McIntyre KL, Waters SA, Zhong L, Hart-Smith G, Raftery M, Chew ZA, Patel HR, Graves JAM, Waters PD. Identification of the RSX interactome in a marsupial shows functional coherence with the Xist interactome during X inactivation. Genome Biol 2024; 25:134. [PMID: 38783307 PMCID: PMC11112854 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-024-03280-0] [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: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The marsupial specific RSX lncRNA is the functional analogue of the eutherian specific XIST, which coordinates X chromosome inactivation. We characterized the RSX interactome in a marsupial representative (the opossum Monodelphis domestica), identifying 135 proteins, of which 54 had orthologues in the XIST interactome. Both interactomes were enriched for biological pathways related to RNA processing, regulation of translation, and epigenetic transcriptional silencing. This represents a remarkable example showcasing the functional coherence of independently evolved lncRNAs in distantly related mammalian lineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim L McIntyre
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Shafagh A Waters
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Ling Zhong
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Gene Hart-Smith
- Australian Proteome Analysis Facility, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW, Australia
| | - Mark Raftery
- Bioanalytical Mass Spectrometry Facility, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Zahra A Chew
- National Centre for Indigenous Genomics, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | - Hardip R Patel
- National Centre for Indigenous Genomics, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | | | - Paul D Waters
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia.
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8
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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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9
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Hu Z, Yuan L, Yang X, Yi C, Lu J. The roles of long non-coding RNAs in ovarian cancer: from functions to therapeutic implications. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1332528. [PMID: 38725621 PMCID: PMC11079149 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1332528] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are multifunctional and participate in a variety of biological processes and gene regulatory networks. The deregulation of lncRNAs has been extensively implicated in diverse human diseases, especially in cancers. Overwhelming evidence demonstrates that lncRNAs are essential to the pathophysiological processes of ovarian cancer (OC), acting as regulators involved in metastasis, cell death, chemoresistance, and tumor immunity. In this review, we illustrate the expanded functions of lncRNAs in the initiation and progression of OC and elaborate on the signaling pathways in which they pitch. Additionally, the potential clinical applications of lncRNAs as biomarkers in the diagnosis and treatment of OC were emphasized, cementing the bridge of communication between clinical practice and basic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhong Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Lijin Yuan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Huangshi Puren Hospital, Huangshi, Hubei, China
| | - Xiu Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Huangshi Central Hospital, Huangshi, Hubei, China
| | - Cunjian Yi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Jinzhi Lu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
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10
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Zacco E, Broglia L, Kurihara M, Monti M, Gustincich S, Pastore A, Plath K, Nagakawa S, Cerase A, Sanchez de Groot N, Tartaglia GG. RNA: The Unsuspected Conductor in the Orchestra of Macromolecular Crowding. Chem Rev 2024; 124:4734-4777. [PMID: 38579177 PMCID: PMC11046439 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00575] [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: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
This comprehensive Review delves into the chemical principles governing RNA-mediated crowding events, commonly referred to as granules or biological condensates. We explore the pivotal role played by RNA sequence, structure, and chemical modifications in these processes, uncovering their correlation with crowding phenomena under physiological conditions. Additionally, we investigate instances where crowding deviates from its intended function, leading to pathological consequences. By deepening our understanding of the delicate balance that governs molecular crowding driven by RNA and its implications for cellular homeostasis, we aim to shed light on this intriguing area of research. Our exploration extends to the methodologies employed to decipher the composition and structural intricacies of RNA granules, offering a comprehensive overview of the techniques used to characterize them, including relevant computational approaches. Through two detailed examples highlighting the significance of noncoding RNAs, NEAT1 and XIST, in the formation of phase-separated assemblies and their influence on the cellular landscape, we emphasize their crucial role in cellular organization and function. By elucidating the chemical underpinnings of RNA-mediated molecular crowding, investigating the role of modifications, structures, and composition of RNA granules, and exploring both physiological and aberrant phase separation phenomena, this Review provides a multifaceted understanding of the intriguing world of RNA-mediated biological condensates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsa Zacco
- RNA
Systems Biology Lab, Center for Human Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Enrico Melen, 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
| | - Laura Broglia
- RNA
Systems Biology Lab, Center for Human Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Enrico Melen, 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
| | - Misuzu Kurihara
- RNA
Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Michele Monti
- RNA
Systems Biology Lab, Center for Human Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Enrico Melen, 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
| | - Stefano Gustincich
- Central
RNA Lab, Center for Human Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Enrico Melen, 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
| | - Annalisa Pastore
- UK
Dementia Research Institute at the Maurice Wohl Institute of King’s
College London, London SE5 9RT, U.K.
| | - Kathrin Plath
- Department
of Biological Chemistry, David Geffen School
of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, United States
| | - Shinichi Nagakawa
- RNA
Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Andrea Cerase
- Blizard
Institute,
Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, U.K.
- Unit
of Cell and developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Università di Pisa, 56123 Pisa, Italy
| | - Natalia Sanchez de Groot
- Unitat
de Bioquímica, Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia
Molecular, Universitat Autònoma de
Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gian Gaetano Tartaglia
- RNA
Systems Biology Lab, Center for Human Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Enrico Melen, 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
- Catalan
Institution for Research and Advanced Studies, ICREA, Passeig Lluís Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
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11
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Sun X, Zhou Y, Wang Z, Peng M, Wei X, Xie Y, Wen C, Liu J, Ye M. Biomolecular Condensates Decipher Molecular Codes of Cell Fate: From Biophysical Fundamentals to Therapeutic Practices. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4127. [PMID: 38612940 PMCID: PMC11012904 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell fate is precisely modulated by complex but well-tuned molecular signaling networks, whose spatial and temporal dysregulation commonly leads to hazardous diseases. Biomolecular condensates (BCs), as a newly emerging type of biophysical assemblies, decipher the molecular codes bridging molecular behaviors, signaling axes, and clinical prognosis. Particularly, physical traits of BCs play an important role; however, a panoramic view from this perspective toward clinical practices remains lacking. In this review, we describe the most typical five physical traits of BCs, and comprehensively summarize their roles in molecular signaling axes and corresponding major determinants. Moreover, establishing the recent observed contribution of condensate physics on clinical therapeutics, we illustrate next-generation medical strategies by targeting condensate physics. Finally, the challenges and opportunities for future medical development along with the rapid scientific and technological advances are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing Sun
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China; (X.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.W.); (M.P.); (X.W.)
- Molecular Biology Research Center and Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.)
| | - Yangyang Zhou
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China; (X.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.W.); (M.P.); (X.W.)
| | - Zhiyan Wang
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China; (X.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.W.); (M.P.); (X.W.)
| | - Menglan Peng
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China; (X.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.W.); (M.P.); (X.W.)
| | - Xianhua Wei
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China; (X.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.W.); (M.P.); (X.W.)
| | - Yifang Xie
- Molecular Biology Research Center and Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.)
| | - Chengcai Wen
- Molecular Biology Research Center and Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.)
| | - Jing Liu
- Molecular Biology Research Center and Center for Medical Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China; (Y.X.); (C.W.)
| | - Mao Ye
- Molecular Science and Biomedicine Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Chemo/Biosensing and Chemometrics, College of Biology, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Aptamer Engineering Center of Hunan Province, Hunan University, Changsha 410082, China; (X.S.); (Y.Z.); (Z.W.); (M.P.); (X.W.)
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12
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Guo JK, Blanco MR, Walkup WG, Bonesteele G, Urbinati CR, Banerjee AK, Chow A, Ettlin O, Strehle M, Peyda P, Amaya E, Trinh V, Guttman M. Denaturing purifications demonstrate that PRC2 and other widely reported chromatin proteins do not appear to bind directly to RNA in vivo. Mol Cell 2024; 84:1271-1289.e12. [PMID: 38387462 PMCID: PMC10997485 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2024.01.026] [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: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) is reported to bind to many RNAs and has become a central player in reports of how long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate gene expression. Yet, there is a growing discrepancy between the biochemical evidence supporting specific lncRNA-PRC2 interactions and functional evidence demonstrating that PRC2 is often dispensable for lncRNA function. Here, we revisit the evidence supporting RNA binding by PRC2 and show that many reported interactions may not occur in vivo. Using denaturing purification of in vivo crosslinked RNA-protein complexes in human and mouse cell lines, we observe a loss of detectable RNA binding to PRC2 and chromatin-associated proteins previously reported to bind RNA (CTCF, YY1, and others), despite accurately mapping bona fide RNA-binding sites across others (SPEN, TET2, and others). Taken together, these results argue for a critical re-evaluation of the broad role of RNA binding to orchestrate various chromatin regulatory mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jimmy K Guo
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA; Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Mario R Blanco
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA.
| | - Ward G Walkup
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Grant Bonesteele
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Carl R Urbinati
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA; Department of Biology, Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA
| | - Abhik K Banerjee
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA; Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Amy Chow
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Olivia Ettlin
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Mackenzie Strehle
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Parham Peyda
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Enrique Amaya
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Vickie Trinh
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA
| | - Mitchell Guttman
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA.
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13
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Riddihough G, Surridge C, Ladurner AG, Clyne RK, Hodges M, Heinrichs A, Marcinkiewicz K, Ullrich F, Perdigoto C, Osman S, Ciazynska K, Typas D. Looking back at 30 years of Nature Structural & Molecular Biology. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2024; 31:397-403. [PMID: 38499829 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-024-01248-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
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14
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Malcore RM, Kalantry S. A Comparative Analysis of Mouse Imprinted and Random X-Chromosome Inactivation. EPIGENOMES 2024; 8:8. [PMID: 38390899 PMCID: PMC10885068 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes8010008] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The mammalian sexes are distinguished by the X and Y chromosomes. Whereas males harbor one X and one Y chromosome, females harbor two X chromosomes. To equalize X-linked gene expression between the sexes, therian mammals have evolved X-chromosome inactivation as a dosage compensation mechanism. During X-inactivation, most genes on one of the two X chromosomes in females are transcriptionally silenced, thus equalizing X-linked gene expression between the sexes. Two forms of X-inactivation characterize eutherian mammals, imprinted and random. Imprinted X-inactivation is defined by the exclusive inactivation of the paternal X chromosome in all cells, whereas random X-inactivation results in the silencing of genes on either the paternal or maternal X chromosome in individual cells. Both forms of X-inactivation have been studied intensively in the mouse model system, which undergoes both imprinted and random X-inactivation early in embryonic development. Stable imprinted and random X-inactivation requires the induction of the Xist long non-coding RNA. Following its induction, Xist RNA recruits proteins and complexes that silence genes on the inactive-X. In this review, we present a current understanding of the mechanisms of Xist RNA induction, and, separately, the establishment and maintenance of gene silencing on the inactive-X by Xist RNA during imprinted and random X-inactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sundeep Kalantry
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
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15
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Ingersoll S, Trouth A, Luo X, Espinoza A, Wen J, Tucker J, Astatike K, Phiel CJ, Kutateladze TG, Wu TP, Ramachandran S, Ren X. Sparse CBX2 nucleates many Polycomb proteins to promote facultative heterochromatinization of Polycomb target genes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.05.578969. [PMID: 38370615 PMCID: PMC10871256 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.05.578969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Facultative heterochromatinization of genomic regulators by Polycomb repressive complex (PRC) 1 and 2 is essential in development and differentiation; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain obscure. Using genetic engineering, molecular approaches, and live-cell single-molecule imaging, we quantify the number of proteins within condensates formed through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) and find that in mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs), approximately 3 CBX2 proteins nucleate many PRC1 and PRC2 subunits to form one non-stoichiometric condensate. We demonstrate that sparse CBX2 prevents Polycomb proteins from migrating to constitutive heterochromatin, demarcates the spatial boundaries of facultative heterochromatin, controls the deposition of H3K27me3, regulates transcription, and impacts cellular differentiation. Furthermore, we show that LLPS of CBX2 is required for the demarcation and deposition of H3K27me3 and is essential for cellular differentiation. Our findings uncover new functional roles of LLPS in the formation of facultative heterochromatin and unravel a new mechanism by which low-abundant proteins nucleate many other proteins to form compartments that enable them to execute their functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Ingersoll
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA
| | - Abby Trouth
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Xinlong Luo
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Axel Espinoza
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Colorado Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA
| | - Joey Wen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA
| | - Joseph Tucker
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Colorado Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA
| | - Kalkidan Astatike
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA
| | - Christopher J. Phiel
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Colorado Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA
| | - Tatiana G. Kutateladze
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Tao P. Wu
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Srinivas Ramachandran
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
- RNA Bioscience Initiative, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Xiaojun Ren
- Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Colorado Denver, CO 80217-3364, USA
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16
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Luchsinger-Morcelle SJ, Gribnau J, Mira-Bontenbal H. Orchestrating Asymmetric Expression: Mechanisms behind Xist Regulation. EPIGENOMES 2024; 8:6. [PMID: 38390897 PMCID: PMC10885031 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes8010006] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Compensation for the gene dosage disequilibrium between sex chromosomes in mammals is achieved in female cells by repressing one of its X chromosomes through a process called X chromosome inactivation (XCI), exemplifying the control of gene expression by epigenetic mechanisms. A critical player in this mechanism is Xist, a long, non-coding RNA upregulated from a single X chromosome during early embryonic development in female cells. Over the past few decades, many factors involved at different levels in the regulation of Xist have been discovered. In this review, we hierarchically describe and analyze the different layers of Xist regulation operating concurrently and intricately interacting with each other to achieve asymmetric and monoallelic upregulation of Xist in murine female cells. We categorize these into five different classes: DNA elements, transcription factors, other regulatory proteins, long non-coding RNAs, and the chromatin and topological landscape surrounding Xist.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joost Gribnau
- Department of Developmental Biology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hegias Mira-Bontenbal
- Department of Developmental Biology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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17
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Singh P, Vydyam P, Fang T, Estrada K, Gonzalez LM, Grande R, Kumar M, Chakravarty S, Berry V, Ranwez V, Carcy B, Depoix D, Sánchez S, Cornillot E, Abel S, Ciampossin L, Lenz T, Harb O, Sanchez-Flores A, Montero E, Le Roch KG, Lonardi S, Ben Mamoun C. Multiomics analysis reveals B. MO1 as a distinct Babesia species and provides insights into its evolution and virulence. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.17.575932. [PMID: 38293033 PMCID: PMC10827214 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.17.575932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Babesiosis, caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Babesia , is an emerging tick-borne disease of significance for both human and animal health. Babesia parasites infect erythrocytes of vertebrate hosts where they develop and multiply rapidly to cause the pathological symptoms associated with the disease. The identification of various Babesia species underscores the ongoing risk of new zoonotic pathogens capable of infecting humans, a concern amplified by anthropogenic activities and environmental shifts impacting the distribution and transmission dynamics of parasites, their vectors, and reservoir hosts. One such species, Babesia MO1, previously implicated in severe cases of human babesiosis in the midwestern United States, was initially considered closely related to B. divergens , the predominant agent of human babesiosis in Europe. Yet, uncertainties persist regarding whether these pathogens represent distinct variants of the same species or are entirely separate species. We show that although both B. MO1 and B. divergens share similar genome sizes, comprising three nuclear chromosomes, one linear mitochondrial chromosome, and one circular apicoplast chromosome, major differences exist in terms of genomic sequence divergence, gene functions, transcription profiles, replication rates and susceptibility to antiparasitic drugs. Furthermore, both pathogens have evolved distinct classes of multigene families, crucial for their pathogenicity and adaptation to specific mammalian hosts. Leveraging genomic information for B. MO1, B. divergens , and other members of the Babesiidae family within Apicomplexa provides valuable insights into the evolution, diversity, and virulence of these parasites. This knowledge serves as a critical tool in preemptively addressing the emergence and rapid transmission of more virulent strains.
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18
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Pant P, Kumarswamy R. Multiple Oligo assisted RNA Pulldown via Hybridization followed by Mass Spectrometry (MORPH-MS) for exploring the RNA-Protein interactions. RNA Biol 2024; 21:1-9. [PMID: 38105541 PMCID: PMC10730167 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2023.2287302] [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] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding RNA-protein interactions is crucial for deciphering the cellular functions and molecular mechanisms of regulatory RNAs. Consequently, there is a constant need to develop innovative and cost-effective methods to uncover such interactions. We developed a simple and cost-effective technique called Multiple Oligo assisted RNA Pulldown via Hybridization (MORPH) to identify proteins interacting with a specific RNA. MORPH employs a tiling array of antisense oligos (ASOs) to efficiently capture the RNA of interest along with proteins associated with it. Unlike existing techniques that rely on multiple individually biotinylated oligos spanning the entire RNA length, MORPH stands out by utilizing a single biotinylated oligo to capture all the ASOs. To evaluate MORPH's efficacy, we applied this technique combined with mass spectrometry to identify proteins interacting with lncRNA NEAT1, which has previously been studied using various methods. Our results demonstrate that despite being a simple and inexpensive procedure, MORPH performs on par with existing methods.Abbreviations: ASO, Antisense oligo; lncRNA, long non-coding RNA; MORPH, Multiple Oligo assisted RNA Pulldown via Hybridization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Pant
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Regalla Kumarswamy
- CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
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19
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Sofi S, Coverley D. CIZ1 in Xist seeded assemblies at the inactive X chromosome. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1296600. [PMID: 38155839 PMCID: PMC10753822 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1296600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
There is growing evidence that X-chromosome inactivation is driven by phase-separated supramolecular assemblies. However, among the many proteins recruited to the inactive X chromosome by Xist long non-coding RNA, so far only a minority (CIZ1, CELF1, SPEN, TDP-43, MATR3, PTBP1, PCGF5) have been shown to form Xist-seeded protein assemblies, and of these most have not been analyzed in detail. With focus on CIZ1, here we describe 1) the contribution of intrinsically disordered regions in RNA-dependent protein assembly formation at the inactive X chromosome, and 2) enrichment, distribution, and function of proteins within Xist-seeded assemblies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajad Sofi
- Department of Biology, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Dawn Coverley
- Department of Biology, University of York, York, United Kingdom
- York Biomedical Research Institute, University of York, York, United Kingdom
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20
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Peeters SB, Posynick BJ, Brown CJ. Out of the Silence: Insights into How Genes Escape X-Chromosome Inactivation. EPIGENOMES 2023; 7:29. [PMID: 38131901 PMCID: PMC10742877 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes7040029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The silencing of all but one X chromosome in mammalian cells is a remarkable epigenetic process leading to near dosage equivalence in X-linked gene products between the sexes. However, equally remarkable is the ability of a subset of genes to continue to be expressed from the otherwise inactive X chromosome-in some cases constitutively, while other genes are variable between individuals, tissues or cells. In this review we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the approaches that have been used to identify escapees. The identity of escapees provides important clues to mechanisms underlying escape from XCI, an arena of study now moving from correlation to functional studies. As most escapees show greater expression in females, the not-so-inactive X chromosome is a substantial contributor to sex differences in humans, and we highlight some examples of such impact.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Carolyn J. Brown
- Molecular Epigenetics Group, Department of Medical Genetics, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, 2350 Health Sciences Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
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21
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Dutriaux A, Diazzi S, Bresesti C, Hardouin S, Deshayes F, Collignon J, Flagiello D. LADON, a Natural Antisense Transcript of NODAL, Promotes Tumour Progression and Metastasis in Melanoma. Noncoding RNA 2023; 9:71. [PMID: 37987367 PMCID: PMC10661258 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna9060071] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The TGFβ family member NODAL, repeatedly required during embryonic development, has also been associated with tumour progression. Our aim was to clarify the controversy surrounding its involvement in melanoma tumour progression. We found that the deletion of the NODAL exon 2 in a metastatic melanoma cell line impairs its ability to form tumours and colonize distant tissues. However, we show that this phenotype does not result from the absence of NODAL, but from a defect in the expression of a natural antisense transcript of NODAL, here called LADON. We show that LADON expression is specifically activated in metastatic melanoma cell lines, that its transcript is packaged in exosomes secreted by melanoma cells, and that, via its differential impact on the expression of oncogenes and tumour suppressors, it promotes the mesenchymal to amoeboid transition that is critical for melanoma cell invasiveness. LADON is, therefore, a new player in the regulatory network governing tumour progression in melanoma and possibly in other types of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Jérôme Collignon
- Institut Jacques Monod, Université Paris Cité, CNRS, F-75013 Paris, France; (A.D.); (S.D.)
| | - Domenico Flagiello
- Institut Jacques Monod, Université Paris Cité, CNRS, F-75013 Paris, France; (A.D.); (S.D.)
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22
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Moyano Rodriguez Y, Borensztein M. X-chromosome inactivation: a historic topic that's still hot. Development 2023; 150:dev202072. [PMID: 37997921 DOI: 10.1242/dev.202072] [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: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The last edition of the X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) meeting was held as an EMBO workshop in Berlin on 19-22 June 2023. The conference took place at the Harnack-haus in the Dahlem district, birthplace of the first modern research campus, where notable scientists such as Lise Meitner, Hans Krebs and, briefly, Albert Einstein conducted their research. This special edition, also accessible online, was organized by Rafael Galupa (Centre for Integrative Biology of Toulouse, France), Joost Gribnau (Erasmus MC Rotterdam, The Netherlands), Claire Rougeulle (Université Paris Cité/CNRS, Epigenetics and Cell Fate Center, Paris, France), Edda Schulz (Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany) and James Turner (The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK). Originally scheduled for 2021, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Mary Lyon's hypothesis on X-chromosome inactivation in mammals and the 30th anniversary of XIST/Xist discovery, the meeting had to be postponed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Seven years after the latest XCI meeting in London, the enthusiasm and expectations of the community were at their highest, bringing together over 160 scientists from around the world to share and discuss their research. Eighty posters and more than 40 talks were presented at this event, in a collegial and collaborative atmosphere. A historical session and several breakout discussions were also organized, as well as the now traditional boat trip, all thanks to great organization. Here, we debrief readers on this fantastic conference.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maud Borensztein
- IGMM, University of Montpellier, CNRS, 34090 Montpellier, France
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23
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Keniry A, Blewitt ME. Chromatin-mediated silencing on the inactive X chromosome. Development 2023; 150:dev201742. [PMID: 37991053 DOI: 10.1242/dev.201742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, the second X chromosome in females is silenced to enable dosage compensation between XX females and XY males. This essential process involves the formation of a dense chromatin state on the inactive X (Xi) chromosome. There is a wealth of information about the hallmarks of Xi chromatin and the contribution each makes to silencing, leaving the tantalising possibility of learning from this knowledge to potentially remove silencing to treat X-linked diseases in females. Here, we discuss the role of each chromatin feature in the establishment and maintenance of the silent state, which is of crucial relevance for such a goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Keniry
- Epigenetics and Development Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- The Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Marnie E Blewitt
- Epigenetics and Development Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for Medical Research, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
- The Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
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24
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Kaufmann C, Wutz A. IndiSPENsable for X Chromosome Inactivation and Gene Silencing. EPIGENOMES 2023; 7:28. [PMID: 37987303 PMCID: PMC10660550 DOI: 10.3390/epigenomes7040028] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
For about 30 years, SPEN has been the subject of research in many different fields due to its variety of functions and its conservation throughout a wide spectrum of species, like worms, arthropods, and vertebrates. To date, 216 orthologues have been documented. SPEN had been studied for its role in gene regulation in the context of cell signaling, including the NOTCH or nuclear hormone receptor signaling pathways. More recently, SPEN has been identified as a major regulator of initiation of chromosome-wide gene silencing during X chromosome inactivation (XCI) in mammals, where its function remains to be fully understood. Dependent on the biological context, SPEN functions via mechanisms which include different domains. While some domains of SPEN are highly conserved in sequence and secondary structure, species-to-species differences exist that might lead to mechanistic differences. Initiation of XCI appears to be different between humans and mice, which raises additional questions about the extent of generalization of SPEN's function in XCI. In this review, we dissect the mechanism of SPEN in XCI. We discuss its subregions and domains, focusing on its role as a major regulator. We further highlight species-related research, specifically of mouse and human SPEN, with the aim to reveal and clarify potential species-to-species differences in SPEN's function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anton Wutz
- Institute of Molecular Health Sciences, Department of Biology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology ETH Hönggerberg, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland;
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25
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Glad HM, Tralamazza SM, Croll D. The expression landscape and pangenome of long non-coding RNA in the fungal wheat pathogen Zymoseptoria tritici. Microb Genom 2023; 9. [PMID: 37991492 DOI: 10.1099/mgen.0.001136] [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: 11/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are regulatory molecules interacting in a wide array of biological processes. lncRNAs in fungal pathogens can be responsive to stress and play roles in regulating growth and nutrient acquisition. Recent evidence suggests that lncRNAs may also play roles in virulence, such as regulating pathogenicity-associated enzymes and on-host reproductive cycles. Despite the importance of lncRNAs, only a few model fungi have well-documented inventories of lncRNA. In this study, we apply a recent computational pipeline to predict high-confidence lncRNA candidates in Zymoseptoria tritici, an important global pathogen of wheat impacting global food production. We analyse genomic features of lncRNAs and the most likely associated processes through analyses of expression over a host infection cycle. We find that lncRNAs are frequently expressed during early infection, before the switch to necrotrophic growth. They are mostly located in facultative heterochromatic regions, which are known to contain many genes associated with pathogenicity. Furthermore, we find that lncRNAs are frequently co-expressed with genes that may be involved in responding to host defence signals, such as oxidative stress. Finally, we assess pangenome features of lncRNAs using four additional reference-quality genomes. We find evidence that the repertoire of expressed lncRNAs varies substantially between individuals, even though lncRNA loci tend to be shared at the genomic level. Overall, this study provides a repertoire and putative functions of lncRNAs in Z. tritici enabling future molecular genetics and functional analyses in an important pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna M Glad
- Laboratory of Evolutionary Genetics, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Sabina Moser Tralamazza
- Laboratory of Evolutionary Genetics, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Croll
- Laboratory of Evolutionary Genetics, Institute of Biology, University of Neuchâtel, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland
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26
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Collombet S, Rall I, Dugast-Darzacq C, Heckert A, Halavatyi A, Le Saux A, Dailey G, Darzacq X, Heard E. RNA polymerase II depletion from the inactive X chromosome territory is not mediated by physical compartmentalization. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2023; 30:1216-1223. [PMID: 37291424 PMCID: PMC10442225 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-023-01008-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Subnuclear compartmentalization has been proposed to play an important role in gene regulation by segregating active and inactive parts of the genome in distinct physical and biochemical environments. During X chromosome inactivation (XCI), the noncoding Xist RNA coats the X chromosome, triggers gene silencing and forms a dense body of heterochromatin from which the transcription machinery appears to be excluded. Phase separation has been proposed to be involved in XCI, and might explain the exclusion of the transcription machinery by preventing its diffusion into the Xist-coated territory. Here, using quantitative fluorescence microscopy and single-particle tracking, we show that RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) freely accesses the Xist territory during the initiation of XCI. Instead, the apparent depletion of RNAPII is due to the loss of its chromatin stably bound fraction. These findings indicate that initial exclusion of RNAPII from the inactive X reflects the absence of actively transcribing RNAPII, rather than a consequence of putative physical compartmentalization of the inactive X heterochromatin domain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Isabell Rall
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Claire Dugast-Darzacq
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Li Ka Shing Center for Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Alec Heckert
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Li Ka Shing Center for Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Agnes Le Saux
- Curie Institute, PSL Research University, CNRS UMR3215, INSERM U934, UPMC Paris-Sorbonne, Paris, France
| | - Gina Dailey
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Li Ka Shing Center for Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Xavier Darzacq
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
- Li Ka Shing Center for Biomedical and Health Sciences, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA.
| | - Edith Heard
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Curie Institute, PSL Research University, CNRS UMR3215, INSERM U934, UPMC Paris-Sorbonne, Paris, France.
- College de France, Paris, France.
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27
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Schwämmle T, Schulz EG. Regulatory principles and mechanisms governing the onset of random X-chromosome inactivation. Curr Opin Genet Dev 2023; 81:102063. [PMID: 37356341 PMCID: PMC10465972 DOI: 10.1016/j.gde.2023.102063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) has evolved in mammals to compensate for the difference in X-chromosomal dosage between the sexes. In placental mammals, XCI is initiated during early embryonic development through upregulation of the long noncoding RNA Xist from one randomly chosen X chromosome in each female cell. The Xist locus must thus integrate both X-linked and developmental trans-regulatory factors in a dosage-dependent manner. Furthermore, the two alleles must coordinate to ensure inactivation of exactly one X chromosome per cell. In this review, we summarize the regulatory principles that govern the onset of XCI. We go on to provide an overview over the factors that have been implicated in Xist regulation and discuss recent advances in our understanding of how Xist's cis-regulatory landscape integrates information in a precise fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Till Schwämmle
- Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany. https://twitter.com/@TSchwammle
| | - Edda G Schulz
- Otto Warburg Laboratories, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin, Germany.
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28
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Valledor M, Byron M, Dumas B, Carone DM, Hall LL, Lawrence JB. Early chromosome condensation by XIST builds A-repeat RNA density that facilitates gene silencing. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112686. [PMID: 37384527 PMCID: PMC10461597 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
XIST RNA triggers chromosome-wide gene silencing and condenses an active chromosome into a Barr body. Here, we use inducible human XIST to examine early steps in the process, showing that XIST modifies cytoarchitecture before widespread gene silencing. In just 2-4 h, barely visible transcripts populate the large "sparse zone" surrounding the smaller "dense zone"; importantly, density zones exhibit different chromatin impacts. Sparse transcripts immediately trigger immunofluorescence for H2AK119ub and CIZ1, a matrix protein. H3K27me3 appears hours later in the dense zone, which enlarges with chromosome condensation. Genes examined are silenced after compaction of the RNA/DNA territory. Insights into this come from the findings that the A-repeat alone can silence genes and rapidly, but only where dense RNA supports sustained histone deacetylation. We propose that sparse XIST RNA quickly impacts architectural elements to condense the largely non-coding chromosome, coalescing RNA density that facilitates an unstable, A-repeat-dependent step required for gene silencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melvys Valledor
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Meg Byron
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA
| | - Brett Dumas
- Department of Medicine, Boston University Medical Center, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Dawn M Carone
- Department of Biology, Swarthmore College, Swarthmore, PA 19081, USA
| | - Lisa L Hall
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA.
| | - Jeanne B Lawrence
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA.
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29
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Braceros AK, Schertzer MD, Omer A, Trotman JB, Davis ES, Dowen JM, Phanstiel DH, Aiden EL, Calabrese JM. Proximity-dependent recruitment of Polycomb repressive complexes by the lncRNA Airn. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112803. [PMID: 37436897 PMCID: PMC10441531 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112803] [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: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
During mouse embryogenesis, expression of the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) Airn leads to gene repression and recruitment of Polycomb repressive complexes (PRCs) to varying extents over a 15-Mb domain. The mechanisms remain unclear. Using high-resolution approaches, we show in mouse trophoblast stem cells that Airn expression induces long-range changes to chromatin architecture that coincide with PRC-directed modifications and center around CpG island promoters that contact the Airn locus even in the absence of Airn expression. Intensity of contact between the Airn lncRNA and chromatin correlated with underlying intensity of PRC recruitment and PRC-directed modifications. Deletion of CpG islands that contact the Airn locus altered long-distance repression and PRC activity in a manner that correlated with changes in chromatin architecture. Our data imply that the extent to which Airn expression recruits PRCs to chromatin is controlled by DNA regulatory elements that modulate proximity of the Airn lncRNA product to its target DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aki K Braceros
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; RNA Discovery Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Curriculum in Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Curriculum in Mechanistic, Interdisciplinary Studies of Biological Systems, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Megan D Schertzer
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Arina Omer
- Center for Genome Architecture, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jackson B Trotman
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; RNA Discovery Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Eric S Davis
- Curriculum in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Jill M Dowen
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Integrative Program for Biological and Genome Sciences, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Douglas H Phanstiel
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Curriculum in Genetics and Molecular Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Curriculum in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Thurston Arthritis Research Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Erez Lieberman Aiden
- Center for Genome Architecture, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - J Mauro Calabrese
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; RNA Discovery Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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30
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Schede HH, Natarajan P, Chakraborty AK, Shrinivas K. A model for organization and regulation of nuclear condensates by gene activity. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4152. [PMID: 37438363 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39878-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Condensation by phase separation has recently emerged as a mechanism underlying many nuclear compartments essential for cellular functions. Nuclear condensates enrich nucleic acids and proteins, localize to specific genomic regions, and often promote gene expression. How diverse properties of nuclear condensates are shaped by gene organization and activity is poorly understood. Here, we develop a physics-based model to interrogate how spatially-varying transcription activity impacts condensate properties and dynamics. Our model predicts that spatial clustering of active genes can enable precise localization and de novo nucleation of condensates. Strong clustering and high activity results in aspherical condensate morphologies. Condensates can flow towards distant gene clusters and competition between multiple clusters lead to stretched morphologies and activity-dependent repositioning. Overall, our model predicts and recapitulates morphological and dynamical features of diverse nuclear condensates and offers a unified mechanistic framework to study the interplay between non-equilibrium processes, spatially-varying transcription, and multicomponent condensates in cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halima H Schede
- School of Life Sciences, École Polytechnique Fédérale Lausanne, CH-1015, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Pradeep Natarajan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Arup K Chakraborty
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Physics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Krishna Shrinivas
- NSF-Simons Center for Mathematical & Statistical Analysis of Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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31
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Lammer NC, Ashraf HM, Ugay DA, Spencer SL, Allen MA, Batey RT, Wuttke DS. RNA binding by the glucocorticoid receptor attenuates dexamethasone-induced gene activation. Sci Rep 2023; 13:9385. [PMID: 37296231 PMCID: PMC10251336 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35549-y] [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: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that regulates a suite of genes through direct binding of GR to specific DNA promoter elements. GR also interacts with RNA, but the function of this RNA-binding activity remains elusive. Current models speculate that RNA could repress the transcriptional activity of GR. To investigate the function of the GR-RNA interaction on GR's transcriptional activity, we generated cells that stably express a mutant of GR with reduced RNA binding affinity and treated the cells with the GR agonist dexamethasone. Changes in the dexamethasone-driven transcriptome were quantified using 4-thiouridine labeling of RNAs followed by high-throughput sequencing. We find that while many genes are unaffected, GR-RNA binding is repressive for specific subsets of genes in both dexamethasone-dependent and independent contexts. Genes that are dexamethasone-dependent are activated directly by chromatin-bound GR, suggesting a competition-based repression mechanism in which increasing local concentrations of RNA may compete with DNA for binding to GR at sites of transcription. Unexpectedly, genes that are dexamethasone-independent instead display a localization to specific chromosomal regions, which points to changes in chromatin accessibility or architecture. These results show that RNA binding plays a fundamental role in regulating GR function and highlights potential functions for transcription factor-RNA interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nickolaus C Lammer
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Humza M Ashraf
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Daniella A Ugay
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Sabrina L Spencer
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Mary A Allen
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Robert T Batey
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA.
| | - Deborah S Wuttke
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA.
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32
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Wolin E, Guo JK, Blanco MR, Perez AA, Goronzy IN, Abdou AA, Gorhe D, Guttman M, Jovanovic M. SPIDR: a highly multiplexed method for mapping RNA-protein interactions uncovers a potential mechanism for selective translational suppression upon cellular stress. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.05.543769. [PMID: 37333139 PMCID: PMC10274648 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.05.543769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
RNA binding proteins (RBPs) play crucial roles in regulating every stage of the mRNA life cycle and mediating non-coding RNA functions. Despite their importance, the specific roles of most RBPs remain unexplored because we do not know what specific RNAs most RBPs bind. Current methods, such as crosslinking and immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing (CLIP-seq), have expanded our knowledge of RBP-RNA interactions but are generally limited by their ability to map only one RBP at a time. To address this limitation, we developed SPIDR (Split and Pool Identification of RBP targets), a massively multiplexed method to simultaneously profile global RNA binding sites of dozens to hundreds of RBPs in a single experiment. SPIDR employs split-pool barcoding coupled with antibody-bead barcoding to increase the throughput of current CLIP methods by two orders of magnitude. SPIDR reliably identifies precise, single-nucleotide RNA binding sites for diverse classes of RBPs simultaneously. Using SPIDR, we explored changes in RBP binding upon mTOR inhibition and identified that 4EBP1 acts as a dynamic RBP that selectively binds to 5'-untranslated regions of specific translationally repressed mRNAs only upon mTOR inhibition. This observation provides a potential mechanism to explain the specificity of translational regulation controlled by mTOR signaling. SPIDR has the potential to revolutionize our understanding of RNA biology and both transcriptional and post-transcriptional gene regulation by enabling rapid, de novo discovery of RNA-protein interactions at an unprecedented scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Wolin
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York City, New York 10027, USA
| | - Jimmy K. Guo
- Division of Biology and Bioengineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena CA 91125, USA
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA
| | - Mario R. Blanco
- Division of Biology and Bioengineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena CA 91125, USA
| | - Andrew A. Perez
- Division of Biology and Bioengineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena CA 91125, USA
| | - Isabel N. Goronzy
- Division of Biology and Bioengineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena CA 91125, USA
| | - Ahmed A. Abdou
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York City, New York 10027, USA
| | - Darvesh Gorhe
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York City, New York 10027, USA
| | - Mitchell Guttman
- Division of Biology and Bioengineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena CA 91125, USA
| | - Marko Jovanovic
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York City, New York 10027, USA
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Stokes T, Cen HH, Kapranov P, Gallagher IJ, Pitsillides AA, Volmar C, Kraus WE, Johnson JD, Phillips SM, Wahlestedt C, Timmons JA. Transcriptomics for Clinical and Experimental Biology Research: Hang on a Seq. ADVANCED GENETICS (HOBOKEN, N.J.) 2023; 4:2200024. [PMID: 37288167 PMCID: PMC10242409 DOI: 10.1002/ggn2.202200024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Sequencing the human genome empowers translational medicine, facilitating transcriptome-wide molecular diagnosis, pathway biology, and drug repositioning. Initially, microarrays are used to study the bulk transcriptome; but now short-read RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) predominates. Positioned as a superior technology, that makes the discovery of novel transcripts routine, most RNA-seq analyses are in fact modeled on the known transcriptome. Limitations of the RNA-seq methodology have emerged, while the design of, and the analysis strategies applied to, arrays have matured. An equitable comparison between these technologies is provided, highlighting advantages that modern arrays hold over RNA-seq. Array protocols more accurately quantify constitutively expressed protein coding genes across tissue replicates, and are more reliable for studying lower expressed genes. Arrays reveal long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) are neither sparsely nor lower expressed than protein coding genes. Heterogeneous coverage of constitutively expressed genes observed with RNA-seq, undermines the validity and reproducibility of pathway analyses. The factors driving these observations, many of which are relevant to long-read or single-cell sequencing are discussed. As proposed herein, a reappreciation of bulk transcriptomic methods is required, including wider use of the modern high-density array data-to urgently revise existing anatomical RNA reference atlases and assist with more accurate study of lncRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanner Stokes
- Faculty of ScienceMcMaster UniversityHamiltonL8S 4L8Canada
| | - Haoning Howard Cen
- Life Sciences InstituteUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverV6T 1Z3Canada
| | | | - Iain J Gallagher
- School of Applied SciencesEdinburgh Napier UniversityEdinburghEH11 4BNUK
| | | | | | | | - James D. Johnson
- Life Sciences InstituteUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverV6T 1Z3Canada
| | | | | | - James A. Timmons
- Miller School of MedicineUniversity of MiamiMiamiFL33136USA
- William Harvey Research InstituteQueen Mary University LondonLondonEC1M 6BQUK
- Augur Precision Medicine LTDStirlingFK9 5NFUK
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34
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Mattick JS, Amaral PP, Carninci P, Carpenter S, Chang HY, Chen LL, Chen R, Dean C, Dinger ME, Fitzgerald KA, Gingeras TR, Guttman M, Hirose T, Huarte M, Johnson R, Kanduri C, Kapranov P, Lawrence JB, Lee JT, Mendell JT, Mercer TR, Moore KJ, Nakagawa S, Rinn JL, Spector DL, Ulitsky I, Wan Y, Wilusz JE, Wu M. Long non-coding RNAs: definitions, functions, challenges and recommendations. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2023; 24:430-447. [PMID: 36596869 PMCID: PMC10213152 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-022-00566-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 407] [Impact Index Per Article: 407.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Genes specifying long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) occupy a large fraction of the genomes of complex organisms. The term 'lncRNAs' encompasses RNA polymerase I (Pol I), Pol II and Pol III transcribed RNAs, and RNAs from processed introns. The various functions of lncRNAs and their many isoforms and interleaved relationships with other genes make lncRNA classification and annotation difficult. Most lncRNAs evolve more rapidly than protein-coding sequences, are cell type specific and regulate many aspects of cell differentiation and development and other physiological processes. Many lncRNAs associate with chromatin-modifying complexes, are transcribed from enhancers and nucleate phase separation of nuclear condensates and domains, indicating an intimate link between lncRNA expression and the spatial control of gene expression during development. lncRNAs also have important roles in the cytoplasm and beyond, including in the regulation of translation, metabolism and signalling. lncRNAs often have a modular structure and are rich in repeats, which are increasingly being shown to be relevant to their function. In this Consensus Statement, we address the definition and nomenclature of lncRNAs and their conservation, expression, phenotypic visibility, structure and functions. We also discuss research challenges and provide recommendations to advance the understanding of the roles of lncRNAs in development, cell biology and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- John S Mattick
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- UNSW RNA Institute, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Paulo P Amaral
- INSPER Institute of Education and Research, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Piero Carninci
- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Japan
- Human Technopole, Milan, Italy
| | - Susan Carpenter
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA, USA
| | - Howard Y Chang
- Center for Personal Dynamics Regulomes, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Ling-Ling Chen
- CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Runsheng Chen
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Caroline Dean
- John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, UK
| | - Marcel E Dinger
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- UNSW RNA Institute, UNSW, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Katherine A Fitzgerald
- Division of Innate Immunity, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | | | - Mitchell Guttman
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Tetsuro Hirose
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Maite Huarte
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Center for Applied Medical Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- Institute of Health Research of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Rory Johnson
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Conway Institute for Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Chandrasekhar Kanduri
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Philipp Kapranov
- Institute of Genomics, School of Medicine, Huaqiao University, Xiamen, China
| | - Jeanne B Lawrence
- Department of Neurology, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Jeannie T Lee
- Department of Molecular Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joshua T Mendell
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Timothy R Mercer
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Kathryn J Moore
- Department of Medicine, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shinichi Nakagawa
- RNA Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - John L Rinn
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - David L Spector
- Cold Spring Harbour Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbour, NY, USA
| | - Igor Ulitsky
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yue Wan
- Laboratory of RNA Genomics and Structure, Genome Institute of Singapore, A*STAR, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biochemistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jeremy E Wilusz
- Verna and Marrs McLean Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Therapeutic Innovation Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Mian Wu
- Translational Research Institute, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Academy of Medical Science, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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35
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Uyehara CM, Apostolou E. 3D enhancer-promoter interactions and multi-connected hubs: Organizational principles and functional roles. Cell Rep 2023; 42:112068. [PMID: 37059094 PMCID: PMC10556201 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.112068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The spatiotemporal control of gene expression is dependent on the activity of cis-acting regulatory sequences, called enhancers, which regulate target genes over variable genomic distances and, often, by skipping intermediate promoters, suggesting mechanisms that control enhancer-promoter communication. Recent genomics and imaging technologies have revealed highly complex enhancer-promoter interaction networks, whereas advanced functional studies have started interrogating the forces behind the physical and functional communication among multiple enhancers and promoters. In this review, we first summarize our current understanding of the factors involved in enhancer-promoter communication, with a particular focus on recent papers that have revealed new layers of complexities to old questions. In the second part of the review, we focus on a subset of highly connected enhancer-promoter "hubs" and discuss their potential functions in signal integration and gene regulation, as well as the putative factors that might determine their dynamics and assembly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M Uyehara
- Sanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Effie Apostolou
- Sanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA.
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36
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Appel LM, Benedum J, Engl M, Platzer S, Schleiffer A, Strobl X, Slade D. SPOC domain proteins in health and disease. Genes Dev 2023; 37:140-170. [PMID: 36927757 PMCID: PMC10111866 DOI: 10.1101/gad.350314.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Since it was first described >20 yr ago, the SPOC domain (Spen paralog and ortholog C-terminal domain) has been identified in many proteins all across eukaryotic species. SPOC-containing proteins regulate gene expression on various levels ranging from transcription to RNA processing, modification, export, and stability, as well as X-chromosome inactivation. Their manifold roles in controlling transcriptional output implicate them in a plethora of developmental processes, and their misregulation is often associated with cancer. Here, we provide an overview of the biophysical properties of the SPOC domain and its interaction with phosphorylated binding partners, the phylogenetic origin of SPOC domain proteins, the diverse functions of mammalian SPOC proteins and their homologs, the mechanisms by which they regulate differentiation and development, and their roles in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa-Marie Appel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Laboratories, Vienna Biocenter, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Johannes Benedum
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Laboratories, Vienna Biocenter, 1030 Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Biocenter PhD Program, a Doctoral School of the University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Magdalena Engl
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Laboratories, Vienna Biocenter, 1030 Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Biocenter PhD Program, a Doctoral School of the University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Sebastian Platzer
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Laboratories, Vienna Biocenter, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander Schleiffer
- Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP), 1030 Vienna, Austria
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna Biocenter (VBC), 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Xué Strobl
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Laboratories, Vienna Biocenter, 1030 Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Biocenter PhD Program, a Doctoral School of the University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna, 1030 Vienna, Austria
| | - Dea Slade
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Laboratories, Vienna Biocenter, 1030 Vienna, Austria
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37
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Yeo SJ, Ying C, Fullwood MJ, Tergaonkar V. Emerging regulatory mechanisms of noncoding RNAs in topologically associating domains. Trends Genet 2023; 39:217-232. [PMID: 36642680 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2022.12.003] [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: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Topologically associating domains (TADs) are integral to spatial genome organization, instructing gene expression, and cell fate. Recently, several advances have uncovered roles for noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) in the regulation of the form and function of mammalian TADs. Phase separation has also emerged as a potential arbiter of ncRNAs in the regulation of TADs. In this review we discuss the implications of these novel findings in relation to how ncRNAs might structurally and functionally regulate TADs from two perspectives: moderating loop extrusion through interactions with architectural proteins, and facilitating TAD phase separation. Additionally, we propose future studies and directions to investigate these phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Jianjie Yeo
- Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore 138673, Singapore; Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore 308232, Singapore
| | - Chen Ying
- Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore 138673, Singapore
| | - Melissa Jane Fullwood
- Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, Centre for Translational Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore; School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551, Singapore.
| | - Vinay Tergaonkar
- Laboratory of NFκB Signaling, Institute of Molecular Biology (IMCB), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore 138673, Singapore; Department of Pathology and the Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore 117597, Singapore.
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38
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Nepita I, Piazza S, Ruglioni M, Cristiani S, Bosurgi E, Salvadori T, Vicidomini G, Diaspro A, Castello M, Cerase A, Bianchini P, Storti B, Bizzarri R. On the Advent of Super-Resolution Microscopy in the Realm of Polycomb Proteins. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:374. [PMID: 36979066 PMCID: PMC10044799 DOI: 10.3390/biology12030374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
The genomes of metazoans are organized at multiple spatial scales, ranging from the double helix of DNA to whole chromosomes. The intermediate genomic scale of kilobases to megabases, which corresponds to the 50-300 nm spatial scale, is particularly interesting, as the 3D arrangement of chromatin is implicated in multiple regulatory mechanisms. In this context, polycomb group (PcG) proteins stand as major epigenetic modulators of chromatin function, acting prevalently as repressors of gene transcription by combining chemical modifications of target histones with physical crosslinking of distal genomic regions and phase separation. The recent development of super-resolution microscopy (SRM) has strongly contributed to improving our comprehension of several aspects of nano-/mesoscale (10-200 nm) chromatin domains. Here, we review the current state-of-the-art SRM applied to PcG proteins, showing that the application of SRM to PcG activity and organization is still quite limited and mainly focused on the 3D assembly of PcG-controlled genomic loci. In this context, SRM approaches have mostly been applied to multilabel fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). However, SRM data have complemented the maps obtained from chromosome capture experiments and have opened a new window to observe how 3D chromatin topology is modulated by PcGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Nepita
- Nanoscopy, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via E. Melen 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
| | - Simonluca Piazza
- Molecular Microscopy and Spectroscopy, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via E. Melen 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
- R&D Department, Genoa Instruments s.r.l., Via E. Melen 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
| | - Martina Ruglioni
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 65, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Sofia Cristiani
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 65, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Emanuele Bosurgi
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 65, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Tiziano Salvadori
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 65, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Vicidomini
- Molecular Microscopy and Spectroscopy, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via E. Melen 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
| | - Alberto Diaspro
- Nanoscopy, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via E. Melen 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
- DIFILAB, Dipartimento di Fisica, Università degli Studi di Genova, Via Dodecaneso 33, 16146 Genova, Italy
| | - Marco Castello
- Nanoscopy, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via E. Melen 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
- R&D Department, Genoa Instruments s.r.l., Via E. Melen 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
| | - Andrea Cerase
- Unit of Cell and Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Strada Statale dell’Abetone Brennero 4, 56123 Pisa, Italy
| | - Paolo Bianchini
- Nanoscopy, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via E. Melen 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
- DIFILAB, Dipartimento di Fisica, Università degli Studi di Genova, Via Dodecaneso 33, 16146 Genova, Italy
| | - Barbara Storti
- NEST, Scuola Normale Superiore and Istituto Nanoscienze-CNR, Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Ranieri Bizzarri
- Nanoscopy, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via E. Melen 83, 16152 Genova, Italy
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology, and Critical Care Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma 65, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- NEST, Scuola Normale Superiore and Istituto Nanoscienze-CNR, Piazza San Silvestro 12, 56127 Pisa, Italy
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Tsue AF, Kania EE, Lei DQ, Fields R, McGann CD, Hershberg E, Deng X, Kihiu M, Ong SE, Disteche CM, Kugel S, Beliveau BJ, Schweppe DK, Shechner DM. Oligonucleotide-directed proximity-interactome mapping (O-MAP): A unified method for discovering RNA-interacting proteins, transcripts and genomic loci in situ. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.19.524825. [PMID: 36711823 PMCID: PMC9882335 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.19.524825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Throughout biology, RNA molecules form complex networks of molecular interactions that are central to their function, but remain challenging to investigate. Here, we introduce Oligonucleotide-mediated proximity-interactome MAPping (O-MAP), a straightforward method for elucidating the biomolecules near an RNA of interest, within its native cellular context. O-MAP uses programmable oligonucleotide probes to deliver proximity-biotinylating enzymes to a target RNA, enabling nearby molecules to be enriched by streptavidin pulldown. O-MAP induces exceptionally precise RNA-localized in situ biotinylation, and unlike alternative methods it enables straightforward optimization of its targeting accuracy. Using the 47S pre-ribosomal RNA and long noncoding RNA Xist as models, we develop O-MAP workflows for unbiased discovery of RNA-proximal proteins, transcripts, and genomic loci. This revealed unexpected co-compartmentalization of Xist and other chromatin-regulatory RNAs and enabled systematic characterization of nucleolar-chromatin interactions across multiple cell lines. O-MAP is portable to cultured cells, organoids, and tissues, and to RNAs of various lengths, abundances, and sequence composition. And, O-MAP requires no genetic manipulation and uses exclusively off-the-shelf parts. We therefore anticipate its application to a broad array of RNA phenomena.
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Appel LM, Franke V, Benedum J, Grishkovskaya I, Strobl X, Polyansky A, Ammann G, Platzer S, Neudolt A, Wunder A, Walch L, Kaiser S, Zagrovic B, Djinovic-Carugo K, Akalin A, Slade D. The SPOC domain is a phosphoserine binding module that bridges transcription machinery with co- and post-transcriptional regulators. Nat Commun 2023; 14:166. [PMID: 36631525 PMCID: PMC9834408 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-35853-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The heptad repeats of the C-terminal domain (CTD) of RNA polymerase II (Pol II) are extensively modified throughout the transcription cycle. The CTD coordinates RNA synthesis and processing by recruiting transcription regulators as well as RNA capping, splicing and 3'end processing factors. The SPOC domain of PHF3 was recently identified as a CTD reader domain specifically binding to phosphorylated serine-2 residues in adjacent CTD repeats. Here, we establish the SPOC domains of the human proteins DIDO, SHARP (also known as SPEN) and RBM15 as phosphoserine binding modules that can act as CTD readers but also recognize other phosphorylated binding partners. We report the crystal structure of SHARP SPOC in complex with CTD and identify the molecular determinants for its specific binding to phosphorylated serine-5. PHF3 and DIDO SPOC domains preferentially interact with the Pol II elongation complex, while RBM15 and SHARP SPOC domains engage with writers and readers of m6A, the most abundant RNA modification. RBM15 positively regulates m6A levels and mRNA stability in a SPOC-dependent manner, while SHARP SPOC is essential for its localization to inactive X-chromosomes. Our findings suggest that the SPOC domain is a major interface between the transcription machinery and regulators of transcription and co-transcriptional processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa-Marie Appel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Labs, Vienna Biocenter, Dr. Bohr-Gasse 9, 1030, Vienna, Austria
| | - Vedran Franke
- The Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max Delbrück Center, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Johannes Benedum
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Labs, Vienna Biocenter, Dr. Bohr-Gasse 9, 1030, Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Biocenter PhD Program, a Doctoral School of the University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna, 1030, Vienna, Austria
| | - Irina Grishkovskaya
- Department of Structural and Computational Biology, Max Perutz Labs, University of Vienna, Vienna Biocenter, Campus Vienna Biocenter 5, 1030, Vienna, Austria
| | - Xué Strobl
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Labs, Vienna Biocenter, Dr. Bohr-Gasse 9, 1030, Vienna, Austria
- Vienna Biocenter PhD Program, a Doctoral School of the University of Vienna and Medical University of Vienna, 1030, Vienna, Austria
| | - Anton Polyansky
- Department of Structural and Computational Biology, Max Perutz Labs, University of Vienna, Vienna Biocenter, Campus Vienna Biocenter 5, 1030, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gregor Ammann
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Straße 9, 60438, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sebastian Platzer
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Labs, Vienna Biocenter, Dr. Bohr-Gasse 9, 1030, Vienna, Austria
| | - Andrea Neudolt
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Labs, Vienna Biocenter, Dr. Bohr-Gasse 9, 1030, Vienna, Austria
| | - Anna Wunder
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Labs, Vienna Biocenter, Dr. Bohr-Gasse 9, 1030, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lena Walch
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Labs, Vienna Biocenter, Dr. Bohr-Gasse 9, 1030, Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefanie Kaiser
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Straße 9, 60438, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Bojan Zagrovic
- Department of Structural and Computational Biology, Max Perutz Labs, University of Vienna, Vienna Biocenter, Campus Vienna Biocenter 5, 1030, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kristina Djinovic-Carugo
- Department of Structural and Computational Biology, Max Perutz Labs, University of Vienna, Vienna Biocenter, Campus Vienna Biocenter 5, 1030, Vienna, Austria
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Vecčna Pot 113, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Grenoble, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, CS 90181, 38042, Grenoble, Cedex 9, France
| | - Altuna Akalin
- The Berlin Institute for Medical Systems Biology, Max Delbrück Center, Robert-Rössle-Straße 10, 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Dea Slade
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Max Perutz Labs, Vienna Biocenter, Dr. Bohr-Gasse 9, 1030, Vienna, Austria.
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41
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Ling X, Liu X, Jiang S, Fan L, Ding J. The dynamics of three-dimensional chromatin organization and phase separation in cell fate transitions and diseases. CELL REGENERATION (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2022; 11:42. [PMID: 36539553 PMCID: PMC9768101 DOI: 10.1186/s13619-022-00145-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cell fate transition is a fascinating process involving complex dynamics of three-dimensional (3D) chromatin organization and phase separation, which play an essential role in cell fate decision by regulating gene expression. Phase separation is increasingly being considered a driving force of chromatin folding. In this review, we have summarized the dynamic features of 3D chromatin and phase separation during physiological and pathological cell fate transitions and systematically analyzed recent evidence of phase separation facilitating the chromatin structure. In addition, we discuss current advances in understanding how phase separation contributes to physical and functional enhancer-promoter contacts. We highlight the functional roles of 3D chromatin organization and phase separation in cell fate transitions, and more explorations are required to study the regulatory relationship between 3D chromatin organization and phase separation. 3D chromatin organization (shown by Hi-C contact map) and phase separation are highly dynamic and play functional roles during early embryonic development, cell differentiation, somatic reprogramming, cell transdifferentiation and pathogenetic process. Phase separation can regulate 3D chromatin organization directly, but whether 3D chromatin organization regulates phase separation remains unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoru Ling
- grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XAdvanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong China ,grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XRNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong China ,grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XCenter for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong China
| | - Xinyi Liu
- grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XAdvanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong China ,grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XRNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong China ,grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XCenter for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong China
| | - Shaoshuai Jiang
- grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XAdvanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong China ,grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XRNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong China ,grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XCenter for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong China
| | - Lili Fan
- grid.258164.c0000 0004 1790 3548Guangzhou Key Laboratory of Formula-Pattern of Traditional Chinese Medicine, School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, Guangdong China
| | - Junjun Ding
- grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XAdvanced Medical Technology Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong China ,grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XRNA Biomedical Institute, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong China ,grid.12981.330000 0001 2360 039XCenter for Stem Cell Biology and Tissue Engineering, Key Laboratory for Stem Cells and Tissue Engineering, Ministry of Education, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong China ,grid.410737.60000 0000 8653 1072Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436 China ,grid.13291.380000 0001 0807 1581West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041 China
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42
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Goronzy IN, Quinodoz SA, Jachowicz JW, Ollikainen N, Bhat P, Guttman M. Simultaneous mapping of 3D structure and nascent RNAs argues against nuclear compartments that preclude transcription. Cell Rep 2022; 41:111730. [PMID: 36450242 PMCID: PMC9793828 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian genomes are organized into three-dimensional DNA structures called A/B compartments that are associated with transcriptional activity/inactivity. However, whether these structures are simply correlated with gene expression or are permissive/impermissible to transcription has remained largely unknown because we lack methods to measure DNA organization and transcription simultaneously. Recently, we developed RNA & DNA (RD)-SPRITE, which enables genome-wide measurements of the spatial organization of RNA and DNA. Here we show that RD-SPRITE measures genomic structure surrounding nascent pre-mRNAs and maps their spatial contacts. We find that transcription occurs within B compartments-with multiple active genes simultaneously colocalizing within the same B compartment-and at genes proximal to nucleoli. These results suggest that localization near or within nuclear structures thought to be inactive does not preclude transcription and that active transcription can occur throughout the nucleus. In general, we anticipate RD-SPRITE will be a powerful tool for exploring relationships between genome structure and transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel N. Goronzy
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA,David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA,Division of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA,These authors contributed equally
| | - Sofia A. Quinodoz
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA,Present address: Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ 08544, USA,These authors contributed equally,Correspondence: (S.A.Q.), (M.G.)
| | - Joanna W. Jachowicz
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA,Present address: Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Science (IMBA), 1030 Vienna, Austria,These authors contributed equally
| | - Noah Ollikainen
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA,These authors contributed equally
| | - Prashant Bhat
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA,David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Mitchell Guttman
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA,Lead contact,Correspondence: (S.A.Q.), (M.G.)
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Pallier PN, Ferrara M, Romagnolo F, Ferretti MT, Soreq H, Cerase A. Chromosomal and environmental contributions to sex differences in the vulnerability to neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders: Implications for therapeutic interventions. Prog Neurobiol 2022; 219:102353. [PMID: 36100191 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2022.102353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders affect men and women differently. Multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, anxiety disorders, depression, meningiomas and late-onset schizophrenia affect women more frequently than men. By contrast, Parkinson's disease, autism spectrum condition, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, Tourette's syndrome, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and early-onset schizophrenia are more prevalent in men. Women have been historically under-recruited or excluded from clinical trials, and most basic research uses male rodent cells or animals as disease models, rarely studying both sexes and factoring sex as a potential source of variation, resulting in a poor understanding of the underlying biological reasons for sex and gender differences in the development of such diseases. Putative pathophysiological contributors include hormones and epigenetics regulators but additional biological and non-biological influences may be at play. We review here the evidence for the underpinning role of the sex chromosome complement, X chromosome inactivation, and environmental and epigenetic regulators in sex differences in the vulnerability to brain disease. We conclude that there is a pressing need for a better understanding of the genetic, epigenetic and environmental mechanisms sustaining sex differences in such diseases, which is critical for developing a precision medicine approach based on sex-tailored prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick N Pallier
- Blizard Institute, Centre for Neuroscience, Surgery and Trauma, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK.
| | - Maria Ferrara
- Institute of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy; Department of Psychiatry, Yale University, School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States; Women's Brain Project (WBP), Switzerland
| | - Francesca Romagnolo
- Institute of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | | | - Hermona Soreq
- The Edmond and Lily Safra Center of Brain Science, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, 9190401, Israel
| | - Andrea Cerase
- EMBL-Rome, Via Ramarini 32, 00015 Monterotondo, RM, Italy; Blizard Institute, Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 2AT, UK; Department of Biology, University of Pisa, SS12 Abetone e Brennero 4, 56127 Pisa, Italy.
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44
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Delli Ponti R, Broglia L, Vandelli A, Armaos A, Torrent Burgas M, Sanchez de Groot N, Tartaglia GG. A high-throughput approach to predict A-to-I effects on RNA structure indicates a change of double-stranded content in non-coding RNAs. IUBMB Life 2022; 75:411-426. [PMID: 36057100 DOI: 10.1002/iub.2673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
RNA molecules undergo a number of chemical modifications whose effects can alter their structure and molecular interactions. Previous studies have shown that RNA editing can impact the formation of ribonucleoprotein complexes and influence the assembly of membrane-less organelles such as stress-granules. For instance, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) enhances SG formation and N1-methyladenosine (m1A) prevents their transition to solid-like aggregates. Yet, very little is known about adenosine to inosine (A-to-I) modification that is very abundant in human cells and not only impacts mRNAs but also non-coding RNAs. Here, we built the CROSSalive predictor of A-to-I effects on RNA structure based on high-throughput in-cell experiments. Our method shows an accuracy of 90% in predicting the single and double-stranded content of transcripts and identifies a general enrichment of double-stranded regions caused by A-to-I in long intergenic non-coding RNAs (lincRNAs). For the individual cases of NEAT1, NORAD and XIST, we investigated the relationship between A-to-I editing and interactions with RNA-binding proteins using available CLIP data and catRAPID predictions. We found that A-to-I editing is linked to alteration of interaction sites with proteins involved in phase-separation, which suggests that RNP assembly can be influenced by A-to-I. CROSSalive is available at http://service.tartaglialab.com/new_submission/crossalive. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Delli Ponti
- Bioinformatics Institute (BII), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 30 Biopolis Street, Matrix #07-01, Singapore
| | - Laura Broglia
- Center for Human Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Enrico Melen 83, Genoa, Italy
| | - Andrea Vandelli
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alexandros Armaos
- Center for Human Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Enrico Melen 83, Genoa, Italy
| | - Marc Torrent Burgas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Natalia Sanchez de Groot
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gian Gaetano Tartaglia
- Center for Human Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Via Enrico Melen 83, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Biology 'Charles Darwin', Sapienza University of Rome, P.le A. Moro 5, Rome, Italy
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45
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Substoichiometric action of long noncoding RNAs. Nat Cell Biol 2022; 24:608-615. [PMID: 35562482 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-022-00911-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Low expression levels and stoichiometric imbalances of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are often used as evidence for their probable lack of function or for limiting the scope of their potential influence. Recent advances in our understanding of the substoichiometric functions of lncRNAs challenge these notions and suggest routes through which unabundant lncRNAs can affect cellular functions and gene regulatory networks.
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46
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Vandelli A, Vocino G, Tartaglia GG. Phase Separation Drives SARS-CoV-2 Replication: A Hypothesis. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:893067. [PMID: 35647024 PMCID: PMC9132231 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.893067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying human proteins that interact with SARS-CoV-2 genome is important to understand its replication and to identify therapeutic strategies. Recent studies have unveiled protein interactions of SARS-COV-2 in different cell lines and through a number of high-throughput approaches. Here, we carried out a comparative analysis of four experimental and one computational studies to characterize the interactions of SARS-CoV-2 genomic RNA. Although hundreds of interactors have been identified, only twenty-one appear in all the experiments and show a strong propensity to bind. This set of interactors includes stress granule forming proteins, pre-mRNA regulators and elements involved in the replication process. Our calculations indicate that DDX3X and several editases bind the 5′ end of SARS-CoV-2, a regulatory region previously reported to attract a large number of proteins. The small overlap among experimental datasets suggests that SARS-CoV-2 genome establishes stable interactions only with few interactors, while many proteins bind less tightly. In analogy to what has been previously reported for Xist non-coding RNA, we propose a mechanism of phase separation through which SARS-CoV-2 progressively sequesters human proteins hijacking the host immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Vandelli
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Giovanni Vocino
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gian Gaetano Tartaglia
- Center for Human Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genova, Italy
- Department of Biology ‘Charles Darwin’, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
- Institucio Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
- *Correspondence: Gian Gaetano Tartaglia,
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Samanta MK, Gayen S, Harris C, Maclary E, Murata-Nakamura Y, Malcore RM, Porter RS, Garay PM, Vallianatos CN, Samollow PB, Iwase S, Kalantry S. Activation of Xist by an evolutionarily conserved function of KDM5C demethylase. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2602. [PMID: 35545632 PMCID: PMC9095838 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30352-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
XX female and XY male therian mammals equalize X-linked gene expression through the mitotically-stable transcriptional inactivation of one of the two X chromosomes in female somatic cells. Here, we describe an essential function of the X-linked homolog of an ancestral X-Y gene pair, Kdm5c-Kdm5d, in the expression of Xist lncRNA, which is required for stable X-inactivation. Ablation of Kdm5c function in females results in a significant reduction in Xist RNA expression. Kdm5c encodes a demethylase that enhances Xist expression by converting histone H3K4me2/3 modifications into H3K4me1. Ectopic expression of mouse and human KDM5C, but not the Y-linked homolog KDM5D, induces Xist in male mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). Similarly, marsupial (opossum) Kdm5c but not Kdm5d also upregulates Xist in male mESCs, despite marsupials lacking Xist, suggesting that the KDM5C function that activates Xist in eutherians is strongly conserved and predates the divergence of eutherian and metatherian mammals. In support, prototherian (platypus) Kdm5c also induces Xist in male mESCs. Together, our data suggest that eutherian mammals co-opted the ancestral demethylase KDM5C during sex chromosome evolution to upregulate Xist for the female-specific induction of X-inactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milan Kumar Samanta
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5618, USA
| | - Srimonta Gayen
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5618, USA
- Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, Karnataka, 560012, India
| | - Clair Harris
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5618, USA
| | - Emily Maclary
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5618, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Yumie Murata-Nakamura
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5618, USA
| | - Rebecca M Malcore
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5618, USA
| | - Robert S Porter
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5618, USA
| | - Patricia M Garay
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5618, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5618, USA
| | - Christina N Vallianatos
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5618, USA
| | - Paul B Samollow
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843-4458, USA
| | - Shigeki Iwase
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5618, USA
- Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5618, USA
| | - Sundeep Kalantry
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5618, USA.
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Cerase A, Calabrese JM, Tartaglia GG. Phase separation drives X-chromosome inactivation. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2022; 29:183-185. [PMID: 35301494 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-021-00697-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Cerase
- Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK. .,Department of Biology, Università di Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - J Mauro Calabrese
- Department of Pharmacology and Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Gian Gaetano Tartaglia
- Department of Biology 'Charles Darwin', Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy. .,Department of Neuroscience and Brain Technologies, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Genoa, Italy.
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