1
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Wang H, Ma B, Stevens T, Knapp J, Lu J, Prochownik EV. MYC Binding Near Transcriptional End Sites Regulates Basal Gene Expression, Read-Through Transcription and Intragenic Contacts. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.11.603118. [PMID: 39071289 PMCID: PMC11275772 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.11.603118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
The MYC oncoprotein regulates numerous genes involved in cellular processes such as cell cycle and mitochondrial and ribosomal structure and function. This requires heterodimerization with its partner, MAX, and binding to specific promoter and enhancer elements. Here, we show that MYC and MAX also bind near transcriptional end sites (TESs) of over one-sixth of all annotated genes. These interactions are dose-dependent, evolutionarily conserved, stabilize the normally short-lived MYC protein and regulate expression both in concert with and independent of MYC's binding elsewhere. MYC's TES binding occurs in association with other transcription factors, alters the chromatin landscape, increases nuclease susceptibility and can alter transcriptional read-through, particularly in response to certain stresses. MYC-bound TESs can directly contact promoters and may fine-tune gene expression in response to both physiologic and pathologic stimuli. Collectively, these findings support a previously unrecognized role for MYC in regulating transcription and its read-through via direct intragenic contacts between TESs and promoters.
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2
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Abe K, Maunze B, Lopez PA, Xu J, Muhammad N, Yang GY, Katz D, Liu Y, Lauberth SM. Downstream-of-gene (DoG) transcripts contribute to an imbalance in the cancer cell transcriptome. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadh9613. [PMID: 38959318 PMCID: PMC11221514 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adh9613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Downstream-of-gene (DoG) transcripts are an emerging class of noncoding RNAs. However, it remains largely unknown how DoG RNA production is regulated and whether alterations in DoG RNA signatures exist in major cancers. Here, through transcriptomic analyses of matched tumors and nonneoplastic tissues and cancer cell lines, we reveal a comprehensive catalog of DoG RNA signatures. Through separate lines of evidence, we support the biological importance of DoG RNAs in carcinogenesis. First, we show tissue-specific and stage-specific differential expression of DoG RNAs in tumors versus paired normal tissues with their respective host genes involved in tumor-promoting versus tumor-suppressor pathways. Second, we identify that differential DoG RNA expression is associated with poor patient survival. Third, we identify that DoG RNA induction is a consequence of treating colon cancer cells with the topoisomerase I (TOP1) poison camptothecin and following TOP1 depletion. Our results underlie the significance of DoG RNAs and TOP1-dependent regulation of DoG RNAs in diversifying and modulating the cancer transcriptome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kouki Abe
- Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Brian Maunze
- Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Pedro-Avila Lopez
- Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Jessica Xu
- Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Nefertiti Muhammad
- Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Guang-Yu Yang
- Department of Pathology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - David Katz
- Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Yaping Liu
- Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Shannon M. Lauberth
- Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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3
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Shine M, Gordon J, Schärfen L, Zigackova D, Herzel L, Neugebauer KM. Co-transcriptional gene regulation in eukaryotes and prokaryotes. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2024; 25:534-554. [PMID: 38509203 PMCID: PMC11199108 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-024-00706-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Many steps of RNA processing occur during transcription by RNA polymerases. Co-transcriptional activities are deemed commonplace in prokaryotes, in which the lack of membrane barriers allows mixing of all gene expression steps, from transcription to translation. In the past decade, an extraordinary level of coordination between transcription and RNA processing has emerged in eukaryotes. In this Review, we discuss recent developments in our understanding of co-transcriptional gene regulation in both eukaryotes and prokaryotes, comparing methodologies and mechanisms, and highlight striking parallels in how RNA polymerases interact with the machineries that act on nascent RNA. The development of RNA sequencing and imaging techniques that detect transient transcription and RNA processing intermediates has facilitated discoveries of transcription coordination with splicing, 3'-end cleavage and dynamic RNA folding and revealed physical contacts between processing machineries and RNA polymerases. Such studies indicate that intron retention in a given nascent transcript can prevent 3'-end cleavage and cause transcriptional readthrough, which is a hallmark of eukaryotic cellular stress responses. We also discuss how coordination between nascent RNA biogenesis and transcription drives fundamental aspects of gene expression in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan Shine
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jackson Gordon
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Leonard Schärfen
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Dagmar Zigackova
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Lydia Herzel
- Department of Biology, Chemistry, and Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Karla M Neugebauer
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
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4
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Prajapati B, Sokolova M, Sidorenko E, Kyriacou M, Kyheröinen S, Vihervaara A, Vartiainen MK. CCG-1423-derived compounds reduce global RNA synthesis and inhibit transcriptional responses. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs261790. [PMID: 38841882 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.261790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Myocardin-related transcription factors (MRTFs) are coactivators of serum response factor (SRF), and thereby regulate cytoskeletal gene expression in response to actin dynamics. MRTFs have also been implicated in transcription of heat shock protein (HSP)-encoding genes in fly ovaries, but the mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate that, in mammalian cells, MRTFs are dispensable for gene induction of HSP-encoding genes. However, the widely used small-molecule inhibitors of the MRTF-SRF transcription pathway, derived from CCG-1423, also efficiently inhibit gene transcription of HSP-encoding genes in both fly and mammalian cells in the absence of MRTFs. Quantifying RNA synthesis and RNA polymerase distribution demonstrates that CCG-1423-derived compounds have a genome-wide effect on transcription. Indeed, tracking nascent transcription at nucleotide resolution reveals that CCG-1423-derived compounds reduce RNA polymerase II elongation, and severely dampen the transcriptional response to heat shock. The effects of CCG-1423-derived compounds therefore extend beyond the MRTF-SRF pathway into nascent transcription, opening novel opportunities for their use in transcription research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bina Prajapati
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00790, Finland
| | - Maria Sokolova
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00790, Finland
| | - Ekaterina Sidorenko
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00790, Finland
| | - Mikael Kyriacou
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00790, Finland
| | - Salla Kyheröinen
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00790, Finland
| | - Anniina Vihervaara
- Department of Gene Technology, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Science for Life Laboratory, Stockholm 17165, Sweden
| | - Maria K Vartiainen
- Institute of Biotechnology, HiLIFE, University of Helsinki, Helsinki 00790, Finland
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5
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Schiksnis EC, Nicastro IA, Pasquinelli AE. Full-length direct RNA sequencing reveals extensive remodeling of RNA expression, processing and modification in aging Caenorhabditis elegans. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.18.599640. [PMID: 38948813 PMCID: PMC11213008 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.18.599640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Organismal aging is marked by decline in cellular function and anatomy, ultimately resulting in death. To inform our understanding of the mechanisms underlying this degeneration, we performed standard RNA sequencing and Nanopore direct RNA sequencing over an adult time course in Caenorhabditis elegans. Long reads allowed for identification of hundreds of novel isoforms and age-associated differential isoform accumulation, resulting from alternative splicing and terminal exon choice. Genome-wide analysis reveals a decline in RNA processing fidelity and a rise in inosine and pseudouridine editing events in transcripts from older animals. In this first map of pseudouridine modifications for C. elegans, we find that they largely reside in coding sequences and that the number of genes with this modification increases with age. Collectively, this analysis discovers transcriptomic signatures associated with age and is a valuable resource to understand the many processes that dictate altered gene expression patterns and post-transcriptional regulation in aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin C Schiksnis
- Molecular Biology Department, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0349, USA
| | - Ian A Nicastro
- Molecular Biology Department, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0349, USA
| | - Amy E Pasquinelli
- Molecular Biology Department, School of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0349, USA
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6
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Sone M, Yamashita J, Shigenobu S, Yamaguchi Y. Slow decrease in temperature produces readthrough transcripts in mammalian hibernation. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 709:149837. [PMID: 38555839 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149837] [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: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that various cellular stresses interfere with the end processing of mRNA synthesis and lead to the production of abnormally long transcripts, known as readthrough transcripts (RTTs), which extend beyond the termination sites. Small mammalian hibernators repeatedly enter a state referred to as deep torpor (DT), where the metabolic rate, respiration rate, and core body temperature become extremely low, which produces various types of cellular stresses and therefore induces RTTs. However, the types of stresses and processes around the DT that cause RTTs are unclear. In the present study, we showed that RTTs are produced from different gene loci in the livers of Syrian hamsters under DT and summer-like conditions. Moreover, in vitro analysis using hamster primary hepatocytes revealed that DT-specific RTTs are induced by a slow decline in temperature, as seen in body temperature in the entrance phase of DT, but not by rapid cold treatment or hypoxia. In addition, it was observed that RTTs were not elongated under a significantly cold temperature (4 °C). These results indicate that DT-specific RTTs are produced during the entrance phase of torpor by a slow decrease in body temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masamitsu Sone
- Institute of Low Temperature Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan; Graduate School of Environmental Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan.
| | - Junpei Yamashita
- Institute of Low Temperature Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shuji Shigenobu
- National Institute for Basic Biology, National Institutes of Natural Sciences, Okazaki, Japan
| | - Yoshifumi Yamaguchi
- Institute of Low Temperature Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan; Graduate School of Environmental Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan; Inamori Research Institute for Science, Kyoto, Japan.
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7
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McShane A, Narayanan IV, Paulsen MT, Ashaka M, Blinkiewicz H, Yang NT, Magnuson B, Bedi K, Wilson TE, Ljungman M. Characterizing nascent transcription patterns of PROMPTs, eRNAs, and readthrough transcripts in the ENCODE4 deeply profiled cell lines. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.09.588612. [PMID: 38645116 PMCID: PMC11030308 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.09.588612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Arising as co-products of canonical gene expression, transcription-associated lincRNAs, such as promoter upstream transcripts (PROMPTs), enhancer RNAs (eRNAs), and readthrough (RT) transcripts, are often regarded as byproducts of transcription, although they may be important for the expression of nearby genes. We identified regions of nascent expression of these lincRNA in 16 human cell lines using Bru-seq techniques, and found distinctly regulated patterns of PROMPT, eRNA, and RT transcription using the diverse biochemical approaches in the ENCODE4 deeply profiled cell lines collection. Transcription of these lincRNAs was influenced by sequence-specific features and the local or 3D chromatin landscape. However, these sequence and chromatin features do not describe the full spectrum of lincRNA expression variability we identify, highlighting the complexity of their regulation. This may suggest that transcription-associated lincRNAs are not merely byproducts, but rather that the transcript itself, or the act of its transcription, is important for genomic function.
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8
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Pabis K, Barardo D, Sirbu O, Selvarajoo K, Gruber J, Kennedy BK. A concerted increase in readthrough and intron retention drives transposon expression during aging and senescence. eLife 2024; 12:RP87811. [PMID: 38567944 PMCID: PMC10990488 DOI: 10.7554/elife.87811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Aging and senescence are characterized by pervasive transcriptional dysfunction, including increased expression of transposons and introns. Our aim was to elucidate mechanisms behind this increased expression. Most transposons are found within genes and introns, with a large minority being close to genes. This raises the possibility that transcriptional readthrough and intron retention are responsible for age-related changes in transposon expression rather than expression of autonomous transposons. To test this, we compiled public RNA-seq datasets from aged human fibroblasts, replicative and drug-induced senescence in human cells, and RNA-seq from aging mice and senescent mouse cells. Indeed, our reanalysis revealed a correlation between transposons expression, intron retention, and transcriptional readthrough across samples and within samples. Both intron retention and readthrough increased with aging or cellular senescence and these transcriptional defects were more pronounced in human samples as compared to those of mice. In support of a causal connection between readthrough and transposon expression, analysis of models showing induced transcriptional readthrough confirmed that they also show elevated transposon expression. Taken together, our data suggest that elevated transposon reads during aging seen in various RNA-seq dataset are concomitant with multiple transcriptional defects. Intron retention and transcriptional readthrough are the most likely explanation for the expression of transposable elements that lack a functional promoter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamil Pabis
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- Healthy Longevity Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- Centre for Healthy Longevity, National University Health SystemSingaporeSingapore
| | - Diogo Barardo
- Healthy Longevity Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- Centre for Healthy Longevity, National University Health SystemSingaporeSingapore
| | - Olga Sirbu
- Bioinformatics Institute, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
| | - Kumar Selvarajoo
- Bioinformatics Institute, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
- Singapore Institute of Food and Biotechnology Innovation, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)SingaporeSingapore
- NUS Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation (SynCTI), National University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological UniversitySingaporeSingapore
| | - Jan Gruber
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- Science Divisions, Yale-NUS CollegeSingaporeSingapore
| | - Brian K Kennedy
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- Healthy Longevity Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of SingaporeSingaporeSingapore
- Centre for Healthy Longevity, National University Health SystemSingaporeSingapore
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9
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Zhou Y, Panhale A, Shvedunova M, Balan M, Gomez-Auli A, Holz H, Seyfferth J, Helmstädter M, Kayser S, Zhao Y, Erdogdu NU, Grzadzielewska I, Mittler G, Manke T, Akhtar A. RNA damage compartmentalization by DHX9 stress granules. Cell 2024; 187:1701-1718.e28. [PMID: 38503283 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.02.028] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Biomolecules incur damage during stress conditions, and damage partitioning represents a vital survival strategy for cells. Here, we identified a distinct stress granule (SG), marked by dsRNA helicase DHX9, which compartmentalizes ultraviolet (UV)-induced RNA, but not DNA, damage. Our FANCI technology revealed that DHX9 SGs are enriched in damaged intron RNA, in contrast to classical SGs that are composed of mature mRNA. UV exposure causes RNA crosslinking damage, impedes intron splicing and decay, and triggers DHX9 SGs within daughter cells. DHX9 SGs promote cell survival and induce dsRNA-related immune response and translation shutdown, differentiating them from classical SGs that assemble downstream of translation arrest. DHX9 modulates dsRNA abundance in the DHX9 SGs and promotes cell viability. Autophagy receptor p62 is activated and important for DHX9 SG disassembly. Our findings establish non-canonical DHX9 SGs as a dedicated non-membrane-bound cytoplasmic compartment that safeguards daughter cells from parental RNA damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilong Zhou
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Amol Panhale
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Maria Shvedunova
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Mirela Balan
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | | | - Herbert Holz
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Janine Seyfferth
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Martin Helmstädter
- EMcore, Renal Division, Department of Medicine, University Freiburg, Hospital Freiburg, University Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Séverine Kayser
- EMcore, Renal Division, Department of Medicine, University Freiburg, Hospital Freiburg, University Faculty of Medicine, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Yuling Zhao
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany; Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; International Max Planck Research School for Molecular and Cellular Biology (IMPRS-MCB), Freiburg, Germany
| | - Niyazi Umut Erdogdu
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany; Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; International Max Planck Research School for Molecular and Cellular Biology (IMPRS-MCB), Freiburg, Germany
| | - Iga Grzadzielewska
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany; Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany; International Max Planck Research School for Molecular and Cellular Biology (IMPRS-MCB), Freiburg, Germany
| | - Gerhard Mittler
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Manke
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Asifa Akhtar
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Freiburg, Germany.
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Torres-Ulloa L, Calvo-Roitberg E, Pai AA. Genome-wide kinetic profiling of pre-mRNA 3' end cleavage. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 30:256-270. [PMID: 38164598 PMCID: PMC10870368 DOI: 10.1261/rna.079783.123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Cleavage and polyadenylation is necessary for the formation of mature mRNA molecules. The rate at which this process occurs can determine the temporal availability of mRNA for subsequent function throughout the cell and is likely tightly regulated. Despite advances in high-throughput approaches for global kinetic profiling of RNA maturation, genome-wide 3' end cleavage rates have never been measured. Here, we describe a novel approach to estimate the rates of cleavage, using metabolic labeling of nascent RNA, high-throughput sequencing, and mathematical modeling. Using in silico simulations of nascent RNA-seq data, we show that our approach can accurately and precisely estimate cleavage half-lives for both constitutive and alternative sites. We find that 3' end cleavage is fast on average, with half-lives under a minute, but highly variable across individual sites. Rapid cleavage is promoted by the presence of canonical sequence elements and an increased density of polyadenylation signals near a cleavage site. Finally, we find that cleavage rates are associated with the localization of RNA polymerase II at the end of a gene, and faster cleavage leads to quicker degradation of downstream readthrough RNA. Our findings shed light on the features important for efficient 3' end cleavage and the regulation of transcription termination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie Torres-Ulloa
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA
| | - Ezequiel Calvo-Roitberg
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA
| | - Athma A Pai
- RNA Therapeutics Institute, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts 01605, USA
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11
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Kharel P, Ivanov P. RNA G-quadruplexes and stress: emerging mechanisms and functions. Trends Cell Biol 2024:S0962-8924(24)00005-9. [PMID: 38341346 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2024.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
RNA G-quadruplexes (rG4s) are noncanonical secondary structures formed by guanine-rich sequences that are found in different regions of RNA molecules. These structures have been implicated in diverse biological processes, including translation, splicing, and RNA stability. Recent studies have suggested that rG4s play a role in the cellular response to stress. This review summarizes the current knowledge on rG4s under stress, focusing on their formation, regulation, and potential functions in stress response pathways. We discuss the molecular mechanisms that regulate the formation of rG4 under different stress conditions and the impact of these structures on RNA metabolism, gene expression, and cell survival. Finally, we highlight the potential therapeutic implications of targeting rG4s for the treatment of stress-related diseases through modulating cell survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prakash Kharel
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Pavel Ivanov
- Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; HMS Initiative for RNA Medicine, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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12
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Caldas P, Luz M, Baseggio S, Andrade R, Sobral D, Grosso AR. Transcription readthrough is prevalent in healthy human tissues and associated with inherent genomic features. Commun Biol 2024; 7:100. [PMID: 38225287 PMCID: PMC10789751 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-05779-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Transcription termination is a crucial step in the production of conforming mRNAs and functional proteins. Under cellular stress conditions, the transcription machinery fails to identify the termination site and continues transcribing beyond gene boundaries, a phenomenon designated as transcription readthrough. However, the prevalence and impact of this phenomenon in healthy human tissues remain unexplored. Here, we assessed transcription readthrough in almost 3000 transcriptome profiles representing 23 human tissues and found that 34% of the expressed protein-coding genes produced readthrough transcripts. The production of readthrough transcripts was restricted in genomic regions with high transcriptional activity and was associated with inefficient splicing and increased chromatin accessibility in terminal regions. In addition, we showed that these transcripts contained several binding sites for the same miRNA, unravelling a potential role as miRNA sponges. Overall, this work provides evidence that transcription readthrough is pervasive and non-stochastic, not only in abnormal conditions but also in healthy tissues. This suggests a potential role for such transcripts in modulating normal cellular functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Caldas
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal.
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Life Sciences, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal.
| | - Mariana Luz
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Life Sciences, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Simone Baseggio
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Life Sciences, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Rita Andrade
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Life Sciences, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Daniel Sobral
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Life Sciences, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal
- Genomics and Bioinformatics Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Health Doutor Ricardo Jorge (INSA), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Rita Grosso
- Associate Laboratory i4HB - Institute for Health and Bioeconomy, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal.
- UCIBIO - Applied Molecular Biosciences Unit, Department of Life Sciences, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, 2829-516, Caparica, Portugal.
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13
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Pessa JC, Joutsen J, Sistonen L. Transcriptional reprogramming at the intersection of the heat shock response and proteostasis. Mol Cell 2024; 84:80-93. [PMID: 38103561 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Cellular homeostasis is constantly challenged by a myriad of extrinsic and intrinsic stressors. To mitigate the stress-induced damage, cells activate transient survival programs. The heat shock response (HSR) is an evolutionarily well-conserved survival program that is activated in response to proteotoxic stress. The HSR encompasses a dual regulation of transcription, characterized by rapid activation of genes encoding molecular chaperones and concomitant global attenuation of non-chaperone genes. Recent genome-wide approaches have delineated the molecular depth of stress-induced transcriptional reprogramming. The dramatic rewiring of gene and enhancer networks is driven by key transcription factors, including heat shock factors (HSFs), that together with chromatin-modifying enzymes remodel the 3D chromatin architecture, determining the selection of either gene activation or repression. Here, we highlight the current advancements of molecular mechanisms driving transcriptional reprogramming during acute heat stress. We also discuss the emerging implications of HSF-mediated stress signaling in the context of physiological and pathological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny C Pessa
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Cell Biology, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland; Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland
| | - Jenny Joutsen
- Department of Pathology, Lapland Central Hospital, Lapland Wellbeing Services County, Rovaniemi, Finland
| | - Lea Sistonen
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Cell Biology, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland; Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland.
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14
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Bergant V, Schnepf D, de Andrade Krätzig N, Hubel P, Urban C, Engleitner T, Dijkman R, Ryffel B, Steiger K, Knolle PA, Kochs G, Rad R, Staeheli P, Pichlmair A. mRNA 3'UTR lengthening by alternative polyadenylation attenuates inflammatory responses and correlates with virulence of Influenza A virus. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4906. [PMID: 37582777 PMCID: PMC10427651 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40469-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Changes of mRNA 3'UTRs by alternative polyadenylation (APA) have been associated to numerous pathologies, but the mechanisms and consequences often remain enigmatic. By combining transcriptomics, proteomics and recombinant viruses we show that all tested strains of IAV, including A/PR/8/34(H1N1) (PR8) and A/Cal/07/2009 (H1N1) (Cal09), cause APA. We mapped the effect to the highly conserved glycine residue at position 184 (G184) of the viral non-structural protein 1 (NS1). Unbiased mass spectrometry-based analyses indicate that NS1 causes APA by perturbing the function of CPSF4 and that this function is unrelated to virus-induced transcriptional shutoff. Accordingly, IAV strain PR8, expressing an NS1 variant with weak CPSF binding, does not induce host shutoff but only APA. However, recombinant IAV (PR8) expressing NS1(G184R) lacks binding to CPSF4 and thereby also the ability to cause APA. Functionally, the impaired ability to induce APA leads to an increased inflammatory cytokine production and an attenuated phenotype in a mouse infection model. Investigating diverse viral infection models showed that APA induction is a frequent ability of many pathogens. Collectively, we propose that targeting of the CPSF complex, leading to widespread alternative polyadenylation of host transcripts, constitutes a general immunevasion mechanism employed by a variety of pathogenic viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valter Bergant
- Institute of Virology, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Munich, Germany
| | - Daniel Schnepf
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Immunoregulation Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Niklas de Andrade Krätzig
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Philipp Hubel
- Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Urban
- Institute of Virology, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas Engleitner
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ronald Dijkman
- Institute for Infectious Diseases, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Institute of Virology and Immunology, Bern & Mittelhäusern, Switzerland
- Department of Infectious diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Bernhard Ryffel
- CNRS, UMR7355, Orleans, France
- Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics, University of Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - Katja Steiger
- Institut für allgemeine Pathologie und Pathologische Anatomie, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Percy A Knolle
- Institute of Molecular Immunology and Experimental Oncology, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Georg Kochs
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Roland Rad
- Institute of Molecular Oncology and Functional Genomics, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Center for Translational Cancer Research (TranslaTUM), TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Department of Medicine II, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Peter Staeheli
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Pichlmair
- Institute of Virology, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.
- Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry, Munich, Germany.
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Munich Partner Site, Munich, Germany.
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15
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Cui Y, Wang L, Ding Q, Shin J, Cassel J, Liu Q, Salvino JM, Tian B. Elevated pre-mRNA 3' end processing activity in cancer cells renders vulnerability to inhibition of cleavage and polyadenylation. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4480. [PMID: 37528120 PMCID: PMC10394034 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39793-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Cleavage and polyadenylation (CPA) is responsible for 3' end processing of eukaryotic poly(A)+ RNAs and preludes transcriptional termination. JTE-607, which targets CPSF-73, is the first known CPA inhibitor (CPAi) in mammalian cells. Here we show that JTE-607 perturbs gene expression through both transcriptional readthrough and alternative polyadenylation (APA). Sensitive genes are associated with features similar to those previously identified for PCF11 knockdown, underscoring a unified transcriptomic signature of CPAi. The degree of inhibition of an APA site by JTE-607 correlates with its usage level and, consistently, cells with elevated CPA activities, such as those with induced overexpression of FIP1, display greater transcriptomic disturbances when treated with JTE-607. Moreover, JTE-607 causes S phase crisis and is hence synergistic with inhibitors of DNA damage repair pathways. Together, our data reveal CPA activity and proliferation rate as determinants of CPAi-mediated cell death, raising the possibility of using CPAi as an adjunct therapy to suppress certain cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yange Cui
- Gene Expression and Regulation Program, and Center for Systems and Computational Biology, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Luyang Wang
- Gene Expression and Regulation Program, and Center for Systems and Computational Biology, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Qingbao Ding
- Gene Expression and Regulation Program, and Center for Systems and Computational Biology, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Jihae Shin
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Joel Cassel
- Molecular and Cellular Oncogenesis Program, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Qin Liu
- Molecular and Cellular Oncogenesis Program, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Joseph M Salvino
- Molecular and Cellular Oncogenesis Program, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Bin Tian
- Gene Expression and Regulation Program, and Center for Systems and Computational Biology, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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16
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Djakovic L, Hennig T, Reinisch K, Milić A, Whisnant AW, Wolf K, Weiß E, Haas T, Grothey A, Jürges CS, Kluge M, Wolf E, Erhard F, Friedel CC, Dölken L. The HSV-1 ICP22 protein selectively impairs histone repositioning upon Pol II transcription downstream of genes. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4591. [PMID: 37524699 PMCID: PMC10390501 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40217-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) infection and stress responses disrupt transcription termination by RNA Polymerase II (Pol II). In HSV-1 infection, but not upon salt or heat stress, this is accompanied by a dramatic increase in chromatin accessibility downstream of genes. Here, we show that the HSV-1 immediate-early protein ICP22 is both necessary and sufficient to induce downstream open chromatin regions (dOCRs) when transcription termination is disrupted by the viral ICP27 protein. This is accompanied by a marked ICP22-dependent loss of histones downstream of affected genes consistent with impaired histone repositioning in the wake of Pol II. Efficient knock-down of the ICP22-interacting histone chaperone FACT is not sufficient to induce dOCRs in ΔICP22 infection but increases dOCR induction in wild-type HSV-1 infection. Interestingly, this is accompanied by a marked increase in chromatin accessibility within gene bodies. We propose a model in which allosteric changes in Pol II composition downstream of genes and ICP22-mediated interference with FACT activity explain the differential impairment of histone repositioning downstream of genes in the wake of Pol II in HSV-1 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Djakovic
- Institute for Virology and Immunobiology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Versbacher Straße 7, 97078, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Hennig
- Institute for Virology and Immunobiology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Versbacher Straße 7, 97078, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Reinisch
- Institute of Informatics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Amalienstr. 17, 80333, Munich, Germany
| | - Andrea Milić
- Institute for Virology and Immunobiology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Versbacher Straße 7, 97078, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Adam W Whisnant
- Institute for Virology and Immunobiology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Versbacher Straße 7, 97078, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Wolf
- Institute for Virology and Immunobiology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Versbacher Straße 7, 97078, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Elena Weiß
- Institute of Informatics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Amalienstr. 17, 80333, Munich, Germany
| | - Tobias Haas
- Institute for Virology and Immunobiology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Versbacher Straße 7, 97078, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Arnhild Grothey
- Institute for Virology and Immunobiology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Versbacher Straße 7, 97078, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Christopher S Jürges
- Institute for Virology and Immunobiology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Versbacher Straße 7, 97078, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Michael Kluge
- Institute of Informatics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Amalienstr. 17, 80333, Munich, Germany
| | - Elmar Wolf
- Cancer Systems Biology Group, Theodor Boveri Institute, University of Würzburg, Am Hubland, 97074, Würzburg, Germany
- Mildred Scheel Early Career Center, University of Würzburg, Beethovenstraße 1A, 97080, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Florian Erhard
- Institute for Virology and Immunobiology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Versbacher Straße 7, 97078, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Caroline C Friedel
- Institute of Informatics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Amalienstr. 17, 80333, Munich, Germany.
| | - Lars Dölken
- Institute for Virology and Immunobiology, Julius-Maximilians-University Würzburg, Versbacher Straße 7, 97078, Würzburg, Germany.
- Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research (HIRI), Helmholtz-Center for Infection Research (HZI), 97080, Würzburg, Germany.
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17
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Barros GC, Guerrero S, Silva GM. The central role of translation elongation in response to stress. Biochem Soc Trans 2023; 51:959-969. [PMID: 37318088 PMCID: PMC11160351 DOI: 10.1042/bst20220584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Protein synthesis is essential to support homeostasis, and thus, must be highly regulated during cellular response to harmful environments. All stages of translation are susceptible to regulation under stress, however, the mechanisms involved in translation regulation beyond initiation have only begun to be elucidated. Methodological advances enabled critical discoveries on the control of translation elongation, highlighting its important role in translation repression and the synthesis of stress-response proteins. In this article, we discuss recent findings on mechanisms of elongation control mediated by ribosome pausing and collisions and the availability of tRNAs and elongation factors. We also discuss how elongation intersects with distinct modes of translation control, further supporting cellular viability and gene expression reprogramming. Finally, we highlight how several of these pathways are reversibly regulated, emphasizing the dynamics of translation control during stress-response progression. A comprehensive understanding of translation regulation under stress will produce fundamental knowledge of protein dynamics while opening new avenues and strategies to overcome dysregulated protein production and cellular sensitivity to stress.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gustavo M. Silva
- Department of Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Lead contact
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18
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Abstract
Formation of the 3' end of a eukaryotic mRNA is a key step in the production of a mature transcript. This process is mediated by a number of protein factors that cleave the pre-mRNA, add a poly(A) tail, and regulate transcription by protein dephosphorylation. Cleavage and polyadenylation specificity factor (CPSF) in humans, or cleavage and polyadenylation factor (CPF) in yeast, coordinates these enzymatic activities with each other, with RNA recognition, and with transcription. The site of pre-mRNA cleavage can strongly influence the translation, stability, and localization of the mRNA. Hence, cleavage site selection is highly regulated. The length of the poly(A) tail is also controlled to ensure that every transcript has a similar tail when it is exported from the nucleus. In this review, we summarize new mechanistic insights into mRNA 3'-end processing obtained through structural studies and biochemical reconstitution and outline outstanding questions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vytautė Boreikaitė
- Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, United Kingdom;
| | - Lori A Passmore
- Medical Research Council Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, United Kingdom;
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19
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Ranjitkar S, Shiri M, Sun J, Tian X. Intergenic transcription in in vivo developed bovine oocytes and pre-implantation embryos. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2934322. [PMID: 37293046 PMCID: PMC10246250 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2934322/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Background Intergenic transcription, either failure to terminate at the transcription end site (TES), or transcription initiation at other intergenic regions, is present in cultured cells and enhanced in the presence of stressors such as viral infection. Transcription termination failure has not been characterized in natural biological samples such as pre-implantation embryos which express more than 10,000 genes and undergo drastic changes in DNA methylation. Results Using Automatic Readthrough Transcription Detection (ARTDeco) and data of in vivo developed bovine oocytes and embryos, we found abundant intergenic transcripts that we termed as read-outs (transcribed from 5 to 15 kb after TES) and read-ins (transcribed 1 kb up-stream of reference genes, extending up to 15 kb up-stream). Read-throughs (continued transcription from TES of expressed reference genes, 4-15 kb in length), however, were much fewer. For example, the numbers of read-outs and read-ins ranged from 3,084 to 6,565 or 33.36-66.67% of expressed reference genes at different stages of embryo development. The less copious read-throughs were at an average of 10% and significantly correlated with reference gene expression (P < 0.05). Interestingly, intergenic transcription did not seem to be random because many intergenic transcripts (1,504 read-outs, 1,045 read-ins, and 1,021 read-throughs) were associated with common reference genes across all stages of pre-implantation development. Their expression also seemed to be regulated by developmental stages because many were differentially expressed (log2 fold change ≥ 2, P < 0.05). Additionally, while gradual but un-patterned decreases in DNA methylation densities 10 kb both up- and down-stream of the intergenic transcribed regions were observed, the correlation between intergenic transcription and DNA methylation was insignificant. Finally, transcription factor binding motifs and polyadenylation signals were found in 27.2% and 12.15% of intergenic transcripts, respectively, suggesting considerable novel transcription initiation and RNA processing. Conclusion In summary, in vivo developed oocytes and pre-implantation embryos express large numbers of intergenic transcripts, which are not related to the overall DNA methylation profiles either up- or down-stream.
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20
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Zhan Y, Zhao CS, Qu X, Xiao Z, Deng C, Li Y. Identification of a novel amphioxus leucine-rich repeat receptor involved in phagocytosis reveals a role for Slit2-N-type LRR in bacterial elimination. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:104689. [PMID: 37044216 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.104689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The basal chordate amphioxus is a model for tracing the origin and evolution of vertebrate immunity. To explore the evolution of immunoreceptor signaling pathways, we searched the associated receptors of the amphioxus B. belcheri (Bb) homolog of immunoreceptor signaling adaptor protein Grb2. Mass-spectrum analysis of BbGrb2 immunoprecipitates from B. belcheri intestine lysates revealed a folate receptor (FR) domain- and leucine-rich repeat (LRR)-containing protein (FrLRR). Sequence and structural analysis showed that FrLRR is a membrane protein with a predicted curved solenoid structure. The N-terminal Fr domain contains very few folate-binding sites; the following LRR region is a Slit2-type LRR, and a GPI-anchored site was predicted at the C-terminus. RT-PCR analysis showed FrLRR is a transcription-mediated fusion gene of BbFR-like and BbSlit2-N-like genes. Genomic DNA structure analysis implied the B. belcheri FrLRR gene locus and the corresponding locus in B. floridae might be generated by exon shuffling of a Slit2-N-like gene into an FR gene. RT-qPCR, immunostaining and immunoblot results showed that FrLRR was primarily distributed in B. belcheri intestinal tissue. We further demonstrated that FrLRR localized to the cell membrane and lysosomes. Functionally, FrLRR mediated and promoted bacteria-binding and phagocytosis, and FrLRR antibody blocking or Grb2 knockdown inhibited FrLRR-mediated phagocytosis. Interestingly, we found that human Slit2-N (hSlit2-N) also mediated direct bacteria-binding and phagocytosis which was inhibited by Slit2-N antibody blocking or Grb2 knockdown. Together, these results indicate FrLRR and hSlit2-N may function as phagocytotic-receptors to promote phagocytosis through Grb2, implying the Slit2-N-type-LRR-containing proteins play a role in bacterial binding and elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Zhan
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Chen-Si Zhao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Xuemei Qu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Zhihui Xiao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Chong Deng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Yingqiu Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China.
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21
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de Felippes FF, Waterhouse PM. Plant terminators: the unsung heroes of gene expression. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2023; 74:2239-2250. [PMID: 36477559 PMCID: PMC10082929 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erac467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
To be properly expressed, genes need to be accompanied by a terminator, a region downstream of the coding sequence that contains the information necessary for the maturation of the mRNA 3' end. The main event in this process is the addition of a poly(A) tail at the 3' end of the new transcript, a critical step in mRNA biology that has important consequences for the expression of genes. Here, we review the mechanism leading to cleavage and polyadenylation of newly transcribed mRNAs and how this process can affect the final levels of gene expression. We give special attention to an aspect often overlooked, the effect that different terminators can have on the expression of genes. We also discuss some exciting findings connecting the choice of terminator to the biogenesis of small RNAs, which are a central part of one of the most important mechanisms of regulation of gene expression in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter M Waterhouse
- Centre for Agriculture and the Bioeconomy, Institute for Future Environments, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Plant Success in Nature & Agriculture, QUT, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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22
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Butto T, Mungikar K, Baumann P, Winter J, Lutz B, Gerber S. Nuclei on the Rise: When Nuclei-Based Methods Meet Next-Generation Sequencing. Cells 2023; 12:cells12071051. [PMID: 37048124 PMCID: PMC10093037 DOI: 10.3390/cells12071051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, we have witnessed an upsurge in nuclei-based studies, particularly coupled with next-generation sequencing. Such studies aim at understanding the molecular states that exist in heterogeneous cell populations by applying increasingly more affordable sequencing approaches, in addition to optimized methodologies developed to isolate and select nuclei. Although these powerful new methods promise unprecedented insights, it is important to understand and critically consider the associated challenges. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the rise of nuclei-based studies and elaborate on their advantages and disadvantages, with a specific focus on their utility for transcriptomic sequencing analyses. Improved designs and appropriate use of the various experimental strategies will result in acquiring biologically accurate and meaningful information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamer Butto
- Institute for Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55128 Mainz, Germany
- Correspondence: (T.B.); (S.G.); Tel.: +49-(0)6131-39-27331 (S.G.)
| | - Kanak Mungikar
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany
| | - Peter Baumann
- Faculty of Biology, Johannes Gutenberg-University, 55128 Mainz, Germany
- Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB), 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Jennifer Winter
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany
- Leibniz Institute for Resilience Research (LIR), 55122 Mainz, Germany
| | - Beat Lutz
- Leibniz Institute for Resilience Research (LIR), 55122 Mainz, Germany
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, University Medical Center Mainz, 55128 Mainz, Germany
| | - Susanne Gerber
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Medical Center Mainz, 55131 Mainz, Germany
- Correspondence: (T.B.); (S.G.); Tel.: +49-(0)6131-39-27331 (S.G.)
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23
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Kim M, Swenson J, McLoughlin F, Vierling E. Mutation of the polyadenylation complex subunit CstF77 reveals that mRNA 3' end formation and HSP101 levels are critical for a robust heat stress response. THE PLANT CELL 2023; 35:924-941. [PMID: 36472129 PMCID: PMC9940869 DOI: 10.1093/plcell/koac351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Heat shock protein 101 (HSP101) in plants, and bacterial and yeast orthologs, is essential for thermotolerance. To investigate thermotolerance mechanisms involving HSP101, we performed a suppressor screen in Arabidopsis thaliana of a missense HSP101 allele (hot1-4). hot1-4 plants are sensitive to acclimation heat treatments that are otherwise permissive for HSP101 null mutants, indicating that the hot1-4 protein is toxic. We report one suppressor (shot2, suppressor of hot1-4 2) has a missense mutation of a conserved residue in CLEAVAGE STIMULATION FACTOR77 (CstF77), a subunit of the polyadenylation complex critical for mRNA 3' end maturation. We performed ribosomal RNA depletion RNA-Seq and captured transcriptional readthrough with a custom bioinformatics pipeline. Acclimation heat treatment caused transcriptional readthrough in hot1-4 shot2, with more readthrough in heat-induced genes, reducing the levels of toxic hot1-4 protein and suppressing hot1-4 heat sensitivity. Although shot2 mutants develop like the wild type in the absence of stress and survive mild heat stress, reduction of heat-induced genes and decreased HSP accumulation makes shot2 in HSP101 null and wild-type backgrounds sensitive to severe heat stress. Our study reveals the critical function of CstF77 for 3' end formation of mRNA and the dominant role of HSP101 in dictating the outcome of severe heat stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minsoo Kim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, USA
| | - John Swenson
- Program for Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, USA
| | - Fionn McLoughlin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, USA
| | - Elizabeth Vierling
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, USA
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24
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Knowing when to stop: Transcription termination on protein-coding genes by eukaryotic RNAPII. Mol Cell 2023; 83:404-415. [PMID: 36634677 PMCID: PMC7614299 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Gene expression is controlled in a dynamic and regulated manner to allow for the consistent and steady expression of some proteins as well as the rapidly changing production of other proteins. Transcription initiation has been a major focus of study because it is highly regulated. However, termination of transcription also plays an important role in controlling gene expression. Transcription termination on protein-coding genes is intimately linked with 3' end cleavage and polyadenylation of transcripts, and it generally results in the production of a mature mRNA that is exported from the nucleus. Termination on many non-coding genes can also result in the production of a mature transcript. Termination is dynamically regulated-premature termination and transcription readthrough occur in response to a number of cellular signals, and these can have varied consequences on gene expression. Here, we review eukaryotic transcription termination by RNA polymerase II (RNAPII), focusing on protein-coding genes.
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25
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Iwakiri J, Tanaka K, Chujo T, Takakuwa H, Yamazaki T, Terai G, Asai K, Hirose T. Remarkable improvement in detection of readthrough downstream-of-gene transcripts by semi-extractable RNA-sequencing. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 29:170-177. [PMID: 36384963 PMCID: PMC9891252 DOI: 10.1261/rna.079469.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The mammalian cell nucleus contains dozens of membrane-less nuclear bodies that play significant roles in various aspects of gene expression. Several nuclear bodies are nucleated by specific architectural noncoding RNAs (arcRNAs) acting as structural scaffolds. We have reported that a minor population of cellular RNAs exhibits an unusual semi-extractable feature upon using the conventional procedure of RNA preparation and that needle shearing or heating of cell lysates remarkably improves extraction of dozens of RNAs. Because semi-extractable RNAs, including known arcRNAs, commonly localize in nuclear bodies, this feature may be a hallmark of arcRNAs. Using the semi-extractability of RNA, we performed genome-wide screening of semi-extractable long noncoding RNAs to identify new candidate arcRNAs for arcRNA under hyperosmotic and heat stress conditions. After screening stress-inducible and semi-extractable RNAs, hundreds of readthrough downstream-of-gene (DoG) transcripts over several hundreds of kilobases, many of which were not detected among RNAs prepared by the conventional extraction procedure, were found to be stress-inducible and semi-extractable. We further characterized some of the abundant DoGs and found that stress-inducible transient extension of the 3'-UTR made DoGs semi-extractable. Furthermore, they were localized in distinct nuclear foci that were sensitive to 1,6-hexanediol. These data suggest that semi-extractable DoGs exhibit arcRNA-like features and our semi-extractable RNA-seq is a powerful tool to extensively monitor DoGs that are induced under specific physiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junichi Iwakiri
- Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, University of Tokyo, Kashiwa 277-8562, Japan
| | - Kumiko Tanaka
- Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0815, Japan
| | - Takeshi Chujo
- Department of Molecular Physiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan
| | - Hiro Takakuwa
- Institute for Genetic Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0815, Japan
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Yamazaki
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Suita 565-0871, Japan
| | - Goro Terai
- Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, University of Tokyo, Kashiwa 277-8562, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Asai
- Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, University of Tokyo, Kashiwa 277-8562, Japan
| | - Tetsuro Hirose
- 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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26
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Wen H, Chen W, Chen Y, Wei G, Ni T. Integrative analysis of Iso-Seq and RNA-seq reveals dynamic changes of alternative promoter, alternative splicing and alternative polyadenylation during Angiotensin II-induced senescence in rat primary aortic endothelial cells. Front Genet 2023; 14:1064624. [PMID: 36741323 PMCID: PMC9892061 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1064624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
In eukaryotes, alternative promoter (AP), alternative splicing (AS), and alternative polyadenylation (APA) are three crucial regulatory mechanisms that modulate message RNA (mRNA) diversity. Although AP, AS and APA are involved in diverse biological processess, whether they have dynamic changes in Angiotensin II (Ang II) induced senescence in rat primary aortic endothelial cells (RAECs), an important cellular model for studying cardiovascular disease, remains unclear. Here we integrated both PacBio single-molecule long-read isoform sequencing (Iso-Seq) and Illumina short-read RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to analyze the changes of AP, AS and APA in Ang II-induced senescent RAECs. Iso-Seq generated 36,278 isoforms from 10,145 gene loci and 65.81% of these isoforms are novel, which were further cross-validated by public data obtained by other techonologies such as CAGE, PolyA-Seq and 3'READS. APA contributed most to novel isoforms, followed by AS and AP. Further investigation showed that AP, AS and APA could all contribute to the regulation of isoform, but AS has more dynamic changes compared to AP and APA upon Ang II stimulation. Genes undergoing AP, AS and APA in Ang II-treated cells are enriched in various pathways related to aging or senescence, suggesting that these molecular changes are involved in functional alterations during Ang II-induced senescence. Together, the present study largely improved the annotation of rat genome and revealed gene expression changes at isoform level, extending the understanding of the complexity of gene regulation in Ang II-treated RAECs, and also provided novel clues for discovering the regulatory mechanism undelying Ang II caused vascular senescence and diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haimei Wen
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, School of Life Sciences, Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, School of Life Sciences, Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Chen
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, School of Life Sciences, Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Gang Wei
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, School of Life Sciences, Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Ting Ni, ; Gang Wei,
| | - Ting Ni
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, School of Life Sciences, Human Phenome Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Ting Ni, ; Gang Wei,
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27
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Shah R, Gallardo CM, Jung YH, Clock B, Dixon JR, McFadden WM, Majumder K, Pintel DJ, Corces VG, Torbett BE, Tedbury PR, Sarafianos SG. Activation of HIV-1 proviruses increases downstream chromatin accessibility. iScience 2022; 25:105490. [PMID: 36505924 PMCID: PMC9732416 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
It is unclear how the activation of HIV-1 transcription affects chromatin structure. We interrogated chromatin organization both genome-wide and nearby HIV-1 integration sites using Hi-C and ATAC-seq. In conjunction, we analyzed the transcription of the HIV-1 genome and neighboring genes. We found that long-range chromatin contacts did not differ significantly between uninfected cells and those harboring an integrated HIV-1 genome, whether the HIV-1 genome was actively transcribed or inactive. Instead, the activation of HIV-1 transcription changes chromatin accessibility immediately downstream of the provirus, demonstrating that HIV-1 can alter local cellular chromatin structure. Finally, we examined HIV-1 and neighboring host gene transcripts with long-read sequencing and found populations of chimeric RNAs both virus-to-host and host-to-virus. Thus, multiomics profiling revealed that the activation of HIV-1 transcription led to local changes in chromatin organization and altered the expression of neighboring host genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raven Shah
- Laboratory of Biochemical Pharmacology, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Christian M. Gallardo
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Yoonhee H. Jung
- Department of Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Ben Clock
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Jesse R. Dixon
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - William M. McFadden
- Laboratory of Biochemical Pharmacology, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Kinjal Majumder
- Institute for Molecular Virology and McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - David J. Pintel
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | | | - Bruce E. Torbett
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Philip R. Tedbury
- Laboratory of Biochemical Pharmacology, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Stefan G. Sarafianos
- Laboratory of Biochemical Pharmacology, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
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28
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Friedel CC. Computational Integration of HSV-1 Multi-omics Data. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2610:31-48. [PMID: 36534279 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2895-9_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Functional genomics techniques based on next-generation sequencing provide new avenues for studying host responses to viral infections at multiple levels, including transcriptional and translational processes and chromatin organization. This chapter provides an overview on the computational integration of multiple types of "omics" data on lytic herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) infection. It summarizes methods developed and applied in two publications that combined 4sU-seq for studying de novo transcription, ribosome profiling for investigating active translation, RNA-seq of subcellular RNA fractions for determining subcellular location of transcripts, and ATAC-seq for profiling chromatin accessibility genome-wide. These studies revealed an unprecedented disruption of transcription termination in HSV-1 infection resulting in widespread read-through transcription beyond poly(A) sites for most but not all host genes. This impacts chromatin architecture by increasing chromatin accessibility selectively in downstream regions of affected genes. In this way, computational integration of multi-omics data identified novel and unsuspected mechanisms at play in lytic HSV-1 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline C Friedel
- Institute of Informatics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany.
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29
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Zhang Y, Li Y, Sun N, Tang H, Ye J, Liu Y, He Q, Fu Y, Zhu H, Jiang C, Xu J. NETosis is critical in patients with severe community-acquired pneumonia. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1051140. [PMID: 36466920 PMCID: PMC9709478 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1051140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Pneumonia is the fourth leading cause of death globally, and the reason for the high mortality rate of patients with severe community-acquired pneumonia (SCAP) remains elusive. Corticosteroid treatment reduces mortality in adults with SCAP but can cause numerous adverse events. Therefore, novel therapeutic targets need to be explored and new adjunctive immune drugs are urgently required. We analyzed the transcriptome data of peripheral blood leukocytes from patients with SCAP and healthy controls from three perspectives: differentially expressed genes, predicted functions of differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs, and transcriptional read-through. We discovered that the NETosis pathway was top-ranked in patients with SCAP caused by diverse kinds of pathogens. This provides a potential therapeutic strategy for treating patients. Furthermore, we calculated the correlation between the expression of genes involved in NETosis and the ratio of arterial oxygen partial pressure to fractional inspired oxygen. We identified four novel potential therapeutic targets for NETosis in patients with SCAP, including H4C15, H3-5, DNASE1, and PRKCB. In addition, a higher occurrence of transcriptional read-through is associated with a worse outcome in patients with SCAP, which probably can explain the high mortality rate of patients with SCAP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Zhang
- Emergency Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Li
- Emergency Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Na Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hanqi Tang
- Emergency Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Emergency Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Quan He
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yangyang Fu
- Emergency Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Huadong Zhu
- Emergency Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chengyu Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Emergency Department, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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30
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Hu W, Wu Y, Shi Q, Wu J, Kong D, Wu X, He X, Liu T, Li S. Systematic characterization of cancer transcriptome at transcript resolution. Nat Commun 2022; 13:6803. [PMID: 36357395 PMCID: PMC9649690 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-34568-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcribed RNAs undergo various regulation and modification to become functional transcripts. Notably, cancer transcriptome has not been fully characterized at transcript resolution. Herein, we carry out a reference-based transcript assembly across >1000 cancer cell lines. We identify 498,255 transcripts, approximately half of which are unannotated. Unannotated transcripts are closely associated with cancer-related hallmarks and show clinical significance. We build a high-confidence RNA binding protein (RBP)-transcript regulatory network, wherein most RBPs tend to regulate transcripts involved in cell proliferation. We identify numerous transcripts that are highly associated with anti-cancer drug sensitivity. Furthermore, we establish RBP-transcript-drug axes, wherein PTBP1 is experimentally validated to affect the sensitivity to decitabine by regulating KIAA1522-a6 transcript. Finally, we establish a user-friendly data portal to serve as a valuable resource for understanding cancer transcriptome diversity and its potential clinical utility at transcript level. Our study substantially extends cancer RNA repository and will facilitate anti-cancer drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Hu
- grid.16821.3c0000 0004 0368 8293Precision Research Center for Refractory Diseases, Institute for Clinical Research, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201620 China
| | - Yangjun Wu
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Gynecological Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Qili Shi
- grid.11841.3d0000 0004 0619 8943Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Jingni Wu
- grid.16821.3c0000 0004 0368 8293Precision Research Center for Refractory Diseases, Institute for Clinical Research, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201620 China
| | - Deping Kong
- grid.16821.3c0000 0004 0368 8293Precision Research Center for Refractory Diseases, Institute for Clinical Research, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201620 China
| | - Xiaohua Wu
- grid.452404.30000 0004 1808 0942Department of Gynecological Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Xianghuo He
- grid.11841.3d0000 0004 0619 8943Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032 China
| | - Teng Liu
- grid.16821.3c0000 0004 0368 8293Precision Research Center for Refractory Diseases, Institute for Clinical Research, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201620 China ,grid.440657.40000 0004 1762 5832Institute of Big Data and Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, School of Electronics and Information Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou, 318000 China
| | - Shengli Li
- grid.16821.3c0000 0004 0368 8293Precision Research Center for Refractory Diseases, Institute for Clinical Research, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201620 China
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31
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Hadar S, Meller A, Saida N, Shalgi R. Stress-induced transcriptional readthrough into neighboring genes is linked to intron retention. iScience 2022; 25:105543. [PMID: 36505935 PMCID: PMC9732411 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to certain stresses leads to readthrough transcription. Using polyA-selected RNA-seq in mouse fibroblasts subjected to heat shock, oxidative, or osmotic stress, we found that readthrough transcription can proceed into proximal downstream genes, in a phenomenon previously termed "read-in." We found that read-in genes share distinctive genomic characteristics; they are GC-rich and extremely short , with genomic features conserved in human. Using ribosome profiling, we found that read-in genes show significantly reduced translation. Strikingly, read-in genes demonstrate marked intron retention, mostly in their first introns, which could not be explained solely by their short introns and GC-richness, features often associated with intron retention. Finally, we revealed H3K36me3 enrichment upstream to read-in genes. Moreover, demarcation of exon-intron junctions by H3K36me3 was absent in read-in first introns. Our data portray a relationship between read-in and intron retention, suggesting they may have co-evolved to facilitate reduced translation of read-in genes during stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shani Hadar
- Department of Biochemistry, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion–Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 31096, Israel
| | - Anatoly Meller
- Department of Biochemistry, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion–Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 31096, Israel
| | - Naseeb Saida
- Department of Biochemistry, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion–Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 31096, Israel
| | - Reut Shalgi
- Department of Biochemistry, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion–Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa 31096, Israel,Corresponding author
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32
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Morgan M, Shiekhattar R, Shilatifard A, Lauberth SM. It's a DoG-eat-DoG world-altered transcriptional mechanisms drive downstream-of-gene (DoG) transcript production. Mol Cell 2022; 82:1981-1991. [PMID: 35487209 PMCID: PMC9208299 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The past decade has revolutionized our understanding of regulatory noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). Among the most recently identified ncRNAs are downstream-of-gene (DoG)-containing transcripts that are produced by widespread transcriptional readthrough. The discovery of DoGs has set the stage for future studies to address many unanswered questions regarding the mechanisms that promote readthrough transcription, RNA processing, and the cellular functions of the unique transcripts. In this review, we summarize current findings regarding the biogenesis, function, and mechanisms regulating this exciting new class of RNA molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Morgan
- Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Ramin Shiekhattar
- Department of Human Genetics, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Ali Shilatifard
- Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Shannon M Lauberth
- Simpson Querrey Institute for Epigenetics and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
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33
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Zhao Y, Huang F, Zou Z, Bi Y, Yang Y, Zhang C, Liu Q, Shang D, Yan Y, Ju X, Mei S, Xie P, Li X, Tian M, Tan S, Lu H, Han Z, Liu K, Zhang Y, Liang J, Liang Z, Zhang Q, Chang J, Liu WJ, Feng C, Li T, Zhang MQ, Wang X, Gao GF, Liu Y, Jin N, Jiang C. Avian influenza viruses suppress innate immunity by inducing trans-transcriptional readthrough via SSU72. Cell Mol Immunol 2022; 19:702-714. [PMID: 35332300 PMCID: PMC9151799 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-022-00843-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Innate immunity plays critical antiviral roles. The highly virulent avian influenza viruses (AIVs) H5N1, H7N9, and H5N6 can better escape host innate immune responses than the less virulent seasonal H1N1 virus. Here, we report a mechanism by which transcriptional readthrough (TRT)-mediated suppression of innate immunity occurs post AIV infection. By using cell lines, mouse lungs, and patient PBMCs, we showed that genes on the complementary strand (“trans” genes) influenced by TRT were involved in the disruption of host antiviral responses during AIV infection. The trans-TRT enhanced viral lethality, and TRT abolishment increased cell viability and STAT1/2 expression. The viral NS1 protein directly bound to SSU72, and degradation of SSU72 induced TRT. SSU72 overexpression reduced TRT and alleviated mouse lung injury. Our results suggest that AIVs infection induce TRT by reducing SSU72 expression, thereby impairing host immune responses, a molecular mechanism acting through the NS1-SSU72-trans-TRT-STAT1/2 axis. Thus, restoration of SSU72 expression might be a potential strategy for preventing AIV pandemics.
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34
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Sun Y, Li H. Chimeric RNAs Discovered by RNA Sequencing and Their Roles in Cancer and Rare Genetic Diseases. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13050741. [PMID: 35627126 PMCID: PMC9140685 DOI: 10.3390/genes13050741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Chimeric RNAs are transcripts that are generated by gene fusion and intergenic splicing events, thus comprising nucleotide sequences from different parental genes. In the past, Northern blot analysis and RT-PCR were used to detect chimeric RNAs. However, they are low-throughput and can be time-consuming, labor-intensive, and cost-prohibitive. With the development of RNA-seq and transcriptome analyses over the past decade, the number of chimeric RNAs in cancer as well as in rare inherited diseases has dramatically increased. Chimeric RNAs may be potential diagnostic biomarkers when they are specifically expressed in cancerous cells and/or tissues. Some chimeric RNAs can also play a role in cell proliferation and cancer development, acting as tools for cancer prognosis, and revealing new insights into the cell origin of tumors. Due to their abilities to characterize a whole transcriptome with a high sequencing depth and intergenically identify spliced chimeric RNAs produced with the absence of chromosomal rearrangement, RNA sequencing has not only enhanced our ability to diagnose genetic diseases, but also provided us with a deeper understanding of these diseases. Here, we reviewed the mechanisms of chimeric RNA formation and the utility of RNA sequencing for discovering chimeric RNAs in several types of cancer and rare inherited diseases. We also discussed the diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic values of chimeric RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunan Sun
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA;
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA;
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
- Correspondence:
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35
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Cugusi S, Mitter R, Kelly GP, Walker J, Han Z, Pisano P, Wierer M, Stewart A, Svejstrup JQ. Heat shock induces premature transcript termination and reconfigures the human transcriptome. Mol Cell 2022; 82:1573-1588.e10. [PMID: 35114099 PMCID: PMC9098121 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The heat shock (HS) response involves rapid induction of HS genes, whereas transcriptional repression is established more slowly at most other genes. Previous data suggested that such repression results from inhibition of RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) pause release, but here, we show that HS strongly affects other phases of the transcription cycle. Intriguingly, while elongation rates increase upon HS, processivity markedly decreases, so that RNAPII frequently fails to reach the end of genes. Indeed, HS results in widespread premature transcript termination at cryptic, intronic polyadenylation (IPA) sites near gene 5'-ends, likely via inhibition of U1 telescripting. This results in dramatic reconfiguration of the human transcriptome with production of new, previously unannotated, short mRNAs that accumulate in the nucleus. Together, these results shed new light on the basic transcription mechanisms induced by growth at elevated temperature and show that a genome-wide shift toward usage of IPA sites can occur under physiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Cugusi
- Mechanisms of Transcription Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Richard Mitter
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Gavin P Kelly
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Jane Walker
- Mechanisms of Transcription Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Zhong Han
- Mechanisms of Transcription Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Panum Institute, Blegdamsvej 3B, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Paola Pisano
- Proteomics Research Infrastructure, Panum Institute, Blegdamsvej 3B, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Michael Wierer
- Proteomics Research Infrastructure, Panum Institute, Blegdamsvej 3B, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
| | - Aengus Stewart
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Jesper Q Svejstrup
- Mechanisms of Transcription Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London NW1 1AT, UK; Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Panum Institute, Blegdamsvej 3B, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark.
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36
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Vijayakumar A, Park A, Steitz JA. Modulation of mRNA 3'-End Processing and Transcription Termination in Virus-Infected Cells. Front Immunol 2022; 13:828665. [PMID: 35222412 PMCID: PMC8866245 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.828665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Eukaryotic mRNA 3´-end processing is a multi-step process beginning with pre-mRNA transcript cleavage followed by poly(A) tail addition. Closely coupled to transcription termination, 3´-end processing is a critical step in the regulation of gene expression, and disruption of 3´-end processing is known to affect mature mRNA levels. Various viral proteins interfere with the 3´-end processing machinery, causing read-through transcription and altered levels of mature transcripts through inhibition of cleavage and polyadenylation. Thus, disruption of 3´-end processing contributes to widespread host shutoff, including suppression of the antiviral response. Additionally, observed features of read-through transcripts such as decreased polyadenylation, nuclear retention, and decreased translation suggest that viruses may utilize these mechanisms to modulate host protein production and dominate cellular machinery. The degree to which the effects of read-through transcript production are harnessed by viruses and host cells remains unclear, but existing research highlights the importance of host 3´-end processing modulation during viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aarthi Vijayakumar
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Annsea Park
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Joan A Steitz
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
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Nissani N, Ulitsky I. Unique features of transcription termination and initiation at closely spaced tandem human genes. Mol Syst Biol 2022; 18:e10682. [PMID: 35362230 PMCID: PMC8972054 DOI: 10.15252/msb.202110682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The synthesis of RNA polymerase II (Pol2) products, which include messenger RNAs or long noncoding RNAs, culminates in transcription termination. How the transcriptional termination of a gene impacts the activity of promoters found immediately downstream of it, and which can be subject to potential transcriptional interference, remains largely unknown. We examined in an unbiased manner the features of the intergenic regions between pairs of 'tandem genes'-closely spaced (< 2 kb) human genes found on the same strand. Intergenic regions separating tandem genes are enriched with guanines and are characterized by binding of several proteins, including AGO1 and AGO2 of the RNA interference pathway. Additionally, we found that Pol2 is particularly enriched in this region, and it is lost upon perturbations affecting splicing or transcriptional elongation. Perturbations of genes involved in Pol2 pausing and R loop biology preferentially affect expression of downstream genes in tandem gene pairs. Overall, we find that features associated with Pol2 pausing and accumulation rather than those associated with avoidance of transcriptional interference are the predominant driving force shaping short tandem intergenic regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noa Nissani
- Departments of Biological Regulation and Molecular NeuroscienceWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
| | - Igor Ulitsky
- Departments of Biological Regulation and Molecular NeuroscienceWeizmann Institute of ScienceRehovotIsrael
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38
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Rabenius A, Chandrakumaran S, Sistonen L, Vihervaara A. Quantifying RNA synthesis at rate-limiting steps of transcription using nascent RNA-sequencing data. STAR Protoc 2022; 3:101036. [PMID: 35036951 PMCID: PMC8749334 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2021.101036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Nascent RNA-sequencing tracks transcription at nucleotide resolution. The genomic distribution of engaged transcription complexes, in turn, uncovers functional genomic regions. Here, we provide analytical steps to (1) identify transcribed regulatory elements de novo genome-wide, (2) quantify engaged transcription complexes at enhancers, promoter-proximal regions, divergent transcripts, gene bodies, and termination windows, and (3) measure distribution of transcription machineries and regulatory proteins across functional genomic regions. This protocol tracks engaged transcription complexes across functional genomic regions demonstrated in human K562 erythroleukemia cells. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Vihervaara et al. (2021). Identification of transcribed regulatory elements de novo genome-wide Quantification of engaged transcription complexes at functional genomic regions Measuring distribution of transcription regulators across the functional genomic regions Revealing functional genomic regions from nascent transcription data
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelina Rabenius
- KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Department of Gene Technology, Science for Life Laboratory, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sajitha Chandrakumaran
- KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Department of Gene Technology, Science for Life Laboratory, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lea Sistonen
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Cell Biology, Åbo Akademi University, 20520 Turku, Finland.,Turku Bioscience Centre, University of Turku and Åbo Akademi University, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Anniina Vihervaara
- KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Department of Gene Technology, Science for Life Laboratory, Stockholm, Sweden
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39
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Rosa-Mercado NA, Steitz JA. Who let the DoGs out? - biogenesis of stress-induced readthrough transcripts. Trends Biochem Sci 2022; 47:206-217. [PMID: 34489151 PMCID: PMC8840951 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2021.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Readthrough transcription caused by inefficient 3'-end cleavage of nascent mRNAs has emerged as a hallmark of the mammalian cellular stress response and results in the production of long noncoding RNAs known as downstream-of-gene (DoG)-containing transcripts. DoGs arise from around 10% of human protein-coding genes and are retained in the nucleus. They are produced minutes after cell exposure to stress and can be detected hours after stress removal. However, their biogenesis and the role(s) that DoGs or their production play in the cellular stress response are incompletely understood. We discuss findings that implicate host and viral proteins in the mechanisms underlying DoG production, as well as the transcriptional landscapes that accompany DoG induction under different stress conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolle A Rosa-Mercado
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Joan A Steitz
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA.
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40
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Price AM, Steinbock RT, Di C, Hayer K, Li Y, Herrmann C, Parenti N, Whelan J, Weiss S, Weitzman M. Adenovirus prevents dsRNA formation by promoting efficient splicing of viral RNA. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:1201-1220. [PMID: 34671803 PMCID: PMC8860579 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Eukaryotic cells recognize intracellular pathogens through pattern recognition receptors, including sensors of aberrant nucleic acid structures. Sensors of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) are known to detect replication intermediates of RNA viruses. It has long been suggested that annealing of mRNA from symmetrical transcription of both top and bottom strands of DNA virus genomes can produce dsRNA during infection. Supporting this hypothesis, nearly all DNA viruses encode inhibitors of dsRNA-recognition pathways. However, direct evidence that DNA viruses produce dsRNA is lacking. Contrary to dogma, we show that the nuclear-replicating DNA virus adenovirus (AdV) does not produce detectable levels of dsRNA during infection. In contrast, abundant dsRNA is detected within the nucleus of cells infected with AdV mutants defective for viral RNA processing. In the presence of nuclear dsRNA, the cytoplasmic dsRNA sensor PKR is relocalized and activated within the nucleus. Accumulation of viral dsRNA occurs in the late phase of infection, when unspliced viral transcripts form intron/exon base pairs between top and bottom strand transcripts. We propose that DNA viruses actively limit dsRNA formation by promoting efficient splicing and mRNA processing, thus avoiding detection and restriction by host innate immune sensors of pathogenic nucleic acids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander M Price
- Division of Protective Immunity, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Robert T Steinbock
- Division of Protective Immunity, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Cell & Molecular Biology Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Chao Di
- Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Katharina E Hayer
- Department of Biomedical and Health Informatics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Yize Li
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Christin Herrmann
- Division of Protective Immunity, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Cell & Molecular Biology Graduate Group, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Nicholas A Parenti
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jillian N Whelan
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Susan R Weiss
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Matthew D Weitzman
- Division of Protective Immunity, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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41
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Characterization of influenza A virus induced transposons reveals a subgroup of transposons likely possessing the regulatory role as eRNAs. Sci Rep 2022; 12:2188. [PMID: 35140280 PMCID: PMC8828846 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06196-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Although many studies have observed genome-wide host transposon expression alteration during viral infection, the mechanisms of induction and the impact on the host remain unclear. Utilizing recently published influenza A virus (IAV) time series data and ENCODE functional genomics data, we characterized virus induced host differentially expressed transposons (virus-induced-TE) by investigating genome-wide spatial and functional relevance between the virus-induced-TEs and epigenomic markers (e.g. histone modification and chromatin remodelers). We found that a significant fraction of virus-induced-TEs are derived from host enhancer regions, where CHD4 binding and/or H3K27ac occupancy is high or H3K9me3 occupancy is low. By overlapping virus-induced-TEs to human enhancer RNAs (eRNAs), we discovered that a proportion of virus-induced-TEs are either eRNAs or part of enhancer RNAs. Upon further analysis of the eRNA targeted genes, we found that the virus-induced-TE related eRNA targets are overrepresented in differentially expressed host genes of IAV infected samples. Our results suggest that changing chromatin accessibility from repressive to permissive in the transposon docked enhancer regions to regulate host downstream gene expression is potentially one of the virus and host cell interaction mechanisms, where transposons are likely important regulatory genomic elements. Our study provides a new insight into the mechanisms of virus-host interaction and may lead to novel strategies for prevention and therapeutics of IAV and other virus infectious diseases.
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42
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Schärfen L, Zigackova D, Reimer KA, Stark MR, Slat VA, Francoeur NJ, Wells ML, Zhou L, Blackshear PJ, Neugebauer KM, Rader SD. Identification of Alternative Polyadenylation in Cyanidioschyzon merolae Through Long-Read Sequencing of mRNA. Front Genet 2022; 12:818697. [PMID: 35154260 PMCID: PMC8831791 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.818697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Alternative polyadenylation (APA) is widespread among metazoans and has been shown to have important impacts on mRNA stability and protein expression. Beyond a handful of well-studied organisms, however, its existence and consequences have not been well investigated. We therefore turned to the deep-branching red alga, Cyanidioschyzon merolae, to study the biology of polyadenylation in an organism highly diverged from humans and yeast. C. merolae is an acidothermophilic alga that lives in volcanic hot springs. It has a highly reduced genome (16.5 Mbp) and has lost all but 27 of its introns and much of its splicing machinery, suggesting that it has been under substantial pressure to simplify its RNA processing pathways. We used long-read sequencing to assess the key features of C. merolae mRNAs, including splicing status and polyadenylation cleavage site (PAS) usage. Splicing appears to be less efficient in C. merolae compared with yeast, flies, and mammalian cells. A high proportion of transcripts (63%) have at least two distinct PAS's, and 34% appear to utilize three or more sites. The apparent polyadenylation signal UAAA is used in more than 90% of cases, in cells grown in both rich media or limiting nitrogen. Our documentation of APA for the first time in this non-model organism highlights its conservation and likely biological importance of this regulatory step in gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonard Schärfen
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Dagmar Zigackova
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Kirsten A. Reimer
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Martha R. Stark
- Department of Chemistry, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada
| | - Viktor A. Slat
- Department of Chemistry, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada
| | - Nancy J. Francoeur
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Melissa L. Wells
- The Signal Transduction Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Lecong Zhou
- Integrative Bioinformatics Support Group, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Perry J. Blackshear
- The Signal Transduction Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Karla M. Neugebauer
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Stephen D. Rader
- Department of Chemistry, University of Northern British Columbia, Prince George, BC, Canada
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43
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Epigenomic signatures on paralogous genes reveal underappreciated universality of active histone codes adopted across animals. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:353-367. [PMID: 35035788 PMCID: PMC8741409 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2021.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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44
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Dasilva LF, Blumenthal E, Beckedorff F, Cingaram PR, Gomes Dos Santos H, Edupuganti RR, Zhang A, Dokaneheifard S, Aoi Y, Yue J, Kirstein N, Tayari MM, Shilatifard A, Shiekhattar R. Integrator enforces the fidelity of transcriptional termination at protein-coding genes. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:eabe3393. [PMID: 34730992 PMCID: PMC8565846 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abe3393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Integrator regulates the 3′-end processing and termination of multiple classes of noncoding RNAs. Depletion of INTS11, the catalytic subunit of Integrator, or ectopic expression of its catalytic dead enzyme impairs the 3′-end processing and termination of a set of protein-coding transcripts termed Integrator-regulated termination (IRT) genes. This defect is manifested by increased RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) readthrough and occupancy of serine-2 phosphorylated RNAPII, de novo trimethylation of lysine-36 on histone H3, and a compensatory elevation of the cleavage and polyadenylation (CPA) complex beyond the canonical polyadenylation sites. 3′ RNA sequencing reveals that proximal polyadenylation site usage relies on the endonuclease activity of INTS11. The DNA sequence encompassing the transcription end sites of IRT genes features downstream polyadenylation motifs and an enrichment of GC content that permits the formation of secondary structures within the 3′UTR. Together, this study identifies a subset of protein-coding transcripts whose 3′ end processing requires the Integrator complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Ferreira Dasilva
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1501 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Ezra Blumenthal
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1501 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program and Graduate Program in Cancer Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Felipe Beckedorff
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1501 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Pradeep Reddy Cingaram
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1501 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Helena Gomes Dos Santos
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1501 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Raghu Ram Edupuganti
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1501 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Anda Zhang
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1501 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Sadat Dokaneheifard
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1501 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Yuki Aoi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Jingyin Yue
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1501 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Nina Kirstein
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1501 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Mina Masoumeh Tayari
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1501 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136, USA
| | - Ali Shilatifard
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Ramin Shiekhattar
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, 1501 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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45
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Xu Z, Platig J, Lee S, Boueiz A, Chase R, Jain D, Gregory A, Suryadevara R, Berman S, Bowler R, Hersh CP, Laederach A, Castaldi PJ. Cigarette smoking-associated isoform switching and 3' UTR lengthening via alternative polyadenylation. Genomics 2021; 113:4184-4195. [PMID: 34763026 PMCID: PMC8722433 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2021.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Cigarette smoking induces a profound transcriptomic and systemic inflammatory response. Previous studies have focused on gene level differential expression of smoking, but the genome-wide effects of smoking on alternative isoform regulation have not yet been described. We conducted RNA sequencing in whole-blood samples of 454 current and 767 former smokers in the COPDGene Study, and we analyzed the effects of smoking on differential usage of isoforms and exons. At 10% FDR, we detected 3167 differentially expressed genes, 945 differentially used isoforms and 160 differentially used exons. Isoform switch analysis revealed widespread 3' UTR lengthening associated with cigarette smoking. The lengthening of these 3' UTRs was consistent with alternative usage of distal polyadenylation sites, and these extended 3' UTR regions were significantly enriched with functional sequence elements including microRNA and RNA-protein binding sites. These findings warrant further studies on alternative polyadenylation events as potential biomarkers and novel therapeutic targets for smoking-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonghui Xu
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - John Platig
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sool Lee
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Adel Boueiz
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rob Chase
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dhawal Jain
- Pulmonary Drug Discovery Laboratory, Bayer US LLC. Pharmaceuticals, Research & Development, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrew Gregory
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Seth Berman
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Russell Bowler
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, National Jewish Health, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Craig P Hersh
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alain Laederach
- Department of Biology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Peter J Castaldi
- Channing Division of Network Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Division of General Internal Medicine and Primary Care, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
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46
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Epi-Gene: An R-Package for Easy Pan-Genome Analysis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:5585586. [PMID: 34595238 PMCID: PMC8478537 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5585586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The main aim of this study was to develop a set of functions that can analyze the genomic data with less time consumption and memory. Epi-gene is presented as a solution to large sequence file handling and computational time problems. It uses less time and less programming skills in order to work with a large number of genomes. In the current study, some features of the Epi-gene R-package were described and illustrated by using a dataset of the 14 Aeromonas hydrophila genomes. The joining, relabeling, and conversion functions were also included in this package to handle the FASTA formatted sequences. To calculate the subsets of core genes, accessory genes, and unique genes, various Epi-gene functions have been used. Heat maps and phylogenetic genome trees were also constructed. This whole procedure was completed in less than 30 minutes. This package can only work on Windows operating systems. Different functions from other packages such as dplyr and ggtree were also used that were available in R computing environment.
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47
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Liu H, Moore CL. On the Cutting Edge: Regulation and Therapeutic Potential of the mRNA 3' End Nuclease. Trends Biochem Sci 2021; 46:772-784. [PMID: 33941430 PMCID: PMC8364479 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cleavage of nascent transcripts is a fundamental process for eukaryotic mRNA maturation and for the production of different mRNA isoforms. In eukaryotes, cleavage of mRNA precursors by the highly conserved endonuclease CPSF73 is critical for mRNA stability, export from the nucleus, and translation. As an essential enzyme in the cell, CPSF73 surprisingly shows promise as a drug target for specific cancers and for protozoan parasites. In this review, we cover our current understanding of CPSF73 in cleavage and polyadenylation, histone pre-mRNA processing, and transcription termination. We discuss the potential of CPSF73 as a target for novel therapeutics and highlight further research into the regulation of CPSF73 that will be critical to understanding its role in cancer and other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiyun Liu
- Department of Developmental, Molecular, and Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Claire L Moore
- Department of Developmental, Molecular, and Chemical Biology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
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48
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Abstract
Transcription termination is a critical stage for the production of legitimate mRNAs, and consequently functional proteins. However, the transcription machinery can ignore the stop signs and continue elongating beyond gene boundaries, invading downstream neighboring genes. Such phenomenon, designated transcription readthrough, can trigger the expression of pseudogenes usually silenced or lacking the proper regulatory signals. Due to the sequence similarity to parental genes, readthrough transcribed pseudogenes can regulate relevant protein-coding genes and impact biological functions. Here, we describe a computational pipeline that employs already existent bioinformatic tools to detect readthrough transcribed pseudogenes from expression profiles. We also unveil that combining strand-specific transcriptome data and epigenetic profiles can enhance and corroborate the results. By applying such approach to renal cancer biopsies, we show that pseudogenes can be readthrough transcribed as part of unspliced transcripts or processed RNA chimeras. Overall, our pipeline allows us to scrutinize transcriptome profiles to detect a diversity of readthrough events leading to expression of pseudogenes.
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Muniz L, Nicolas E, Trouche D. RNA polymerase II speed: a key player in controlling and adapting transcriptome composition. EMBO J 2021; 40:e105740. [PMID: 34254686 PMCID: PMC8327950 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2020105740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA polymerase II (RNA Pol II) speed or elongation rate, i.e., the number of nucleotides synthesized per unit of time, is a major determinant of transcriptome composition. It controls co-transcriptional processes such as splicing, polyadenylation, and transcription termination, thus regulating the production of alternative splice variants, circular RNAs, alternatively polyadenylated transcripts, or read-through transcripts. RNA Pol II speed itself is regulated in response to intra- and extra-cellular stimuli and can in turn affect the transcriptome composition in response to these stimuli. Evidence points to a potentially important role of transcriptome composition modification through RNA Pol II speed regulation for adaptation of cells to a changing environment, thus pointing to a function of RNA Pol II speed regulation in cellular physiology. Analyzing RNA Pol II speed dynamics may therefore be central to fully understand the regulation of physiological processes, such as the development of multicellular organisms. Recent findings also raise the possibility that RNA Pol II speed deregulation can be detrimental and participate in disease progression. Here, we review initial and current approaches to measure RNA Pol II speed, as well as providing an overview of the factors controlling speed and the co-transcriptional processes which are affected. Finally, we discuss the role of RNA Pol II speed regulation in cell physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Muniz
- MCDCentre de Biologie Integrative (CBI)CNRSUPSUniversity of ToulouseToulouseFrance
| | - Estelle Nicolas
- MCDCentre de Biologie Integrative (CBI)CNRSUPSUniversity of ToulouseToulouseFrance
| | - Didier Trouche
- MCDCentre de Biologie Integrative (CBI)CNRSUPSUniversity of ToulouseToulouseFrance
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Weinhouse C. The roles of inducible chromatin and transcriptional memory in cellular defense system responses to redox-active pollutants. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 170:85-108. [PMID: 33789123 PMCID: PMC8382302 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
People are exposed to wide range of redox-active environmental pollutants. Air pollution, heavy metals, pesticides, and endocrine disrupting chemicals can disrupt cellular redox status. Redox-active pollutants in our environment all trigger their own sets of specific cellular responses, but they also activate a common set of general stress responses that buffer the cell against homeostatic insults. These cellular defense system (CDS) pathways include the heat shock response, the oxidative stress response, the hypoxia response, the unfolded protein response, the DNA damage response, and the general stress response mediated by the stress-activated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase. Over the past two decades, the field of environmental epigenetics has investigated epigenetic responses to environmental pollutants, including redox-active pollutants. Studies of these responses highlight the role of chromatin modifications in controlling the transcriptional response to pollutants and the role of transcriptional memory, often referred to as "epigenetic reprogramming", in predisposing previously exposed individuals to more potent transcriptional responses on secondary challenge. My central thesis in this review is that high dose or chronic exposure to redox-active pollutants leads to transcriptional memories at CDS target genes that influence the cell's ability to mount protective responses. To support this thesis, I will: (1) summarize the known chromatin features required for inducible gene activation; (2) review the known forms of transcriptional memory; (3) discuss the roles of inducible chromatin and transcriptional memory in CDS responses that are activated by redox-active environmental pollutants; and (4) propose a conceptual framework for CDS pathway responsiveness as a readout of total cellular exposure to redox-active pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caren Weinhouse
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, 97214, USA.
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