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Mandal S, Ghosh JS, Lohani SC, Zhao M, Cheng Y, Burrack R, Luo M, Li Q. A long-term stable cold-chain-friendly HIV mRNA vaccine encoding multi-epitope viral protease cleavage site immunogens inducing immunogen-specific protective T cell immunity. Emerg Microbes Infect 2024; 13:2377606. [PMID: 38979723 PMCID: PMC11259082 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2024.2377606] [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: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
The lack of success in clinical trials for HIV vaccines highlights the need to explore novel strategies for vaccine development. Research on highly exposed seronegative (HESN) HIV-resistant Kenyan female sex workers revealed naturally protective immunity is correlated with a focused immune response mediated by virus-specific CD8 T cells. Further studies indicated that the immune response is unconventionally focused on highly conserved sequences around HIV viral protease cleavage sites (VPCS). Thus, taking an unconventional approach to HIV vaccine development, we designed lipid nanoparticles loaded with mRNA that encodes multi-epitopes of VPCS (MEVPCS-mRNA LNP), a strategic design to boost antigen presentation by dendritic cells, promoting effective cellular immunity. Furthermore, we developed a novel cold-chain compatible mRNA LNP formulation, ensuring long-term stability and compatibility with cold-chain storage/transport, widening accessibility of mRNA LNP vaccine in low-income countries. The in-vivo mouse study demonstrated that the vaccinated group generated VPCS-specific CD8 memory T cells, both systemically and at mucosal sites of viral entry. The MEVPCS-mRNA LNP vaccine-induced CD8 T cell immunity closely resembled that of the HESN group and displayed a polyfunctional profile. Notably, it induced minimal to no activation of CD4 T cells. This proof-of-concept study underscores the potential of the MEVPCS-mRNA LNP vaccine in eliciting CD8 T cell memory specific to the highly conserved multiple VPCS, consequently having a broad coverage in human populations and limiting viral escape mutation. The MEVPCS-mRNA LNP vaccine holds promise as a candidate for an effective prophylactic HIV vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhra Mandal
- Nebraska Center for Virology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Jayadri Sekhar Ghosh
- Nebraska Center for Virology, Department of Plant Pathology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Saroj Chandra Lohani
- Nebraska Center for Virology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Miaoyun Zhao
- Nebraska Center for Virology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Yilun Cheng
- Nebraska Center for Virology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Rachel Burrack
- Nebraska Center for Virology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Ma Luo
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Qingsheng Li
- Nebraska Center for Virology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
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2
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Payen SH, Andrada K, Tara E, Petereit J, Verma SC, Rossetto CC. The cellular paraspeckle component SFPQ associates with the viral processivity factor ORF59 during lytic replication of Kaposi's Sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). Virus Res 2024; 349:199456. [PMID: 39214388 PMCID: PMC11406446 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2024.199456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 08/19/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) relies on many cellular proteins to complete replication and generate new virions. Paraspeckle nuclear bodies consisting of core ribonucleoproteins splicing factor proline/glutamine-rich (SFPQ), Non-POU domain-containing octamer-binding protein (NONO), and paraspeckle protein component 1 (PSPC1) along with the long non-coding RNA NEAT1, form a complex that has been speculated to play an important role in viral replication. Paraspeckle bodies are multifunctional and involved in various processes including gene expression, mRNA splicing, and anti-viral defenses. To better understand the role of SFPQ during KSHV replication, we performed SFPQ immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry from KSHV-infected cells. Proteomic analysis showed that during lytic reactivation, SFPQ associates with viral proteins, including ORF10, ORF59, and ORF61. These results are consistent with a previously reported ORF59 proteomics assay identifying SFPQ. To test if the association between ORF59 and SFPQ is important for replication, we first identified the region of ORF59 that associates with SFPQ using a series of 50 amino acid deletion mutants of ORF59 in the KSHV BACmid system. By performing co-immunoprecipitations, we identified the region spanning amino acids 101-150 of ORF59 as the association domain with SFPQ. Using this information, we generated a dominant negative polypeptide of ORF59 encompassing amino acids 101-150, that disrupted the association between SFPQ and full-length ORF59, and decreased virus production. Interestingly, when we tested other human herpesvirus processivity factors (EBV BMRF1, HSV-1 UL42, and HCMV UL44) by transfection of each expression plasmid followed by co-immunoprecipitation, we found a conserved association with SFPQ. These are limited studies that remain to be done in the context of infection but suggest a potential association of SFPQ with processivity factors across multiple herpesviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Harger Payen
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Kayla Andrada
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Evelyn Tara
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Juli Petereit
- University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada Bioinformatics Center (RRID: SCR_017802), Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Subhash C Verma
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Reno, NV 89557, USA
| | - Cyprian C Rossetto
- University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Reno, NV 89557, USA.
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3
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Mwangi MN, Yonkunas MJ, Ageeli AA, McGovern-Gooch KR, Yilmaz S, Baird NJ. A Newly Identified Peripheral Duplex Anchors and Stabilizes the MALAT1 Triplex. Biochemistry 2024; 63:2280-2292. [PMID: 39190685 PMCID: PMC11411715 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.4c00156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
The accumulation of the 8-kb oncogenic long noncoding MALAT1 RNA in cells is dependent on the presence of a protective triple helix structure at the 3' terminus. While recent studies have examined the functional importance of numerous base triples within the triplex and its immediately adjacent base pairs, the functional importance of peripheral duplex elements has not been thoroughly investigated. To investigate the functional importance of a peripheral linker region that was previously described as unstructured, we employed a variety of assays including thermal melting, protection from exonucleolytic degradation by RNase R, small-angle X-ray scattering, biochemical ligation and binding assays, and computational modeling. Our results demonstrate the presence of a duplex within this linker that enhances the functional stability of the triplex in vitro, despite its location more than 40 Å from the 3' terminus. We present a full-length model of the MALAT1 triple helix-containing RNA having an extended rod-like structure and comprising 33 layers of coaxial stacking interactions. Taken together with recent research on a homologous triplex, our results demonstrate that peripheral elements anchor and stabilize triplexes in vitro. Such peripheral elements may also contribute to the formation and stability of some triple helices in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mary N Mwangi
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Saint Joseph's University, 600 S. 43rd Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Michael J Yonkunas
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Saint Joseph's University, 600 S. 43rd Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Abeer A Ageeli
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Saint Joseph's University, 600 S. 43rd Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Kayleigh R McGovern-Gooch
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Saint Joseph's University, 600 S. 43rd Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Sevde Yilmaz
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Saint Joseph's University, 600 S. 43rd Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
| | - Nathan J Baird
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Saint Joseph's University, 600 S. 43rd Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, United States
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4
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Zakutansky PM, Ku L, Zhang G, Shi L, Li Y, Yao B, Bassell GJ, Read RD, Feng Y. Isoform balance of the long noncoding RNA NEAT1 is regulated by the RNA-binding protein QKI, governs the glioma transcriptome, and impacts cell migration. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107595. [PMID: 39032650 PMCID: PMC11367543 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107595] [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: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The long noncoding RNA nuclear paraspeckle assembly transcript 1 (NEAT1) is involved in a variety of human cancers. Two overlapping NEAT1 isoforms, NEAT1_1 and NEAT1_2, are produced through mutually exclusive alternative 3' end formation. Previous studies extensively investigated NEAT1 dysregulation in tumors, but often failed to achieve distinct quantification of the two NEAT1 isoforms. Moreover, molecular mechanisms governing the biogenesis of NEAT1 isoforms and the functional impacts of their dysregulation in tumorigenesis remain poorly understood. In this study, we employed an isoform-specific quantification assay and found differential dysregulation of NEAT1 isoforms in patient-derived glioblastoma multiforme cells. We further showed usage of the NEAT1 proximal polyadenylation site (PAS) is a critical mechanism that controls glioma NEAT1 isoform production. CRISPR-Cas9-mediated PAS deletion reduced NEAT1_1 and reciprocally increased NEAT1_2, which enhanced nuclear paraspeckle formation in human glioma cells. Moreover, the utilization of the NEAT1 PAS is facilitated by the RNA-binding protein quaking (QKI), which binds to the proximal QKI recognition elements. Functionally, we identified transcriptomic changes and altered biological pathways caused by NEAT1 isoform imbalance in glioma cells, including the pathway for the regulation of cell migration. Finally, we demonstrated the forced increase of NEAT1_2 upon NEAT1 PAS deletion is responsible for driving glioma cell migration and promoting the expression of genes implicated in the regulation of cell migration. Together, our studies uncovered a novel mechanism that regulates NEAT1 isoforms and their functional impacts on the glioma transcriptome, which affects pathological pathways of glioma, represented by migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M Zakutansky
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Graduate Program in Biochemistry, Cell, and Developmental Biology, Graduate Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Li Ku
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Guannan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Liang Shi
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Yangping Li
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Bing Yao
- Department of Human Genetics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Gary J Bassell
- Department of Cell Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Renee D Read
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Yue Feng
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
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5
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Davis WJH, Drummond CJ, Diermeier S, Reid G. The Potential Links between lncRNAs and Drug Tolerance in Lung Adenocarcinoma. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:906. [PMID: 39062685 PMCID: PMC11276205 DOI: 10.3390/genes15070906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer patients treated with targeted therapies frequently respond well but invariably relapse due to the development of drug resistance. Drug resistance is in part mediated by a subset of cancer cells termed "drug-tolerant persisters" (DTPs), which enter a dormant, slow-cycling state that enables them to survive drug exposure. DTPs also exhibit stem cell-like characteristics, broad epigenetic reprogramming, altered metabolism, and a mutagenic phenotype mediated by adaptive mutability. While several studies have characterised the transcriptional changes that lead to the altered phenotypes exhibited in DTPs, these studies have focused predominantly on protein coding changes. As long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are also implicated in the phenotypes altered in DTPs, it is likely that they play a role in the biology of drug tolerance. In this review, we outline how lncRNAs may contribute to the key characteristics of DTPs, their potential roles in tolerance to targeted therapies, and the emergence of genetic resistance in lung adenocarcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- William J. H. Davis
- Department of Pathology, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; (W.J.H.D.); (C.J.D.)
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, The University of Auckland, Private Bag, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Catherine J. Drummond
- Department of Pathology, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; (W.J.H.D.); (C.J.D.)
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, The University of Auckland, Private Bag, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Sarah Diermeier
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand;
- Amaroq Therapeutics, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Glen Reid
- Department of Pathology, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, P.O. Box 56, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand; (W.J.H.D.); (C.J.D.)
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, The University of Auckland, Private Bag, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
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Skeparnias I, Bou-Nader C, Anastasakis DG, Fan L, Wang YX, Hafner M, Zhang J. Structural basis of MALAT1 RNA maturation and mascRNA biogenesis. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2024:10.1038/s41594-024-01340-4. [PMID: 38956168 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-024-01340-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
The metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) has key roles in regulating transcription, splicing, tumorigenesis, etc. Its maturation and stabilization require precise processing by RNase P, which simultaneously initiates the biogenesis of a 3' cytoplasmic MALAT1-associated small cytoplasmic RNA (mascRNA). mascRNA was proposed to fold into a transfer RNA (tRNA)-like secondary structure but lacks eight conserved linking residues required by the canonical tRNA fold. Here we report crystal structures of human mascRNA before and after processing, which reveal an ultracompact, quasi-tRNA-like structure. Despite lacking all linker residues, mascRNA faithfully recreates the characteristic 'elbow' feature of tRNAs to recruit RNase P and ElaC homolog protein 2 (ELAC2) for processing, which exhibit distinct substrate specificities. Rotation and repositioning of the D-stem and anticodon regions preclude mascRNA from aminoacylation, avoiding interference with translation. Therefore, a class of metazoan lncRNA loci uses a previously unrecognized, unusually streamlined quasi-tRNA architecture to recruit select tRNA-processing enzymes while excluding others to drive bespoke RNA biogenesis, processing and maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilias Skeparnias
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Charles Bou-Nader
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Dimitrios G Anastasakis
- RNA Molecular Biology Laboratory, National Institute for Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lixin Fan
- Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Small-Angle X-Ray Scattering Core Facility of National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Yun-Xing Wang
- Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Small-Angle X-Ray Scattering Core Facility of National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
- Structural Biophysics Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Markus Hafner
- RNA Molecular Biology Laboratory, National Institute for Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jinwei Zhang
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, Bethesda, MD, USA.
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7
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Khoshnam SE, Moalemnia A, Anbiyaee O, Farzaneh M, Ghaderi S. LncRNA MALAT1 and Ischemic Stroke: Pathogenesis and Opportunities. Mol Neurobiol 2024; 61:4369-4380. [PMID: 38087169 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-023-03853-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Ischemic stroke (IS) stands as a prominent cause of mortality and long-term disability around the world. It arises primarily from a disruption in cerebral blood flow, inflicting severe neural injuries. Hence, there is a pressing need to comprehensively understand the intricate mechanisms underlying IS and identify novel therapeutic targets. Recently, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as a novel class of regulatory molecules with the potential to attenuate pathogenic mechanisms following IS. Among these lncRNAs, MALAT1 (metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1) has been extensively studied due to its involvement in the pathophysiological processes of IS. In this review, we provide an in-depth analysis of the essential role of MALAT1 in the development and progression of both pathogenic and protective mechanisms following IS. These mechanisms include oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, cell death signaling, blood brain barrier dysfunction, and angiogenesis. Furthermore, we summarize the impact of MALAT1 on the susceptibility and severity of IS. This review highlights the potential risks associated with the therapeutic use of MALAT1 for IS, which are attributable to the stimulatory action of MALAT1 on ischemia/reperfusion injury. Ultimately, this review sheds light on the potential molecular mechanisms and associated signaling pathways underlying MALAT1 expression post-IS, with the aim of uncovering potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Esmaeil Khoshnam
- Persian Gulf Physiology Research Center, Medical Basic Sciences Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Arash Moalemnia
- Faculty of Medicine, Dezful University of Medical Sciences, Dezful, Iran
| | - Omid Anbiyaee
- School of Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Center, Namazi Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maryam Farzaneh
- Fertility, Infertility and Perinatology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Shahab Ghaderi
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Science and Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
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8
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Błaszczyk L, Ryczek M, Das B, Mateja-Pluta M, Bejger M, Śliwiak J, Nakatani K, Kiliszek A. Antisense RNA C9orf72 hexanucleotide repeat associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia forms a triplex-like structure and binds small synthetic ligand. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:6707-6717. [PMID: 38738637 PMCID: PMC11194091 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The abnormal expansion of GGGGCC/GGCCCC hexanucleotide repeats (HR) in C9orf72 is associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Structural polymorphisms of HR result in the multifactorial pathomechanism of ALS/FTD. Consequently, many ongoing studies are focused at developing therapies targeting pathogenic HR RNA. One of them involves small molecules blocking sequestration of important proteins, preventing formation of toxic nuclear foci. However, rational design of potential therapeutics is hindered by limited number of structural studies of RNA-ligand complexes. We determined the crystal structure of antisense HR RNA in complex with ANP77 ligand (1.1 Å resolution) and in the free form (0.92 and 1.5 Å resolution). HR RNA folds into a triplex structure composed of four RNA chains. ANP77 interacted with two neighboring single-stranded cytosines to form pseudo-canonical base pairs by adopting sandwich-like conformation and adjusting the position of its naphthyridine units to the helical twist of the RNA. In the unliganded structure, the cytosines formed a peculiar triplex i-motif, assembled by trans C•C+ pair and a third cytosine located at the Hoogsteen edge of the C•C+ pair. These results extend our knowledge of the structural polymorphisms of HR and can be used for rational design of small molecules targeting disease-related RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leszek Błaszczyk
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Z. Noskowskiego 12/14, 61-704, Poland
| | - Marcin Ryczek
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Z. Noskowskiego 12/14, 61-704, Poland
| | - Bimolendu Das
- Department of Regulatory Bioorganic Chemistry, SANKEN (The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research), Osaka University, 8-1 Mihogaoka, Ibaraki 567-0047, Japan
| | - Martyna Mateja-Pluta
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Z. Noskowskiego 12/14, 61-704, Poland
| | - Magdalena Bejger
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Z. Noskowskiego 12/14, 61-704, Poland
| | - Joanna Śliwiak
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Z. Noskowskiego 12/14, 61-704, Poland
| | - Kazuhiko Nakatani
- Department of Regulatory Bioorganic Chemistry, SANKEN (The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research), Osaka University, 8-1 Mihogaoka, Ibaraki 567-0047, Japan
| | - Agnieszka Kiliszek
- Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Z. Noskowskiego 12/14, 61-704, Poland
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Zeinelabdeen Y, Abaza T, Yasser MB, Elemam NM, Youness RA. MIAT LncRNA: A multifunctional key player in non-oncological pathological conditions. Noncoding RNA Res 2024; 9:447-462. [PMID: 38511054 PMCID: PMC10950597 DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2024.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The discovery of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) has unveiled a wide range of transcripts that do not encode proteins but play key roles in several cellular and molecular processes. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are specific class of ncRNAs that are longer than 200 nucleotides and have gained significant attention due to their diverse mechanisms of action and potential involvement in various pathological conditions. In the current review, the authors focus on the role of lncRNAs, specifically highlighting the Myocardial Infarction Associated Transcript (MIAT), in non-oncological context. MIAT is a nuclear lncRNA that has been directly linked to myocardial infarction and is reported to control post-transcriptional processes as a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) molecule. It interacts with microRNAs (miRNAs), thereby limiting the translation and expression of their respective target messenger RNA (mRNA) and regulating protein expression. Yet, MIAT has been implicated in other numerous pathological conditions such as other cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune disease, neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic diseases, and many others. In this review, the authors emphasize that MIAT exhibits distinct expression patterns and functions across different pathological conditions and is emerging as potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic agent. Additionally, the authors highlight the regulatory role of MIAT and shed light on the involvement of lncRNAs and specifically MIAT in various non-oncological pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yousra Zeinelabdeen
- Molecular Genetics Research Team, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo, 11835, Egypt
- Faculty of Medical Sciences/UMCG, University of Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, Groningen, 9713 AV, the Netherlands
| | - Tasneem Abaza
- Molecular Genetics Research Team, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo, 11835, Egypt
- Biotechnology and Biomolecular Biochemistry Program, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Montaser Bellah Yasser
- Bioinformatics Group, Center for Informatics Sciences (CIS), School of Information Technology and Computer Science (ITCS), Nile University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Noha M. Elemam
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rana A. Youness
- Molecular Genetics Research Team, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Biotechnology, German International University (GIU), Cairo, 11835, Egypt
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10
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Xiao W, Halabi R, Lin CH, Nazim M, Yeom KH, Black DL. The lncRNA Malat1 is trafficked to the cytoplasm as a localized mRNA encoding a small peptide in neurons. Genes Dev 2024; 38:294-307. [PMID: 38688681 PMCID: PMC11146593 DOI: 10.1101/gad.351557.124] [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: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Synaptic function in neurons is modulated by local translation of mRNAs that are transported to distal portions of axons and dendrites. The metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) is broadly expressed across cell types, almost exclusively as a nuclear long noncoding RNA. We found that in differentiating neurons, a portion of Malat1 RNA redistributes to the cytoplasm. Depletion of Malat1 using antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) stimulates the expression of particular pre- and postsynaptic proteins, implicating Malat1 in their regulation. Neuronal Malat1 is localized in puncta of both axons and dendrites that costain with Staufen1 protein, similar to neuronal RNA granules formed by locally translated mRNAs. Ribosome profiling of cultured mouse cortical neurons identified ribosome footprints within a 5' region of Malat1 containing short open reading frames. The upstream-most reading frame (M1) of the Malat1 locus was linked to the GFP-coding sequence in mouse embryonic stem cells. When these gene-edited cells were differentiated into glutamatergic neurons, the M1-GFP fusion protein was expressed. Antibody staining for the M1 peptide confirmed its presence in wild-type neurons and showed that M1 expression was enhanced by synaptic stimulation with KCl. Our results indicate that Malat1 serves as a cytoplasmic coding RNA in the brain that is both modulated by and modulates synaptic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Xiao
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Reem Halabi
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Chia-Ho Lin
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Mohammad Nazim
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Kyu-Hyeon Yeom
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
| | - Douglas L Black
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA;
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
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11
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Wernig-Zorc S, Schwartz U, Martínez-Rodríguez P, Inalef J, Pavicic F, Ehrenfeld P, Längst G, Maldonado R. The Long Non-Coding RNA MALAT1 Modulates NR4A1 Expression through a Downstream Regulatory Element in Specific Cancer Cell Types. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5515. [PMID: 38791553 PMCID: PMC11121914 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to modulate gene expression and are involved in the initiation and progression of various cancer types. Despite the wealth of studies describing transcriptome changes upon lncRNA knockdown, there is limited information describing lncRNA-mediated effects on regulatory elements (REs) modulating gene expression. In this study, we investigated how the metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) lncRNA regulates primary target genes using time-resolved MALAT1 knockdown followed by parallel RNA-seq and ATAC-seq assays. The results revealed that MALAT1 primarily regulates specific protein-coding genes and a substantial decrease in the accessibility downstream of the NR4A1 gene that was associated with a decreased NR4A1 expression. Moreover, the presence of an NR4A1-downstream RE was demonstrated by CRISPR-i assays to define a functional MALAT1/NR4A1 axis. By analyzing TCGA data, we identified a positive correlation between NR4A1 expression and NR4A1-downstream RE accessibility in breast cancer but not in pancreatic cancer. Accordingly, this regulatory mechanism was experimentally validated in breast cancer cells (MCF7) but not in pancreatic duct epithelial carcinoma (PANC1) cells. Therefore, our results demonstrated that MALAT1 is involved in a molecular mechanism that fine-tunes NR4A1 expression by modulating the accessibility of a downstream RE in a cell type-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Wernig-Zorc
- Regensburg Center for Biochemistry [RCB], Universität Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (S.W.-Z.)
- St. Anna Children’s Cancer Research Institute, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Uwe Schwartz
- NGS Analysis Center, Biology and Pre-Clinical Medicine, Universität Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
| | - Paulina Martínez-Rodríguez
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias, mención Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811230, Chile;
| | - Josefa Inalef
- Institute of Anatomy, Histology, and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, 5090000 Valdivia, Chile (P.E.)
| | - Francisca Pavicic
- Institute of Anatomy, Histology, and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, 5090000 Valdivia, Chile (P.E.)
| | - Pamela Ehrenfeld
- Institute of Anatomy, Histology, and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, 5090000 Valdivia, Chile (P.E.)
- Center for Interdisciplinary Studies of the Nervous System [CISNe], Universidad Austral de Chile, 5090000 Valdivia, Chile
| | - Gernot Längst
- Regensburg Center for Biochemistry [RCB], Universität Regensburg, 93053 Regensburg, Germany; (S.W.-Z.)
| | - Rodrigo Maldonado
- Facultad de Medicina y Ciencias, Universidad San Sebastián, 5110246 Valdivia, Chile
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12
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Imran M, Abida, Eltaib L, Siddique MI, Kamal M, Asdaq SMB, Singla N, Al-Hajeili M, Alhakami FA, AlQarni AF, Abdulkhaliq AA, Rabaan AA. Beyond the genome: MALAT1's role in advancing urologic cancer care. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 256:155226. [PMID: 38452585 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Urologic cancers (UCs), which include bladder, kidney, and prostate tumors, account for almost a quarter of all malignancies. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are tissue-specific RNAs that influence cell growth, death, and division. LncRNAs are dysregulated in UCs, and their abnormal expression may allow them to be used in cancer detection, outlook, and therapy. With the identification of several novel lncRNAs and significant exploration of their functions in various illnesses, particularly cancer, the study of lncRNAs has evolved into a new obsession. MALAT1 is a flexible tumor regulator implicated in an array of biological activities and disorders, resulting in an important research issue. MALAT1 appears as a hotspot, having been linked to the dysregulation of cell communication, and is intimately linked to cancer genesis, advancement, and response to treatment. MALAT1 additionally operates as a competitive endogenous RNA, binding to microRNAs and resuming downstream mRNA transcription and operation. This regulatory system influences cell growth, apoptosis, motility, penetration, and cell cycle pausing. MALAT1's evaluation and prognosis significance are highlighted, with a thorough review of its manifestation levels in several UC situations and its association with clinicopathological markers. The investigation highlights MALAT1's adaptability as a possible treatment target, providing fresh ways for therapy in UCs as we integrate existing information The article not only gathers current knowledge on MALAT1's activities but also lays the groundwork for revolutionary advances in the treatment of UCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Imran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Northern Border University, Rafha 91911, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Abida
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Northern Border University, Rafha 91911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lina Eltaib
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Northern Border University, Rafha 91911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Irfan Siddique
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, Northern Border University, Rafha 91911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mehnaz Kamal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Neelam Singla
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jagatpura, Mahal Road, Jaipur 302017, India
| | - Marwan Al-Hajeili
- Department of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 23624, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatemah Abdulaziz Alhakami
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Farhan AlQarni
- Histopathology Laboratory, Najran Armed Forces Hospital, Najran 66251, Saudi Arabia
| | - Altaf A Abdulkhaliq
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali A Rabaan
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, Johns Hopkins Aramco Healthcare, Dhahran 31311, Saudi Arabia; College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh 11533, Saudi Arabia; Department of Public Health and Nutrition, The University of Haripur, Haripur 22610, Pakistan
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13
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Mofayezi A, Jadaliha M, Zangeneh FZ, Khoddami V. Poly(A) tale: From A to A; RNA polyadenylation in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2024; 15:e1837. [PMID: 38485452 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Most eukaryotic mRNAs and different non-coding RNAs undergo a form of 3' end processing known as polyadenylation. Polyadenylation machinery is present in almost all organisms except few species. In bacteria, the machinery has evolved from PNPase, which adds heteropolymeric tails, to a poly(A)-specific polymerase. Differently, a complex machinery for accurate polyadenylation and several non-canonical poly(A) polymerases are developed in eukaryotes. The role of poly(A) tail has also evolved from serving as a degradative signal to a stabilizing modification that also regulates translation. In this review, we discuss poly(A) tail emergence in prokaryotes and its development into a stable, yet dynamic feature at the 3' end of mRNAs in eukaryotes. We also describe how appearance of novel poly(A) polymerases gives cells flexibility to shape poly(A) tail. We explain how poly(A) tail dynamics help regulate cognate RNA metabolism in a context-dependent manner, such as during oocyte maturation. Finally, we describe specific mRNAs in metazoans that bear stem-loops instead of poly(A) tails. We conclude with how recent discoveries about poly(A) tail can be applied to mRNA technology. This article is categorized under: RNA Evolution and Genomics > RNA and Ribonucleoprotein Evolution RNA Processing > 3' End Processing RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Regulation of RNA Stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmadreza Mofayezi
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
- ReNAP Therapeutics, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdieh Jadaliha
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Vahid Khoddami
- ReNAP Therapeutics, Tehran, Iran
- Pediatric Cell and Gene Therapy Research Center, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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14
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Zhang T, Li C, Zhu J, Li Y, Wang Z, Tong CY, Xi Y, Han Y, Koiwa H, Peng X, Zhang X. Structured 3' UTRs destabilize mRNAs in plants. Genome Biol 2024; 25:54. [PMID: 38388963 PMCID: PMC10885604 DOI: 10.1186/s13059-024-03186-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND RNA secondary structure (RSS) can influence the regulation of transcription, RNA processing, and protein synthesis, among other processes. 3' untranslated regions (3' UTRs) of mRNA also hold the key for many aspects of gene regulation. However, there are often contradictory results regarding the roles of RSS in 3' UTRs in gene expression in different organisms and/or contexts. RESULTS Here, we incidentally observe that the primary substrate of miR159a (pri-miR159a), when embedded in a 3' UTR, could promote mRNA accumulation. The enhanced expression is attributed to the earlier polyadenylation of the transcript within the hybrid pri-miR159a-3' UTR and, resultantly, a poorly structured 3' UTR. RNA decay assays indicate that poorly structured 3' UTRs could promote mRNA stability, whereas highly structured 3' UTRs destabilize mRNA in vivo. Genome-wide DMS-MaPseq also reveals the prevailing inverse relationship between 3' UTRs' RSS and transcript accumulation in the transcriptomes of Arabidopsis, rice, and even human. Mechanistically, transcripts with highly structured 3' UTRs are preferentially degraded by 3'-5' exoribonuclease SOV and 5'-3' exoribonuclease XRN4, leading to decreased expression in Arabidopsis. Finally, we engineer different structured 3' UTRs to an endogenous FT gene and alter the FT-regulated flowering time in Arabidopsis. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that highly structured 3' UTRs typically cause reduced accumulation of the harbored transcripts in Arabidopsis. This pattern extends to rice and even mammals. Furthermore, our study provides a new strategy of engineering the 3' UTRs' RSS to modify plant traits in agricultural production and mRNA stability in biotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianru Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
- Molecular and Environmental Plant Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Changhao Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Jiaying Zhu
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Yanjun Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
- State Key Laboratory for Managing Biotic and Chemical Threats to the Quality and Safety of Agro-products, Institute of Plant Virology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Zhiye Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Chun-Yip Tong
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Yu Xi
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX, 77807, USA
| | - Yi Han
- National Engineering Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistence Breeding, School of Life Sciences, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, 230036, China
| | - Hisashi Koiwa
- Department of Horticultural Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Xu Peng
- Department of Medical Physiology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX, 77807, USA
| | - Xiuren Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
- Molecular and Environmental Plant Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
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15
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Sharma H, Valentine MNZ, Toki N, Sueki HN, Gustincich S, Takahashi H, Carninci P. Decryption of sequence, structure, and functional features of SINE repeat elements in SINEUP non-coding RNA-mediated post-transcriptional gene regulation. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1400. [PMID: 38383605 PMCID: PMC10881587 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45517-3] [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: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA structure folding largely influences RNA regulation by providing flexibility and functional diversity. In silico and in vitro analyses are limited in their ability to capture the intricate relationships between dynamic RNA structure and RNA functional diversity present in the cell. Here, we investigate sequence, structure and functional features of mouse and human SINE-transcribed retrotransposons embedded in SINEUPs long non-coding RNAs, which positively regulate target gene expression post-transcriptionally. In-cell secondary structure probing reveals that functional SINEs-derived RNAs contain conserved short structure motifs essential for SINEUP-induced translation enhancement. We show that SINE RNA structure dynamically changes between the nucleus and cytoplasm and is associated with compartment-specific binding to RBP and related functions. Moreover, RNA-RNA interaction analysis shows that the SINE-derived RNAs interact directly with ribosomal RNAs, suggesting a mechanism of translation regulation. We further predict the architecture of 18 SINE RNAs in three dimensions guided by experimental secondary structure data. Overall, we demonstrate that the conservation of short key features involved in interactions with RBPs and ribosomal RNA drives the convergent function of evolutionarily distant SINE-transcribed RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harshita Sharma
- Laboratory for Transcriptome Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
| | - Matthew N Z Valentine
- Laboratory for Transcriptome Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
| | - Naoko Toki
- Laboratory for Transcriptome Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
| | - Hiromi Nishiyori Sueki
- Laboratory for Transcriptome Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
| | | | - Hazuki Takahashi
- Laboratory for Transcriptome Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan.
| | - Piero Carninci
- Laboratory for Transcriptome Technology, RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan.
- Human Technopole, Milan, 20157, Italy.
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16
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Adu-Gyamfi EA, Cheeran EA, Salamah J, Lee BK. Mechanistic actions of long non-coding RNA MALAT1 within the ovary and at the feto-maternal interface. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:301. [PMID: 38353828 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09220-2] [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: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (LncRNAs) are being unveiled as crucial regulators of several biological processes and pathways. Among the lncRNAs is metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1), which is also known as nuclear enriched abundant transcript 2 (NEAT2). MALAT1 is highly conserved in mammals, and controls cellular processes such as proliferation, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, and apoptosis in both physiological and pathological conditions. Roles of MALAT1 in the female reproductive system are gradually getting explored. Within the ovarian micro-environment, the physiological expression of MALAT1 potentially modulates folliculogenesis while its upregulation promotes the metastasis of epithelial ovarian cancers. Interestingly, women with polycystic ovary syndrome have been shown to exhibit aberrant ovarian expression of MALAT1 and this is believed to contribute to the development of the disease. At the feto-maternal interface, MALAT1 potentially promotes trophoblast development. While its placental downregulation is linked to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia, its placental upregulation is associated with placenta increta and placenta percreta. Hence, abnormal expression of MALAT1 is a candidate molecular biomarker and therapeutic target for the treatment of these obstetric and gynecologic anomalies. To enhance a quick uncovering and detailed characterization of the mechanistic actions of MALAT1 in the female reproductive system, we have highlighted some knowledge deficits and have recommended ideal experimental models to be employed in prospective investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enoch Appiah Adu-Gyamfi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University at Albany - State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA.
- Cancer Research Center, University at Albany - State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA.
| | - Elisha Ann Cheeran
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University at Albany - State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
- Cancer Research Center, University at Albany - State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
| | - Joudi Salamah
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University at Albany - State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
- Cancer Research Center, University at Albany - State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA
| | - Bum-Kyu Lee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University at Albany - State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA.
- Cancer Research Center, University at Albany - State University of New York, Rensselaer, NY, 12144, USA.
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17
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Bailey MA, Martyr JG, Hargrove AE, Fitzgerald MC. Stability-Based Proteomics for Investigation of Structured RNA-Protein Interactions. Anal Chem 2024:10.1021/acs.analchem.3c04978. [PMID: 38341805 PMCID: PMC11316846 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c04978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
RNA-protein interactions are essential to RNA function throughout biology. Identifying the protein interactions associated with a specific RNA, however, is currently hindered by the need for RNA labeling or costly tiling-based approaches. Conventional strategies, which commonly rely on affinity pull-down approaches, are also skewed to the detection of high affinity interactions and frequently miss weaker interactions that may be biologically important. Reported here is the first adaptation of stability-based mass spectrometry methods for the global analysis of RNA-protein interactions. The stability of proteins from rates of oxidation (SPROX) and thermal protein profiling (TPP) methods are used to identify the protein targets of three RNA ligands, the MALAT1 triple helix (TH), a viral stem loop (SL), and an unstructured RNA (PolyU), in LNCaP nuclear lysate. The 315 protein hits with RNA-induced conformational and stability changes detected by TPP and/or SPROX were enriched in previously annotated RNA-binding proteins and included new proteins for hypothesis generation. Also demonstrated are the orthogonality of the SPROX and TPP approaches and the utility of the domain-specific information available with SPROX. This work establishes a novel platform for the global discovery and interrogation of RNA-protein interactions that is generalizable to numerous biological contexts and RNA targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan A Bailey
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Justin G Martyr
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina 27710, United States
| | - Amanda E Hargrove
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina 27710, United States
| | - Michael C Fitzgerald
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina 27710, United States
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18
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Weghorst F, Torres Marcén M, Faridi G, Lee YCG, Cramer KS. Deep Conservation and Unexpected Evolutionary History of Neighboring lncRNAs MALAT1 and NEAT1. J Mol Evol 2024; 92:30-41. [PMID: 38189925 PMCID: PMC10869381 DOI: 10.1007/s00239-023-10151-y] [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: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have begun to receive overdue attention for their regulatory roles in gene expression and other cellular processes. Although most lncRNAs are lowly expressed and tissue-specific, notable exceptions include MALAT1 and its genomic neighbor NEAT1, two highly and ubiquitously expressed oncogenes with roles in transcriptional regulation and RNA splicing. Previous studies have suggested that NEAT1 is found only in mammals, while MALAT1 is present in all gnathostomes (jawed vertebrates) except birds. Here we show that these assertions are incomplete, likely due to the challenges associated with properly identifying these two lncRNAs. Using phylogenetic analysis and structure-aware annotation of publicly available genomic and RNA-seq coverage data, we show that NEAT1 is a common feature of tetrapod genomes except birds and squamates. Conversely, we identify MALAT1 in representative species of all major gnathostome clades, including birds. Our in-depth examination of MALAT1, NEAT1, and their genomic context in a wide range of vertebrate species allows us to reconstruct the series of events that led to the formation of the locus containing these genes in taxa from cartilaginous fish to mammals. This evolutionary history includes the independent loss of NEAT1 in birds and squamates, since NEAT1 is found in the closest living relatives of both clades (crocodilians and tuataras, respectively). These data clarify the origins and relationships of MALAT1 and NEAT1 and highlight an opportunity to study the change and continuity in lncRNA structure and function over deep evolutionary time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Forrest Weghorst
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Martí Torres Marcén
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Garrison Faridi
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Yuh Chwen G Lee
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Karina S Cramer
- Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, University of California, Irvine, USA.
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19
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Almalki WH. NEAT1 in inflammatory infectious diseases: An integrated perspective on molecular modulation. Pathol Res Pract 2024; 254:154956. [PMID: 38218038 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
The long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), NEAT1, has emerged as a central figure in the intricate network of molecular regulators in inflammatory infectious diseases (IIDs). The review initiates a comprehensive exploration of NEAT1's multifaceted roles and molecular interactions in the context of these complex diseases. The study begins by acknowledging the global health burden of IIDs, underscoring the urgency for innovative insights into their pathogenesis and therapeutic avenues. NEAT1 is introduced as a pivotal lncRNA with growing relevance in immune responses and inflammatory processes. The core of this review unravels the NEAT1 landscape, elucidating its involvement in the modulation of immune signalling pathways, regulation of inflammatory cytokines, and interactions with various immune cells during infection. It explores NEAT1's role in orchestrating immune responses and balancing host defence mechanisms with the risk of immunopathology. Furthermore, the review underscores the clinical significance of NEAT1 in infectious diseases, discussing its associations with disease severity, prognosis, and potential as a diagnostic and therapeutic target. It provides insights into ongoing research endeavours aimed at harnessing NEAT1 for innovative disease management strategies, including developing RNA-based therapeutics. Concluding on a forward-looking note, the review highlights the broader implications of NEAT1 in the context of emerging infectious diseases and the possibility for precision medicine approaches that leverage NEAT1's regulatory capacities. In summary, this review illuminates the pivotal role of NEAT1 in IIDs by navigating its complex landscape, offering profound insights into its implications for disease pathogenesis and the development of targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waleed Hassan Almalki
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
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20
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Xiao W, Halabi R, Lin CH, Nazim M, Yeom KH, Black DL. The lncRNA Malat1 is trafficked to the cytoplasm as a localized mRNA encoding a small peptide in neurons. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.01.578240. [PMID: 38352368 PMCID: PMC10862813 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.01.578240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Synaptic function is modulated by local translation of mRNAs that are transported to distal portions of axons and dendrites. The Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) is broadly expressed across cell types, almost exclusively as a nuclear non-coding RNA. We found that in differentiating neurons, a portion of Malat1 RNA redistributes to the cytoplasm. Depletion of Malat1 from neurons stimulated expression of particular pre- and post- synaptic proteins, implicating Malat1 in their regulation. Neuronal Malat1 is localized to both axons and dendrites in puncta that co-stain with Staufen1 protein, similar to neuronal granules formed by locally translated mRNAs. Ribosome profiling of mouse cortical neurons identified ribosome footprints within a region of Malat1 containing short open reading frames. The upstream-most reading frame (M1) of the Malat1 locus was linked to the GFP coding sequence in mouse ES cells. When these gene-edited cells were differentiated into glutamatergic neurons, the M1-GFP fusion protein was expressed. Antibody staining for the M1 peptide confirmed its presence in wildtype neurons, and showed enhancement of M1 expression after synaptic stimulation with KCL. Our results indicate that Malat1 serves as a cytoplasmic coding RNA in the brain that is both modulated by and modulates synaptic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Xiao
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Reem Halabi
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Chia-Ho Lin
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Mohammad Nazim
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Kyu-Hyeon Yeom
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Douglas L Black
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095
- Molecular Biology Institute, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095
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21
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Shivakumar KM, Mahendran G, Brown JA. Locked Nucleic Acid Oligonucleotides Facilitate RNA•LNA-RNA Triple-Helix Formation and Reduce MALAT1 Levels. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1630. [PMID: 38338910 PMCID: PMC10855403 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031630] [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: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) and multiple endocrine neoplasia-β (MENβ) are two long noncoding RNAs upregulated in multiple cancers, marking these RNAs as therapeutic targets. While traditional small-molecule and antisense-based approaches are effective, we report a locked nucleic acid (LNA)-based approach that targets the MALAT1 and MENβ triple helices, structures comprised of a U-rich internal stem-loop and an A-rich tract. Two LNA oligonucleotides resembling the A-rich tract (i.e., A9GCA4) were examined: an LNA (L15) and a phosphorothioate LNA (PS-L15). L15 binds tighter than PS-L15 to the MALAT1 and MENβ stem loops, although both L15 and PS-L15 enable RNA•LNA-RNA triple-helix formation. Based on UV thermal denaturation assays, both LNAs selectively stabilize the Hoogsteen interface by 5-13 °C more than the Watson-Crick interface. Furthermore, we show that L15 and PS-L15 displace the A-rich tract from the MALAT1 and MENβ stem loop and methyltransferase-like protein 16 (METTL16) from the METTL16-MALAT1 triple-helix complex. Human colorectal carcinoma (HCT116) cells transfected with LNAs have 2-fold less MALAT1 and MENβ. This LNA-based approach represents a potential therapeutic strategy for the dual targeting of MALAT1 and MENβ.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jessica A. Brown
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA; (K.M.S.); (G.M.)
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22
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Schievelbein MJ, Resende C, Glennon MM, Kerosky M, Brown JA. Global RNA modifications to the MALAT1 triple helix differentially affect thermostability and weaken binding to METTL16. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:105548. [PMID: 38092148 PMCID: PMC10805700 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.105548] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Therapeutic mRNAs are generated using modified nucleotides, namely N1-methylpseudouridine (m1Ψ) triphosphate, so that the mRNA evades detection by the immune system. RNA modifications, even at a single-nucleotide position, perturb RNA structure, although it is not well understood how structure and function is impacted by globally modified RNAs. Therefore, we examined the metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 triple helix, a highly structured stability element that includes single-, double-, and triple-stranded RNA, globally modified with N6-methyladenosine (m6A), pseudouridine (Ψ), or m1Ψ. UV thermal denaturation assays showed that m6A destabilizes both the Hoogsteen and Watson-Crick faces of the RNA by ∼20 °C, Ψ stabilizes the Hoogsteen and Watson-Crick faces of the RNA by ∼12 °C, and m1Ψ has minimal effect on the stability of the Hoogsteen face of the RNA but increases the stability of the Watson-Crick face by ∼9 °C. Native gel-shift assays revealed that binding of the methyltransferase-like protein 16 to the metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 triple helix was weakened by at least 8-, 99-, and 23-fold, respectively, when RNA is globally modified with m6A, Ψ, or m1Ψ. These results demonstrate that a more thermostable RNA structure does not lead to tighter RNA-protein interactions, thereby highlighting the regulatory power of RNA modifications by multiple means.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mika J Schievelbein
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Carlos Resende
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Madeline M Glennon
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Matthew Kerosky
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA
| | - Jessica A Brown
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, USA.
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23
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Ao YQ, Gao J, Jiang JH, Wang HK, Wang S, Ding JY. Comprehensive landscape and future perspective of long noncoding RNAs in non-small cell lung cancer: it takes a village. Mol Ther 2023; 31:3389-3413. [PMID: 37740493 PMCID: PMC10727995 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a distinct subtype of RNA that lack protein-coding capacity but exert significant influence on various cellular processes. In non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), dysregulated lncRNAs act as either oncogenes or tumor suppressors, contributing to tumorigenesis and tumor progression. LncRNAs directly modulate gene expression, act as competitive endogenous RNAs by interacting with microRNAs or proteins, and associate with RNA binding proteins. Moreover, lncRNAs can reshape the tumor immune microenvironment and influence cellular metabolism, cancer cell stemness, and angiogenesis by engaging various signaling pathways. Notably, lncRNAs have shown great potential as diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers in liquid biopsies and therapeutic strategies for NSCLC. This comprehensive review elucidates the significant roles and diverse mechanisms of lncRNAs in NSCLC. Furthermore, we provide insights into the clinical relevance, current research progress, limitations, innovative research approaches, and future perspectives for targeting lncRNAs in NSCLC. By summarizing the existing knowledge and advancements, we aim to enhance the understanding of the pivotal roles played by lncRNAs in NSCLC and stimulate further research in this field. Ultimately, unraveling the complex network of lncRNA-mediated regulatory mechanisms in NSCLC could potentially lead to the development of novel diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Qiang Ao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Gao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia-Hao Jiang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hai-Kun Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Institute Pasteur of Shanghai, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Jian-Yong Ding
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Cancer Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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24
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Obuse C, Hirose T. Functional domains of nuclear long noncoding RNAs: Insights into gene regulation and intracellular architecture. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2023; 85:102250. [PMID: 37806294 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2023.102250] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Recent functional research on long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) has revealed their significant regulatory roles in gene expression and intracellular architecture. Well-characterized examples of such lncRNAs include Xist and NEAT1_2, which play critical roles in heterochromatin formation of inactive X-chromosomes and paraspeckle assembly, in mammalian cells. Both lncRNAs possess modular domain structures with multiple functionally distinct domains that serve as platforms for specific RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), which dictate the function of each lncRNA. Some of these RBPs bind characteristic RNA structures, which can be targeted by small chemical compounds that modulate lncRNA function by perturbing the interaction of RBPs with the RNA structures. Therefore, RNA structures hidden in lncRNAs represent a novel and potent type of therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chikashi Obuse
- Graduate School of Science, Osaka University, Toyonaka 560-0043, Japan; Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives (OTRI), Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tetsuro Hirose
- Graduate School of Science, Osaka University, Toyonaka 560-0043, Japan; Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan; Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives (OTRI), Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan.
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25
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Duardo RC, Guerra F, Pepe S, Capranico G. Non-B DNA structures as a booster of genome instability. Biochimie 2023; 214:176-192. [PMID: 37429410 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2023.07.002] [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: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Non-canonical secondary structures (NCSs) are alternative nucleic acid structures that differ from the canonical B-DNA conformation. NCSs often occur in repetitive DNA sequences and can adopt different conformations depending on the sequence. The majority of these structures form in the context of physiological processes, such as transcription-associated R-loops, G4s, as well as hairpins and slipped-strand DNA, whose formation can be dependent on DNA replication. It is therefore not surprising that NCSs play important roles in the regulation of key biological processes. In the last years, increasing published data have supported their biological role thanks to genome-wide studies and the development of bioinformatic prediction tools. Data have also highlighted the pathological role of these secondary structures. Indeed, the alteration or stabilization of NCSs can cause the impairment of transcription and DNA replication, modification in chromatin structure and DNA damage. These events lead to a wide range of recombination events, deletions, mutations and chromosomal aberrations, well-known hallmarks of genome instability which are strongly associated with human diseases. In this review, we summarize molecular processes through which NCSs trigger genome instability, with a focus on G-quadruplex, i-motif, R-loop, Z-DNA, hairpin, cruciform and multi-stranded structures known as triplexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renée C Duardo
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, via Selmi 3, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Federico Guerra
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, via Selmi 3, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Simona Pepe
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, via Selmi 3, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanni Capranico
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, via Selmi 3, 40126, Bologna, Italy.
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26
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Takakuwa H, Yamazaki T, Souquere S, Adachi S, Yoshino H, Fujiwara N, Yamamoto T, Natsume T, Nakagawa S, Pierron G, Hirose T. Shell protein composition specified by the lncRNA NEAT1 domains dictates the formation of paraspeckles as distinct membraneless organelles. Nat Cell Biol 2023; 25:1664-1675. [PMID: 37932453 DOI: 10.1038/s41556-023-01254-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Many membraneless organelles (MLOs) formed through phase separation play crucial roles in various cellular processes. Although these MLOs co-exist in cells, how they maintain their independence without coalescence or engulfment remains largely unknown. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanism by which paraspeckles with core-shell architecture scaffolded by NEAT1_2 long noncoding RNAs exist as distinct MLOs. We identified NEAT1 deletion mutants that assemble paraspeckles that are incorporated into nuclear speckles. Several paraspeckle proteins, including SFPQ, HNRNPF and BRG1, prevent this incorporation and thus contribute to the segregation of paraspeckles from nuclear speckles. Shell localization of these proteins in the paraspeckles, which is determined by NEAT1_2 long noncoding RNA domains, is required for this segregation process. Conversely, U2-related spliceosomal proteins are involved in internalizing the paraspeckles into nuclear speckles. This study shows that the paraspeckle shell composition dictates the independence of MLOs in the nucleus, providing insights into the importance of the shell in defining features and functions of MLOs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiro Takakuwa
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
- Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Yamazaki
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Japan.
| | | | - Shungo Adachi
- Department of Proteomics, National Cancer Center Research Institute, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hyura Yoshino
- Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Naoko Fujiwara
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Yamamoto
- Institute for Chemical Reaction Design and Discovery, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Tohru Natsume
- Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology Research Institute, National Institute for Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinichi Nakagawa
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Gerard Pierron
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR-9196, Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Tetsuro Hirose
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Japan.
- Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives, Osaka University, Suita, Japan.
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27
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Maldonado R, Längst G. The chromatin - triple helix connection. Biol Chem 2023; 404:1037-1049. [PMID: 37506218 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2023-0189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian genomes are extensively transcribed, producing a large number of coding and non-coding transcripts. A large fraction of the nuclear RNAs is physically associated with chromatin, functioning in gene activation and silencing, shaping higher-order genome organisation, such as involvement in long-range enhancer-promoter interactions, transcription hubs, heterochromatin, nuclear bodies and phase transitions. Different mechanisms allow the tethering of these chromatin-associated RNAs (caRNA) to chromosomes, including RNA binding proteins, the RNA polymerases and R-loops. In this review, we focus on the sequence-specific targeting of RNA to DNA by forming triple helical structures and describe its interplay with chromatin. It turns out that nucleosome positioning at triple helix target sites and the nucleosome itself are essential factors in determining the formation and stability of triple helices. The histone H3-tail plays a critical role in triple helix stabilisation, and the role of its epigenetic modifications in this process is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Maldonado
- Institute of Anatomy, Histology, and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, 5090000 Valdivia, Chile
| | - Gernot Längst
- Regensburg Center for Biochemistry (RCB), University of Regensburg, D-93053 Regensburg, Germany
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28
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Ghosh A, Pandey S, Joshi D, Rana P, Ansari A, Sundar J, Singh P, Khan Y, Ekka M, Chakraborty D, Maiti S. Identification of G-quadruplex structures in MALAT1 lncRNA that interact with nucleolin and nucleophosmin. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:9415-9431. [PMID: 37558241 PMCID: PMC11314421 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Nuclear-retained long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) including MALAT1 have emerged as critical regulators of many molecular processes including transcription, alternative splicing and chromatin organization. Here, we report the presence of three conserved and thermodynamically stable RNA G-quadruplexes (rG4s) located in the 3' region of MALAT1. Using rG4 domain-specific RNA pull-down followed by mass spectrometry and RNA immunoprecipitation, we demonstrated that the MALAT1 rG4 structures are specifically bound by two nucleolar proteins, Nucleolin (NCL) and Nucleophosmin (NPM). Using imaging, we found that the MALAT1 rG4s facilitate the localization of both NCL and NPM to nuclear speckles, and specific G-to-A mutations that disrupt the rG4 structures compromised the localization of both NCL and NPM in speckles. In vitro biophysical studies established that a truncated version of NCL (ΔNCL) binds tightly to all three rG4s. Overall, our study revealed new rG4s within MALAT1, established that they are specifically recognized by NCL and NPM, and showed that disrupting the rG4s abolished localization of these proteins to nuclear speckles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arpita Ghosh
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, Mathura
Road, Delhi 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR),
Ghaziabad 201 002, India
| | - Satya Prakash Pandey
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, Mathura
Road, Delhi 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR),
Ghaziabad 201 002, India
| | - Dheeraj Chandra Joshi
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, Mathura
Road, Delhi 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR),
Ghaziabad 201 002, India
| | - Priya Rana
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, Mathura
Road, Delhi 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR),
Ghaziabad 201 002, India
| | - Asgar Hussain Ansari
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, Mathura
Road, Delhi 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR),
Ghaziabad 201 002, India
| | | | - Praveen Singh
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, Mathura
Road, Delhi 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR),
Ghaziabad 201 002, India
| | - Yasmeen Khan
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, Mathura
Road, Delhi 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR),
Ghaziabad 201 002, India
| | - Mary Krishna Ekka
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, Mathura
Road, Delhi 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR),
Ghaziabad 201 002, India
| | - Debojyoti Chakraborty
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, Mathura
Road, Delhi 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR),
Ghaziabad 201 002, India
| | - Souvik Maiti
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, Mathura
Road, Delhi 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR),
Ghaziabad 201 002, India
- CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Dr. Homi Bhabha Road, Pune
411 008, India
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29
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Li S, Zhu Z, Lu J, Cao W, Song F, Xiao C, Zhang P, He Z, Weng J, Xu J. Prediction of prognosis, immune infiltration, and personalized treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma by analysis of cuproptosis-related long noncoding RNAs and verification in vitro. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1159126. [PMID: 37746284 PMCID: PMC10514553 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1159126] [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: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The correlations between cuproptosis and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) with the tumor microenvironment (TME), immunotherapy, and some other characteristics of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unclear. Methods Sixteen cuproptosis regulators and 356 cuproptosis-related lncRNAs (CRLnc) were identified from 374 HCC profiles in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Six differentially expressed CRLnc were selected, and a prognostic risk model based on the CRLnc signature (CRLncSig) was constructed. The prognostic power of the model was verified. Moreover, a cuproptosis-related gene cluster (CRGC) was generated based on six lncRNAs and differentially expressed genes. The relationship between immune cell infiltration in the TME, immunotherapy, CRLncSig, and CRGC was demonstrated through various algorithms, Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE), tumor mutational burden (TMB), etc. Potential drugs and sensitivity to those agents were evaluated for the risk model. LncRNA AL158166.1 was selected and verified in HCC tissues and cell lines, the impact of its knockdown and overexpression in HCC cells was examined, and the copper (Cu) concentration and the cuproptosis-related gene expression were detected. Results A CRLncSig prognostic risk model with good predictive ability was constructed. The low-risk group had a longer overall survival (OS), lower tumor purity, more extensive immune cell infiltration, higher immune score, enrichment in immune-activated pathways, and more positive response to immunotherapy versus the high-risk group. CRGC-B exhibited the best OS and the lowest tumor stage; the immune cell infiltration analysis was similar to the low-risk group in CRLncSig. CRGC-B belonged to the "immune-high" group of the TME. The low-risk group had a higher TIDE score and susceptibility to antitumor drugs. The lncRNA AL158166.1 had the highest hazard ratio. The levels of AL158166.1 were higher in HCC tissues versus healthy tissues. Knockdown of AL158166.1 could lead to an increase in intracellular Cu concentration, induce DLAT low expression, and inhibit the proliferation and migration of HCC cells, whereas overexpression of AL158166.1 exerted the reverse effect. Conclusion Overall, a new CRLncSig prognostic risk model and a cuproptosis-related molecular signature were constructed and evaluated. The model and signature were associated with the prognosis, immune infiltration, and immunotherapy of HCC. Inhibiting the lncRNA AL158166.1 may induce cuproptosis and showed potential for the inhibition of tumors. Evaluation of the CRLnc, CRLncSig, and CRGC may enhance our understanding of the TME, determine the effectiveness of immunotherapy, and act as a marker for the prognosis of HCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanbao Li
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhonglin Zhu
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Lu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wanyue Cao
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Fangbin Song
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Cao Xiao
- Department of General Surgery, Fudan University Huashan Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zeping He
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Junyong Weng
- Department of Colorectal Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Junming Xu
- Department of General Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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30
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Roh J, Kim B, Im M, Jang W, Chae Y, Kang J, Youn B, Kim W. MALAT1-regulated gene expression profiling in lung cancer cell lines. BMC Cancer 2023; 23:818. [PMID: 37667226 PMCID: PMC10476395 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-023-11347-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer and has a poor prognosis. Identifying biomarkers based on molecular mechanisms is critical for early diagnosis, timely treatment, and improved prognosis of lung cancer. MALAT1 has been reported to have overexpressed and tumor-promoting functions in NSCLC. It has been proposed as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer. Therefore, this study was conducted to profile the changes in gene expression according to the regulation of expression of MALAT1 in NSCLC cell lines and to investigate the correlation through bioinformatic analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs). METHODS MALAT1 expression levels were measured using RT-qPCR. The biological functions of MALAT1 in NSCLC were analyzed by cell counting, colony forming, wound-healing, and Transwell invasion assays. In addition, gene expression profiling in response to the knockdown of MALAT1 was analyzed by transcriptome sequencing, and differentially expressed genes regulated by MALAT1 were performed by GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses. Bioinformatic databases were used for gene expression analysis and overall survival analysis. RESULTS Comparative analysis versus MALAT1 expression in MRC5 cells (a normal lung cell line) and the three NSCLC cell lines showed that MALAT1 expression was significantly higher in the NSCLC cells. MALAT1 knockdown decreased cell survival, proliferation, migration, and invasion in all three NSCLC cell lines. RNA-seq analysis of DEGs in NSCLC cells showed 198 DEGs were upregulated and 266 DEGs downregulated by MALAT1 knockdown in all three NSCLC cell lines. Survival analysis on these common DEGs performed using the OncoLnc database resulted in the selection of five DEGs, phosphoglycerate mutase 1 (PGAM1), phosphoglycerate mutase 4 (PGAM4), nucleolar protein 6 (NOL6), nucleosome assembly protein 1 like 5 (NAP1L5), and sestrin1 (SESN1). The gene expression levels of these selected DEGs were proved to gene expression analysis using the TNMplot database. CONCLUSION MALAT1 might function as an oncogene that enhances NSCLC cell survival, proliferation, colony formation, and invasion. RNA-seq and bioinformatic analyses resulted in the selection of five DEGs, PGAM1, PGAM4, NOL6, NAP1L5, and SESN1, which were found to be closely related to patient survival and tumorigenesis. We believe that further investigation of these five DEGs will provide valuable information on the oncogenic role of MALAT1 in NSCLC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jungwook Roh
- Department of Science Education, Korea National University of Education, Cheongju-si, 28173, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Boseong Kim
- Department of Science Education, Korea National University of Education, Cheongju-si, 28173, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Mijung Im
- Department of Science Education, Korea National University of Education, Cheongju-si, 28173, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Wonyi Jang
- Department of Science Education, Korea National University of Education, Cheongju-si, 28173, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeonsoo Chae
- Department of Science Education, Korea National University of Education, Cheongju-si, 28173, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - JiHoon Kang
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - BuHyun Youn
- Department of Biological Sciences, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, Republic of Korea
| | - Wanyeon Kim
- Department of Science Education, Korea National University of Education, Cheongju-si, 28173, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Biology Education, Korea National University of Education, Cheongju-si, 28173, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea.
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31
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Neugroschl A, Catrina IE. TFOFinder: Python program for identifying purine-only double-stranded stretches in the predicted secondary structure(s) of RNA targets. PLoS Comput Biol 2023; 19:e1011418. [PMID: 37624852 PMCID: PMC10484449 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1011418] [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: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acid probes are valuable tools in biology and chemistry and are indispensable for PCR amplification of DNA, RNA quantification and visualization, and downregulation of gene expression. Recently, triplex-forming oligonucleotides (TFO) have received increased attention due to their improved selectivity and sensitivity in recognizing purine-rich double-stranded RNA regions at physiological pH by incorporating backbone and base modifications. For example, triplex-forming peptide nucleic acid (PNA) oligomers have been used for imaging a structured RNA in cells and inhibiting influenza A replication. Although a handful of programs are available to identify triplex target sites (TTS) in DNA, none are available that find such regions in structured RNAs. Here, we describe TFOFinder, a Python program that facilitates the identification of intramolecular purine-only RNA duplexes that are amenable to forming parallel triple helices (pyrimidine/purine/pyrimidine) and the design of the corresponding TFO(s). We performed genome- and transcriptome-wide analyses of TTS in Drosophila melanogaster and found that only 0.3% (123) of total unique transcripts (35,642) show the potential of forming 12-purine long triplex forming sites that contain at least one guanine. Using minimization algorithms, we predicted the secondary structure(s) of these transcripts, and using TFOFinder, we found that 97 (79%) of the identified 123 transcripts are predicted to fold to form at least one TTS for parallel triple helix formation. The number of transcripts with potential purine TTS increases when the strict search conditions are relaxed by decreasing the length of the probe or by allowing up to two pyrimidine inversions or 1-nucleotide bulge in the target site. These results are encouraging for the use of modified triplex forming probes for live imaging of endogenous structured RNA targets, such as pre-miRNAs, and inhibition of target-specific translation and viral replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atara Neugroschl
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Stern College for Women, Yeshiva University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Irina E. Catrina
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Yeshiva College, Yeshiva University, New York, New York, United States of America
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Wu S, Wu Y, Deng S, Lei X, Yang X. Emerging roles of noncoding RNAs in human cancers. Discov Oncol 2023; 14:128. [PMID: 37439905 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-023-00728-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies have found that RNA encoding proteins only account for a small part of the total number, most RNA is non-coding RNA, and non-coding RNA may affect the occurrence and development of human cancers by affecting gene expression, therefore play an important role in human pathology. At present, ncRNAs studied include miRNA, circRNA, lncRNA, piRNA, and snoRNA, etc. After decades of research, the basic role of these ncRNAs in many cancers has been clear. As far as we know, the role of miRNAs in cancer is one of the hottest research directions, however, it is also found that the imbalance of ncRNAs will affect the occurrence of gastric cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, meanwhile, it may also affect the prognosis of these cancers. Therefore, the study of ncRNAs in cancers may help to find new cancer diagnostic and treatment methods. Here, we reviewed the biosynthesis and characteristics of miRNA, cricRNA, and lncRNA etc., their roles in human cancers, as well as the mechanism through which these ncRNAs affect human cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shijie Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, 28 Western Changsheng Road, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiwen Wu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, 28 Western Changsheng Road, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Sijun Deng
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, 28 Western Changsheng Road, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyong Lei
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, 28 Western Changsheng Road, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, University of South China, 28 Western Changsheng Road, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyan Yang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Hengyang Medical College, University of South China, 28 Western Changsheng Road, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
- Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory of Tumor Microenvironment Responsive Drug Research, University of South China, 28 Western Changsheng Road, Hengyang, 421001, Hunan, People's Republic of China.
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Monroy-Eklund A, Taylor C, Weidmann CA, Burch C, Laederach A. Structural analysis of MALAT1 long noncoding RNA in cells and in evolution. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 29:691-704. [PMID: 36792358 PMCID: PMC10159000 DOI: 10.1261/rna.079388.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Although not canonically polyadenylated, the long noncoding RNA MALAT1 (metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1) is stabilized by a highly conserved 76-nt triple helix structure on its 3' end. The entire MALAT1 transcript is over 8000 nt long in humans. The strongest structural conservation signal in MALAT1 (as measured by covariation of base pairs) is in the triple helix structure. Primary sequence analysis of covariation alone does not reveal the degree of structural conservation of the entire full-length transcript, however. Furthermore, RNA structure is often context dependent; RNA binding proteins that are differentially expressed in different cell types may alter structure. We investigate here the in-cell and cell-free structures of the full-length human and green monkey (Chlorocebus sabaeus) MALAT1 transcripts in multiple tissue-derived cell lines using SHAPE chemical probing. Our data reveal levels of uniform structural conservation in different cell lines, in cells and cell-free, and even between species, despite significant differences in primary sequence. The uniformity of the structural conservation across the entire transcript suggests that, despite seeing covariation signals only in the triple helix junction of the lncRNA, the rest of the transcript's structure is remarkably conserved, at least in primates and across multiple cell types and conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anais Monroy-Eklund
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Colin Taylor
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Chase A Weidmann
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan Medical School, Center for RNA Biomedicine, Rogel Cancer Center, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
| | - Christina Burch
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
| | - Alain Laederach
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599, USA
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Arunima A, van Schaik EJ, Samuel JE. The emerging roles of long non-coding RNA in host immune response and intracellular bacterial infections. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1160198. [PMID: 37153158 PMCID: PMC10160451 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1160198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are evolutionarily conserved classes of non-coding regulatory transcripts of > 200 nucleotides in length. They modulate several transcriptional and post-transcriptional events in the organism. Depending on their cellular localization and interactions, they regulate chromatin function and assembly; and alter the stability and translation of cytoplasmic mRNAs. Although their proposed range of functionality remains controversial, there is increasing research evidence that lncRNAs play a regulatory role in the activation, differentiation and development of immune signaling cascades; microbiome development; and in diseases such as neuronal and cardiovascular disorders; cancer; and pathogenic infections. This review discusses the functional roles of different lncRNAs in regulation of host immune responses, signaling pathways during host-microbe interaction and infection caused by obligate intracellular bacterial pathogens. The study of lncRNAs is assuming significance as it could be exploited for development of alternative therapeutic strategies for the treatment of severe and chronic pathogenic infections caused by Mycobacterium, Chlamydia and Rickettsia infections, as well as commensal colonization. Finally, this review summarizes the translational potential of lncRNA research in development of diagnostic and prognostic tools for human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - James E. Samuel
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX, United States
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Kulkarni V, Jayakumar S, Mohan M, Kulkarni S. Aid or Antagonize: Nuclear Long Noncoding RNAs Regulate Host Responses and Outcomes of Viral Infections. Cells 2023; 12:987. [PMID: 37048060 PMCID: PMC10093752 DOI: 10.3390/cells12070987] [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] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are transcripts measuring >200 bp in length and devoid of protein-coding potential. LncRNAs exceed the number of protein-coding mRNAs and regulate cellular, developmental, and immune pathways through diverse molecular mechanisms. In recent years, lncRNAs have emerged as epigenetic regulators with prominent roles in health and disease. Many lncRNAs, either host or virus-encoded, have been implicated in critical cellular defense processes, such as cytokine and antiviral gene expression, the regulation of cell signaling pathways, and the activation of transcription factors. In addition, cellular and viral lncRNAs regulate virus gene expression. Viral infections and associated immune responses alter the expression of host lncRNAs regulating immune responses, host metabolism, and viral replication. The influence of lncRNAs on the pathogenesis and outcomes of viral infections is being widely explored because virus-induced lncRNAs can serve as diagnostic and therapeutic targets. Future studies should focus on thoroughly characterizing lncRNA expressions in virus-infected primary cells, investigating their role in disease prognosis, and developing biologically relevant animal or organoid models to determine their suitability for specific therapeutic targeting. Many cellular and viral lncRNAs localize in the nucleus and epigenetically modulate viral transcription, latency, and host responses to infection. In this review, we provide an overview of the role of nuclear lncRNAs in the pathogenesis and outcomes of viral infections, such as the Influenza A virus, Sendai Virus, Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Hepatitis C virus, Human Immunodeficiency Virus, and Herpes Simplex Virus. We also address significant advances and barriers in characterizing lncRNA function and explore the potential of lncRNAs as therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viraj Kulkarni
- Disease Intervention and Prevention Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA;
| | - Sahana Jayakumar
- Host-Pathogen Interaction Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA; (S.J.); (M.M.)
| | - Mahesh Mohan
- Host-Pathogen Interaction Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA; (S.J.); (M.M.)
| | - Smita Kulkarni
- Host-Pathogen Interaction Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA; (S.J.); (M.M.)
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Abstract
Methyltransferase-like protein 16 (METTL16) is one of four catalytically active, S-adenosylmethionine (SAM)-dependent m6A RNA methyltransferases in humans. Well-known methylation targets of METTL16 are U6 small nuclear RNA (U6 snRNA) and the MAT2A mRNA hairpins; however, METTL16 binds to other RNAs, including the 3' triple helix of the metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1). Herein, we investigated the kinetic mechanism and biochemical properties of METTL16. METTL16 is a monomer in complex with either the MALAT1 triple helix or U6 snRNA and binds to these RNAs with respective dissociation constants of 31 nM and 18 nM, whereas binding to the methylated U6 snRNA product is 1.1 μM. The MALAT1 triple helix, on the other hand, is not methylated by METTL16 under in vitro conditions. Using the U6 snRNA to study methylation steps, preincubation and isotope partitioning assays indicated an ordered-sequential mechanism, whereby METTL16 binds U6 snRNA before SAM. The apparent dissociation constant for the METTL16·U6 snRNA·SAM ternary complex is 126 μM. Steady-state kinetic assays established a kcat of 0.07 min-1, and single-turnover assays established a kchem of 0.56 min-1. Furthermore, the methyltransferase domain of METTL16 methylated U6 snRNA with an apparent dissociation constant of 736 μM and a kchem of 0.42 min-1, suggesting that the missing vertebrate conserved regions weaken the ternary complex but do not induce any rate-limiting conformational rearrangements of the U6 snRNA. This study helps us to better understand the catalytic activity of METTL16 in the context of its biological functions.
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Rakheja I, Ansari AH, Ray A, Chandra Joshi D, Maiti S. Small molecule quercetin binds MALAT1 triplex and modulates its cellular function. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 30:241-256. [PMID: 36284512 PMCID: PMC9576543 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The triple-helix structure at the 3' end of metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1), a long non-coding RNA, has been considered to be a target for modulating the oncogenic functions of MALAT1. This study examines the binding of quercetin-a known triplex binding molecule-to the MALAT1 triplex. By employing UV-visible spectroscopy, circular dichroism spectroscopy, and isothermal titration calorimetry, we observed that quercetin binds to the MALAT1 triplex with a stoichiometry of 1:1 and K d of 495 ± 61 nM, along with a negative change in free energy, indicating a spontaneous interaction. Employing real-time PCR measurements, we observed around 50% downregulation of MALAT1 transcript levels in MCF7 cells, and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) experiments showed concomitantly reduced levels of MALAT1 in nuclear speckles. This interaction is likely a result of a direct interaction between the molecule and the RNA, as indicated by a transcription-stop experiment. Further, transcriptome-wide analysis of alternative splicing changes induced by quercetin revealed modulation of MALAT1 downstream genes. Collectively, our study shows that quercetin strongly binds to the MALAT1 triplex and modulates its functions. It can thus be used as a scaffold for further development of therapeutics or as a chemical tool to understand MALAT1 functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isha Rakheja
- Chemical and Systems Biology Unit, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR-Human Resource Development Centre, Sector 19, Kamla Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India
| | - Asgar Hussain Ansari
- Chemical and Systems Biology Unit, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR-Human Resource Development Centre, Sector 19, Kamla Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India
| | - Arjun Ray
- Department of Computational Biology, Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology Delhi (IIIT-Delhi), Okhla Industrial Estate, Phase III, New Delhi 110020, India
| | - Dheeraj Chandra Joshi
- Chemical and Systems Biology Unit, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi 110025, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR-Human Resource Development Centre, Sector 19, Kamla Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India
| | - Souvik Maiti
- Chemical and Systems Biology Unit, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Institute of Genomics & Integrative Biology, New Delhi 110025, India
- Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB)-National Chemical Laboratory (NCL) Joint Center, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-NCL, Pune 411008, India
- Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research (AcSIR), CSIR-Human Resource Development Centre, Sector 19, Kamla Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002, India
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Hao Y, Xie B, Fu X, Xu R, Yang Y. New Insights into lncRNAs in Aβ Cascade Hypothesis of Alzheimer's Disease. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12121802. [PMID: 36551230 PMCID: PMC9775548 DOI: 10.3390/biom12121802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia, but its pathogenesis is not fully understood, and effective drugs to treat or reverse the progression of the disease are lacking. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are abnormally expressed and deregulated in AD and are closely related to the occurrence and development of AD. In addition, the high tissue specificity and spatiotemporal specificity make lncRNAs particularly attractive as diagnostic biomarkers and specific therapeutic targets. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of lncRNAs in AD is essential for developing new treatment strategies. In this review, we discuss the unique regulatory functions of lncRNAs in AD, ranging from Aβ production to clearance, with a focus on their interaction with critical molecules. Additionally, we highlight the advantages and challenges of using lncRNAs as biomarkers for diagnosis or therapeutic targets in AD and present future perspectives in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yitong Hao
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Bo Xie
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Xiaoshu Fu
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Rong Xu
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
| | - Yu Yang
- Department of Neurology and Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun 130021, China
- Correspondence:
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An H, Elvers KT, Gillespie JA, Jones K, Atack JR, Grubisha O, Shelkovnikova TA. A toolkit for the identification of NEAT1_2/paraspeckle modulators. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:e119. [PMID: 36099417 PMCID: PMC9723620 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Paraspeckles are ribonucleoprotein granules assembled by NEAT1_2 lncRNA, an isoform of Nuclear Paraspeckle Assembly Transcript 1 (NEAT1). Dysregulation of NEAT1_2/paraspeckles has been linked to multiple human diseases making them an attractive drug target. However currently NEAT1_2/paraspeckle-focused translational research and drug discovery are hindered by a limited toolkit. To fill this gap, we developed and validated a set of tools for the identification of NEAT1_2 binders and modulators comprised of biochemical and cell-based assays. The NEAT1_2 triple helix stability element was utilized as the target in the biochemical assays, and the cellular assay ('ParaQuant') was based on high-content imaging of NEAT1_2 in fixed cells. As a proof of principle, these assays were used to screen a 1,200-compound FDA-approved drug library and a 170-compound kinase inhibitor library and to confirm the screening hits. The assays are simple to establish, use only commercially-available reagents and are scalable for higher throughput. In particular, ParaQuant is a cost-efficient assay suitable for any cells growing in adherent culture and amenable to multiplexing. Using ParaQuant, we identified dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitors as potent negative modulators of paraspeckles. The tools we describe herein should boost paraspeckle studies and help guide the search, validation and optimization of NEAT1_2/paraspeckle-targeted small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan An
- Medicines Discovery Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK
| | - Karen T Elvers
- Medicines Discovery Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK
| | - Jason A Gillespie
- Medicines Discovery Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK
| | - Kimberley Jones
- Medicines Discovery Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK
| | - John R Atack
- Medicines Discovery Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK
| | - Olivera Grubisha
- Medicines Discovery Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK
| | - Tatyana A Shelkovnikova
- Medicines Discovery Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK.,Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2HQ, UK
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Zhang J, Fakharzadeh A, Roland C, Sagui C. RNA as a Major-Groove Ligand: RNA-RNA and RNA-DNA Triplexes Formed by GAA and UUC or TTC Sequences. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:38728-38743. [PMID: 36340174 PMCID: PMC9631886 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c04358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Friedreich's ataxia is associated with noncanonical nucleic acid structures that emerge when GAA:TTC repeats in the first intron of the FXN gene expand beyond a critical number of repeats. Specifically, the noncanonical repeats are associated with both triplexes and R-loops. Here, we present an in silico investigation of all possible triplexes that form by attaching a third RNA strand to an RNA:RNA or DNA:DNA duplex, complementing previous DNA-based triplex studies. For both new triplexes results are similar. For a pyridimine UUC+ third strand, the parallel orientation is stable while its antiparallel counterpart is unstable. For a neutral GAA third strand, the parallel conformation is stable. A protonated GA+A third strand is stable in both parallel and antiparallel orientations. We have also investigated Na+ and Mg2+ ion distributions around the triplexes. The presence of Mg2+ ions helps stabilize neutral, antiparallel GAA triplexes. These results (along with previous DNA-based studies) allow for the emergence of a complete picture of the stability and structural characteristics of triplexes based on the GAA and TTC/UUC sequences, thereby contributing to the field of trinucleotide repeats and the associated unusual structures that trigger expansion.
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Wang Q, Feng J, Tang L. Non-Coding RNA Related to MAPK Signaling Pathway in Liver Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:11908. [PMID: 36233210 PMCID: PMC9570382 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The advancement in high-throughput sequencing analysis and the evaluation of chromatin state maps have revealed that eukaryotic cells produce many non-coding transcripts/RNAs. Further, a strong association was observed between some non-coding RNAs and cancer development. The mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) belong to the serine-threonine kinase family and are the primary signaling pathways involved in cell proliferation from the cell surface to the nucleus. They play an important role in various human diseases. A few non-coding RNAs associated with the MAPK signaling pathway play a significant role in the development of several malignancies, including liver cancer. In this review, we summarize the molecular mechanisms and interactions of microRNA, lncRNA, and other non-coding RNAs in the development of liver cancer that are associated with the MAPK signaling pathway. Further, we briefly discuss the therapeutic strategies for liver cancer related to ncRNA and the MAPK signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuxia Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
| | - Jianguo Feng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
- Laboratory of Anesthesiology, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou 646000, China
| | - Liling Tang
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, College of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China
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Olsthoorn RCL. Replication of alphaviruses requires a pseudoknot that involves the poly(A) tail. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2022; 28:1348-1358. [PMID: 35906005 PMCID: PMC9479738 DOI: 10.1261/rna.079243.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Alphaviruses, such as the Sindbis virus and the Chikungunya virus, are RNA viruses with a positive sense single-stranded RNA genome that infect various vertebrates, including humans. A conserved sequence element (CSE) of ∼19 nt in the 3' noncoding region is important for replication. Despite extensive mutational analysis of the CSE, no comprehensive model of this element exists to date. Here, it is shown that the CSE can form an RNA pseudoknot with part of the poly(A) tail and is similar to the human telomerase pseudoknot with which it shares 17 nt. Mutants that alter the stability of the pseudoknot were investigated in the context of a replicon of the Sindbis virus and by native gel electrophoresis. These studies reveal that the pseudoknot is required for virus replication and is stabilized by UAU base triples. The new model is discussed in relation to previous data on Sindbis virus mutants and revertants lacking (part of) the CSE.
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Affiliation(s)
- René C L Olsthoorn
- Leiden Institute of Chemistry, Leiden University, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands
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43
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Zafferani M, Martyr JG, Muralidharan D, Montalvan NI, Cai Z, Hargrove AE. Multiassay Profiling of a Focused Small Molecule Library Reveals Predictive Bidirectional Modulation of the lncRNA MALAT1 Triplex Stability In Vitro. ACS Chem Biol 2022; 17:2437-2447. [PMID: 35984959 PMCID: PMC9741926 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.2c00124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The rapidly accelerating characterization of RNA tertiary structures has revealed their pervasiveness and active roles in human diseases. Small molecule-mediated modulation of RNA tertiary structures constitutes an attractive avenue for the development of tools for therapeutically targeting and/or uncovering the pathways associated with these RNA motifs. This potential has been highlighted by targeting of the triple helix present at the 3'-end of the noncoding RNA MALAT1, a transcript implicated in several human diseases. This triplex has been reported to decrease the susceptibility of the transcript to degradation and promote its cellular accumulation. While small molecules have been shown to bind to and impact the stability of the MALAT1 triple helix, the small molecule properties that lead to these structural modulations are not well understood. We designed a library utilizing the diminazene scaffold, which is underexplored but precedented for nucleic acid binding, to target the MALAT1 triple helix. We employed multiple assays to holistically assess what parameters, if any, could predict the small molecule affinity and effect on triplex stability. We designed and/or optimized competition, calorimetry, and thermal shift assays as well as an enzymatic degradation assay, the latter of which led to the discovery of bidirectional modulators of triple helix stability within the scaffold-centric library. Determination of quantitative structure-activity relationships afforded predictive models for both affinity- and stability-based assays. This work establishes a suite of powerful orthogonal biophysical tools for the evaluation of small molecule:RNA triplex interactions that generate predictive models and will allow small molecule interrogation of the growing body of disease-associated RNA triple helices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Zafferani
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, 124 Science Drive, Durham, North Carolina 27705, United States
| | - Justin G Martyr
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, Nanaline H. Duke, Durham, North Carolina, 27710, United States
| | - Dhanasheel Muralidharan
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, 124 Science Drive, Durham, North Carolina 27705, United States
| | - Nadeska I Montalvan
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, 124 Science Drive, Durham, North Carolina 27705, United States
| | - Zhengguo Cai
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, 124 Science Drive, Durham, North Carolina 27705, United States
| | - Amanda E Hargrove
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, 124 Science Drive, Durham, North Carolina 27705, United States
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, Nanaline H. Duke, Durham, North Carolina, 27710, United States
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44
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Yamazaki T, Yamamoto T, Hirose T. Micellization: A new principle in the formation of biomolecular condensates. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:974772. [PMID: 36106018 PMCID: PMC9465675 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.974772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Phase separation is a fundamental mechanism for compartmentalization in cells and leads to the formation of biomolecular condensates, generally containing various RNA molecules. RNAs are biomolecules that can serve as suitable scaffolds for biomolecular condensates and determine their forms and functions. Many studies have focused on biomolecular condensates formed by liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), one type of intracellular phase separation mechanism. We recently identified that paraspeckle nuclear bodies use an intracellular phase separation mechanism called micellization of block copolymers in their formation. The paraspeckles are scaffolded by NEAT1_2 long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and their partner RNA-binding proteins (NEAT1_2 RNA-protein complexes [RNPs]). The NEAT1_2 RNPs act as block copolymers and the paraspeckles assemble through micellization. In LLPS, condensates grow without bound as long as components are available and typically have spherical shapes to minimize surface tension. In contrast, the size, shape, and internal morphology of the condensates are more strictly controlled in micellization. Here, we discuss the potential importance and future perspectives of micellization of block copolymers of RNPs in cells, including the construction of designer condensates with optimal internal organization, shape, and size according to design guidelines of block copolymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiro Yamazaki
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Yamamoto
- Institute for Chemical Reaction Design and Discovery, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Tetsuro Hirose
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
- Institute for Open and Transdisciplinary Research Initiatives (OTRI), Osaka University, Suita, Japan
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45
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Nadhan R, Isidoro C, Song YS, Dhanasekaran DN. Signaling by LncRNAs: Structure, Cellular Homeostasis, and Disease Pathology. Cells 2022; 11:2517. [PMID: 36010595 PMCID: PMC9406440 DOI: 10.3390/cells11162517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The cellular signaling network involves co-ordinated regulation of numerous signaling molecules that aid the maintenance of cellular as well as organismal homeostasis. Aberrant signaling plays a major role in the pathophysiology of many diseases. Recent studies have unraveled the superfamily of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as critical signaling nodes in diverse signaling networks. Defective signaling by lncRNAs is emerging as a causative factor underlying the pathophysiology of many diseases. LncRNAs have been shown to be involved in the multiplexed regulation of diverse pathways through both genetic and epigenetic mechanisms. They can serve as decoys, guides, scaffolds, and effector molecules to regulate cell signaling. In comparison with the other classes of RNAs, lncRNAs possess unique structural modifications that contribute to their diversity in modes of action within the nucleus and cytoplasm. In this review, we summarize the structure and function of lncRNAs as well as their vivid mechanisms of action. Further, we provide insights into the role of lncRNAs in the pathogenesis of four major disease paradigms, namely cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, cancers, and the metabolic disease, diabetes mellitus. This review serves as a succinct treatise that could open windows to investigate the role of lncRNAs as novel therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Revathy Nadhan
- Stephenson Cancer Center, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
| | - Ciro Isidoro
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathology and NanoBioImaging, Department of Health Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Via Solaroli 17, 28100 Novara, Italy
| | - Yong Sang Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cancer Research Institute, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-921, Korea
| | - Danny N. Dhanasekaran
- Stephenson Cancer Center, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA
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46
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Zakutansky PM, Feng Y. The Long Non-Coding RNA GOMAFU in Schizophrenia: Function, Disease Risk, and Beyond. Cells 2022; 11:1949. [PMID: 35741078 PMCID: PMC9221589 DOI: 10.3390/cells11121949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropsychiatric diseases are among the most common brain developmental disorders, represented by schizophrenia (SZ). The complex multifactorial etiology of SZ remains poorly understood, which reflects genetic vulnerabilities and environmental risks that affect numerous genes and biological pathways. Besides the dysregulation of protein-coding genes, recent discoveries demonstrate that abnormalities associated with non-coding RNAs, including microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), also contribute to the pathogenesis of SZ. lncRNAs are an actively evolving family of non-coding RNAs that harbor greater than 200 nucleotides but do not encode for proteins. In general, lncRNA genes are poorly conserved. The large number of lncRNAs specifically expressed in the human brain, together with the genetic alterations and dysregulation of lncRNA genes in the SZ brain, suggests a critical role in normal cognitive function and the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric diseases. A particular lncRNA of interest is GOMAFU, also known as MIAT and RNCR2. Growing evidence suggests the function of GOMAFU in governing neuronal development and its potential roles as a risk factor and biomarker for SZ, which will be reviewed in this article. Moreover, we discuss the potential mechanisms through which GOMAFU regulates molecular pathways, including its subcellular localization and interaction with RNA-binding proteins, and how interruption to GOMAFU pathways may contribute to the pathogenesis of SZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul M. Zakutansky
- Graduate Program in Biochemistry, Cell and Developmental Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA;
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Yue Feng
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
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47
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Rovira E, Moreno B, Razquin N, Hjerpe R, Gonzalez-Lopez M, Barrio R, Ruiz de los Mozos I, Ule J, Pastor F, Blazquez L, Fortes P. U1A is a positive regulator of the expression of heterologous and cellular genes involved in cell proliferation and migration. MOLECULAR THERAPY - NUCLEIC ACIDS 2022; 28:831-846. [PMID: 35664701 PMCID: PMC9136276 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2022.05.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Here, we show that direct recruitment of U1A to target transcripts can increase gene expression. This is a new regulatory role, in addition to previous knowledge showing that U1A decreases the levels of U1A mRNA and other specific targets. In fact, genome-wide, U1A more often increases rather than represses gene expression and many U1A-upregulated transcripts are directly bound by U1A according to individual nucleotide resolution crosslinking and immunoprecipitation (iCLIP) studies. Interestingly, U1A-mediated positive regulation can be transferred to a heterologous system for biotechnological purposes. Finally, U1A-bound genes are enriched for those involved in cell cycle and adhesion. In agreement with this, higher U1A mRNA expression associates with lower disease-free survival and overall survival in many cancer types, and U1A mRNA levels positively correlate with those of some oncogenes involved in cell proliferation. Accordingly, U1A depletion leads to decreased expression of these genes and the migration-related gene CCN2/CTGF, which shows the strongest regulation by U1A. A decrease in U1A causes a strong drop in CCN2 expression and CTGF secretion and defects in the expression of CTGF EMT targets, cell migration, and proliferation. These results support U1A as a putative therapeutic target for cancer treatment. In addition, U1A-binding sequences should be considered in biotechnological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Rovira
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra (UNAV), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Beatriz Moreno
- Department of Molecular Therapy, Aptamer Unit, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra (UNAV), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Nerea Razquin
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra (UNAV), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Roland Hjerpe
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, Building 801A, 48160 Derio, Spain
| | - Monika Gonzalez-Lopez
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, Building 801A, 48160 Derio, Spain
| | - Rosa Barrio
- Department of Functional Genomics, Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE), Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Bizkaia Technology Park, Building 801A, 48160 Derio, Spain
| | - Igor Ruiz de los Mozos
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Neurology, UCL, WC1B5EH London, UK
- RNA Networks Lab, The Francis Crick Institute, NW11BF London, UK
| | - Jernej Ule
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Neurology, UCL, WC1B5EH London, UK
- RNA Networks Lab, The Francis Crick Institute, NW11BF London, UK
| | - Fernando Pastor
- Department of Molecular Therapy, Aptamer Unit, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra (UNAV), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Lorea Blazquez
- Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Neurology, UCL, WC1B5EH London, UK
- RNA Networks Lab, The Francis Crick Institute, NW11BF London, UK
- Neurosciences Area, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, 20014 San Sebastian, Spain
- Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
- Corresponding author. Lorea Blazquez, Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, Institute of Neurology, UCL, WC1B5EH London, UK.
| | - Puri Fortes
- Department of Gene Therapy and Regulation of Gene Expression, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra (UNAV), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), 31008 Pamplona, Spain
- Liver and Digestive Diseases Networking Biomedical Research Centre (CIBERehd), Spain
- Spanish Network for Advanced Therapies (TERAV ISCIII), Spain
- Corresponding author. Puri Fortes, Neurosciences Area, Biodonostia Health Research Institute, 20014 San Sebastian, Spain.
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Dozier C, Montigny A, Viladrich M, Culerrier R, Combier JP, Besson A, Plaza S. Small ORFs as New Regulators of Pri-miRNAs and miRNAs Expression in Human and Drosophila. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:5764. [PMID: 35628573 PMCID: PMC9144653 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small regulatory non-coding RNAs, resulting from the cleavage of long primary transcripts (pri-miRNAs) in the nucleus by the Microprocessor complex generating precursors (pre-miRNAs) that are then exported to the cytoplasm and processed into mature miRNAs. Some miRNAs are hosted in pri-miRNAs annotated as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and defined as MIRHGs (for miRNA Host Genes). However, several lnc pri-miRNAs contain translatable small open reading frames (smORFs). If smORFs present within lncRNAs can encode functional small peptides, they can also constitute cis-regulatory elements involved in lncRNA decay. Here, we investigated the possible involvement of smORFs in the regulation of lnc pri-miRNAs in Human and Drosophila, focusing on pri-miRNAs previously shown to contain translatable smORFs. We show that smORFs regulate the expression levels of human pri-miR-155 and pri-miR-497, and Drosophila pri-miR-8 and pri-miR-14, and also affect the expression and activity of their associated miRNAs. This smORF-dependent regulation is independent of the nucleotidic and amino acidic sequences of the smORFs and is sensitive to the ribosome-stalling drug cycloheximide, suggesting the involvement of translational events. This study identifies smORFs as new cis-acting elements involved in the regulation of pri-miRNAs and miRNAs expression, in both Human and Drosophila melanogaster.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Dozier
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Department (MCD), Centre de Biologie Integrative (CBI), University of Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, 31062 Toulouse, France; (R.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Audrey Montigny
- Laboratoire de Recherche en Sciences Végétales, UMR5546 CNRS, UPS Université de Toulouse, INP, 31320 Auzeville-Tolosan, France; (A.M.); (M.V.); (J.-P.C.)
| | - Mireia Viladrich
- Laboratoire de Recherche en Sciences Végétales, UMR5546 CNRS, UPS Université de Toulouse, INP, 31320 Auzeville-Tolosan, France; (A.M.); (M.V.); (J.-P.C.)
| | - Raphael Culerrier
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Department (MCD), Centre de Biologie Integrative (CBI), University of Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, 31062 Toulouse, France; (R.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Jean-Philippe Combier
- Laboratoire de Recherche en Sciences Végétales, UMR5546 CNRS, UPS Université de Toulouse, INP, 31320 Auzeville-Tolosan, France; (A.M.); (M.V.); (J.-P.C.)
| | - Arnaud Besson
- Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology Department (MCD), Centre de Biologie Integrative (CBI), University of Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, 31062 Toulouse, France; (R.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Serge Plaza
- Laboratoire de Recherche en Sciences Végétales, UMR5546 CNRS, UPS Université de Toulouse, INP, 31320 Auzeville-Tolosan, France; (A.M.); (M.V.); (J.-P.C.)
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DiAndreth B, Wauford N, Hu E, Palacios S, Weiss R. PERSIST platform provides programmable RNA regulation using CRISPR endoRNases. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2582. [PMID: 35562172 PMCID: PMC9095627 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30172-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulated transgene expression is an integral component of gene therapies, cell therapies and biomanufacturing. However, transcription factor-based regulation, upon which most applications are based, suffers from complications such as epigenetic silencing that limit expression longevity and reliability. Constitutive transgene transcription paired with post-transcriptional gene regulation could combat silencing, but few such RNA- or protein-level platforms exist. Here we develop an RNA-regulation platform we call "PERSIST" which consists of nine CRISPR-specific endoRNases as RNA-level activators and repressors as well as modular OFF- and ON-switch regulatory motifs. We show that PERSIST-regulated transgenes exhibit strong OFF and ON responses, resist silencing for at least two months, and can be readily layered to construct cascades, logic functions, switches and other sophisticated circuit topologies. The orthogonal, modular and composable nature of this platform as well as the ease in constructing robust and predictable gene circuits promises myriad applications in gene and cell therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breanna DiAndreth
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
- Synthetic Biology Center, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Noreen Wauford
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
- Synthetic Biology Center, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Eileen Hu
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
- Synthetic Biology Center, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Sebastian Palacios
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
- Synthetic Biology Center, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
| | - Ron Weiss
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
- Synthetic Biology Center, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
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50
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MALAT1-related signaling pathways in colorectal cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2022; 22:126. [PMID: 35305641 PMCID: PMC8933897 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-022-02540-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most lethal and prevalent solid malignancies worldwide. There is a great need of accelerating the development and diagnosis of CRC. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA) as transcribed RNA molecules play an important role in every level of gene expression. Metastasis‐associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript‐1 (MALAT1) is a highly conserved nucleus-restricted lncRNA that regulates genes at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. High expression of MALAT1 is closely related to numerous human cancers. It is generally believed that MALAT1 expression is associated with CRC cell proliferation, tumorigenicity, and metastasis. MALAT1 by targeting multiple signaling pathways and microRNAs (miRNAs) plays a pivotal role in CRC pathogenesis. Therefore, MALAT1 can be a potent gene for cancer prediction and diagnosis. In this review, we will demonstrate signaling pathways associated with MALAT1 in CRC.
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