1
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Nuthalapati SS, Ulshöfer CJ, Bindereif A. CircRNP complexes: from nature to design. J Mol Cell Biol 2023; 15:mjad006. [PMID: 36722152 PMCID: PMC10234438 DOI: 10.1093/jmcb/mjad006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Albrecht Bindereif
- Institute of Biochemistry, Justus Liebig University of Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
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2
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Chen MJ, Gatignol A, Scarborough RJ. The discovery and development of RNA-based therapies for treatment of HIV-1 infection. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2023; 18:163-179. [PMID: 36004505 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2022.2117296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Long-term control of HIV-1 infection can potentially be achieved using autologous stem cell transplants with gene-modified cells. Non-coding RNAs represent a diverse class of therapeutic agents including ribozymes, RNA aptamers and decoys, small interfering RNAs, short hairpin RNAs, and U1 interference RNAs that can be designed to inhibit HIV-1 replication. They have been engineered for delivery as drugs to complement current HIV-1 therapies and as gene therapies for a potential HIV-1 functional cure. AREAS COVERED This review surveys the past three decades of development of these RNA technologies with a focus on their efficacy and safety for treating HIV-1 infections. We describe the mechanisms of each RNA-based agent, targets they have been developed against, efforts to enhance their stability and efficacy, and we evaluate their performance in past and ongoing preclinical and clinical trials. EXPERT OPINION RNA-based technologies are among the top candidates for gene therapies where they can be stably expressed for long-term suppression of HIV-1. Advances in both gene and drug delivery strategies and improvements to non-coding RNA stability and antiviral properties will cooperatively drive forward progress in improving drug therapy and engineering HIV-1 resistant cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle J Chen
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Anne Gatignol
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Robert J Scarborough
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Montréal, Québec, Canada.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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3
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Qian S, Chang D, He S, Li Y. Aptamers from random sequence space: Accomplishments, gaps and future considerations. Anal Chim Acta 2022; 1196:339511. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2022.339511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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4
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Obi P, Chen YG. The design and synthesis of circular RNAs. Methods 2021; 196:85-103. [PMID: 33662562 PMCID: PMC8670866 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2021.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a novel class of RNAs distinguished by their single-stranded, covalently-closed topology. Although initially perceived as rare byproducts of aberrant splicing, circRNAs are now recognized as ubiquitously expressed and functionally significant. These discoveries have led to a growing need for ways to model circRNAs in living cells to advance our understanding of their biogenesis, regulation, and function, and to adopt them as new technologies for application within research and medicine. In this review, we provide an updated summary of approaches used to produce circRNAs in vitro and in vivo, the latter of which has grown considerably in recent years. Given increased interest in the unique functions carried out by individual circRNAs, we further dedicate a section on how to customize synthesized circRNAs for specific biological roles. We focus on the most common applications, including designing circRNAs for protein delivery, to target miRNAs and proteins, to act as fluorescent reporters, and to modulate cellular immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prisca Obi
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Y Grace Chen
- Department of Immunobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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5
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Liang X, Chen H, Li L, An R, Komiyama M. Ring-Structured DNA and RNA as Key Players In Vivoand In Vitro. BULLETIN OF THE CHEMICAL SOCIETY OF JAPAN 2021. [DOI: 10.1246/bcsj.20200235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xingguo Liang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, P. R. China
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts of Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266235, P. R. China
| | - Hui Chen
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, P. R. China
| | - Lin Li
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, P. R. China
| | - Ran An
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, P. R. China
| | - Makoto Komiyama
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, P. R. China
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6
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Mao Y, Gu J, Chang D, Wang L, Yao L, Ma Q, Luo Z, Qu H, Li Y, Zheng L. Evolution of a highly functional circular DNA aptamer in serum. Nucleic Acids Res 2020; 48:10680-10690. [PMID: 33021630 PMCID: PMC7641760 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular DNA aptamers are powerful candidates for therapeutic applications given their dramatically enhanced biostability. Herein we report the first effort to evolve circular DNA aptamers that bind a human protein directly in serum, a complex biofluid. Targeting human thrombin, this strategy has led to the discovery of a circular aptamer, named CTBA4T-B1, that exhibits very high binding affinity (with a dissociation constant of 19 pM), excellent anticoagulation activity (with the half maximal inhibitory concentration of 90 pM) and high stability (with a half-life of 8 h) in human serum, highlighting the advantage of performing aptamer selection directly in the environment where the application is intended. CTBA4T-B1 is predicted to adopt a unique structural fold with a central two-tiered guanine quadruplex capped by two long stem–loops. This structural arrangement differs from all known thrombin binding linear DNA aptamers, demonstrating the added advantage of evolving aptamers from circular DNA libraries. The method described here permits the derivation of circular DNA aptamers directly in biological fluids and could potentially be adapted to generate other types of aptamers for therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Mao
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Jimmy Gu
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton L8S4K1, Canada
| | - Dingran Chang
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton L8S4K1, Canada
| | - Lei Wang
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Lili Yao
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Qihui Ma
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Zhaofeng Luo
- School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
| | - Hao Qu
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Yingfu Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton L8S4K1, Canada
| | - Lei Zheng
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
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7
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Jain S, Kaur J, Prasad S, Roy I. Nucleic acid therapeutics: a focus on the development of aptamers. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2020; 16:255-274. [PMID: 32990095 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2021.1829587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Aptamers provide exciting opportunities for the development of specific and targeted therapeutic approaches. AREAS COVERED In this review, the authors discuss different therapeutic options available with nucleic acids, including aptamers, focussing on similarities and differences between them. The authors concentrate on case studies with specific aptamers, which exemplify their distinct advantages. The reasons for failure, wherever available, are deliberated upon. Attempts to accelerate the in vitro selection process have been discussed. Challenges with aptamers in terms of their specificity and targeted delivery and strategies to overcome these are described. Examples of precise regulation of systemic half-life of aptamers using antidotes are discussed. EXPERT OPINION Despite their nontoxic nature, a variety of reasons limit the therapeutic potential of aptamers in the clinic. The analysis of adverse effects observed with the pegnivacogin/anivamersen pair has highlighted the need to screen for preexisting PEG antibodies in any clinical trial involving pegylated molecules. Surprisingly, and promisingly, the ability of nucleic acid therapeutics to breach the blood brain barrier seems achievable. The recognition of specific motifs, e.g. G-quadruplex in thrombin-binding aptamers, or a 'nucleation' zone while designing aptamer-antidote pairs, is likely to accelerate the discovery of therapeutically efficacious molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Jain
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Punjab, India
| | - Jaskirat Kaur
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Punjab, India
| | - Shivcharan Prasad
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Punjab, India
| | - Ipsita Roy
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Punjab, India
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8
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Awan FM, Yang BB, Naz A, Hanif A, Ikram A, Obaid A, Malik A, Janjua HA, Ali A, Sharif S. The emerging role and significance of circular RNAs in viral infections and antiviral immune responses: possible implication as theranostic agents. RNA Biol 2020; 18:1-15. [PMID: 32615049 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2020.1790198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are ubiquitously expressed, covalently closed rings, produced by pre-mRNA splicing in a reversed order during post-transcriptional processing. Circularity endows 3'-5'-linked circRNAs with stability and resistance to exonucleolytic degradation which raises the question whether circRNAs may be relevant as potential therapeutic targets or agents. High stability in biological systems is the most remarkable property and a major criterion for why circRNAs could be exploited for a range of RNA-centred medical applications. Even though various biological roles and regulatory functions of circRNAs have been reported, their in-depth study is challenging because of their circular structure and sequence-overlap with linear mRNA counterparts. Moreover, little is known about their role in viral infections and in antiviral immune responses. We believe that an in-depth and detailed understanding of circRNA mediated viral protein regulations will increase our knowledge of the biology of these novel molecules. In this review, we aimed to provide a comprehensive basis and overview on the biogenesis, significance and regulatory roles of circRNAs in the context of antiviral immune responses and viral infections including hepatitis C virus infection, hepatitis B virus infection, hepatitis delta virus infection, influenza A virus infection, Epstein-Barr virus infection, kaposi's sarcoma herpesvirus infection, human cytomegalovirus infection, herpes simplex virus infection, human immunodeficiency virus infection, porcine epidemic diarrhoea virus infection, ORF virus infection, avian leukosis virus infection, simian vacuolating virus 40 infection, transmissible gastroenteritis coronavirus infection, and bovine viral diarrhoea virus infection. We have also discussed the critical regulatory role of circRNAs in provoking antiviral immunity, providing evidence for implications as therapeutic agents and as diagnostic markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faryal Mehwish Awan
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), the University of Lahore (UOL) , Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Burton B Yang
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre , Toronto, Canada.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto , Toronto, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto , Toronto, Canada
| | - Anam Naz
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), the University of Lahore (UOL) , Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Aneeqa Hanif
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), the University of Lahore (UOL) , Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Aqsa Ikram
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) , Pakistan
| | - Ayesha Obaid
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) , Pakistan
| | - Arif Malik
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), the University of Lahore (UOL) , Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Hussnain Ahmed Janjua
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) , Pakistan
| | - Amjad Ali
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences (ASAB), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) , Pakistan
| | - Sumaira Sharif
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB), the University of Lahore (UOL) , Lahore, Pakistan
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9
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Chen H, Cheng K, Liu X, An R, Komiyama M, Liang X. Preferential production of RNA rings by T4 RNA ligase 2 without any splint through rational design of precursor strand. Nucleic Acids Res 2020; 48:e54. [PMID: 32232357 PMCID: PMC7229815 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Rings of single-stranded RNA are promising for many practical applications, but the methods to prepare them in preparative scale have never been established. Previously, RNA circularization was achieved by T4 RNA ligase 2 (Rnl2, a dsRNA ligase) using splints, but the yield was low due to concurrent intermolecular polymerization. Here, various functional RNAs (siRNA, miRNA, ribozyme, etc.) are dominantly converted by Rnl2 to the rings without significant limitations in sizes and sequences. The key is to design a precursor RNA, which is highly activated for the efficient circularization without any splint. First, secondary structure of target RNA ring is simulated by Mfold, and then hypothetically cut at one site so that a few intramolecular base pairs are formed at the terminal. Simply by treating this RNA with Rnl2, the target ring was selectively and efficiently produced. Unexpectedly, circular RNA can be obtained in high yield (>90%), even when only 2 bp form in the 3'-OH side and no full match base pair forms in the 5'-phosphate side. Formation of polymeric by-products was further suppressed by diluting conventional Rnl2 buffer to abnormally low concentrations. Even at high-RNA concentrations (e.g. 50 μM), enormously high selectivity (>95%) was accomplished.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Chen
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Kai Cheng
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Xiaoli Liu
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Ran An
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266235, China
| | - Makoto Komiyama
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Xingguo Liang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
- Laboratory for Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266235, China
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10
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Shukla TN, Song J, Campbell ZT. Molecular entrapment by RNA: an emerging tool for disrupting protein-RNA interactions in vivo. RNA Biol 2020; 17:417-424. [PMID: 31957541 PMCID: PMC7237136 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2020.1717059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
mRNA function is controlled by RNA-binding proteins. The specificity of RNA-binding factors for their targets is critical in that it enables all subsequent regulation. Despite widespread recognition of the pervasive role RNA-binding proteins play in development and disease, they remain challenging to target with small molecules. A renaissance in RNA therapeutics has led to the identification of modifications that substantially increase RNA stability. When combined with information regarding specificity, a new class of oligonucleotide mimics has emerged as a means to competitively disrupt the regulation of endogenous substrates. These decoys have been used to inhibit RNA-binding proteins in living animals. Decoys will likely provide new insights into the expansive roles of RNA-binding proteins in biology and disease. Here, we describe examples where they have been used and discuss how they could be applied to new targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tarjani N. Shukla
- The Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas-Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA
| | - Jane Song
- The Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas-Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA
| | - Zachary T. Campbell
- The Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas-Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA
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11
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Sui W, Gan Q, Chang Y, Ou M, Chen J, Lin H, Xue W, Wu Y, He H, Tang D, Dai Y. Differential expression profile study and gene function analysis of maternal foetal-derived circRNA for screening for Down's syndrome. Exp Ther Med 2019; 19:1006-1016. [PMID: 32010263 PMCID: PMC6966235 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2019.8288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that circular RNAs (circRNAs) exhibit differential expression in certain diseases. However, to the best of our knowledge, maternal fetal-derived circRNAs and mRNAs associated with Down's syndrome (DS) have not yet been investigated. A total of 12 umbilical cord blood samples were collected from pregnant women, including six women carrying fetuses with DS (diagnosed by G-banding karyotype analysis), and six women carrying fetuses without DS. In addition, 12 peripheral blood samples were obtained from children, including six children with DS and six children without DS. Gene chip technology was used to screen for differentially expressed circRNAs and mRNAs in the cord blood samples, and were subsequently verified by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction in peripheral blood from the children to identify potential biomarkers. Furthermore, circRNA/microRNA (miRNA) interactions were predicted using Arraystar miRNA target prediction software. There was a significant difference in the expression of hsa_circRNA_103127, hsa_circRNA_103112 and hsa_circRNA_104907 between cord blood obtained from the women carrying fetuses with and without DS, and between peripheral blood obtained from children with and without DS (P<0.01). As hsa_circRNA_103112 exhibited significant differences in expression between cord blood obtained from the women carrying fetuses with and without DS and between peripheral blood obtained from children with and without DS, its corresponding gene, ubiquitin specific peptidase 25, may be involved in the pathogenesis of the condition. These results suggested that hsa_circRNA_103112 may be upregulated in individuals with DS, resulting in an expression imbalance of diploid genes through interactions among circRNA, miRNA and mRNA. Therefore, the level of hsa_circRNA_103112 in the peripheral blood of a pregnant woman may serve as potential biomarker of fetal DS during non-invasive prenatal screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiguo Sui
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases Research, Guilin No. 924 Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi 541002, P.R. China.,Kidney Diseases Research, Department of Nephrology, Guilin No. 924 Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi 541002, P.R. China
| | - Qing Gan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases Research, Guilin No. 924 Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi 541002, P.R. China.,Kidney Diseases Research, Department of Nephrology, Guilin No. 924 Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi 541002, P.R. China
| | - Yan Chang
- Reproductive Center, Guilin No. 924 Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi 541002, P.R. China
| | - Minglin Ou
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases Research, Guilin No. 924 Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi 541002, P.R. China.,Kidney Diseases Research, Department of Nephrology, Guilin No. 924 Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi 541002, P.R. China
| | - Jiejing Chen
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases Research, Guilin No. 924 Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi 541002, P.R. China.,Kidney Diseases Research, Department of Nephrology, Guilin No. 924 Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi 541002, P.R. China
| | - Hua Lin
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases Research, Guilin No. 924 Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi 541002, P.R. China.,Kidney Diseases Research, Department of Nephrology, Guilin No. 924 Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi 541002, P.R. China
| | - Wen Xue
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases Research, Guilin No. 924 Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi 541002, P.R. China.,Kidney Diseases Research, Department of Nephrology, Guilin No. 924 Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi 541002, P.R. China
| | - Yan Wu
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518020, P.R. China
| | - Huiyan He
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518020, P.R. China
| | - Donge Tang
- Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518020, P.R. China
| | - Yong Dai
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Metabolic Diseases Research, Guilin No. 924 Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi 541002, P.R. China.,Kidney Diseases Research, Department of Nephrology, Guilin No. 924 Hospital, Guilin, Guangxi 541002, P.R. China.,Clinical Medical Research Center, The Second Clinical Medical College of Jinan University, Shenzhen People's Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518020, P.R. China
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12
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Liu M, Yin Q, Chang Y, Zhang Q, Brennan JD, Li Y. In Vitro Selection of Circular DNA Aptamers for Biosensing Applications. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201901192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Meng Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Technology Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education) Dalian University of Technology Dalian 116024 China
| | - Qingxin Yin
- School of Environmental Science and Technology Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education) Dalian University of Technology Dalian 116024 China
| | - Yangyang Chang
- School of Environmental Science and Technology Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education) Dalian University of Technology Dalian 116024 China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Biointerfaces Institute McMaster University 1280 Main Street West Hamilton Ontario L8S4O3 Canada
- School of Life Science and Biotechnology Dalian University of Technology Dalian 116024 China
| | - John D. Brennan
- Biointerfaces Institute McMaster University 1280 Main Street West Hamilton Ontario L8S4O3 Canada
| | - Yingfu Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences McMaster University 1280 Main Street West Hamilton Ontario L8S4K1 Canada
- Biointerfaces Institute McMaster University 1280 Main Street West Hamilton Ontario L8S4O3 Canada
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13
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Liu M, Yin Q, Chang Y, Zhang Q, Brennan JD, Li Y. In Vitro Selection of Circular DNA Aptamers for Biosensing Applications. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2019; 58:8013-8017. [PMID: 31020784 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201901192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
We report on the first effort to select DNA aptamers from a circular DNA library, which resulted in the discovery of two high-affinity circular DNA aptamers that recognize the glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) from Clostridium difficile, an established antigen for diagnosing Clostridium difficile infection (CDI). One aptamer binds effectively in both the circular and linear forms, the other is functional only in the circular configuration. Interestingly, these two aptamers recognize different epitopes on GDH, demonstrating the advantage of selecting aptamers from circular DNA libraries. A sensitive diagnostic test was developed to take advantage of the high stability of circular DNA aptamers in biological samples and their compatibility with rolling circle amplification. This test is capable of identifying patients with active CDI using stool samples. This work represents a significant step forward towards demonstrating the practical utility of DNA aptamers in clinical diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Qingxin Yin
- School of Environmental Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Yangyang Chang
- School of Environmental Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Biointerfaces Institute, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S4O3, Canada.,School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - John D Brennan
- Biointerfaces Institute, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S4O3, Canada
| | - Yingfu Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S4K1, Canada.,Biointerfaces Institute, McMaster University, 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, Ontario, L8S4O3, Canada
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14
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Wilusz JE. A 360° view of circular RNAs: From biogenesis to functions. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2018; 9:e1478. [PMID: 29655315 PMCID: PMC6002912 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 320] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The first circular RNA (circRNA) was identified more than 40 years ago, but it was only recently appreciated that circRNAs are common outputs of many eukaryotic protein-coding genes. Some circRNAs accumulate to higher levels than their associated linear mRNAs, especially in the nervous system, and have clear regulatory functions that result in organismal phenotypes. The pre-mRNA splicing machinery generates circRNAs via backsplicing reactions, which are often facilitated by intronic repeat sequences that base pair to one another and bring the intervening splice sites into close proximity. When spliceosomal components are limiting, circRNAs can become the preferred gene output, and backsplicing reactions are further controlled by exon skipping events and the combinatorial action of RNA binding proteins. This allows circRNAs to be expressed in a tissue- and stage-specific manner. Once generated, circRNAs are highly stable transcripts that often accumulate in the cytoplasm. The functions of most circRNAs remain unknown, but some can regulate the activities of microRNAs or be translated to produce proteins. Circular RNAs can further interface with the immune system as well as control gene expression events in the nucleus, including alternative splicing decisions. Circular RNAs thus represent a large class of RNA molecules that are tightly regulated, and it is becoming increasingly clear that they likely impact many biological processes. This article is categorized under: RNA Processing > Splicing Mechanisms RNA Structure and Dynamics > Influence of RNA Structure in Biological Systems RNA Evolution and Genomics > RNA and Ribonucleoprotein Evolution RNA Evolution and Genomics > Computational Analyses of RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy E. Wilusz
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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15
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Functional Role of Circular RNA in Regenerative Medicine. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1087:299-308. [PMID: 30259376 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-1426-1_24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Every year, millions of people around the world suffer from different forms of tissue trauma. Regenerative medicine refers to therapy that replaces the injured organ or cells. Stem cells are the frontiers and hotspots of current regenerative medicine research. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are essential for the early development of many species. It was found that they could guide stem cell differentiation through interacting with certain microRNAs (miRNAs). Based on this concept, it is meaningful to look into how circRNAs influence stem cells and its role in regenerative medicine. In this chapter we will discuss the functional roles of circRNAs in the prevention, repair, or progression of chronic diseases, through the communication between stem cells.
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Hu X, Zhu M, Zhang X, Liu B, Liang Z, Huang L, Xu J, Yu L, Li K, Zar MS, Xue R, Cao G, Gong C. Identification and characterization of circular RNAs in the silkworm midgut following Bombyx mori cytoplasmic polyhedrosis virus infection. RNA Biol 2017; 15:292-301. [PMID: 29268657 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2017.1411461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The pathogenesis of Bombyx mori cytoplasmic polyhedrosis virus (BmCPV) infection is unclear, although accumulating evidence indicates that circular RNAs (circRNAs), which act as competing endogenous RNAs or positive regulators, play important roles in regulating gene expression in eukaryotes and, thus, may play a role in BmCPV infections. To explore the expression and biological functions of circRNAs in the silkworm midgut following BmCPV infection, silkworm circRNA expression profiles of normal midgut tissue (control) and BmCPV-infected midgut tissue (test) were determined using high-through sequencing. A total of 9,753 and 7,475circRNAs were detected from the control and test samples, respectively. The two samples shared 6,085 circRNAs, while 646 and 737 circRNAs were expressed specifically in the control and test samples, respectively. A total of 3,638 circRNAs were shown to be differentially expressed, and 400 circRNAs were substantially differentially expressed with a fold-change ≥ 2.0 (p< 0.05 and a false discover rate < 0.05), of which 294 were up-regulated and 106 were down-regulated following infection. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analyses were conducted to determine the principal functions of the substantially differentially regulated genes. circRNA-miRNA interaction networks were constructed based on a correlation analysis between the differentially expressed circRNAs and the nature of their microRNA (miRNA) binding sites. The network inferred that 13 miRNAs interacting with 193 circRNAs were among the 300 most abundant relationships. bmo-miR-3389-5p, bmo-miR-745-3p, and bmo-miR-3262 were related to 30, 34, and 34 circRNAs, respectively. circRNA_8115, circRNA_9444, circRNA_4553, circRNA_0827, and circRNA_6649 contained six, five, four, four, and four miRNA binding sites, respectively. We further found that alternative circularization of circRNAs is a common feature in silkworms and that the junction sites of many silkworm circRNAs are flanked by canonical GT/AG splicing signals. Our study is the first to show the circRNA response to virus infection. Thus, it provides a novel perspective on circRNA-miRNA interactions during BmCPV pathogenesis, and it lays the foundation for future research of the potential roles of circRNAs in BmCPV pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Hu
- a School of Biology & Basic Medical Science, Soochow University , Suzhou , China
| | - Min Zhu
- a School of Biology & Basic Medical Science, Soochow University , Suzhou , China
| | - Xing Zhang
- b Department of Infectious Disease , First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University , Suzhou , China
| | - Bo Liu
- a School of Biology & Basic Medical Science, Soochow University , Suzhou , China
| | - Zi Liang
- a School of Biology & Basic Medical Science, Soochow University , Suzhou , China
| | - Lixu Huang
- a School of Biology & Basic Medical Science, Soochow University , Suzhou , China
| | - Jian Xu
- a School of Biology & Basic Medical Science, Soochow University , Suzhou , China
| | - Lei Yu
- a School of Biology & Basic Medical Science, Soochow University , Suzhou , China
| | - Kun Li
- a School of Biology & Basic Medical Science, Soochow University , Suzhou , China
| | - Mian Sahib Zar
- a School of Biology & Basic Medical Science, Soochow University , Suzhou , China
| | - Renyu Xue
- a School of Biology & Basic Medical Science, Soochow University , Suzhou , China.,c Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology and Ecological Research, Soochow University , Suzhou , China
| | - Guangli Cao
- a School of Biology & Basic Medical Science, Soochow University , Suzhou , China.,c Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology and Ecological Research, Soochow University , Suzhou , China
| | - Chengliang Gong
- a School of Biology & Basic Medical Science, Soochow University , Suzhou , China.,c Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology and Ecological Research, Soochow University , Suzhou , China
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18
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Abstract
In this commentary we briefly summarize early work on circular RNAs derived from spliceosome mediated circularization. We highlight how this early work inspired work on the basic mechanisms of nuclear RNA splicing, the possible function of circular RNAs and the potential uses of circular RNAs as tools in biomedicine. Recent developments in the study of circular RNAs, summarized in this volume, have brought these questions back to the foreground.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zvi Pasman
- a Department of Chemistry , Illinois College , Jacksonville , Illinois , USA
| | - Mariano A Garcia-Blanco
- b Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , University of Texas Medical Branch , Galveston , Texas , USA.,c Programme of Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School , Singapore
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19
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Shao Y, Chen Y. Roles of Circular RNAs in Neurologic Disease. Front Mol Neurosci 2016; 9:25. [PMID: 27147959 PMCID: PMC4829598 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2016.00025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2016] [Accepted: 03/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a novel type of endogenous noncoding RNA receiving increasing attention. They have been shown to act as a natural microRNA sponges that repress the activity of corresponding miRNAs by binding with them, thus regulating target genes. Numerous studies have shown that miRNAs are involved in the pathogenesis of neurological diseases. Therefore, circRNAs may act as important regulatory factors in the occurrence and development processes of neurological disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiye Shao
- Department of Neurology, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghai, China; Department of Neurology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan UniversityShanghai, China
| | - Yinghui Chen
- Department of Neurology, Jinshan Hospital, Fudan UniversityShanghai, China; Department of Neurology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan UniversityShanghai, China
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20
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Petkovic S, Müller S. RNA circularization strategies in vivo and in vitro. Nucleic Acids Res 2015; 43:2454-65. [PMID: 25662225 PMCID: PMC4344496 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkv045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 226] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2014] [Revised: 01/07/2015] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In the plenitude of naturally occurring RNAs, circular RNAs (circRNAs) and their biological role were underestimated for years. However, circRNAs are ubiquitous in all domains of life, including eukaryotes, archaea, bacteria and viruses, where they can fulfill diverse biological functions. Some of those functions, as for example playing a role in the life cycle of viral and viroid genomes or in the maturation of tRNA genes, have been elucidated; other putative functions still remain elusive. Due to the resistance to exonucleases, circRNAs are promising tools for in vivo application as aptamers, trans-cleaving ribozymes or siRNAs. How are circRNAs generated in vivo and what approaches do exist to produce ring-shaped RNAs in vitro? In this review we illustrate the occurrence and mechanisms of RNA circularization in vivo, survey methods for the generation of circRNA in vitro and provide appropriate protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Petkovic
- Institut für Biochemie, Ernst Moritz Arndt Universität Greifswald, Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 4, 17487 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Sabine Müller
- Institut für Biochemie, Ernst Moritz Arndt Universität Greifswald, Felix-Hausdorff-Str. 4, 17487 Greifswald, Germany
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21
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Hassall J, MacDonald P, Cordero T, Rostain W, Jaramillo A. Design and Characterization of Topological Small RNAs. Methods Mol Biol 2015; 1316:149-167. [PMID: 25967060 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-2730-2_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
RNA can self-assemble into complex structures through base pairing, as well as encode information and bind with proteins to induce enzymatic activity. Furthermore, RNA can possess intrinsic enzymatic-like (ribozymatic) activity, a property that, if necessary, can be activated only upon the binding of a small molecule or another RNA (as is the case in aptazymes). As such, RNA could be of use in nanotechnology as a programmable polymer capable of self-assembling into complex topological structures. In this chapter we describe a method for designing advanced topological structures using self-circulating RNA, exemplified by three tiers of topologically manipulated self-assembling synthetic RNA systems. The first tier of topological manipulation, the RNA knot is a physically locked structure, formed by circularizing one monomer of knotted single-stranded RNA left with loose ends (an "open" knot). The second tier, a two interlocking ring system, is made by interlocking two circular RNA components: a circular RNA target, and an RNA lasso designed to intercalate the target before circularizing. The third tier naturally extends this system into a string of topologically locked circular RNA molecules (an RNA chain). We detail the methodology used for designing such topologically complex RNAs, including computational predictions of secondary structure, and where appropriate, RNA-RNA interactions, illustrated by examples. We then describe the experimental methods used for characterizing such structures, and provide sequences of building blocks that can be used for topological manipulation of RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Hassall
- School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
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22
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Sakkhachornphop S, Barbas CF, Keawvichit R, Wongworapat K, Tayapiwatana C. Zinc finger protein designed to target 2-long terminal repeat junctions interferes with human immunodeficiency virus integration. Hum Gene Ther 2012; 23:932-42. [PMID: 22429108 PMCID: PMC3440019 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2011.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2011] [Accepted: 03/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Integration of the human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) genome into the host chromosome is a vital step in the HIV life cycle. The highly conserved cytosine-adenine (CA) dinucleotide sequence immediately upstream of the cleavage site is crucial for integrase (IN) activity. As this viral enzyme has an important role early in the HIV-1 replication cycle, interference with the IN substrate has become an attractive strategy for therapeutic intervention. We demonstrated that a designed zinc finger protein (ZFP) fused to green fluorescent protein (GFP) targets the 2-long terminal repeat (2-LTR) circle junctions of HIV-1 DNA with nanomolar affinity. We report now that 2LTRZFP-GFP stably transduced into 293T cells interfered with the expression of vesicular stomatitis virus glycoprotein (VSV-G)-pseudotyped lentiviral red fluorescent protein (RFP), as shown by the suppression of RFP expression. We also used a third-generation lentiviral vector and pCEP4 expression vector to deliver the 2LTRZFP-GFP transgene into human T-lymphocytic cells, and a stable cell line for long-term expression studies was selected for HIV-1 challenge. HIV-1 integration and replication were inhibited as measured by Alu-gag real-time PCR and p24 antigen assay. In addition, the molecular activity of 2LTRZFP-GFP was evaluated in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The results were confirmed by Alu-gag real-time PCR for integration interference. We suggest that the expression of 2LTRZFP-GFP limited viral integration on intracellular immunization, and that it has potential for use in HIV gene therapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supachai Sakkhachornphop
- Division of Clinical Immunology, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Carlos F. Barbas
- Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, and Departments of Molecular Biology and Chemistry, Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Rassamee Keawvichit
- Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Kanlaya Wongworapat
- Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Chatchai Tayapiwatana
- Division of Clinical Immunology, Department of Medical Technology, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Biomedical Technology Research Unit, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, National Science and Technology Development Agency, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
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23
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Abe N, Abe H, Ito Y. Synthesis of dumbbell-shaped cyclic RNAs for RNA interference. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; Chapter 16:Unit 16.4.1-11. [PMID: 22395966 DOI: 10.1002/0471142700.nc1604s48] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a potent and highly specific gene-silencing phenomenon that was first reported for the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. It has been discovered that genes could be silenced by introducing double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) complementary to the messenger RNA sequences. Since then, RNAi has been shown as an evolutionarily well-conserved process that plays an important role in host defense and in regulation of gene expression. Much effort has been dedicated to the application of the short dsRNA species (short interfering RNAs; siRNAs) as therapeutic agents, as they were shown to be effective in mammalian cells. Recently, we altered the structure of a siRNA molecule and produced dumbbell-shaped nanocircular RNAs. RNA dumbbells were shown to be stabilized in serum compared with its siRNA counterpart, despite their natural RNA strand. It has also been found that RNA dumbbells containing a 23-bp stem and two 9-nt loops exhibit a prolonged RNAi effect in cultured mammalian cells. In this unit, we describe the synthesis of RNA dumbbells from the design, its enzymatic synthesis, and to the purification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Abe
- Nano Medical Engineering Laboratory, RIKEN Advanced Science Institute, Saitama, Japan
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24
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Gupta AK, Panigrahi SK, Bhattacharya A, Bhattacharya S. Self-circularizing 5'-ETS RNAs accumulate along with unprocessed pre ribosomal RNAs in growth-stressed Entamoeba histolytica. Sci Rep 2012; 2:303. [PMID: 22396851 PMCID: PMC3294279 DOI: 10.1038/srep00303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2011] [Accepted: 02/15/2012] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The primary transcript of rRNA genes is a large pre rRNA which is precisely processed to release the mature rRNAs. The 5'-external transcribed spacer (ETS) of rRNA genes contains important sites for pre rRNA processing. Once the processing is accomplished the ETS is rapidly degraded. We show that in growth-stressed cells of the human parasitic protist Entamoeba histolytica the A'-A(0) sub-fragment of the 5'-ETS accumulates to high levels as a family of RNA molecules of size 666 to 912 nt. These etsRNAs are circular in vivo and can spontaneously self-circularize in vitro. The accumulation of etsRNAs is accompanied by accumulation of unprocessed pre rRNA, indicating a possible role of etsRNAs in inhibition of processing during growth stress. Our data shows for the first time that processed etsRNA is not a mere by-product destined for degradation but is stabilized by circularization and could play a regulatory role as noncoding RNA.
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25
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Bryson DI, Zhang W, McLendon PM, Reineke TM, Santos WL. Toward targeting RNA structure: branched peptides as cell-permeable ligands to TAR RNA. ACS Chem Biol 2012; 7:210-7. [PMID: 22003984 DOI: 10.1021/cb200181v] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Rational design of RNA ligands continues to be a formidable challenge, but the potential powerful applications in biology and medicine catapults it to the forefront of chemical research. Indeed, small molecule and macromolecular intervention are attractive approaches, but selectivity and cell permeability can be a hurdle. An alternative strategy is to use molecules of intermediate molecular weight that possess large enough surface area to maximize interaction with the RNA structure but are small enough to be cell-permeable. Herein, we report the discovery of nontoxic and cell-permeable branched peptide (BP) ligands that bind to TAR RNA in the low micromolar range from on-bead high-throughput screening of 4,096 compounds. TAR is a short RNA motif in the 5'-UTR of HIV-1 that is responsible for efficient generation of full RNA transcripts. We demonstrate that BPs are selective for the native TAR RNA structure and that "branching" in peptides provides multivalent interaction, which increases binding affinity to RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- David I. Bryson
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Wenyu Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Patrick M. McLendon
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Theresa M. Reineke
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
| | - Webster L. Santos
- Department of Chemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061, United States
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26
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Spiridonova VA. [Molecular recognition elements--DNA/RNA-aptamers to proteins]. BIOMEDIT︠S︡INSKAI︠A︡ KHIMII︠A︡ 2011; 56:639-56. [PMID: 21395067 DOI: 10.18097/pbmc20105606639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In this review summarizes data on DNA/RNA aptamers--a novel class of molecular recognition elements. Special attention is paid to the aptamers to proteins involved into pathogenesis of wide spread human diseases. These include aptamers to serine protease, to cytokines/growth factors, to influenza viral protein, nucleic acid binding proteins. Strong and specific binding for a given protein target of aptamers make them an attractive class of direct protein inhibitors. They can inhibit pathogenic proteins and it is becoming clear that aptamers have the potential to be a new and effective class of therapeutic molecules.
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27
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Oligomeric nucleic acids as antivirals. Molecules 2011; 16:1271-96. [PMID: 21278679 PMCID: PMC6259927 DOI: 10.3390/molecules16021271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2010] [Revised: 01/12/2011] [Accepted: 01/25/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Based on the natural functions and chemical characteristics of nucleic acids, a variety of novel synthetic drugs and tools to explore biological systems have become available in recent years. To date, a great number of antisense oligonucleotides, RNA interference-based tools, CpG-containing oligonucleotides, catalytic oligonucleotides, decoys and aptamers has been produced synthetically and applied successfully for understanding and manipulating biological processes and in clinical trials to treat a variety of diseases. Their versatility and potency make them equally suited candidates for fighting viral infections. Here, we describe the different types of nucleic acid-based antivirals, their mechanism of action, their advantages and limitations, and their future prospects.
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28
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Lundin P, Moreno PMD, Smith CIE, Andaloussi SEL. Circular RNA interference effector molecules (WO10084371). Expert Opin Ther Pat 2010; 21:115-9. [PMID: 21110768 DOI: 10.1517/13543776.2011.534460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Just over a decade after the discovery of RNA interference (RNAi), the RNAi field has begun travelling the bumpy road towards the clinic. Notwithstanding this extraordinarily rapid progress, and despite holding great promise for substantial future clinical impact, RNAi-inducing agents unfortunately exhibit certain physico-chemical and pharmacokinetic drawbacks. The patent application WO10084371 utilizes the exquisite biological mechanism of auto-catalytic intron splicing to generate circularized interfering RNAs (ciRNAs) in order to remedy the issue of rapid nuclease-mediated degradation of RNAi-inducers. The present patent evaluation assesses the utility of the ciRNAs in light of commonly used nucleotide modification strategies for modulating the properties of siRNAs, as well as scrutinizes the experimental data substantiating the patent application in question. The ciRNAs disclosed in WO10084371 exhibit potency on par with exogenously introduced short hairpin RNAs, albeit displaying increased exonuclease resistance. However, experimental validation as to the exact silencing mechanism is sparse, although the potential Dicer-substrate function of the ciRNAs is indeed a promising aspect. Despite the novel, elegant approach of WO10084371, the current gold standard nucleotide modifications appear to deliver sufficient stability for therapeutic applications, meaning that solving the issue of siRNA delivery still remains the major hurdle for clinical success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Per Lundin
- Life Science Group, Albihns.Zacco Stockholm, Valhallavägen 117, SE-114 85 Stockholm, Sweden.
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29
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Spiridonova VA. Molecular recognition elements: DNA/RNA-aptamers to proteins. BIOCHEMISTRY MOSCOW-SUPPLEMENT SERIES B-BIOMEDICAL CHEMISTRY 2010; 4:138-149. [PMID: 32288940 PMCID: PMC7101625 DOI: 10.1134/s1990750810020046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The review summarizes data on DNA/RNA aptamers, a novel class of molecular recognition elements. Special attention is paid to the aptamers to proteins involved into pathogenesis of wide spread human diseases. These include aptamers to serine proteases, cytokines, influenza viral proteins, immune deficiency virus protein and nucleic acid binding proteins. High affinity and specific binding of aptamers to particular protein targets make them attractive as direct protein inhibitors. They can inhibit pathogenic proteins and data presented here demonstrate that the idea that nucleic acid aptamers can regulate (inhibit) activity of protein targets has been transformed from the stage of basic developments into the stage of realization of practical tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- V A Spiridonova
- A.N. Belozersky Institute of Physical and Chemical Biology, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Vorobievy Gory, 1, bld. 40, Moscow, 119992 Russia
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30
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Imai K, Asamitsu K, Victoriano AFB, Cueno ME, Fujinaga K, Okamoto T. Cyclin T1 stabilizes expression levels of HIV-1 Tat in cells. FEBS J 2010; 276:7124-33. [PMID: 20064163 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-4658.2009.07424.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Transcription from HIV-1 proviral DNA is a rate-determining step for HIV-1 replication. Interaction between the cyclin T1 (CycT1) subunit of positive transcription elongation factor b (P-TEFb) and the Tat transactivator protein of HIV-1 is crucial for viral transcription. CycT1 also interacts directly with the transactivation-responsive element (TAR) located on the 5'end of viral mRNA, as well as with Tat through the Tat-TAR recognition motif (TRM). These molecular interactions represent a critical step for stimulation of HIV transcription. Thus, Tat and CycT1 are considered to be feasible targets for the development of novel anti-HIV therapies. In this study, we demonstrate that CycT1 is positively involved in the Tat protein stability. Selective degradation of CycT1 by small interfering RNA (siRNA) culminated in proteasome-mediated degradation of Tat and eventual inhibition of HIV-1 gene expression. We noted that the siRNA-mediated knockdown of CycT1 could inhibit HIV-1 transcription without affecting cell viability and Tat mRNA levels. These findings clearly indicate that CycT1 is a feasible therapeutic target, and inactivation or depletion of CycT1 should effectively inhibit HIV replication by destabilizing Tat and suppressing Tat-mediated HIV transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenichi Imai
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
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31
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Umekage S, Kikuchi Y. In vivo circular RNA production using a constitutive promoter for high-level expression. J Biosci Bioeng 2010; 108:354-6. [PMID: 19716528 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiosc.2009.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2009] [Revised: 04/09/2009] [Accepted: 04/13/2009] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The permuted intron-exon (PIE) method based on group I intron self-splicing is the only methodology currently available for production of circular RNA in vivo. Here, we report improvement of the circular RNA expression method based on an induction-free vector system utilizing the highly efficient constitutive lpp promoter.
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Affiliation(s)
- So Umekage
- Department of Ecological Engineering, Toyohashi University of Technology, Tempaku-cho, Aichi, Japan.
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32
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Umekage S, Kikuchi Y. In vitro and in vivo production and purification of circular RNA aptamer. J Biotechnol 2008; 139:265-72. [PMID: 19138712 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbiotec.2008.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2008] [Revised: 12/09/2008] [Accepted: 12/15/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
RNA aptamers are potential candidates for RNA therapeutics. They must be clinically modified for medical applications because they are vulnerable to indigenous ribonucleases. Since circular RNA molecules without any chemical modification are much more stable than linear ones in a cell extract, we report the production of a circular form of streptavidin RNA aptamer both in vitro and in vivo. Circularization was accomplished by self-splicing permuted intron-exon sequences derived from T4 bacteriophage gene td. This sequence was producible in both Escherichia coli cells and in vitro. The circularized streptavidin RNA aptamer retained its binding of streptavidin and was stabile in HeLa cell extracts compared to the linear form of the streptavidin aptamer. The self-spliced circular RNA from the transcribed permuted intron-exon transcripts in E. coli cells was purified from a total RNA fraction using the solid-phase DNA probe method following anion exchange chromatography that excluded gel electrophoresis. This study provides an alternative method for designing and purifying useful RNA aptamers.
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Affiliation(s)
- So Umekage
- Department of Ecological Engineering, Toyohashi University of Technology, 1-1 Hibarigaoka, Tempaku-cho, Toyohashi 441-8580, Japan.
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Dallas A, Balatskaya SV, Kuo TC, Ilves H, Vlassov AV, Kaspar RL, Kisich KO, Kazakov SA, Johnston BH. Hairpin ribozyme-antisense RNA constructs can act as molecular Lassos. Nucleic Acids Res 2008; 36:6752-66. [PMID: 18953032 PMCID: PMC2588507 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkn637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
We have developed a novel class of antisense agents, RNA Lassos, which are capable of binding to and circularizing around complementary target RNAs. The RNA Lasso consists of a fixed sequence derived from the hairpin ribozyme and an antisense segment whose size and sequence can be varied to base pair with accessible sites in the target RNA. The ribozyme catalyzes self-processing of the 5′- and 3′-ends of a transcribed Lasso precursor and ligates the processed ends to produce a circular RNA. The circular and linear forms of the self-processed Lasso coexist in an equilibrium that is dependent on both the Lasso sequence and the solution conditions. Lassos form strong, noncovalent complexes with linear target RNAs and form true topological linkages with circular targets. Lasso complexes with linear RNA targets were detected by denaturing gel electrophoresis and were found to be more stable than ordinary RNA duplexes. We show that expression of a fusion mRNA consisting of a sequence from the murine tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) gene linked to luciferase reporter can be specifically and efficiently blocked by an anti-TNF Lasso. We also show in cell culture experiments that Lassos directed against Fas pre-mRNA were able to induce a change in alternative splicing patterns.
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Stevens M, De Clercq E, Balzarini J. The regulation of HIV-1 transcription: molecular targets for chemotherapeutic intervention. Med Res Rev 2007; 26:595-625. [PMID: 16838299 PMCID: PMC7168390 DOI: 10.1002/med.20081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The regulation of transcription of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a complex event that requires the cooperative action of both viral and cellular components. In latently infected resting CD4+ T cells HIV‐1 transcription seems to be repressed by deacetylation events mediated by histone deacetylases (HDACs). Upon reactivation of HIV‐1 from latency, HDACs are displaced in response to the recruitment of histone acetyltransferases (HATs) by NF‐κB or the viral transcriptional activator Tat and result in multiple acetylation events. Following chromatin remodeling of the viral promoter region, transcription is initiated and leads to the formation of the TAR element. The complex of Tat with p‐TEFb then binds the loop structures of TAR RNA thereby positioning CDK9 to phosphorylate the cellular RNA polymerase II. The Tat‐TAR‐dependent phosphorylation of RNA polymerase II plays an important role in transcriptional elongation as well as in other post‐transcriptional events. As such, targeting of Tat protein (and/or cellular cofactors) provide an interesting perspective for therapeutic intervention in the HIV replicative cycle and may afford lifetime control of the HIV infection. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Med Res Rev, 26, No. 5, 595–625, 2006
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Stevens
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, Minderbroedersstraat 10, B‐3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Erik De Clercq
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, Minderbroedersstraat 10, B‐3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jan Balzarini
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, Minderbroedersstraat 10, B‐3000 Leuven, Belgium
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Agbottah ET, Traviss C, McArdle J, Karki S, St Laurent GC, Kumar A. Nuclear Factor 90(NF90) targeted to TAR RNA inhibits transcriptional activation of HIV-1. Retrovirology 2007; 4:41. [PMID: 17565699 PMCID: PMC1910605 DOI: 10.1186/1742-4690-4-41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2007] [Accepted: 06/12/2007] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Examination of host cell-based inhibitors of HIV-1 transcription may be important for attenuating viral replication. We describe properties of a cellular double-stranded RNA binding protein with intrinsic affinity for HIV-1 TAR RNA that interferes with Tat/TAR interaction and inhibits viral gene expression. RESULTS Utilizing TAR affinity fractionation, North-Western blotting, and mobility-shift assays, we show that the C-terminal variant of nuclear factor 90 (NF90ctv) with strong affinity for the TAR RNA, competes with Tat/TAR interaction in vitro. Analysis of the effect of NF90ctv-TAR RNA interaction in vivo showed significant inhibition of Tat-transactivation of HIV-1 LTR in cells expressing NF90ctv, as well as changes in histone H3 lysine-4 and lysine-9 methylation of HIV chromatin that are consistent with the epigenetic changes in transcriptionally repressed gene. CONCLUSION Structural integrity of the TAR element is crucial in HIV-1 gene expression. Our results show that perturbation Tat/TAR RNA interaction by the dsRNA binding protein is sufficient to inhibit transcriptional activation of HIV-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel T Agbottah
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington D.C. USA
| | - Christine Traviss
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington D.C. USA
| | - James McArdle
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington D.C. USA
| | - Sambhav Karki
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington D.C. USA
| | - Georges C St Laurent
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington D.C. USA
| | - Ajit Kumar
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington D.C. USA
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Stevens M, Pollicita M, Pannecouque C, Verbeken E, Tabarrini O, Cecchetti V, Aquaro S, Perno CF, Fravolini A, De Clercq E, Schols D, Balzarini J. Novel in vivo model for the study of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 transcription inhibitors: evaluation of new 6-desfluoroquinolone derivatives. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2007; 51:1407-13. [PMID: 17242146 PMCID: PMC1855509 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01251-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Two novel 6-desfluoroquinolone derivatives, HM-12 and HM-13, were evaluated for anti-human immunodeficiency virus (anti-HIV) activity in acutely, chronically, and latently HIV type 1 (HIV-1)-infected cell cultures and were found to behave as potent HIV-1 transcription inhibitors. In order to extend this result in vivo, we developed an artificial hu-SCID mouse model for HIV-1 latency based on SCID mice engrafted with latently HIV-1-infected promyelocytic OM-10.1 cells in which HIV-1 can be reactivated in vivo by the administration of human tumor necrosis factor alpha (hTNF-alpha). Treating these SCID mice with HM-12 or HM-13 prior to hTNF-alpha stimulation resulted in a pronounced suppressive effect on viral reactivation. Since both quinolone derivatives were able to inhibit the reactivation of HIV-1 from this artificial viral reservoir in vivo, we provide encouraging evidence for the use of quinolones in the control of HIV-1 infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Stevens
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, and Division of Histopathology, University Hospitals, Leuven, Belgium
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Di Giusto DA, Knox SM, Lai Y, Tyrelle GD, Aung MT, King GC. Multitasking by multivalent circular DNA aptamers. Chembiochem 2006; 7:535-44. [PMID: 16482500 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.200500316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Nucleic acid aptamers are finding increasing applications in biology, especially as therapeutic candidates and diagnostic components. An important characteristic in meeting the needs of these applications is improved stability in physiological fluids, which is most often accomplished with chemical modification or unnatural nucleotides. In an alternative approach we have specified the design of a multivalent circular DNA aptamer topology that encompasses a number of properties relevant to nucleic acid therapeutic candidates, especially the ability to multitask by combining different activities together within a modular structure. Improved stability in blood products, greater conformational stability, antidoting by complementary circular antiaptamers, heterovalency, transcription factor decoy activity and minimal unintended effects upon the cellular innate immune response are desirable properties that are described here. Multitasking by circular DNA aptamers could similarly find applications in diagnostics and biomaterials, where the combination of interchangeable modules might generate new functions, such as anticoagulation coupled with reversible cell capture as, described here. These results provide a platform for further exploration of multivalent circular aptamer properties, especially in novel combinations of nucleic acid therapeutic modes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel A Di Giusto
- School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia.
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38
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Puerta-Fernández E, Barroso-del Jesus A, Romero-López C, Tapia N, Martínez MA, Berzal-Herranz A. Inhibition of HIV-1 replication by RNA targeted against the LTR region. AIDS 2005; 19:863-70. [PMID: 15905666 DOI: 10.1097/01.aids.0000171399.77500.e0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The use of small RNA molecules able to effect gene inactivation has emerged as a powerful method of gene therapy. These small inhibitory RNAs are widely used for silencing malignant cellular and viral genes. We have assayed a series of inhibitory RNAs named catalytic antisense RNAs, consisting of a catalytic domain, hairpin or hammerhead ribozyme, and an antisense domain. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of these inhibitory RNAs on HIV-1 replication. METHODS A series of expression vectors has been constructed for the intracellular synthesis of inhibitory RNAs, differing in the promoter that drives their synthesis. These inhibitory RNAs were designed to act at two possible cleavage sites in the long terminal repeat (LTR) region and the TAR domain was chosen as a target for the antisense domain. We have evaluated the effects of different inhibitory RNAs in HIV replication via changes in p24 antigen levels. Mobility shift assays have been used to check the binding capacity of inhibitory RNAs. RESULTS Catalytic antisense RNA designed to target the LTR region of HIV-1 inhibited viral replication in an eukaryotic cell environment by more than 90%. The conventional hairpin and hammerhead ribozymes, however, failed to inhibit viral replication. CONCLUSIONS The data provide preliminary evidence of a new class of inhibitory RNAs that can be used to block HIV replication. The results clearly show the importance of the ex vivo antisense effect in the inhibition achieved. A good correlation was found between the in vitro binding efficiency of the inhibitor RNA to the HIV-1 LTR and the inhibition of viral replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Puerta-Fernández
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra, CSIC, Parque Tecnológico de Ciencias de la Salud, Avda. del Conocimiento s/n, Armilla, 18100 Granada, Spain
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39
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Kaushik N, Basu A, Palumbo P, Myers RL, Pandey VN. Anti-TAR polyamide nucleotide analog conjugated with a membrane-permeating peptide inhibits human immunodeficiency virus type 1 production. J Virol 2002; 76:3881-91. [PMID: 11907228 PMCID: PMC136084 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.76.8.3881-3891.2002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence of drug-resistant variants has posed a significant setback against effective antiviral treatment for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections. The choice of a nonmutable region of the viral genome such as the conserved transactivation response element (TAR element) in the 5' long terminal repeat (LTR) may potentially be an effective target for drug development. We have earlier demonstrated that a polyamide nucleotide analog (PNA) targeted to the TAR hairpin element, when transfected into cells, can effectively inhibit Tat-mediated transactivation of HIV type 1 (HIV-1) LTR (T. Mayhood et al., Biochemistry 39:11532-11539, 2000). Here we show that this anti-TAR PNA (PNA(TAR)), upon conjugation with a membrane-permeating peptide vector (transportan) retained its affinity for TAR in vitro similar to the unconjugated analog. The conjugate was efficiently internalized into the cells when added to the culture medium. Examination of the functional efficacy of the PNA(TAR)-transportan conjugate in cell culture using luciferase reporter gene constructs resulted in a significant inhibition of Tat-mediated transactivation of HIV-1 LTR. Furthermore, PNA(TAR)-transportan conjugate substantially inhibited HIV-1 production in chronically HIV-1-infected H9 cells. The mechanism of this inhibition appeared to be regulated at the level of transcription. These results demonstrate the efficacy of PNA(TAR)-transportan as a potential anti-HIV agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neerja Kaushik
- Center for the Study of Emerging and Re-Emerging Pathogens, UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey 07103, USA
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40
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Affiliation(s)
- N Dorman
- University of Cambridge Department of Medicine, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
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41
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Affiliation(s)
- T Pan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA
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42
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43
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Garber ME, Wei P, Jones KA. HIV-1 Tat interacts with cyclin T1 to direct the P-TEFb CTD kinase complex to TAR RNA. COLD SPRING HARBOR SYMPOSIA ON QUANTITATIVE BIOLOGY 1999; 63:371-80. [PMID: 10384302 DOI: 10.1101/sqb.1998.63.371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M E Garber
- Regulatory Biology Laboratory, Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, California 92037-1099, USA
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44
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Browning CM, Cagnon L, Good PD, Rossi J, Engelke DR, Markovitz DM. Potent inhibition of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) gene expression and virus production by an HIV-2 tat activation-response RNA decoy. J Virol 1999; 73:5191-5. [PMID: 10233987 PMCID: PMC112569 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.73.6.5191-5195.1999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/1998] [Accepted: 02/28/1999] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Tat activation-response region (TAR) decoys have been developed for use in gene therapy for people infected with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). When a TAR RNA decoy is overexpressed, it will bind Tat, thus leaving less of this crucial protein to bind to and activate the natural transcriptional promoter of HIV-1. Previous TAR decoy constructs have used HIV-1 TAR. However, recent epidemiological and biological data began to suggest that the TAR region from the human immunodeficiency virus type 2 (HIV-2) may suppress HIV-1 transcription and hence replication. We created a vector which overexpresses TAR-2 under the control of the human U6 small nuclear RNA gene promoter and here show that the U6-TAR-2 decoy construct potently inhibits both HIV-2 and HIV-1 gene expression. Further, this decoy construct is able to markedly suppress HIV-1 replication. Thus, we have directly proven that TAR-2 can suppress HIV-1 replication and suggest that the HIV-2 TAR decoy may prove useful for combating HIV-1 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Browning
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA
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45
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Brown LM, Burbach BJ, McKenzie BA, Connell GJ. A cis-acting A-U sequence element induces kinetoplastid U-insertions. J Biol Chem 1999; 274:6295-304. [PMID: 10037718 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.274.10.6295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
A 34-nucleotide A-U sequence located immediately upstream of the editing sites of the Leishmania tarentolae cytochrome b mRNA induces a mitochondrial extract to insert U nucleotides independent of guide RNA. Insertions are localized to positions immediately 5' and 3' of the A-U sequence. When placed within an unedited mammalian transcript, the A-U sequence is sufficient to induce U-insertions. The sequence has a high degree of similarity with the templating nucleotides of a cytochrome b guide RNA and with a sequence adjacent to the editing sites in ND7 mRNA, the other characterized kinetoplastid mRNA supporting guide RNA-independent U-insertions. At least one protein specifically interacts with the A-U sequence. The reaction is consistent with a mechanism proposed for guide RNA-directed editing.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M Brown
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455-0347, USA
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46
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Boulmé F, Freund F, Moreau S, Nielsen PE, Gryaznov S, Toulmé JJ, Litvak S. Modified (PNA, 2'-O-methyl and phosphoramidate) anti-TAR antisense oligonucleotides as strong and specific inhibitors of in vitro HIV-1 reverse transcription. Nucleic Acids Res 1998; 26:5492-500. [PMID: 9826777 PMCID: PMC148009 DOI: 10.1093/nar/26.23.5492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural beta-phosphodiester 16mer and 15mer antisense oligonucleotides targeted against the HIV-1 and HIV-2 TAR RNAs respectively were previously described as sequence-specific inhibitors of in vitro retroviral reverse transcription. In this work, we tested chemically modified oligonucleotide analogues: alpha-phosphodiester, phosphorothioate, methylphosphonate, peptide nucleic acid or PNA, 2'- o -methyl and (N3'-P5') phosphoramidate versions of the 16mer anti-TAR oligonucleotide. PNA, 2'- O -methyl and (N3'-P5') phosphoramidate oligomers showed a strong inhibitory effect compared with the unmodified 16mer, with reverse transcription inhibition (IC50) values in the nanomolar range. The inhibition was sequence-specific, as scrambled and mismatched control oligonucleotides were not able to inhibit cDNA synthesis. No direct binding of the 2'- O -methyl, PNA or (N3'-P5') phosphoramidate anti-TAR oligonucleotides to the HIV-1 reverse transcriptase was observed. The higher T m obtained with 2'- O -methyl, (N3'-P5') phosphoramidate and PNA molecules concerning the annealing with the stem-loop structure of the TAR RNA, in comparison with the beta-phosphodiester oligonucleotides, is correlated with their high inhibitory effect on reverse transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Boulmé
- EP-630, CNRS-Université Victor Segalen Bordeaux 2, 1 rue Camille Saint-Saëns, 33077 Bordeaux cedex, France
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47
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Marozzi A, Meneveri R, Giacca M, Gutierrez MI, Siccardi AG, Ginelli E. In vitro selection of HIV-1 TAR variants by the Tat protein. J Biotechnol 1998; 61:117-28. [PMID: 9654745 DOI: 10.1016/s0168-1656(98)00017-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Starting from a pool of 10(13) RNA sequences, we isolated a number of TAR RNA variants after nine rounds of selection by binding to recombinant Tat in vitro (SELEX procedure). Sequence analysis of part of the selected molecular species indicated that two TAR variants (clones A and B) were, respectively, represented five and four times. These two groups of sequences constituted approximately 25% of the total number of analyzed clones (9/34). As far as the primary and presumptive secondary structures of the wild-type TAR are concerned, the selected A and B variants showed an almost complete sequence conservation of the Tat-binding domain, but the configuration of this nucleotide region differed within the secondary structure. Despite this difference, as verified by gel retardation and filter binding assays, both the A and B variants bound Tat in vitro with an affinity that was very close to that of the wild-type TAR. Conversely, neither variant sustained Tat-mediated trans-activation in vivo when they replaced the wild-type TAR inside the long terminal repeat of HIV_1. Taken together, our results suggest that these TAR variants have lost the ability to bind cell factor(s) in vivo and may therefore represent useful decoys for the inhibition of HIV-1 replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Marozzi
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Genetica per le Scienze Mediche, Università di Milano, Italy
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Mikheeva S, Hakim-Zargar M, Carlson D, Jarrell K. Use of an engineered ribozyme to produce a circular human exon. Nucleic Acids Res 1997; 25:5085-94. [PMID: 9396820 PMCID: PMC147139 DOI: 10.1093/nar/25.24.5085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
We report the use of an engineered ribozyme to produce a circular human exon in vitro. Specifically, we have designed a derivative of a yeast self-splicing group II intron that is able to catalyze the formation of a circular exon encoding the first kringle domain (K1) of the human tissue plasminogen activator protein. We show that the circular K1 exon is formed with high fidelity in vitro. Furthermore, the system is designed such that the circular exon that is produced consists entirely of human exon sequence. Thus, our results demonstrate that all yeast exon sequences are dispensable for group II intron catalyzed inverse splicing. This is the first demonstration that an engineered ribozyme can be used to create a circular exon containing only human sequences, linked together at a precise desired ligation point. We expect these results to be generalizable, so that similar ribozymes can be designed to precisely create circular derivatives of any nucleotide sequence.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Mikheeva
- Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University Medical Center, 80 East Concord Street, Boston, MA 02118, USA
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49
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Bohjanen PR, Liu Y, Garcia-Blanco MA. TAR RNA decoys inhibit tat-activated HIV-1 transcription after preinitiation complex formation. Nucleic Acids Res 1997; 25:4481-6. [PMID: 9358155 PMCID: PMC147068 DOI: 10.1093/nar/25.22.4481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability of the HIV-1 Tat protein to trans -activate HIV-1 transcription in vitro is specifically inhibited by a circular TAR RNA decoy. This inhibition is not overcome by adding an excess of Tat to the reaction but is partially overcome by adding Tat in combination with nuclear extract, suggesting that TAR RNA might function by interacting with a complex containing Tat and cellular factor(s). A cell-free transcription system involving immobilized DNA templates was used to further define the factor(s) that interact with TAR RNA. Preinitiation complexes formed in the presence or absence of Tat were purified on immobilized templates containing the HIV-1 promoter. After washing, nucleotides and radiolabelled UTP were added and transcription was measured. The presence of Tat during preinitiation complex formation resulted in an increase in the level of full-length HIV-1 transcripts. This Tat-activated increase in HIV-1 transcription was not inhibited by circular TAR decoys added during preinitiation complex formation but was inhibited by circular TAR decoys subsequently added during the transcription reaction. These results suggest that TAR decoys inhibit Tat-activated HIV-1 transcription after preinitiation complex formation, perhaps by interacting with components of transcription complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- P R Bohjanen
- Department of Pharmacology and Cancer Biology, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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50
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Suñé C, Hayashi T, Liu Y, Lane WS, Young RA, Garcia-Blanco MA. CA150, a nuclear protein associated with the RNA polymerase II holoenzyme, is involved in Tat-activated human immunodeficiency virus type 1 transcription. Mol Cell Biol 1997; 17:6029-39. [PMID: 9315662 PMCID: PMC232452 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.17.10.6029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Maximal human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) gene expression requires specific cellular factors in addition to the virus-encoded trans-activator protein Tat and the RNA element TAR. We developed a functional assay, based on transcriptional activation in vitro, to identify these cellular factors. Here, we describe the purification and molecular cloning of CA150, a nuclear protein that is associated with the human RNA polymerase II holoenzyme and is involved in Tat-dependent HIV-1 transcriptional activation. The sequence of CA150 contains an extensive glutamine- and alanine-rich repeat that is found in transcriptional modulators such as GAL11 and SSN6 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Zeste in Drosophila melanogaster. Immunodepletion of CA150 abolished Tat trans activation in vitro. Moreover, overexpression of a mutant CA150 protein specifically and dramatically decreased Tat-mediated activation of the HIV-1 promoter in vivo, strongly suggesting a role for CA150 in HIV-1 gene regulation. Immunoprecipitation experiments demonstrated that both CA150 and Tat associate with the RNA polymerase II holoenzyme. Furthermore, we found that functional Tat associates with the holoenzyme whereas activation-deficient Tat mutants do not. Thus, we propose that Tat action is transduced via an RNA polymerase II holoenzyme that contains CA150.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Suñé
- Department of Molecular Cancer Biology, Levine Science Research Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
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