1
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Wen X, Xu H, Woolley PR, Conway OM, Yao J, Matouschek A, Lambowitz AM, Paull TT. Senataxin deficiency disrupts proteostasis through nucleolar ncRNA-driven protein aggregation. J Cell Biol 2024; 223:e202309036. [PMID: 38717338 PMCID: PMC11080644 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202309036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Senataxin is an evolutionarily conserved RNA-DNA helicase involved in DNA repair and transcription termination that is associated with human neurodegenerative disorders. Here, we investigated whether Senataxin loss affects protein homeostasis based on previous work showing R-loop-driven accumulation of DNA damage and protein aggregates in human cells. We find that Senataxin loss results in the accumulation of insoluble proteins, including many factors known to be prone to aggregation in neurodegenerative disorders. These aggregates are located primarily in the nucleolus and are promoted by upregulation of non-coding RNAs expressed from the intergenic spacer region of ribosomal DNA. We also map sites of R-loop accumulation in human cells lacking Senataxin and find higher RNA-DNA hybrids within the ribosomal DNA, peri-centromeric regions, and other intergenic sites but not at annotated protein-coding genes. These findings indicate that Senataxin loss affects the solubility of the proteome through the regulation of transcription-dependent lesions in the nucleus and the nucleolus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemei Wen
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Hengyi Xu
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Phillip R. Woolley
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Olivia M. Conway
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Jun Yao
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Andreas Matouschek
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Alan M. Lambowitz
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Department of Oncology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Tanya T. Paull
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Department of Oncology, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
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2
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Xu Y, Jiao Y, Liu C, Miao R, Liu C, Wang Y, Ma C, Liu J. R-loop and diseases: the cell cycle matters. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:84. [PMID: 38678239 PMCID: PMC11055327 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-02000-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The cell cycle is a crucial biological process that is involved in cell growth, development, and reproduction. It can be divided into G1, S, G2, and M phases, and each period is closely regulated to ensure the production of two similar daughter cells with the same genetic material. However, many obstacles influence the cell cycle, including the R-loop that is formed throughout this process. R-loop is a triple-stranded structure, composed of an RNA: DNA hybrid and a single DNA strand, which is ubiquitous in organisms from bacteria to mammals. The existence of the R-loop has important significance for the regulation of various physiological processes. However, aberrant accumulation of R-loop due to its limited resolving ability will be detrimental for cells. For example, DNA damage and genomic instability, caused by the R-loop, can activate checkpoints in the cell cycle, which in turn induce cell cycle arrest and cell death. At present, a growing number of factors have been proven to prevent or eliminate the accumulation of R-loop thereby avoiding DNA damage and mutations. Therefore, we need to gain detailed insight into the R-loop resolution factors at different stages of the cell cycle. In this review, we review the current knowledge of factors that play a role in resolving the R-loop at different stages of the cell cycle, as well as how mutations of these factors lead to the onset and progression of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqin Xu
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China
| | - Yue Jiao
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China
| | - Chengbin Liu
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China
| | - Rui Miao
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China
| | - Chunyan Liu
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China
| | - Yilong Wang
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China
| | - Chunming Ma
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China
| | - Jiao Liu
- School of Basic Medicine Sciences, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, 261053, China.
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3
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Giannini M, Porrua O. Senataxin: A key actor in RNA metabolism, genome integrity and neurodegeneration. Biochimie 2024; 217:10-19. [PMID: 37558082 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
The RNA/DNA helicase senataxin (SETX) has been involved in multiple crucial processes related to genome expression and integrity such us transcription termination, the regulation of transcription-replication conflicts and the resolution of R-loops. SETX has been the focus of numerous studies since the discovery that mutations in its coding gene are the root cause of two different neurodegenerative diseases: Ataxia with Oculomotor Apraxia type 2 (AOA2) and a juvenile form of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS4). A plethora of cellular phenotypes have been described as the result of SETX deficiency, yet the precise molecular function of SETX as well as the molecular pathways leading from SETX mutations to AOA2 and ALS4 pathologies have remained unclear. However, recent data have shed light onto the biochemical activities and biological roles of SETX, thus providing new clues to understand the molecular consequences of SETX mutation. In this review we summarize near two decades of scientific effort to elucidate SETX function, we discuss strengths and limitations of the approaches and models used thus far to investigate SETX-associated diseases and suggest new possible research avenues for the study of AOA2 and ALS4 pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Giannini
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Odil Porrua
- Institut de Génétique Moléculaire de Montpellier, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France.
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4
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Rivosecchi J, Cusanelli E. TERRA beyond cancer: the biology of telomeric repeat-containing RNAs in somatic and germ cells. FRONTIERS IN AGING 2023; 4:1224225. [PMID: 37636218 PMCID: PMC10448526 DOI: 10.3389/fragi.2023.1224225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
The telomeric noncoding RNA TERRA is a key component of telomeres and it is widely expressed in normal as well as cancer cells. In the last 15 years, several publications have shed light on the role of TERRA in telomere homeostasis and cell survival in cancer cells. However, only few studies have investigated the regulation or the functions of TERRA in normal tissues. A better understanding of the biology of TERRA in non-cancer cells may provide unexpected insights into how these lncRNAs are transcribed and operate in cells, and their potential role in physiological processes, such as aging, age-related pathologies, inflammatory processes and human genetic diseases. In this review we aim to discuss the findings that have advanced our understanding of the biology of TERRA using non-cancer mammalian cells as a model system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julieta Rivosecchi
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology—CIBIO, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
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5
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Zhao Y, Simon M, Seluanov A, Gorbunova V. DNA damage and repair in age-related inflammation. Nat Rev Immunol 2023; 23:75-89. [PMID: 35831609 PMCID: PMC10106081 DOI: 10.1038/s41577-022-00751-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Genomic instability is an important driver of ageing. The accumulation of DNA damage is believed to contribute to ageing by inducing cell death, senescence and tissue dysfunction. However, emerging evidence shows that inflammation is another major consequence of DNA damage. Inflammation is a hallmark of ageing and the driver of multiple age-related diseases. Here, we review the evidence linking DNA damage, inflammation and ageing, highlighting how premature ageing syndromes are associated with inflammation. We discuss the mechanisms by which DNA damage induces inflammation, such as through activation of the cGAS-STING axis and NF-κB activation by ATM. The triggers for activation of these signalling cascades are the age-related accumulation of DNA damage, activation of transposons, cellular senescence and the accumulation of persistent R-loops. We also discuss how epigenetic changes triggered by DNA damage can lead to inflammation and ageing via redistribution of heterochromatin factors. Finally, we discuss potential interventions against age-related inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Zhao
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA.,Department of Physiology, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Matthew Simon
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Andrei Seluanov
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA. .,Department of Medicine, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA.
| | - Vera Gorbunova
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA. .,Department of Medicine, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA.
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6
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Laverde EE, Polyzos AA, Tsegay PP, Shaver M, Hutcheson JD, Balakrishnan L, McMurray CT, Liu Y. Flap Endonuclease 1 Endonucleolytically Processes RNA to Resolve R-Loops through DNA Base Excision Repair. Genes (Basel) 2022; 14:genes14010098. [PMID: 36672839 PMCID: PMC9859040 DOI: 10.3390/genes14010098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Flap endonuclease 1 (FEN1) is an essential enzyme that removes RNA primers and base lesions during DNA lagging strand maturation and long-patch base excision repair (BER). It plays a crucial role in maintaining genome stability and integrity. FEN1 is also implicated in RNA processing and biogenesis. A recent study from our group has shown that FEN1 is involved in trinucleotide repeat deletion by processing the RNA strand in R-loops through BER, further suggesting that the enzyme can modulate genome stability by facilitating the resolution of R-loops. However, it remains unknown how FEN1 can process RNA to resolve an R-loop. In this study, we examined the FEN1 cleavage activity on the RNA:DNA hybrid intermediates generated during DNA lagging strand processing and BER in R-loops. We found that both human and yeast FEN1 efficiently cleaved an RNA flap in the intermediates using its endonuclease activity. We further demonstrated that FEN1 was recruited to R-loops in normal human fibroblasts and senataxin-deficient (AOA2) fibroblasts, and its R-loop recruitment was significantly increased by oxidative DNA damage. We showed that FEN1 specifically employed its endonucleolytic cleavage activity to remove the RNA strand in an R-loop during BER. We found that FEN1 coordinated its DNA and RNA endonucleolytic cleavage activity with the 3'-5' exonuclease of APE1 to resolve the R-loop. Our results further suggest that FEN1 employed its unique tracking mechanism to endonucleolytically cleave the RNA strand in an R-loop by coordinating with other BER enzymes and cofactors during BER. Our study provides the first evidence that FEN1 endonucleolytic cleavage can result in the resolution of R-loops via the BER pathway, thereby maintaining genome integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo E. Laverde
- Biochemistry Ph.D. Program, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Aris A. Polyzos
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Pawlos P. Tsegay
- Biochemistry Ph.D. Program, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Mohammad Shaver
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Joshua D. Hutcheson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
| | - Lata Balakrishnan
- Department of Biology, Indiana-Purdue University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Cynthia T. McMurray
- Molecular Biophysics and Integrated Bioimaging, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Yuan Liu
- Biochemistry Ph.D. Program, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
- Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA
- Correspondence:
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7
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Thada V, Greenberg RA. Unpaved roads: How the DNA damage response navigates endogenous genotoxins. DNA Repair (Amst) 2022; 118:103383. [PMID: 35939975 PMCID: PMC9703833 DOI: 10.1016/j.dnarep.2022.103383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Accurate DNA repair is essential for cellular and organismal homeostasis, and DNA repair defects result in genetic diseases and cancer predisposition. Several environmental factors, such as ultraviolet light, damage DNA, but many other molecules with DNA damaging potential are byproducts of normal cellular processes. In this review, we highlight some of the prominent sources of endogenous DNA damage as well as their mechanisms of repair, with a special focus on repair by the homologous recombination and Fanconi anemia pathways. We also discuss how modulating DNA damage caused by endogenous factors may augment current approaches used to treat BRCA-deficient cancers. Finally, we describe how synthetic lethal interactions may be exploited to exacerbate DNA repair deficiencies and cause selective toxicity in additional types of cancers.
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8
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Jauregui-Lozano J, Cottingham K, Hall H. Tissue-Specific, Genome-wide Mapping of R-loops in Drosophila Using MapR. Bio Protoc 2022; 12:e4516. [PMID: 36248608 PMCID: PMC9516225 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.4516] [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: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
R-loops, or RNA:DNA hybrids, are structures that arise co-transcriptionally when a nascent RNA hybridizes back with the template ssDNA, leading to a displaced ssDNA. Because accumulation of R-loops can lead to genomic instability and loss of cellular homeostasis, it is important to determine the genome-wide distribution of R-loops in different physiological conditions. Current R-loop mapping strategies are based on R-loop enrichment-mediated by the S9.6 antibody, such as DRIP-seq, or by the exonuclease RNase H1, such as MapR-or the latest R-loop CUT&Tag, based on an artificial R-loop sensor derived from an RNase H1 sub-domain. Because some of these techniques often require high input material or expensive reagents, we sought to apply MapR, which does not require expensive reagents and has been shown to be compatible with low input samples. Importantly, we demonstrate that incorporation of improved CUT&RUN steps into the MapR protocol yields R-loop-enriched DNA when using low input Drosophila nuclei. Graphical abstract: Workflow for mapping tissue-specific, genome-wide R-loops in Drosophila . Purify GST-tagged and catalytically inactive RNase H1 tethered MapR enzymes, GST-ΔRH-MNase, and GST-MNase, from transformed E. coli. Perform tissue-specific nuclei immuno-enrichment from UAS-EGFP.KASH-Msp300 Drosophila using magnetic bead-bound green fluorescent protein (GFP) antibody. Incubate isolated nuclei with MapR enzymes and activate MNase DNA cleavage with low salt/high calcium buffers. Purify released, R-loopenriched DNA fragments and generate sequencing-ready libraries. Align MapR data to reference genome and compare R-loop enrichment peaks in genome browser.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Jauregui-Lozano
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
,
*For correspondence:
;
| | | | - Hana Hall
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
,
Purdue Institute for Integrative Neuroscience, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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9
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Petermann E, Lan L, Zou L. Sources, resolution and physiological relevance of R-loops and RNA-DNA hybrids. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2022; 23:521-540. [PMID: 35459910 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-022-00474-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
RNA-DNA hybrids are generated during transcription, DNA replication and DNA repair and are crucial intermediates in these processes. When RNA-DNA hybrids are stably formed in double-stranded DNA, they displace one of the DNA strands and give rise to a three-stranded structure called an R-loop. R-loops are widespread in the genome and are enriched at active genes. R-loops have important roles in regulating gene expression and chromatin structure, but they also pose a threat to genomic stability, especially during DNA replication. To keep the genome stable, cells have evolved a slew of mechanisms to prevent aberrant R-loop accumulation. Although R-loops can cause DNA damage, they are also induced by DNA damage and act as key intermediates in DNA repair such as in transcription-coupled repair and RNA-templated DNA break repair. When the regulation of R-loops goes awry, pathological R-loops accumulate, which contributes to diseases such as neurodegeneration and cancer. In this Review, we discuss the current understanding of the sources of R-loops and RNA-DNA hybrids, mechanisms that suppress and resolve these structures, the impact of these structures on DNA repair and genome stability, and opportunities to therapeutically target pathological R-loops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Petermann
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Birmingham Centre for Genome Biology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Li Lan
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lee Zou
- Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA.
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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10
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Cuartas J, Gangwani L. R-loop Mediated DNA Damage and Impaired DNA Repair in Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Front Cell Neurosci 2022; 16:826608. [PMID: 35783101 PMCID: PMC9243258 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.826608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Defects in DNA repair pathways are a major cause of DNA damage accumulation leading to genomic instability and neurodegeneration. Efficient DNA damage repair is critical to maintain genomicstability and support cell function and viability. DNA damage results in the activation of cell death pathways, causing neuronal death in an expanding spectrum of neurological disorders, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson’s disease (PD), Alzheimer’s disease (AD), and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). SMA is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by mutations in the Survival Motor Neuron 1 (SMN1) gene. SMA is characterized by the degeneration of spinal cord motor neurons due to low levels of the SMN protein. The molecular mechanism of selective motor neuron degeneration in SMA was unclear for about 20 years. However, several studies have identified biochemical and molecular mechanisms that may contribute to the predominant degeneration of motor neurons in SMA, including the RhoA/ROCK, the c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK), and p53-mediated pathways, which are involved in mediating DNA damage-dependent cell death. Recent studies provided insight into selective degeneration of motor neurons, which might be caused by accumulation of R-loop-mediated DNA damage and impaired non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) DNA repair pathway leading to genomic instability. Here, we review the latest findings involving R-loop-mediated DNA damage and defects in neuron-specific DNA repair mechanisms in SMA and discuss these findings in the context of other neurodegenerative disorders linked to DNA damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Cuartas
- Center of Emphasis in Neurosciences, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX, United States
| | - Laxman Gangwani
- Center of Emphasis in Neurosciences, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX, United States
- Francis Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Laxman Gangwani
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11
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Brickner JR, Garzon JL, Cimprich KA. Walking a tightrope: The complex balancing act of R-loops in genome stability. Mol Cell 2022; 82:2267-2297. [PMID: 35508167 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2022.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Although transcription is an essential cellular process, it is paradoxically also a well-recognized cause of genomic instability. R-loops, non-B DNA structures formed when nascent RNA hybridizes to DNA to displace the non-template strand as single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), are partially responsible for this instability. Yet, recent work has begun to elucidate regulatory roles for R-loops in maintaining the genome. In this review, we discuss the cellular contexts in which R-loops contribute to genomic instability, particularly during DNA replication and double-strand break (DSB) repair. We also summarize the evidence that R-loops participate as an intermediate during repair and may influence pathway choice to preserve genomic integrity. Finally, we discuss the immunogenic potential of R-loops and highlight their links to disease should they become pathogenic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua R Brickner
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jada L Garzon
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Karlene A Cimprich
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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12
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Kanagaraj R, Mitter R, Kantidakis T, Edwards MM, Benitez A, Chakravarty P, Fu B, Becherel O, Yang F, Lavin MF, Koren A, Stewart A, West SC. Integrated genome and transcriptome analyses reveal the mechanism of genome instability in ataxia with oculomotor apraxia 2. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2114314119. [PMID: 35042798 PMCID: PMC8795503 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2114314119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutations in the SETX gene, which encodes Senataxin, are associated with the progressive neurodegenerative diseases ataxia with oculomotor apraxia 2 (AOA2) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis 4 (ALS4). To identify the causal defect in AOA2, patient-derived cells and SETX knockouts (human and mouse) were analyzed using integrated genomic and transcriptomic approaches. A genome-wide increase in chromosome instability (gains and losses) within genes and at chromosome fragile sites was observed, resulting in changes to gene-expression profiles. Transcription stress near promoters correlated with high GCskew and the accumulation of R-loops at promoter-proximal regions, which localized with chromosomal regions where gains and losses were observed. In the absence of Senataxin, the Cockayne syndrome protein CSB was required for the recruitment of the transcription-coupled repair endonucleases (XPG and XPF) and RAD52 recombination protein to target and resolve transcription bubbles containing R-loops, leading to genomic instability. These results show that transcription stress is an important contributor to SETX mutation-associated chromosome fragility and AOA2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radhakrishnan Kanagaraj
- DNA Recombination and Repair Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, United Kingdom;
| | - Richard Mitter
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, United Kingdom
| | | | - Matthew M Edwards
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - Anaid Benitez
- DNA Recombination and Repair Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, United Kingdom
| | - Probir Chakravarty
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, United Kingdom
| | - Beiyuan Fu
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Cambridge CB10 1SA, United Kingdom
| | - Olivier Becherel
- Center for Clinical Research, University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia
| | - Fengtang Yang
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Cambridge CB10 1SA, United Kingdom
| | - Martin F Lavin
- Center for Clinical Research, University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia
| | - Amnon Koren
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - Aengus Stewart
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen C West
- DNA Recombination and Repair Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London NW1 1AT, United Kingdom;
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13
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Kannan A, Cuartas J, Gangwani P, Branzei D, Gangwani L. Mutation in senataxin alters the mechanism of R-loop resolution in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis 4. Brain 2022; 145:3072-3094. [PMID: 35045161 PMCID: PMC9536298 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awab464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Mutation in the senataxin (SETX) gene causes an autosomal dominant neuromuscular disorder, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis 4 (ALS4), characterized by degeneration of motor neurons, muscle weakness and atrophy. SETX is an RNA-DNA helicase that mediates resolution of co-transcriptional RNA:DNA hybrids (R-loops). The process of R-loop resolution is essential for the normal functioning of cells, including neurons. The molecular basis of ALS4 pathogenesis and the mechanism of R-loop resolution are unclear. We report that the zinc finger protein ZPR1 binds to RNA:DNA hybrids, recruits SETX onto R-loops and is critical for R-loop resolution. ZPR1 deficiency disrupts the integrity of R-loop resolution complexes containing SETX and causes increased R-loop accumulation throughout gene transcription. We uncover that SETX is a downstream target of ZPR1 and that overexpression of ZPR1 can rescue R-loop resolution complexe assembly in SETX-deficient cells but not vice versa. To uncover the mechanism of R-loop resolution, we examined the function of SETX-ZPR1 complexes using two genetic motor neuron disease models with altered R-loop resolution. Notably, chronic low levels of SETX-ZPR1 complexes onto R-loops result in a decrease of R-loop resolution activity causing an increase in R-loop levels in spinal muscular atrophy. ZPR1 overexpression increases recruitment of SETX onto R-loops, decreases R-loops and rescues the spinal muscular atrophy phenotype in motor neurons and patient cells. Strikingly, interaction of SETX with ZPR1 is disrupted in ALS4 patients that have heterozygous SETX (L389S) mutation. ZPR1 fails to recruit the mutant SETX homodimer but recruits the heterodimer with partially disrupted interaction between SETX and ZPR1. Interestingly, disruption of SETX-ZPR1 complexes causes increase in R-loop resolution activity leading to fewer R-loops in ALS4. Modulation of ZPR1 levels regulates R-loop accumulation and rescues the pathogenic R-loop phenotype in ALS4 patient cells. These findings originate a new concept, ‘opposite alterations in a cell biological activity (R-loop resolution) result in similar pathogenesis (neurodegeneration) in different genetic motor neuron disorders’. We propose that ZPR1 collaborates with SETX and may function as a molecular brake to regulate SETX-dependent R-loop resolution activity critical for the normal functioning of motor neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annapoorna Kannan
- Center of Emphasis in Neurosciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, Texas 79905, USA
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, Texas 79905, USA
| | - Juliana Cuartas
- Center of Emphasis in Neurosciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, Texas 79905, USA
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, Texas 79905, USA
| | - Pratik Gangwani
- Automated Driving Compute System Architecture, GM Global Technical Center - Sloan Engineering Center, Warren, Michigan 48092, USA
| | - Dana Branzei
- The FIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology Foundation, IFOM Foundation, Via Adamello 16, Milan 20139, Italy
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (IGM-CNR), Via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Laxman Gangwani
- Center of Emphasis in Neurosciences, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, Texas 79905, USA
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, Texas 79905, USA
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14
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Rinaldi C, Pizzul P, Longhese MP, Bonetti D. Sensing R-Loop-Associated DNA Damage to Safeguard Genome Stability. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 8:618157. [PMID: 33505970 PMCID: PMC7829580 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.618157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA transcription and replication are two essential physiological processes that can turn into a threat for genome integrity when they compete for the same DNA substrate. During transcription, the nascent RNA strongly binds the template DNA strand, leading to the formation of a peculiar RNA-DNA hybrid structure that displaces the non-template single-stranded DNA. This three-stranded nucleic acid transition is called R-loop. Although a programed formation of R-loops plays important physiological functions, these structures can turn into sources of DNA damage and genome instability when their homeostasis is altered. Indeed, both R-loop level and distribution in the genome are tightly controlled, and the list of factors involved in these regulatory mechanisms is continuously growing. Over the last years, our knowledge of R-loop homeostasis regulation (formation, stabilization, and resolution) has definitely increased. However, how R-loops affect genome stability and how the cellular response to their unscheduled formation is orchestrated are still not fully understood. In this review, we will report and discuss recent findings about these questions and we will focus on the role of ATM- and Rad3-related (ATR) and Ataxia-telangiectasia-mutated (ATM) kinases in the activation of an R-loop-dependent DNA damage response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Rinaldi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università di Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Pizzul
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università di Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Longhese
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università di Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Diego Bonetti
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università di Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
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15
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16
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Laverde EE, Lai Y, Leng F, Balakrishnan L, Freudenreich CH, Liu Y. R-loops promote trinucleotide repeat deletion through DNA base excision repair enzymatic activities. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:13902-13913. [PMID: 32763971 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.014161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Trinucleotide repeat (TNR) expansion and deletion are responsible for over 40 neurodegenerative diseases and associated with cancer. TNRs can undergo somatic instability that is mediated by DNA damage and repair and gene transcription. Recent studies have pointed toward a role for R-loops in causing TNR expansion and deletion, and it has been shown that base excision repair (BER) can result in CAG repeat deletion from R-loops in yeast. However, it remains unknown how BER in R-loops can mediate TNR instability. In this study, using biochemical approaches, we examined BER enzymatic activities and their influence on TNR R-loops. We found that AP endonuclease 1 incised an abasic site on the nontemplate strand of a TNR R-loop, creating a double-flap intermediate containing an RNA:DNA hybrid that subsequently inhibited polymerase β (pol β) synthesis of TNRs. This stimulated flap endonuclease 1 (FEN1) cleavage of TNRs engaged in an R-loop. Moreover, we showed that FEN1 also efficiently cleaved the RNA strand, facilitating pol β loop/hairpin bypass synthesis and the resolution of TNR R-loops through BER. Consequently, this resulted in fewer TNRs synthesized by pol β than those removed by FEN1, thereby leading to repeat deletion. Our results indicate that TNR R-loops preferentially lead to repeat deletion during BER by disrupting the balance between the addition and removal of TNRs. Our discoveries open a new avenue for the treatment and prevention of repeat expansion diseases and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo E Laverde
- Biochemistry Ph.D. Program, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Yanhao Lai
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Fenfei Leng
- Biochemistry Ph.D. Program, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA; Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Lata Balakrishnan
- Department of Biology, Indiana Purdue University Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | | | - Yuan Liu
- Biochemistry Ph.D. Program, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA; Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA; Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, Florida, USA.
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17
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Proukakis C. Somatic mutations in neurodegeneration: An update. Neurobiol Dis 2020; 144:105021. [PMID: 32712267 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2020.105021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Revised: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mosaicism, the presence of genomic differences between cells due to post-zygotic somatic mutations, is widespread in the human body, including within the brain. A role for this in neurodegenerative diseases has long been hypothesised, and technical developments are now allowing the question to be addressed in detail. The rapidly accumulating evidence is discussed in this review, with a focus on recent developments. Somatic mutations of numerous types may occur, including single nucleotide variants (SNVs), copy number variants (CNVs), and retrotransposon insertions. They could act as initiators or risk factors, especially if they arise in development, although they could also result from the disease process, potentially contributing to progression. In common sporadic neurodegenerative disorders, relevant mutations have been reported in synucleinopathies, comprising somatic gains of SNCA in Parkinson's disease and multiple system atrophy, and in Alzheimer's disease, where a novel recombination mechanism leading to somatic variants of APP, as well as an excess of somatic SNVs affecting tau phosphorylation, have been reported. In Mendelian repeat expansion disorders, mosaicism due to somatic instability, first detected 25 years ago, has come to the forefront. Brain somatic SNVs occur in DNA repair disorders, and there is evidence for a role of several ALS genes in DNA repair. While numerous challenges, and need for further validation, remain, this new, or perhaps rediscovered, area of research has the potential to transform our understanding of neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos Proukakis
- Department of Clinical and Movement Neurosciences, Queen Square Institute of Neurology, University College London, London, UK.
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18
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Brambati A, Zardoni L, Nardini E, Pellicioli A, Liberi G. The dark side of RNA:DNA hybrids. MUTATION RESEARCH-REVIEWS IN MUTATION RESEARCH 2020; 784:108300. [PMID: 32430097 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2020.108300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
RNA:DNA hybrids form when nascent transcripts anneal to the DNA template strand or any homologous DNA region. Co-transcriptional RNA:DNA hybrids, organized in R-loop structures together with the displaced non-transcribed strand, assist gene expression, DNA repair and other physiological cellular functions. A dark side of the matter is that RNA:DNA hybrids are also a cause of DNA damage and human diseases. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the understanding of the mechanisms by which the impairment of hybrid turnover promotes DNA damage and genome instability via the interference with DNA replication and DNA double-strand break repair. We also discuss how hybrids could contribute to cancer, neurodegeneration and susceptibility to viral infections, focusing on dysfunctions associated with the anti-R-loop helicase Senataxin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Brambati
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza, CNR, Via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Luca Zardoni
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza, CNR, Via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100, Pavia, Italy; Scuola Universitaria Superiore, IUSS, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Eleonora Nardini
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza, CNR, Via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Achille Pellicioli
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Giordano Liberi
- Istituto di Genetica Molecolare Luigi Luca Cavalli-Sforza, CNR, Via Abbiategrasso 207, 27100, Pavia, Italy; IFOM Foundation, Via Adamello 16, 20139, Milan, Italy.
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19
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Disruption of Spermatogenesis and Infertility in Ataxia with Oculomotor Apraxia Type 2 (AOA2). THE CEREBELLUM 2019; 18:448-456. [PMID: 30778901 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-019-01012-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Ataxia with oculomotor apraxia type 2 (AOA2) is a rare autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxia characterized by onset between 10 and 20 years of age and a range of neurological features that include progressive cerebellar atrophy, axonal sensorimotor neuropathy, oculomotor apraxia in a majority of patients, and elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). AOA2 is caused by mutation of the SETX gene which encodes senataxin, a DNA/RNA helicase involved in transcription regulation, RNA processing, and DNA maintenance. Disruption of senataxin in rodents led to defective spermatogenesis and sterility in males uncovering a key role for senataxin in male germ cell survival. Here, we report the first clinical and cellular evidence of impaired spermatogenesis in AOA2 patients. We assessed sperm production in three AOA2 patients and testicular pathology in one patient and compared the findings to those of Setx-knockout mice. Sperm production was impaired in all patients assessed (3/3, 100%). Analyses of testicular biopsies from an AOA2 patient recapitulate features of the histology seen in Setx-knockout mice, strongly suggesting an underlying mechanism centering on DNA-damage-mediated germ cell apoptosis. These findings support a role for senataxin in human reproductive function and highlight a novel clinical feature of AOA2 that extends the extra-neurological roles of senataxin. This raises an important reproductive counseling issue for clinicians, and fertility specialists should be aware of SETX mutations as a possible diagnosis in young male patients presenting with oligospermia or azoospermia since infertility may presage the later onset of neurological manifestations in some individuals.
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20
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R Loops: From Physiological to Pathological Roles. Cell 2019; 179:604-618. [PMID: 31607512 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2019.08.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 346] [Impact Index Per Article: 69.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
DNA-RNA hybrids play a physiological role in cellular processes, but often, they represent non-scheduled co-transcriptional structures with a negative impact on transcription, replication and DNA repair. Accumulating evidence suggests that they constitute a source of replication stress, DNA breaks and genome instability. Reciprocally, DNA breaks facilitate DNA-RNA hybrid formation by releasing the double helix torsional conformation. Cells avoid DNA-RNA accumulation by either preventing or removing hybrids directly or by DNA repair-coupled mechanisms. Given the R-loop impact on chromatin and genome organization and its potential relation with genetic diseases, we review R-loop homeostasis as well as their physiological and pathological roles.
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21
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Moghanloo E, Morovvati Z, Seifi M, Minoochehr F, Morovvati S, Teimourian S. Hereditary Ataxia with a Novel Mutation in the Senataxin Gene: A Case Report. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2019; 44:262-264. [PMID: 31182894 PMCID: PMC6525731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Hereditary ataxias (HA) are a group of inherited neurological disorders caused by changes in genes. At least 115 different mutations in the senataxin (SETX) gene causing ataxia have been identified. There are no reports of any SETX gene mutation among the Iranian population. Here we report on two cases with homozygous and heterozygous mutations in which one patient was affected by HA with oculomotor apraxia type 2, and the other was a carrier of the disorder. In 2016, the affected patient was referred to the Biogene Medical and Genetic Laboratory (Tehran, Iran) suffering from imbalance and tremor of both head and body. The coding regions of 18 genes, including the SETX gene, were screened. The target regions were captured using the NimbleGen chip followed by next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology on the Illumina Hiseq2500 platform. NGS, a DNA sequencing technology, has greatly increased the ability to identify new causes of ataxia; a useful tool for the prevention of primary manifestations and treatment of affected patients. In the present study, a novel mutation in the SETX gene has been identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Moghanloo
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran;
,Cancer Research Center, Cancer Institute of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran;
| | | | - Maghsoud Seifi
- Department of Biotechnology, Bu-Ali sina University, Hamedan, Iran;
| | - Fatemeh Minoochehr
- Human Genetics Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran;
| | - Saeid Morovvati
- Human Genetics Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran;
| | - Shahram Teimourian
- Department of Medical Genetics,
Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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22
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Crossley MP, Bocek M, Cimprich KA. R-Loops as Cellular Regulators and Genomic Threats. Mol Cell 2019; 73:398-411. [PMID: 30735654 PMCID: PMC6402819 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2019.01.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 420] [Impact Index Per Article: 84.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Revised: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
During transcription, the nascent RNA strand can base pair with its template DNA, displacing the non-template strand as ssDNA and forming a structure called an R-loop. R-loops are common across many domains of life and cause DNA damage in certain contexts. In this review, we summarize recent results implicating R-loops as important regulators of cellular processes such as transcription termination, gene regulation, and DNA repair. We also highlight recent work suggesting that R-loops can be problematic to cells as blocks to efficient transcription and replication that trigger the DNA damage response. Finally, we discuss how R-loops may contribute to cancer, neurodegeneration, and inflammatory diseases and compare the available next-generation sequencing-based approaches to map R-loops genome wide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madzia P Crossley
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 318 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5441, USA
| | - Michael Bocek
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 318 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5441, USA
| | - Karlene A Cimprich
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, 318 Campus Drive, Stanford, CA 94305-5441, USA.
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23
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Belotserkovskii BP, Tornaletti S, D'Souza AD, Hanawalt PC. R-loop generation during transcription: Formation, processing and cellular outcomes. DNA Repair (Amst) 2018; 71:69-81. [PMID: 30190235 PMCID: PMC6340742 DOI: 10.1016/j.dnarep.2018.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
R-loops are structures consisting of an RNA-DNA duplex and an unpaired DNA strand. They can form during transcription upon nascent RNA "threadback" invasion into the DNA duplex to displace the non-template strand. Although R-loops occur naturally in all kingdoms of life and serve regulatory roles, they are often deleterious and can cause genomic instability. Of particular importance are the disastrous consequences when replication forks or transcription complexes collide with R-loops. The appropriate processing of R-loops is essential to avoid a number of human neurodegenerative and other clinical disorders. We provide a perspective on mechanistic aspects of R-loop formation and their resolution learned from studies in model systems. This should contribute to improved understanding of R-loop biological functions and enable their practical applications. We propose the novel employment of artificially-generated stable R-loops to selectively inactivate tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boris P Belotserkovskii
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, 371 Serra Mall, Stanford, CA, 94305-5020, United States
| | - Silvia Tornaletti
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, 371 Serra Mall, Stanford, CA, 94305-5020, United States
| | - Alicia D D'Souza
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, 371 Serra Mall, Stanford, CA, 94305-5020, United States
| | - Philip C Hanawalt
- Department of Biology, Stanford University, 371 Serra Mall, Stanford, CA, 94305-5020, United States.
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24
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Anderson RH, Francis KR. Modeling rare diseases with induced pluripotent stem cell technology. Mol Cell Probes 2018; 40:52-59. [PMID: 29307697 PMCID: PMC6033695 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Revised: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Rare diseases, in totality, affect a significant proportion of the population and represent an unmet medical need facing the scientific community. However, the treatment of individuals affected by rare diseases is hampered by poorly understood mechanisms preventing the development of viable therapeutics. The discovery and application of cellular reprogramming to create novel induced pluripotent stem cell models of rare diseases has revolutionized the rare disease community. Through developmental and functional analysis of differentiated cell types, these stem cell models carrying patient-specific mutations have become an invaluable tool for rare disease research. In this review article, we discuss the reprogramming of samples from individuals affected with rare diseases to induced pluripotent stem cells, current and future applications for this technology, and how integration of genome editing to rare disease research will help to improve our understanding of disease pathogenesis and lead to patient therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruthellen H Anderson
- Cellular Therapies and Stem Cell Biology Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, USA; Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Kevin R Francis
- Cellular Therapies and Stem Cell Biology Group, Sanford Research, Sioux Falls, SD, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Sanford School of Medicine, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD, USA.
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25
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Strengths and Weaknesses of the Current Strategies to Map and Characterize R-Loops. Noncoding RNA 2018; 4:ncrna4020009. [PMID: 29657305 PMCID: PMC6027298 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna4020009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
R-loops are evolutionarily conserved three-stranded structures that result from the formation of stable DNA:RNA hybrids in the genome. R-loops have attracted increasing interest in recent years as potent regulators of gene expression and genome stability. In particular, their strong association with severe replication stress makes them potential oncogenic structures. Despite their importance, the rules that govern their formation and their dynamics are still controversial and an in-depth description of their direct impact on chromatin organization and DNA transactions is still lacking. To better understand the diversity of R-loop functions, reliable, accurate, and quantitative mapping techniques, as well as functional assays are required. Here, I review the different approaches that are currently used to do so and to highlight their individual strengths and weaknesses. In particular, I review the advantages and disadvantages of using the S9.6 antibody to map R-loops in vivo in an attempt to propose guidelines for best practices.
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26
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Abstract
The autosomal-recessive cerebellar ataxias comprise more than half of the known genetic forms of ataxia and represent an extensive group of clinically heterogeneous disorders that can occur at any age but whose onset is typically prior to adulthood. In addition to ataxia, patients often present with polyneuropathy and clinical symptoms outside the nervous system. The most common of these diseases is Friedreich ataxia, caused by mutation of the frataxin gene, but recent advances in genetic analysis have greatly broadened the ever-expanding number of causative genes to over 50. In this review, the clinical neurogenetics of the recessive cerebellar ataxias will be discussed, including updates on recently identified novel ataxia genes, advancements in unraveling disease-specific molecular pathogenesis leading to ataxia, potential treatments under development, technologic improvements in diagnostic testing such as clinical exome sequencing, and what the future holds for clinicians and geneticists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brent L Fogel
- Program in Neurogenetics, Departments of Neurology and Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States.
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27
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Groh M, Albulescu LO, Cristini A, Gromak N. Senataxin: Genome Guardian at the Interface of Transcription and Neurodegeneration. J Mol Biol 2016; 429:3181-3195. [PMID: 27771483 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2016.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2016] [Revised: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 10/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
R-loops comprise an RNA/DNA hybrid and a displaced single-stranded DNA. They play crucial biological functions and are implicated in neurological diseases, including ataxias, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, nucleotide expansion disorders (Friedreich ataxia and fragile X syndrome), and cancer. Currently, it is unclear which mechanisms cause R-loop structures to become pathogenic. The RNA/DNA helicase senataxin (SETX) is one of the best characterised R-loop-binding factors in vivo. Mutations in SETX are linked to two neurodegenerative disorders: ataxia with oculomotor apraxia type 2 (AOA2) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis type 4 (ALS4). SETX is known to play a role in transcription, neurogenesis, and antiviral response. Here, we review the causes of R-loop dysregulation in neurodegenerative diseases and how these structures contribute to pathomechanisms. We will discuss the importance of SETX as a genome guardian in suppressing aberrant R-loop formation and analyse how SETX mutations can lead to neurodegeneration in AOA2/ALS4. Finally, we will discuss the implications for other R-loop-associated neurodegenerative diseases and point to future therapeutic approaches to treat these disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Groh
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, OX1 3RE, UK
| | - Laura Oana Albulescu
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, OX1 3RE, UK
| | - Agnese Cristini
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, OX1 3RE, UK
| | - Natalia Gromak
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, OX1 3RE, UK.
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28
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Lu C, Zheng YC, Dong Y, Li HF. Identification of novel senataxin mutations in Chinese patients with autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxias by targeted next-generation sequencing. BMC Neurol 2016; 16:179. [PMID: 27644330 PMCID: PMC5029030 DOI: 10.1186/s12883-016-0696-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2016] [Accepted: 09/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Autosomal recessive cerebellar ataxias (ARCA) are a group of neurodegenerative disorders characterized by early onset of gait impairment, disturbed limb coordination, dysarthria, and eye movement abnormalities, most likely due to the degeneration of cerebellum, brainstem, and spinal cord. Despite of the rarity, ARCA are both clinically and genetically heterogeneous. To date, more than 30 culprit genes have been identified in ARCA. Unraveling the specific causative mutation in cases with ARCA remains challenging so far. Methods Three ARCA pedigrees of Chinese ancestry were recruited. Clinical features were evaluated and peripheral blood was collected after obtaining the written inform. Laboratory examinations, brain MRI, and EMG were performed for all the affected individuals. Genomic DNA was extracted, followed by the screening of GAA repeat expansion in FXN gene to exclude Friedreich’s ataxia. Targeted next-generation sequencing combining Sanger sequencing was performed in each proband of these families. Results Compound heterozygous mutations, c.3190G > T (p.E1064X) and c.4883C > G (p.S1628X) of senataxin (SETX) gene were identified in one family with two affected cases. Both of the patients presented with early onset of unsteady walk, dysarthria, and diplopia. EMG test revealed decreased conduction velocity and evoked potential of both motor and sensory nerve. Moreover, elevated serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and apparent cerebellar atrophy were observed. These features were typical features of ataxia with oculomotor apraxia type 2 (AOA2) and in line with the genetic results. However, no specific mutation was identified in the other two pedigrees. Conclusions We identified novel compound heterozygous mutations of SETX in Chinese AOA2 pedigree, which broaden the mutation spectrum of SETX. To our knowledge, this is the first report concerning Chinese AOA2 cases with SETX mutations. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12883-016-0696-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Lu
- Department of Neurology and Research Center of Neurology in Second Affiliated Hospital, and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China.,Department of Neurology and Institute of Neurology, First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yi-Cen Zheng
- The High School Affiliated to Fudan University-WLSA Fudan Academy, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Dong
- Department of Neurology and Research Center of Neurology in Second Affiliated Hospital, and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Hong-Fu Li
- Department of Neurology and Research Center of Neurology in Second Affiliated Hospital, and the Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, 88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
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Klawitter S, Fuchs NV, Upton KR, Muñoz-Lopez M, Shukla R, Wang J, Garcia-Cañadas M, Lopez-Ruiz C, Gerhardt DJ, Sebe A, Grabundzija I, Merkert S, Gerdes P, Pulgarin JA, Bock A, Held U, Witthuhn A, Haase A, Sarkadi B, Löwer J, Wolvetang EJ, Martin U, Ivics Z, Izsvák Z, Garcia-Perez JL, Faulkner GJ, Schumann GG. Reprogramming triggers endogenous L1 and Alu retrotransposition in human induced pluripotent stem cells. Nat Commun 2016; 7:10286. [PMID: 26743714 PMCID: PMC4729875 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms10286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Accepted: 11/26/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) are capable of unlimited proliferation and can differentiate in vitro to generate derivatives of the three primary germ layers. Genetic and epigenetic abnormalities have been reported by Wissing and colleagues to occur during hiPSC derivation, including mobilization of engineered LINE-1 (L1) retrotransposons. However, incidence and functional impact of endogenous retrotransposition in hiPSCs are yet to be established. Here we apply retrotransposon capture sequencing to eight hiPSC lines and three human embryonic stem cell (hESC) lines, revealing endogenous L1, Alu and SINE-VNTR-Alu (SVA) mobilization during reprogramming and pluripotent stem cell cultivation. Surprisingly, 4/7 de novo L1 insertions are full length and 6/11 retrotransposition events occurred in protein-coding genes expressed in pluripotent stem cells. We further demonstrate that an intronic L1 insertion in the CADPS2 gene is acquired during hiPSC cultivation and disrupts CADPS2 expression. These experiments elucidate endogenous retrotransposition, and its potential consequences, in hiPSCs and hESCs. Genetic and epigenetic abnormalities have been found to result from reprogramming of differentiated cells into human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs). Here, Klawitter et al. identify endogenous L1, Alu and SVA mobilization during reprogramming, highlighting the risk of insertional mutagens in hiPSCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Klawitter
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, D-63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Nina V Fuchs
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, D-63225 Langen, Germany.,Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, D-13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Kyle R Upton
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, TRI Building, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Martin Muñoz-Lopez
- Department of Human DNA Variability, Pfizer/University of Granada and Andalusian Regional Government Center for Genomics and Oncology (GENYO), PTS Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Ruchi Shukla
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, TRI Building, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Jichang Wang
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, D-13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Marta Garcia-Cañadas
- Department of Human DNA Variability, Pfizer/University of Granada and Andalusian Regional Government Center for Genomics and Oncology (GENYO), PTS Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Cesar Lopez-Ruiz
- Department of Human DNA Variability, Pfizer/University of Granada and Andalusian Regional Government Center for Genomics and Oncology (GENYO), PTS Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Daniel J Gerhardt
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, TRI Building, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - Attila Sebe
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, D-63225 Langen, Germany
| | | | - Sylvia Merkert
- Leibniz Research Laboratories for Biotechnology and Artificial Organs (LEBAO), Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Transplantation, and Vascular Surgery; REBIRTH, Cluster of Excellence, Hannover Medical School, D-30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Patricia Gerdes
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, TRI Building, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia
| | - J Andres Pulgarin
- Department of Human DNA Variability, Pfizer/University of Granada and Andalusian Regional Government Center for Genomics and Oncology (GENYO), PTS Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Anja Bock
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, D-63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Ulrike Held
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, D-63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Anett Witthuhn
- Leibniz Research Laboratories for Biotechnology and Artificial Organs (LEBAO), Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Transplantation, and Vascular Surgery; REBIRTH, Cluster of Excellence, Hannover Medical School, D-30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Alexandra Haase
- Leibniz Research Laboratories for Biotechnology and Artificial Organs (LEBAO), Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Transplantation, and Vascular Surgery; REBIRTH, Cluster of Excellence, Hannover Medical School, D-30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Balázs Sarkadi
- Department of Biophysics and Radiation Biology, Semmelweis University, H-1094 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Johannes Löwer
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, D-63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Ernst J Wolvetang
- Australian Institute for Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Ulrich Martin
- Leibniz Research Laboratories for Biotechnology and Artificial Organs (LEBAO), Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Transplantation, and Vascular Surgery; REBIRTH, Cluster of Excellence, Hannover Medical School, D-30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Zoltán Ivics
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, D-63225 Langen, Germany
| | - Zsuzsanna Izsvák
- Max-Delbrück-Center for Molecular Medicine, D-13125 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jose L Garcia-Perez
- Department of Human DNA Variability, Pfizer/University of Granada and Andalusian Regional Government Center for Genomics and Oncology (GENYO), PTS Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Geoffrey J Faulkner
- Mater Research Institute, University of Queensland, TRI Building, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Queensland 4102, Australia.,Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Gerald G Schumann
- Division of Medical Biotechnology, Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, D-63225 Langen, Germany
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