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Semik-Gurgul E, Pawlina-Tyszko K, Gurgul A, Szmatoła T, Rybińska J, Ząbek T. In search of epigenetic hallmarks of different tissues: an integrative omics study of horse liver, lung, and heart. Mamm Genome 2024:10.1007/s00335-024-10057-0. [PMID: 39143382 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-024-10057-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
DNA methylation and microRNA (miRNA) expression are epigenetic mechanisms essential for regulating tissue-specific gene expression and metabolic processes. However, high-resolution transcriptome, methylome, or miRNAome data is only available for a few model organisms and selected tissues. Up to date, only a few studies have reported on gene expression, DNA methylation, or miRNA expression in adult equine tissues at the genome-wide level. In the present study, we used RNA-Seq, miRNA-seq, and reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) data from the heart, lung, and liver tissues of healthy cold-blooded horses to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs), differentially expressed miRNA (DE miRNA) and differentially methylated sites (DMSs) between three types of horse tissues. Additionally, based on integrative omics analysis, we described the observed interactions of epigenetic mechanisms with tissue-specific gene expression alterations. The obtained data allowed identification from 4067 to 6143 DMSs, 9733 to 11,263 mRNAs, and 155 to 185 microRNAs, differentially expressed between various tissues. We pointed out specific genes whose expression level displayed a negative correlation with the level of CpG methylation and miRNA expression and revealed biological processes that they enrich. Furthermore, we confirmed and validated the accuracy of the Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) results with bisulfite sequencing PCR (BSP) and quantitative PCR (qPCR). This comprehensive analysis forms a strong foundation for exploring the epigenetic mechanisms involved in tissue differentiation, especially the growth and development of the equine heart, lungs, and liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewelina Semik-Gurgul
- Department of Animal Molecular Biology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1 St, Balice, 32-083, Poland.
| | - Klaudia Pawlina-Tyszko
- Department of Animal Molecular Biology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1 St, Balice, 32-083, Poland
| | - Artur Gurgul
- Center for Experimental and Innovative Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Redzina 1c, Krakow, 30-248, Poland
| | - Tomasz Szmatoła
- Department of Animal Molecular Biology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1 St, Balice, 32-083, Poland
- Center for Experimental and Innovative Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Redzina 1c, Krakow, 30-248, Poland
| | - Justyna Rybińska
- Department of Animal Molecular Biology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1 St, Balice, 32-083, Poland
| | - Tomasz Ząbek
- Department of Animal Molecular Biology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1 St, Balice, 32-083, Poland
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2
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Baran AM, Patil AH, Aparicio-Puerta E, Halushka MK, McCall MN. miRglmm: a generalized linear mixed model of isomiR-level counts improves estimation of miRNA-level differential expression and uncovers variable differential expression between isomiRs. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.03.592274. [PMID: 39071300 PMCID: PMC11275874 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.03.592274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
MicroRNA-seq data is produced by aligning small RNA sequencing reads of different miRNA transcript isoforms, called isomiRs, to known microRNAs. Aggregation to microRNA-level counts discards information and violates core assumptions of differential expression (DE) methods developed for mRNA-seq data. We establish miRglmm, a DE method for microRNA-seq data, that uses a generalized linear mixed model of isomiR-level counts, facilitating detection of miRNA with differential expression or differential isomiR usage. We demonstrate that miRglmm outperforms current DE methods in estimating DE for miRNA, whether or not there is significant isomiR variability, and simultaneously provides estimates of isomiR-level DE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea M Baran
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester Medical Center, 265 Crittenden Blvd., Box 630, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Arun H Patil
- Lieber Institute for Brain Development, Johns Hopkins University, 855 North Wolfe St. Suite 300, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Ernesto Aparicio-Puerta
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester Medical Center, 265 Crittenden Blvd., Box 630, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Marc K Halushka
- Department of Pathology, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Matthew N McCall
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester Medical Center, 265 Crittenden Blvd., Box 630, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
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3
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Kumar D, Budachetri K, Rikihisa Y, Karim S. Analysis of Amblyomma americanum microRNAs in response to Ehrlichia chaffeensis infection and their potential role in vectorial capacity. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1427562. [PMID: 39086604 PMCID: PMC11288922 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1427562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Background MicroRNAs (miRNAs) represent a subset of small noncoding RNAs and carry tremendous potential for regulating gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. They play pivotal roles in distinct cellular mechanisms including inhibition of bacterial, parasitic, and viral infections via immune response pathways. Intriguingly, pathogens have developed strategies to manipulate the host's miRNA profile, fostering environments conducive to successful infection. Therefore, changes in an arthropod host's miRNA profile in response to pathogen invasion could be critical in understanding host-pathogen dynamics. Additionally, this area of study could provide insights into discovering new targets for disease control and prevention. The main objective of the present study is to investigate the functional role of differentially expressed miRNAs upon Ehrlichia chaffeensis, a tick-borne pathogen, infection in tick vector, Amblyomma americanum. Methods Small RNA libraries from uninfected and E. chaffeensis-infected Am. americanum midgut and salivary gland tissues were prepared using the Illumina Truseq kit. Small RNA sequencing data was analyzed using miRDeep2 and sRNAtoolbox to identify novel and known miRNAs. The differentially expressed miRNAs were validated using a quantitative PCR assay. Furthermore, a miRNA inhibitor approach was used to determine the functional role of selected miRNA candidates. Results The sequencing of small RNA libraries generated >147 million raw reads in all four libraries and identified a total of >250 miRNAs across the four libraries. We identified 23 and 14 differentially expressed miRNAs in salivary glands, and midgut tissues infected with E. chaffeensis, respectively. Three differentially expressed miRNAs (miR-87, miR-750, and miR-275) were further characterized to determine their roles in pathogen infection. Inhibition of target miRNAs significantly decreased the E. chaffeensis load in tick tissues, which warrants more in-depth mechanistic studies. Conclusions The current study identified known and novel miRNAs and suggests that interfering with these miRNAs may impact the vectorial capacity of ticks to harbor Ehrlichia. This study identified several new miRNAs for future analysis of their functions in tick biology and tick-pathogen interaction studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Kumar
- School of Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS, United States
| | - Khemraj Budachetri
- Laboratory of Molecular, Cellular, and Environmental Rickettsiology, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Yasuko Rikihisa
- Laboratory of Molecular, Cellular, and Environmental Rickettsiology, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Shahid Karim
- School of Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS, United States
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4
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Engel A, Rishik S, Hirsch P, Keller V, Fehlmann T, Kern F, Keller A. SingmiR: a single-cell miRNA alignment and analysis tool. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:W374-W380. [PMID: 38572750 PMCID: PMC11223861 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Single-cell RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) has revolutionized our understanding of cell biology, developmental and pathophysiological molecular processes, paving the way toward novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. However, most of the gene regulatory processes on the single-cell level are still unknown, including post-transcriptional control conferred by microRNAs (miRNAs). Like the established single-cell gene expression analysis, advanced computational expertise is required to comprehensively process newly emerging single-cell miRNA-seq datasets. A web server providing a workflow tailored for single-cell miRNA-seq data with a self-explanatory interface is currently not available. Here, we present SingmiR, enabling the rapid (pre-)processing and quantification of human miRNAs from noncoding single-cell samples. It performs read trimming for different library preparation protocols, generates automated quality control reports and provides feature-normalized count files. Numerous standard and advanced analyses such as dimension reduction, clustered feature heatmaps, sample correlation heatmaps and differential expression statistics are implemented. We aim to speed up the prototyping pipeline for biologists developing single-cell miRNA-seq protocols on small to medium-sized datasets. SingmiR is freely available to all users without the need for a login at https://www.ccb.uni-saarland.de/singmir.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika Engel
- Chair for Clinical Bioinformatics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Shusruto Rishik
- Chair for Clinical Bioinformatics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Pascal Hirsch
- Chair for Clinical Bioinformatics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Verena Keller
- Chair for Clinical Bioinformatics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Tobias Fehlmann
- Chair for Clinical Bioinformatics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Fabian Kern
- Chair for Clinical Bioinformatics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
- Department of Clinical Bioinformatics (CLIB), Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Andreas Keller
- Chair for Clinical Bioinformatics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
- Department of Clinical Bioinformatics (CLIB), Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
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5
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Wagner V, Meese E, Keller A. The intricacies of isomiRs: from classification to clinical relevance. Trends Genet 2024:S0168-9525(24)00124-0. [PMID: 38862304 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2024.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and isoforms of their archetype, called isomiRs, regulate gene expression via complementary base-pair binding to messenger RNAs (mRNAs). The partially evolutionarily conserved isomiR sequence variations are differentially expressed among tissues, populations, and genders, and between healthy and diseased states. Aiming towards the clinical use of isomiRs as diagnostic biomarkers and for therapeutic purposes, several challenges need to be addressed, including (i) clarification of isomiR definition, (ii) improved annotation in databases with new standardization (such as the mirGFF3 format), and (iii) improved methods of isomiR detection, functional verification, and in silico analysis. In this review we discuss the respective challenges, and highlight the opportunities for clinical use of isomiRs, especially in the light of increasing amounts of next-generation sequencing (NGS) data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoria Wagner
- Chair for Clinical Bioinformatics, Center for Bioinformatics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany; Helmholtz-Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), Saarland University Campus, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Eckart Meese
- Department of Human Genetics, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Andreas Keller
- Chair for Clinical Bioinformatics, Center for Bioinformatics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany; Helmholtz-Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS), Saarland University Campus, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany.
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6
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Ashiqueali SA, Schneider A, Zhu X, Juszczyk E, Mansoor MAM, Zhu Y, Fang Y, Zanini BM, Garcia DN, Hayslip N, Medina D, McFadden S, Stockwell R, Yuan R, Bartke A, Zasloff M, Siddiqi S, Masternak MM. Early life interventions metformin and trodusquemine metabolically reprogram the developing mouse liver through transcriptomic alterations. Aging Cell 2024:e14227. [PMID: 38798180 DOI: 10.1111/acel.14227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated the remarkable potential of early life intervention strategies at influencing the course of postnatal development, thereby offering exciting possibilities for enhancing longevity and improving overall health. Metformin (MF), an FDA-approved medication for type II diabetes mellitus, has recently gained attention for its promising anti-aging properties, acting as a calorie restriction mimetic, and delaying precocious puberty. Additionally, trodusquemine (MSI-1436), an investigational drug, has been shown to combat obesity and metabolic disorders by inhibiting the enzyme protein tyrosine phosphatase 1b (Ptp1b), consequently reducing hepatic lipogenesis and counteracting insulin and leptin resistance. In this study, we aimed to further explore the effects of these compounds on young, developing mice to uncover biomolecular signatures that are central to liver metabolic processes. We found that MSI-1436 more potently alters mRNA and miRNA expression in the liver compared with MF, with bioinformatic analysis suggesting that cohorts of differentially expressed miRNAs inhibit the action of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (Pi3k), protein kinase B (Akt), and mammalian target of rapamycin (Mtor) to regulate the downstream processes of de novo lipogenesis, fatty acid oxidation, very-low-density lipoprotein transport, and cholesterol biosynthesis and efflux. In summary, our study demonstrates that administering these compounds during the postnatal window metabolically reprograms the liver through induction of potent epigenetic changes in the transcriptome, potentially forestalling the onset of age-related diseases and enhancing longevity. Future studies are necessary to determine the impacts on lifespan and overall quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Ashiqueali
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Augusto Schneider
- Faculdade de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Xiang Zhu
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Ewelina Juszczyk
- Research & Development Center, Celon Pharma S.A., Kazun Nowy, Poland
| | - Mishfak A M Mansoor
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Yun Zhu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Yimin Fang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Bianka M Zanini
- Faculdade de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Driele N Garcia
- Faculdade de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil
| | - Natalie Hayslip
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - David Medina
- Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Samuel McFadden
- Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Robert Stockwell
- Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Rong Yuan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Andrzej Bartke
- Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield, Illinois, USA
| | - Michael Zasloff
- MedStar Georgetown Transplant Institute, Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Shadab Siddiqi
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, USA
| | - Michal M Masternak
- Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, USA
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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7
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Scheepbouwer C, Aparicio-Puerta E, Gómez-Martin C, van Eijndhoven MA, Drees EE, Bosch L, de Jong D, Wurdinger T, Zijlstra JM, Hackenberg M, Gerber A, Pegtel DM. Full-length tRNAs lacking a functional CCA tail are selectively sorted into the lumen of extracellular vesicles. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.12.593148. [PMID: 38765958 PMCID: PMC11100784 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.12.593148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are heterogenous lipid membrane particles typically less than 200 nm in size and secreted by most cell types either constitutively or upon activation signals. sEVs isolated from biofluids contain RNAs, including small non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), that can be either encapsulated within the EV lumen or bound to the EV surface. EV-associated microRNAs (miRNAs) are, despite a relatively low abundance, extensively investigated for their selective incorporation and their role in cell-cell communication. In contrast, the sorting of highly-structured ncRNA species is understudied, mainly due to technical limitations of traditional small RNA sequencing protocols. Here, we adapted ALL-tRNAseq to profile the relative abundance of highly structured and potentially methylated small ncRNA species, including transfer RNAs (tRNAs), small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs), and Y RNAs in bulk EV preparations. We determined that full-length tRNAs, typically 75 to 90 nucleotides in length, were the dominant small ncRNA species (>60% of all reads in the 18-120 nucleotides size-range) in all cell culture-derived EVs, as well as in human plasma-derived EV samples, vastly outnumbering 21 nucleotides-long miRNAs. Nearly all EV-associated tRNAs were protected from external RNAse treatment, indicating a location within the EV lumen. Strikingly, the vast majority of luminal-sorted, full-length, nucleobase modification-containing EV-tRNA sequences, harbored a dysfunctional 3' CCA tail, 1 to 3 nucleotides truncated, rendering them incompetent for amino acid loading. In contrast, in non-EV associated extracellular particle fractions (NVEPs), tRNAs appeared almost exclusively fragmented or 'nicked' into tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) with lengths between 18 to 35 nucleotides. We propose that in mammalian cells, tRNAs that lack a functional 3' CCA tail are selectively sorted into EVs and shuttled out of the producing cell, offering a new perspective into the physiological role of secreted EVs and luminal cargo-selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantal Scheepbouwer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ernesto Aparicio-Puerta
- Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Cristina Gómez-Martin
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Monique A.J. van Eijndhoven
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Esther E.E. Drees
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Leontien Bosch
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Daphne de Jong
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Thomas Wurdinger
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Josée M. Zijlstra
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Department of Hematology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Michael Hackenberg
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, Biomedical Research Centre (CIBM), Biotechnology Institute, PTS, Avda. del Conocimiento s/n, 18100 Granada, Spain
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Science, Universidad de Granada, Campus de Fuentenueva s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Excellence Research Unit “Modeling Nature” (MNat), University of Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs. Granada, University Hospitals of Granada-University of Granada, Spain; Conocimiento s/n 18100, Granada. Spain
| | - Alan Gerber
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - D. Michiel Pegtel
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center, VU University, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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8
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Kumar D, Budachetri K, Rikihisa Y, Karim S. Analysis of Amblyomma americanum microRNAs in response to Ehrlichia chaffeensis infection and their potential role in vectorial capacity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.03.592465. [PMID: 38765993 PMCID: PMC11100627 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.03.592465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Background MicroRNAs (miRNAs) represent a subset of small noncoding RNAs and carry tremendous potential for regulating gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. They play pivotal roles in distinct cellular mechanisms including inhibition of bacterial, parasitic, and viral infections via immune response pathways. Intriguingly, pathogens have developed strategies to manipulate the host's miRNA profile, fostering environments conducive to successful infection. Therefore, changes in an arthropod host's miRNA profile in response to pathogen invasion could be critical in understanding host-pathogen dynamics. Additionally, this area of study could provide insights into discovering new targets for disease control and prevention. The main objective of the present study is to investigate the functional role of differentially expressed miRNAs upon Ehrlichia chaffeensis, a tick-borne pathogen, infection in tick vector, Amblyomma americanum. Methods Small RNA libraries from uninfected and E. chaffeensis-infected Am. americanum midgut and salivary gland tissues were prepared using the Illumina Truseq kit. Small RNA sequencing data was analyzed using miRDeep2 and sRNAtoolbox to identify novel and known miRNAs. The differentially expressed miRNAs were validated using a quantitative PCR assay. Furthermore, a miRNA inhibitor approach was used to determine the functional role of selected miRNA candidates. Results The sequencing of small RNA libraries generated >147 million raw reads in all four libraries and identified a total of >250 miRNAs across the four libraries. We identified 23 and 14 differentially expressed miRNAs in salivary glands, and midgut tissues infected with E. chaffeensis, respectively. Three differentially expressed miRNAs (miR-87, miR-750, and miR-275) were further characterized to determine their roles in pathogen infection. Inhibition of target miRNAs significantly decreased the E. chaffeensis load in tick tissues, which warrants more in-depth mechanistic studies. Conclusions The current study identified known and novel miRNAs and suggests that interfering with these miRNAs may impact the vectorial capacity of ticks to harbor Ehrlichia. This study identified several new miRNAs for future analysis of their functions in tick biology and tick-pathogen interaction studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Kumar
- School of Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA
| | - Khemraj Budachetri
- Laboratory of Molecular, Cellular, and Environmental Rickettsiology, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Yasuko Rikihisa
- Laboratory of Molecular, Cellular, and Environmental Rickettsiology, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Infectious Diseases Institute, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, United States
| | - Shahid Karim
- School of Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA
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9
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Gosch A, Banemann R, Dørum G, Haas C, Hadrys T, Haenggi N, Kulstein G, Neubauer J, Courts C. Spitting in the wind?-The challenges of RNA sequencing for biomarker discovery from saliva. Int J Legal Med 2024; 138:401-412. [PMID: 37847308 PMCID: PMC10861700 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-023-03100-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Forensic trace contextualization, i.e., assessing information beyond who deposited a biological stain, has become an issue of great and steadily growing importance in forensic genetic casework and research. The human transcriptome encodes a wide variety of information and thus has received increasing interest for the identification of biomarkers for different aspects of forensic trace contextualization over the past years. Massively parallel sequencing of reverse-transcribed RNA ("RNA sequencing") has emerged as the gold standard technology to characterize the transcriptome in its entirety and identify RNA markers showing significant expression differences not only between different forensically relevant body fluids but also within a single body fluid between forensically relevant conditions of interest. Here, we analyze the quality and composition of four RNA sequencing datasets (whole transcriptome as well as miRNA sequencing) from two different research projects (the RNAgE project and the TrACES project), aiming at identifying contextualizing forensic biomarker from the forensically relevant body fluid saliva. We describe and characterize challenges of RNA sequencing of saliva samples arising from the presence of oral bacteria, the heterogeneity of sample composition, and the confounding factor of degradation. Based on these observations, we formulate recommendations that might help to improve RNA biomarker discovery from the challenging but forensically relevant body fluid saliva.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annica Gosch
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Regine Banemann
- Federal Criminal Police Office, Forensic Science Institute, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Guro Dørum
- Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Cordula Haas
- Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Thorsten Hadrys
- State Criminal Police Office, Forensic Science Institute, Munich, Germany
| | - Nadescha Haenggi
- Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Galina Kulstein
- Federal Criminal Police Office, Forensic Science Institute, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - Jacqueline Neubauer
- Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Cornelius Courts
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
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10
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Bernard EIM, Towler BP, Rogoyski OM, Newbury SF. Characterisation of the in-vivo miRNA landscape in Drosophila ribonuclease mutants reveals Pacman-mediated regulation of the highly conserved let-7 cluster during apoptotic processes. Front Genet 2024; 15:1272689. [PMID: 38444757 PMCID: PMC10912645 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1272689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The control of gene expression is a fundamental process essential for correct development and to maintain homeostasis. Many post-transcriptional mechanisms exist to maintain the correct levels of each RNA transcript within the cell. Controlled and targeted cytoplasmic RNA degradation is one such mechanism with the 5'-3' exoribonuclease Pacman (XRN1) and the 3'-5' exoribonuclease Dis3L2 playing crucial roles. Loss of function mutations in either Pacman or Dis3L2 have been demonstrated to result in distinct phenotypes, and both have been implicated in human disease. One mechanism by which gene expression is controlled is through the function of miRNAs which have been shown to be crucial for the control of almost all cellular processes. Although the biogenesis and mechanisms of action of miRNAs have been comprehensively studied, the mechanisms regulating their own turnover are not well understood. Here we characterise the miRNA landscape in a natural developing tissue, the Drosophila melanogaster wing imaginal disc, and assess the importance of Pacman and Dis3L2 on the abundance of miRNAs. We reveal a complex landscape of miRNA expression and show that whilst a null mutation in dis3L2 has a minimal effect on the miRNA expression profile, loss of Pacman has a profound effect with a third of all detected miRNAs demonstrating Pacman sensitivity. We also reveal a role for Pacman in regulating the highly conserved let-7 cluster (containing miR-100, let-7 and miR-125) and present a genetic model outlining a positive feedback loop regulated by Pacman which enhances our understanding of the apoptotic phenotype observed in Pacman mutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa I. M. Bernard
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin P. Towler
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
- School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Oliver M. Rogoyski
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah F. Newbury
- Brighton and Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, United Kingdom
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11
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Do VQ, Hoang-Thi C, Pham TT, Bui NL, Kim DT, Chu DT. Computational tools supporting known miRNA identification. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2024; 203:225-242. [PMID: 38360000 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2023.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
The study of small RNAs is a field that is expanding quickly. Other functional short RNA molecules other than microRNAs, and gene expression regulators, have been found in animals and plants. MicroRNAs play a significant role in host-microbe interactions, and parasite microRNAs may affect the host's innate immunity. Furthermore, short RNAs are intriguing non-invasive biomarker possibilities because they can be found in physiological fluids. These trends suggest that for many researchers, quick and simple techniques for expression profiling and subsequent downstream analysis of miRNA-seq data are crucial. We selected sRNAtoolbox to make integrated sRNA research easier. Each tool can be used separately or to explore and analyze sRNAbench results in further depth. A special focus was placed on the tools' usability. We review available miRNA research tools to have an overview of the evaluation of the tools. Mainly we evaluate the tool sRNAtoolbox.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van-Quy Do
- Faculty of Applied Sciences, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam; Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Chuc Hoang-Thi
- Faculty of Applied Sciences, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam; Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thanh-Truong Pham
- Faculty of Applied Sciences, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam; Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Nhat-Le Bui
- Faculty of Applied Sciences, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam; Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Dinh-Thai Kim
- Faculty of Applied Sciences, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | - Dinh-Toi Chu
- Faculty of Applied Sciences, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam; Center for Biomedicine and Community Health, International School, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam.
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12
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Zayakin P. sRNAflow: A Tool for the Analysis of Small RNA-Seq Data. Noncoding RNA 2024; 10:6. [PMID: 38250806 PMCID: PMC10801628 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna10010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The analysis of small RNA sequencing data across a range of biofluids is a significant research area, given the diversity of RNA types that hold potential diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive value. The intricate task of segregating the complex mixture of small RNAs from both human and other species, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, poses one of the most formidable challenges in the analysis of small RNA sequencing data, currently lacking satisfactory solutions. This study introduces sRNAflow, a user-friendly bioinformatic tool with a web interface designed for the analysis of small RNAs obtained from biological fluids. Tailored to the unique requirements of such samples, the proposed pipeline addresses various challenges, including filtering potential RNAs from reagents and environment, classifying small RNA types, managing small RNA annotation overlap, conducting differential expression assays, analysing isomiRs, and presenting an approach to identify the sources of small RNAs within samples. sRNAflow also encompasses an alternative alignment-free analysis of RNA-seq data, featuring clustering and initial RNA source identification using BLAST. This comprehensive approach facilitates meaningful comparisons of results between different analytical methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pawel Zayakin
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, LV-1067 Riga, Latvia;
- European Bioinformatics Institute, EMBL-EBI, Hinxton CB10 1SD, UK
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13
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van Eijndhoven MAJ, Scheepbouwer C, Aparicio-Puerta E, Hackenberg M, Pegtel DM. IsoSeek for unbiased and UMI-informed sequencing of miRNAs from low input samples at single-nucleotide resolution. STAR Protoc 2023; 4:102645. [PMID: 37858475 PMCID: PMC10594637 DOI: 10.1016/j.xpro.2023.102645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Besides canonical microRNAs (miRNAs), sequence-based variations called isomiRs have biological relevance and diagnostic potential; however, accurate calling of these post-transcriptional modifications is challenging, especially for low input samples. Here, we present IsoSeek, a sequencing protocol that reduces ligation and PCR amplification bias and improves the accuracy of miRNA detection in low input samples. We describe steps for using randomized adapters combined with unique molecular identifiers (UMI), library quantification, and sequencing, followed by detailed procedures for data processing and analysis. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to C. Gómez-Martín et al. (2023)1 and Van Eijndhoven et al. (2021).2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique A J van Eijndhoven
- Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Pathology, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Chantal Scheepbouwer
- Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Pathology, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Neurosurgery, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ernesto Aparicio-Puerta
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Science, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain; Bioinformatics Laboratory, Biotechnology Institute, Centro de Investigacion Biomedica, PTS, Avda. del Conocimiento s/n, 18100 Granada, Spain; Instituto de Investigacion Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain; Excellence Research Unit ''Modelling Nature'' (MNat), University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Michael Hackenberg
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Science, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain; Bioinformatics Laboratory, Biotechnology Institute, Centro de Investigacion Biomedica, PTS, Avda. del Conocimiento s/n, 18100 Granada, Spain; Instituto de Investigacion Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain; Excellence Research Unit ''Modelling Nature'' (MNat), University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - D Michiel Pegtel
- Amsterdam UMC, Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Pathology, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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14
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Pawlina-Tyszko K, Szmatoła T. Benchmarking of bioinformatics tools for NGS-based microRNA profiling with RT-qPCR method. Funct Integr Genomics 2023; 23:347. [PMID: 38030823 PMCID: PMC10687144 DOI: 10.1007/s10142-023-01276-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs are vital gene expression regulators, extensively studied worldwide. The large-scale characterization of miRNAomes is possible using next-generation sequencing (NGS). This technology offers great opportunities, but these cannot be fully exploited without proper and comprehensive bioinformatics analysis. This may be achieved by the use of reliable dedicated software; however, different programs may generate divergent results, leading to additional discrepancies. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare three bioinformatic algorithms dedicated to NGS-based microRNA profiling and validate them using an alternative method, namely RT-qPCR. The comparison analysis revealed differences in the number and sets of identified miRNAs. The qPCR confirmed the expression of the investigated microRNAs. The correlation analysis of NGS and qPCR measurements showed strong and significant coefficients for a subset of the tested miRNAs, including those detected by all three algorithms. Single miRNA variants (isomiRs) showed different levels of correlation with the qPCR data. The obtained results revealed the good performance of all tested programs, despite the observed differences. Moreover, they implied that some specific miRNAs may be differentially estimated using NGS technology and the qPCR method, regardless of the used bioinformatics software. These discrepancies may stem from many factors, including the composition of the isomiR profile, their abundance, length, and investigated species. In conclusion, in this study, we shed light on the bioinformatics aspects of miRNAome profiling, elucidating its complexity and pinpointing potential features influencing validation. Thus, qPCR validation results should be open to interpretation when not fully concordant with NGS results until further, additional analyses are conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaudia Pawlina-Tyszko
- Department of Animal Molecular Biology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1 st., 32-083, Balice, Poland.
| | - Tomasz Szmatoła
- Department of Animal Molecular Biology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1 st., 32-083, Balice, Poland
- Center for Experimental and Innovative Medicine, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Redzina 1c, 30-248, Krakow, Poland
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15
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Nogueras Pérez R, Heredia-Nicolás N, de Lara-Peña L, López de Andrés J, Marchal JA, Jiménez G, Griñán-Lisón C. Unraveling the Potential of miRNAs from CSCs as an Emerging Clinical Tool for Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Prognosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16010. [PMID: 37958993 PMCID: PMC10647353 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242116010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer (BC) is the most diagnosed cancer in women and the second most common cancer globally. Significant advances in BC research have led to improved early detection and effective therapies. One of the key challenges in BC is the presence of BC stem cells (BCSCs). This small subpopulation within the tumor possesses unique characteristics, including tumor-initiating capabilities, contributes to treatment resistance, and plays a role in cancer recurrence and metastasis. In recent years, microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as potential regulators of BCSCs, which can modulate gene expression and influence cellular processes like BCSCs' self-renewal, differentiation, and tumor-promoting pathways. Understanding the miRNA signatures of BCSCs holds great promise for improving BC diagnosis and prognosis. By targeting BCSCs and their associated miRNAs, researchers aim to develop more effective and personalized treatment strategies that may offer better outcomes for BC patients, minimizing tumor recurrence and metastasis. In conclusion, the investigation of miRNAs as regulators of BCSCs opens new directions for advancing BC research through the use of bioinformatics and the development of innovative therapeutic approaches. This review summarizes the most recent and innovative studies and clinical trials on the role of BCSCs miRNAs as potential tools for early diagnosis, prognosis, and resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Nogueras Pérez
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (R.N.P.); (N.H.-N.); (L.d.L.-P.); (J.L.d.A.); (J.A.M.)
| | - Noelia Heredia-Nicolás
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (R.N.P.); (N.H.-N.); (L.d.L.-P.); (J.L.d.A.); (J.A.M.)
| | - Laura de Lara-Peña
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (R.N.P.); (N.H.-N.); (L.d.L.-P.); (J.L.d.A.); (J.A.M.)
- Biosanitary Research Institute of Granada (ibs. GRANADA), University Hospitals of Granada, University of Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain
- Excellence Research Unit “Modeling Nature” (MNat), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Julia López de Andrés
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (R.N.P.); (N.H.-N.); (L.d.L.-P.); (J.L.d.A.); (J.A.M.)
- Biosanitary Research Institute of Granada (ibs. GRANADA), University Hospitals of Granada, University of Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain
- Excellence Research Unit “Modeling Nature” (MNat), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Juan Antonio Marchal
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (R.N.P.); (N.H.-N.); (L.d.L.-P.); (J.L.d.A.); (J.A.M.)
- Biosanitary Research Institute of Granada (ibs. GRANADA), University Hospitals of Granada, University of Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain
- Excellence Research Unit “Modeling Nature” (MNat), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Gema Jiménez
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (R.N.P.); (N.H.-N.); (L.d.L.-P.); (J.L.d.A.); (J.A.M.)
- Biosanitary Research Institute of Granada (ibs. GRANADA), University Hospitals of Granada, University of Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain
- Excellence Research Unit “Modeling Nature” (MNat), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Department of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Carmen Griñán-Lisón
- Biopathology and Regenerative Medicine Institute (IBIMER), Centre for Biomedical Research (CIBM), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (R.N.P.); (N.H.-N.); (L.d.L.-P.); (J.L.d.A.); (J.A.M.)
- Biosanitary Research Institute of Granada (ibs. GRANADA), University Hospitals of Granada, University of Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain
- Excellence Research Unit “Modeling Nature” (MNat), University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology II, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
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16
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Zubković A, Gomes C, Parchure A, Cesarec M, Ferenčić A, Rokić F, Jakovac H, Whitford AL, Dochnal SA, Cliffe AR, Cuculić D, Gallo A, Vugrek O, Hackenberg M, Jurak I. HSV-1 miRNAs are post-transcriptionally edited in latently infected human ganglia. J Virol 2023; 97:e0073023. [PMID: 37712701 PMCID: PMC10617394 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00730-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Herpes simplex virus 1 is an important human pathogen that has been intensively studied for many decades. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms regulating its establishment, maintenance, and reactivation from latency are poorly understood. Here, we show that HSV-1-encoded miR-H2 is post-transcriptionally edited in latently infected human tissues. Hyperediting of viral miRNAs increases the targeting potential of these miRNAs and may play an important role in regulating latency. We show that the edited miR-H2 can target ICP4, an essential viral protein. Interestingly, we found no evidence of hyperediting of its homolog, miR-H2, which is expressed by the closely related virus HSV-2. The discovery of post-translational modifications of viral miRNA in the latency phase suggests that these processes may also be important for other non-coding viral RNA in the latency phase, including the intron LAT, which in turn may be crucial for understanding the biology of this virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreja Zubković
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Cristina Gomes
- Genetics Department and Biotechnology Institute, Biomedical Research Center (CIBM), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Adwait Parchure
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Mia Cesarec
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Antun Ferenčić
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Filip Rokić
- Laboratory for Advanced Genomics, Institute Ruđer Bošković, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Hrvoje Jakovac
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Abigail L. Whitford
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Sara A. Dochnal
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Anna R. Cliffe
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Dražen Cuculić
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Angela Gallo
- Department of Onco-Haematology and Cell and Gene Therapy, Bambino Gesù Children Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Oliver Vugrek
- Laboratory for Advanced Genomics, Institute Ruđer Bošković, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Michael Hackenberg
- Genetics Department and Biotechnology Institute, Biomedical Research Center (CIBM), University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Igor Jurak
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
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17
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Vetter L, Bajalan A, Ahamed MT, Scasso C, Shafeeq S, Andersson B, Ribacke U. Starvation induces changes in abundance and small RNA cargo of extracellular vesicles released from Plasmodium falciparum infected red blood cells. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18423. [PMID: 37891207 PMCID: PMC10611735 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45590-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The lethal malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum needs to constantly respond and adapt to changes within the human host in order to survive and transmit. One such change is composed of nutritional limitation, which is augmented with increased parasite loads and intimately linked to severe disease development. Extracellular vesicles released from infected red blood cells have been proposed as important mediators of disease pathogenesis and intercellular communication but whether important for the parasite response to nutritional availability is unknown. Therefore, we investigated the abundance and small RNA cargo of extracellular vesicles released upon short-term nutritional starvation of P. falciparum in vitro cultures. We show that primarily ring-stage parasite cultures respond to glucose and amino acid deprivation with an increased release of extracellular vesicles. Small RNA sequencing of these extracellular vesicles further revealed human miRNAs and parasitic tRNA fragments as the main constituent biotypes. Short-term starvations led to alterations in the transcriptomic profile, most notably in terms of the over-represented biotypes. These data suggest a potential role for extracellular vesicles released from P. falciparum infected red blood cells in the response to nutritional perturbations, their potential as prognostic biomarkers and point towards an evolutionary conserved role among protozoan parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonie Vetter
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Solnavägen 9, SE-17165, Solna, Sweden
| | - Amanj Bajalan
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Solnavägen 9, SE-17165, Solna, Sweden
| | - Mohammad Tanvir Ahamed
- Department of Learning, Informatics, Management and Ethics, Karolinska Institutet, Tomtebodavägen 18, SE-17177, Solna, Sweden
| | - Caterina Scasso
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Solnavägen 9, SE-17165, Solna, Sweden
| | - Sulman Shafeeq
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Solnavägen 9, SE-17165, Solna, Sweden
| | - Björn Andersson
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Solnavägen 9, SE-17165, Solna, Sweden
| | - Ulf Ribacke
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Solnavägen 9, SE-17165, Solna, Sweden.
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Uppsala University, Husargatan 3, SE-75237, Uppsala, Sweden.
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18
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Santiago PB, da Silva Bentes KL, da Silva WMC, Praça YR, Charneau S, Chaouch S, Grellier P, Dos Santos Silva Ferraz MA, Bastos IMD, de Santana JM, de Araújo CN. Insights into the microRNA landscape of Rhodnius prolixus, a vector of Chagas disease. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13120. [PMID: 37573416 PMCID: PMC10423254 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40353-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The growing interest in microRNAs (miRNAs) over recent years has led to their characterization in numerous organisms. However, there is currently a lack of data available on miRNAs from triatomine bugs (Reduviidae: Triatominae), which are the vectors of the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease. A comprehensive understanding of the molecular biology of vectors provides new insights into insect-host interactions and insect control approaches, which are key methods to prevent disease incidence in endemic areas. In this work, we describe the miRNome profiles from gut, hemolymph, and salivary gland tissues of the Rhodnius prolixus triatomine. Small RNA sequencing data revealed abundant expression of miRNAs, along with tRNA- and rRNA-derived fragments. Fifty-two mature miRNAs, previously reported in Ecdysozoa, were identified, including 39 ubiquitously expressed in the three tissues. Additionally, 112, 73, and 78 novel miRNAs were predicted in the gut, hemolymph, and salivary glands, respectively. In silico prediction showed that the top eight most highly expressed miRNAs from salivary glands potentially target human blood-expressed genes, suggesting that R. prolixus may modulate the host's gene expression at the bite site. This study provides the first characterization of miRNAs in a Triatominae species, shedding light on the role of these crucial regulatory molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Beatriz Santiago
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Kaio Luís da Silva Bentes
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | | | - Yanna Reis Praça
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Sébastien Charneau
- Laboratory of Protein Chemistry and Biochemistry, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Soraya Chaouch
- UMR 7245 Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Micro-organismes, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, CP52, 61 rue Buffon, 0575231, Paris Cedex, France
| | - Philippe Grellier
- UMR 7245 Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Micro-organismes, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, CP52, 61 rue Buffon, 0575231, Paris Cedex, France
| | | | - Izabela Marques Dourado Bastos
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Jaime Martins de Santana
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil
| | - Carla Nunes de Araújo
- Pathogen-Host Interface Laboratory, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil.
- Faculty of Ceilândia, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, Brazil.
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19
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Umu SU, Paynter VM, Trondsen H, Buschmann T, Rounge TB, Peterson KJ, Fromm B. Accurate microRNA annotation of animal genomes using trained covariance models of curated microRNA complements in MirMachine. CELL GENOMICS 2023; 3:100348. [PMID: 37601971 PMCID: PMC10435380 DOI: 10.1016/j.xgen.2023.100348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
The annotation of microRNAs depends on the availability of transcriptomics data and expert knowledge. This has led to a gap between the availability of novel genomes and high-quality microRNA complements. Using >16,000 microRNAs from the manually curated microRNA gene database MirGeneDB, we generated trained covariance models for all conserved microRNA families. These models are available in our tool MirMachine, which annotates conserved microRNAs within genomes. We successfully applied MirMachine to a range of animal species, including those with large genomes and genome duplications and extinct species, where small RNA sequencing is hard to achieve. We further describe a microRNA score of expected microRNAs that can be used to assess the completeness of genome assemblies. MirMachine closes a long-persisting gap in the microRNA field by facilitating automated genome annotation pipelines and deeper studies into the evolution of genome regulation, even in extinct organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinan Uğur Umu
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Vanessa M. Paynter
- The Arctic University Museum of Norway, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Håvard Trondsen
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Trine B. Rounge
- Department of Research, Cancer Registry of Norway, Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Bioinformatics, Department of Pharmacy, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kevin J. Peterson
- Department of Biological Sciences, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Bastian Fromm
- The Arctic University Museum of Norway, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
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20
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Avčin SL, Črepinšek K, Jenko Bizjan B, Šket R, Kovač J, Vrhovšek B, Blazina J, Blatnik O, Kordič R, Kitanovski L, Jazbec J, Debeljak M, Tesovnik T. Integrative Transcriptomic Profiling of the Wilms Tumor. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3846. [PMID: 37568662 PMCID: PMC10416970 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15153846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Our study aimed to identify relevant transcriptomic biomarkers for the Wilms tumor, the most common pediatric kidney cancer, independent of the histological type and stage. Using next-generation sequencing, we analyzed the miRNA profiles of 74 kidney samples, which were divided into two independent groups: fresh frozen tissue and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue samples. Subsequent mRNA expression profiling and pathway analysis were performed to establish the interplay and potential involvement of miRNAs and mRNA in the Wilms tumor. Comparative analysis, irrespective of post-dissection tissue processing, revealed 41 differentially expressed miRNAs, with 27 miRNAs having decreased expression and 14 miRNAs having increased expression in the Wilms tumor tissue compared to healthy kidney tissue. Among global mRNA transcriptomic profile differences, cross-sectional analysis suggested a limited list of genes potentially regulated by differentially expressed miRNAs in the Wilms tumor. This study identified the comprehensive miRNA and mRNA profile of the Wilms tumor using next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics approach, providing better insights into the pathogenesis of the Wilms tumor. The identified Wilms tumor miRNAs have potential as biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of the Wilms tumor, regardless of histological subtype and disease stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Lucija Avčin
- Department of Haematology and Oncology, University Children’s Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana (UMC), 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (S.L.A.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Klementina Črepinšek
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Institute of Special Laboratory Diagnostic, University Children’s Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana (UMC), 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Barbara Jenko Bizjan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Institute of Special Laboratory Diagnostic, University Children’s Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana (UMC), 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Robert Šket
- Institute of Special Laboratory Diagnostic, University Children’s Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana (UMC), 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jernej Kovač
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Institute of Special Laboratory Diagnostic, University Children’s Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana (UMC), 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Blaž Vrhovšek
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Institute of Special Laboratory Diagnostic, University Children’s Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana (UMC), 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Jerca Blazina
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Olga Blatnik
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Robert Kordič
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Children’s Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana (UMC), 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Lidija Kitanovski
- Department of Haematology and Oncology, University Children’s Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana (UMC), 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (S.L.A.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Janez Jazbec
- Department of Haematology and Oncology, University Children’s Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana (UMC), 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (S.L.A.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maruša Debeljak
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Institute of Special Laboratory Diagnostic, University Children’s Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana (UMC), 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tine Tesovnik
- Institute of Special Laboratory Diagnostic, University Children’s Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana (UMC), 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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21
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Abel SM, Hong Z, Williams D, Ireri S, Brown MQ, Su T, Hung KY, Henke JA, Barton JP, Le Roch KG. Small RNA sequencing of field Culex mosquitoes identifies patterns of viral infection and the mosquito immune response. Sci Rep 2023; 13:10598. [PMID: 37391513 PMCID: PMC10313667 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37571-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Mosquito-borne disease remains a significant burden on global health. In the United States, the major threat posed by mosquitoes is transmission of arboviruses, including West Nile virus by mosquitoes of the Culex genus. Virus metagenomic analysis of mosquito small RNA using deep sequencing and advanced bioinformatic tools enables the rapid detection of viruses and other infecting organisms, both pathogenic and non-pathogenic to humans, without any precedent knowledge. In this study, we sequenced small RNA samples from over 60 pools of Culex mosquitoes from two major areas of Southern California from 2017 to 2019 to elucidate the virome and immune responses of Culex. Our results demonstrated that small RNAs not only allowed the detection of viruses but also revealed distinct patterns of viral infection based on location, Culex species, and time. We also identified miRNAs that are most likely involved in Culex immune responses to viruses and Wolbachia bacteria, and show the utility of using small RNA to detect antiviral immune pathways including piRNAs against some pathogens. Collectively, these findings show that deep sequencing of small RNA can be used for virus discovery and surveillance. One could also conceive that such work could be accomplished in various locations across the world and over time to better understand patterns of mosquito infection and immune response to many vector-borne diseases in field samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven M Abel
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, Center for Infection Disease and Vector Research, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Zhenchen Hong
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Desiree Williams
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, Center for Infection Disease and Vector Research, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Sally Ireri
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, Center for Infection Disease and Vector Research, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Michelle Q Brown
- West Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District, Ontario, CA, 91761, USA
| | - Tianyun Su
- West Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District, Ontario, CA, 91761, USA
| | - Kim Y Hung
- Coachella Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District, Indio, CA, 92201, USA
| | - Jennifer A Henke
- Coachella Valley Mosquito & Vector Control District, Indio, CA, 92201, USA
| | - John P Barton
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Karine G Le Roch
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, Center for Infection Disease and Vector Research, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA.
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22
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Gómez-Martín C, Aparicio-Puerta E, van Eijndhoven MA, Medina JM, Hackenberg M, Pegtel DM. Reassessment of miRNA variant (isomiRs) composition by small RNA sequencing. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2023; 3:100480. [PMID: 37323569 PMCID: PMC10261927 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2023.100480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
IsomiRs, sequence variants of mature microRNAs, are usually detected and quantified using high-throughput sequencing. Many examples of their biological relevance have been reported, but sequencing artifacts identified as artificial variants might bias biological inference and therefore need to be ideally avoided. We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of 10 different small RNA sequencing protocols, exploring both a theoretically isomiR-free pool of synthetic miRNAs and HEK293T cells. We calculated that, with the exception of two protocols, less than 5% of miRNA reads can be attributed to library preparation artifacts. Randomized-end adapter protocols showed superior accuracy, with 40% of true biological isomiRs. Nevertheless, we demonstrate concordance across protocols for selected miRNAs in non-templated uridyl additions. Notably, NTA-U calling and isomiR target prediction can be inaccurate when using protocols with poor single-nucleotide resolution. Our results highlight the relevance of protocol choice for biological isomiRs detection and annotation, which has key potential implications for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Gómez-Martín
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pathology, De Boelelaan, 1117 Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Monique A.J. van Eijndhoven
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pathology, De Boelelaan, 1117 Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - José M. Medina
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Science, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, Biotechnology Institute, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, PTS, Avda. del Conocimiento s/n, 18100 Granada, Spain
| | - Michael Hackenberg
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Science, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, Biotechnology Institute, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, PTS, Avda. del Conocimiento s/n, 18100 Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Excellence Research Unit “Modelling Nature” (MNat), University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - D. Michiel Pegtel
- Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Pathology, De Boelelaan, 1117 Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Cancer Center Amsterdam, Imaging and Biomarkers, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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23
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Scheepbouwer C, Aparicio-Puerta E, Gomez-Martin C, Verschueren H, van Eijndhoven M, Wedekind LE, Giannoukakos S, Hijmering N, Gasparotto L, van der Galien HT, van Rijn RS, Aronica E, Kibbelaar R, Heine VM, Wesseling P, Noske DP, Vandertop WP, de Jong D, Pegtel DM, Hackenberg M, Wurdinger T, Gerber A, Koppers-Lalic D. ALL-tRNAseq enables robust tRNA profiling in tissue samples. Genes Dev 2023; 37:243-257. [PMID: 36810209 PMCID: PMC10111867 DOI: 10.1101/gad.350233.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) are small adaptor RNAs essential for mRNA translation. Alterations in the cellular tRNA population can directly affect mRNA decoding rates and translational efficiency during cancer development and progression. To evaluate changes in the composition of the tRNA pool, multiple sequencing approaches have been developed to overcome reverse transcription blocks caused by the stable structures of these molecules and their numerous base modifications. However, it remains unclear whether current sequencing protocols faithfully capture tRNAs existing in cells or tissues. This is specifically challenging for clinical tissue samples that often present variable RNA qualities. For this reason, we developed ALL-tRNAseq, which combines the highly processive MarathonRT and RNA demethylation for the robust assessment of tRNA expression, together with a randomized adapter ligation strategy prior to reverse transcription to assess tRNA fragmentation levels in both cell lines and tissues. Incorporation of tRNA fragments not only informed on sample integrity but also significantly improved tRNA profiling of tissue samples. Our data showed that our profiling strategy effectively improves classification of oncogenic signatures in glioblastoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma tissues, particularly for samples presenting higher levels of RNA fragmentation, further highlighting the utility of ALL-tRNAseq for translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chantal Scheepbouwer
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC) location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands;
- Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Cristina Gomez-Martin
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Heleen Verschueren
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC) location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Monique van Eijndhoven
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Laurine E Wedekind
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC) location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Stavros Giannoukakos
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Science, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Nathalie Hijmering
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lisa Gasparotto
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hilde T van der Galien
- Department of Hematology, Medical Center Leeuwarden, 8934 AD Leeuwarden, the Netherlands
- HemoBase Population Registry Consortium, 8934 AD Leeuwarden, the Netherlands
| | - Roos S van Rijn
- Department of Hematology, Medical Center Leeuwarden, 8934 AD Leeuwarden, the Netherlands
- HemoBase Population Registry Consortium, 8934 AD Leeuwarden, the Netherlands
| | - Eleonora Aronica
- Department of (Neuro)Pathology Amsterdam Neuroscience, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Robby Kibbelaar
- HemoBase Population Registry Consortium, 8934 AD Leeuwarden, the Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Pathology Friesland, 8917 EN Leeuwarden, the Netherlands
| | - Vivi M Heine
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Complex Trait Genetics, Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Pieter Wesseling
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Laboratory for Childhood Cancer Pathology, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CS Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - David P Noske
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC) location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - W Peter Vandertop
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC) location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Daphne de Jong
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - D Michiel Pegtel
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Michael Hackenberg
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Science, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Tom Wurdinger
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC) location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Alan Gerber
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC) location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Danijela Koppers-Lalic
- Department of Neurosurgery, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC) location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands;
- Brain Tumor Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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24
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Gómez-Martín C, Aparicio-Puerta E, Hackenberg M. sRNAtoolbox: Dockerized Analysis of Small RNA Sequencing Data in Model and Non-model Species. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2630:179-213. [PMID: 36689184 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2982-6_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The current versions of the microRNA databases MiRgeneDB, miRBase, and PmiREN contain annotations for a total of 358 different species. Public repositories, however, host small RNA sequencing data for over 800 species. This discrepancy implies that microRNA research is also very active in species that neither have an available high-quality genome assembly nor annotations for microRNAs or other types of noncoding genes. These cases are particularly challenging to analyze because reference sequences need to be collected from different sources and processed and formatted appropriately so that the dedicated small RNA analysis tools can make use of them. In this protocol we describe how small RNA sequencing data can be easily analyzed by means of a dockerized version of the well-established sRNAtoolbox/sRNAbench small RNA tools. We outline the analysis of two publicly available datasets to demonstrate basic aspects like the preparation of the local database, expression profiling, or differential expression analysis as well as more advanced features such as quantification of exogenous RNA content and data analysis in non-model species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Gómez-Martín
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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25
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Aparicio-Puerta E, Hirsch P, Schmartz GP, Fehlmann T, Keller V, Engel A, Kern F, Hackenberg M, Keller A. isomiRdb: microRNA expression at isoform resolution. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 51:D179-D185. [PMID: 36243964 PMCID: PMC9825445 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A significant fraction of mature miRNA transcripts carries sequence and/or length variations, termed isomiRs. IsomiRs are differentially abundant in cell types, tissues, body fluids or patients' samples. Not surprisingly, multiple studies describe a physiological and pathophysiological role. Despite their importance, systematically collected and annotated isomiR information available in databases remains limited. We thus developed isomiRdb, a comprehensive resource that compiles miRNA expression data at isomiR resolution from various sources. We processed 42 499 human miRNA-seq datasets (5.9 × 1011 sequencing reads) and consistently analyzed them using miRMaster and sRNAbench. Our database provides online access to the 90 483 most abundant isomiRs (>1 RPM in at least 1% of the samples) from 52 tissues and 188 cell types. Additionally, the full set of over 3 million detected isomiRs is available for download. Our resource can be queried at the sample, miRNA or isomiR level so users can quickly answer common questions about the presence/absence of a particular miRNA/isomiR in tissues of interest. Further, the database facilitates to identify whether a potentially interesting new isoform has been detected before and its frequency. In addition to expression tables, isomiRdb can generate multiple interactive visualisations including violin plots and heatmaps. isomiRdb is free to use and publicly available at: https://www.ccb.uni-saarland.de/isomirdb.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Georges P Schmartz
- Clinical Bioinformatics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Tobias Fehlmann
- Clinical Bioinformatics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany,Rejuvenome, Astera Institute, Berkeley, CA 94705, USA
| | - Verena Keller
- Clinical Bioinformatics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany,Department for Internal Medicine II, Saarland University Hospital, 66421 Homburg, Germany
| | - Annika Engel
- Clinical Bioinformatics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Fabian Kern
- Clinical Bioinformatics, Saarland University, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany,Helmholtz Institute for Pharmaceutical Research Saarland (HIPS)–Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI), Saarland University Campus, 66123 Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Michael Hackenberg
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Science, Universidad de Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Andreas Keller
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: +49 681 30268611; Fax: +49 681 30268610;
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