Depletion of the RNA binding protein HNRNPD impairs homologous recombination by inhibiting DNA-end resection and inducing R-loop accumulation

CDK9-55 guides the anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C) in choosing the DNA repair pathway choice

DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) contribute to genome instability, a key feature of cancer. DSBs are mainly repaired by homologous recombination (HR) and non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ). We investigated the role of an isoform of the multifunctional cyclin-dependent kinase 9, CDK9-55, in DNA repair, by generating CDK9-55-knockout HeLa clones (through CRISPR-Cas9), which showed potential HR dysfunction. A phosphoproteomic screening in these clones treated with camptothecin revealed that CDC23 (cell division cycle 23), a component of the E3-ubiquitin ligase APC/C (anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome), is a new substrate of CDK9-55, with S588 being its putative phosphorylation site. Mutated non-phosphorylatable CDC23(S588A) affected the repair pathway choice by impairing HR and favouring error-prone NHEJ. This CDK9 role should be considered when designing CDK-inhibitor-based cancer therapies.

Human RNA-binding protein HNRNPD interacts with and regulates the repair of deoxyribouridine in DNA

Deoxyribouridine (dU) is an abnormal nucleoside in DNA and plays vital roles in multiple biological and physiological processes. Here, we conducted a mass spectrometry-based screen for dU-binding proteins and found that the heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein D (HNRNPD) could preferentially bind to dU-containing DNA. We also discovered that HNRNPD engages in the 5-Fluorouracil (5FU)-induced DNA damage response and can modulate the repair of dU in DNA in vitro and in human cells. Moreover, using a shuttle vector- and next-generation sequencing-based method, we unveiled the crucial role of HNRNPD in promoting the replicative bypass of dU in human cells. Taken together, these findings suggested that HNRNPD is a novel dU-bearing DNA-binding protein capable of regulating the removal of dU in DNA, and provided new insights into the molecular mechanisms of dU-associated diseases.

Ascites exosomal lncRNA PLADE enhances platinum sensitivity by inducing R-loops in ovarian cancer

Cisplatin resistance is a major cause of therapeutic failure in patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC). Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as key regulators of human cancers; however, their modes of action in HGSOC remain largely unknown. Here, we provide evidence to demonstrate that lncRNA Platinum sensitivity-related LncRNA from Ascites-Derived Exosomes (PLADE) transmitted by ascites exosomes enhance platinum sensitivity in HGSOC. PLADE exhibited significantly decreased expression in ascites exosomes and tumor tissues, as well as in the corresponding metastatic tumors from patients with HGSOC cisplatin-resistance. Moreover, HGSOC patients with higher PLADE expression levels exhibited longer progression-free survival. Gain- and loss-of-function studies have revealed that PLADE promotes cisplatin sensitivity by suppressing cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and enhancing apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, the functions of PLADE in increasing cisplatin sensitivity were proven to be transferred by exosomes to the cultured recipient cells and to the adjacent tumor tissues in mouse models. Mechanistically, PLADE binds to and downregulates heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein D (HNRNPD) by VHL-mediated ubiquitination, thus inducing an increased amount of RNA: DNA hybrids (R-loop) and DNA damage, consequently promoting cisplatin sensitivity in HGSOC. Collectively, these results shed light on the understanding of the vital roles of long noncoding RNAs in cancers.

A Mammalian Conserved Circular RNA CircLARP1B Regulates Hepatocellular Carcinoma Metastasis and Lipid Metabolism

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have emerged as crucial regulators in physiology and human diseases. However, evolutionarily conserved circRNAs with potent functions in cancers are rarely reported. In this study, a mammalian conserved circRNA circLARP1B is identified to play critical roles in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Patients with high circLARP1B levels have advanced prognostic stage and poor overall survival. CircLARP1B facilitates cellular metastatic properties and lipid accumulation through promoting fatty acid synthesis in HCC. CircLARP1B deficient mice exhibit reduced metastasis and less lipid accumulation in an induced HCC model. Multiple lines of evidence demonstrate that circLARP1B binds to heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein D (HNRNPD) in the cytoplasm, and thus affects the binding of HNRNPD to sensitive transcripts including liver kinase B1 (LKB1) mRNA. This regulation causes decreased LKB1 mRNA stability and lower LKB1 protein levels. Antisense oligodeoxynucleotide complementary to theHNRNPD binding sites in circLARP1B increases the HNRNPD binding to LKB1 mRNA. Through the HNRNPD-LKB1-AMPK pathway, circLARP1B promotes HCC metastasis and lipid accumulation. Results from AAV8-mediated hepatocyte-directed knockdown of circLARP1B or Lkb1 in mouse models also demonstrate critical roles of hepatocytic circLARP1B regulatory pathway in HCC metastasis and lipid accumulation, and indicate that circLARP1B may be potential target of HCC treatment.

RBM14 promotes DNA end resection during homologous recombination repair

DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair by homologous recombination (HR) is crucial for the maintenance of genome stability and integrity. In this study, we aim to identify novel RNA binding proteins (RBPs) involved in HR repair because little is known about RBP function in HR. For this purpose, we carry out pulldown assays using a synthetic ssDNA/dsDNA structure coated with replication protein A (RPA) to mimic resected DNA, a crucial intermediate in HR-mediated DSB repair. Using this approach, we identify RNA-binding motif protein 14 (RBM14) as a potential binding partner. We further show that RBM14 interacts with an essential HR repair factor, CtIP. RBM14 is crucial for CtIP recruitment to DSB sites and for subsequent RPA coating and RAD51 replacement, facilitating efficient HR repair. Moreover, inhibition of RBM14 expression sensitizes cancer cells to X-ray irradiation. Together, our results demonstrate that RBM14 promotes DNA end resection to ensure HR repair and may serve as a potential target for cancer therapy.

Break-induced RNA-DNA hybrids (BIRDHs) in homologous recombination: friend or foe?

Double-strand breaks (DSBs) are the most harmful DNA lesions, with a strong impact on cell proliferation and genome integrity. Depending on cell cycle stage, DSBs are preferentially repaired by non-homologous end joining or homologous recombination (HR). In recent years, numerous reports have revealed that DSBs enhance DNA-RNA hybrid formation around the break site. We call these hybrids "break-induced RNA-DNA hybrids" (BIRDHs) to differentiate them from sporadic R-loops consisting of DNA-RNA hybrids and a displaced single-strand DNA occurring co-transcriptionally in intact DNA. Here, we review and discuss the most relevant data about BIRDHs, with a focus on two main questions raised: (i) whether BIRDHs form by de novo transcription after a DSB or by a pre-existing nascent RNA in DNA regions undergoing transcription and (ii) whether they have a positive role in HR or are just obstacles to HR accidentally generated as an intrinsic risk of transcription. We aim to provide a comprehensive view of the exciting and yet unresolved questions about the source and impact of BIRDHs in the cell.

RAD51-mediated R-loop formation acts to repair transcription-associated DNA breaks driving antigenic variation in Trypanosoma brucei

RNA-DNA hybrids are epigenetic features of all genomes that intersect with many processes, including transcription, telomere homeostasis, and centromere function. Increasing evidence suggests that RNA-DNA hybrids can provide two conflicting roles in the maintenance and transmission of genomes: They can be the triggers of DNA damage, leading to genome change, or can aid the DNA repair processes needed to respond to DNA lesions. Evasion of host immunity by African trypanosomes, such as Trypanosoma brucei, relies on targeted recombination of silent Variant Surface Glycoprotein (VSG) genes into a specialized telomeric locus that directs transcription of just one VSG from thousands. How such VSG recombination is targeted and initiated is unclear. Here, we show that a key enzyme of T. brucei homologous recombination, RAD51, interacts with RNA-DNA hybrids. In addition, we show that RNA-DNA hybrids display a genome-wide colocalization with DNA breaks and that this relationship is impaired by mutation of RAD51. Finally, we show that RAD51 acts to repair highly abundant, localised DNA breaks at the single transcribed VSG and that mutation of RAD51 alters RNA-DNA hybrid abundance at 70 bp repeats both around the transcribed VSG and across the silent VSG archive. This work reveals a widespread, generalised role for RNA-DNA hybrids in directing RAD51 activity during recombination and uncovers a specialised application of this interplay during targeted DNA break repair needed for the critical T. brucei immune evasion reaction of antigenic variation.

The AEG-1-USP10-PARP1 axis confers radioresistance in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma via facilitating homologous recombination-dependent DNA damage repair

Radiotherapy is the standard adjuvant treatment for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), yet radioresistance remains a major obstacle leading to treatment failure and unfavorable prognosis. Previous reports have demonstrated the involvement of astrocyte elevated gene-1 (AEG-1) in tumorigenesis and progression of multiple malignancies. Nevertheless, the precise role of AEG-1 in the radioresistance of ESCC remains elusive. Here, we unveiled a strong correlation between aberrant AEG-1 gene overexpression and malignant progression as well as adverse prognosis in ESCC patients. Moreover, both in vitro and in vivo investigations revealed that AEG-1 significantly alleviated irradiation-induced DNA damage and enhanced radiation resistance in ESCC cells. Mechanistically, AEG-1 recruited the deubiquitinase USP10 to remove the K48-linked polyubiquitin chains at the Lys425 of PARP1, thus preventing its proteasomal degradation. This orchestrated process facilitated homologous recombination-mediated DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) repair, culminating in mitigated DNA damage and acquired radioresistance in ESCC cells. Notably, PARP1 overexpression reversed the radiosensitizing effect caused by AEG-1 deficiency. Collectively, these findings shed new light on the mechanism of ESCC radioresistance, providing potential therapeutic targets to enhance the efficacy of radiotherapy in ESCC.

AUF1 Recognizes 8-Oxo-Guanosine Embedded in DNA and Stimulates APE1 Endoribonuclease Activity

Aims: The existence of modified ribonucleotide monophosphates embedded in genomic DNA, as a consequence of oxidative stress conditions, including 8-oxo-guanosine and ribose monophosphate abasic site (rAP), has been recently highlighted by several works and associated with oxidative stress conditions. Although human apurinic-apyrimidinic endodeoxyribonuclease 1 (APE1), a key enzyme of the base-excision repair pathway, repairs rAP sites and canonical deoxyribose monophosphate abasic sites with similar efficiency, its incision-repairing activity on 8-oxo-guanosine is very weak. The aims of this work were to: (i) identify proteins able to specifically bind 8-oxo-guanosine embedded in DNA and promote APE1 endoribonuclease activity on this lesion, and (ii) characterize the molecular and biological relevance of this interaction using human cancer cell lines. Results: By using an unbiased proteomic approach, we discovered that the AU-rich element RNA-binding protein 1 (AUF1) actively recognizes 8-oxo-guanosine and stimulates the APE1 enzymatic activity on this DNA lesion. By using orthogonal approaches, we found that: (i) the interaction between AUF1 and APE1 is modulated by H2O2-treatment; (ii) depletion of APE1 and AUF1 causes the accumulation of single- and double- strand breaks; and (iii) both proteins are involved in modulating the formation of DNA:RNA hybrids. Innovation: These results establish unexpected functions of AUF1 in modulating genome stability and improve our knowledge of APE1 biology with respect to 8-oxo-guanosine embedded in DNA. Conclusion: By showing a novel function of AUF1, our findings shed new light on the process of genome stability in mammalian cells toward oxidative stress-related damages. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 39, 411-431.

The Cancer Testes Antigen, HORMAD1, is a Tumor-Specific Replication Fork Protection Factor

Tumors frequently activate the expression of genes that are only otherwise required for meiosis. HORMAD1, which is essential for meiotic recombination in multiple species, is expressed in over 50% of human lung adenocarcinoma cells (LUAD). We previously found that HORMAD1 promotes DNA double strand break (DSB) repair in LUAD. Here, we report that HORMAD1 takes on an additional role in protecting genomic integrity. Specifically, we find HORMAD1 is critical for protecting stalled DNA replication forks in LUAD. Loss of HORMAD1 leads to nascent DNA degradation, an event which is mediated by the MRE11-DNA2-BLM pathway. Moreover, following exogenous induction of DNA replication stress, HORMAD1 deleted cells accumulate single stranded DNA (ssDNA). We find that these phenotypes are the result of a lack of RAD51 and BRCA2 loading onto stalled replication forks. Ultimately, loss of HORMAD1 leads to increased DSBs and chromosomal aberrations in response to replication stress. Collectively, our data support a model where HORMAD1 expression is selected to mitigate DNA replication stress, which would otherwise induce deleterious genomic instability.

RNA-binding protein MAC5A interacts with the 26S proteasome to regulate DNA damage response in Arabidopsis

DNA damage response (DDR) in eukaryotes is essential for the maintenance of genome integrity in challenging environments. The regulatory mechanisms of DDR have been well-established in yeast and humans. However, increasing evidence supports the idea that plants seem to employ different signaling pathways that remain largely unknown. Here, we report the role of MODIFIER OF SNC1, 4-ASSOCIATED COMPLEX SUBUNIT 5A (MAC5A) in DDR in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). Lack of MAC5A in mac5a mutants causes hypersensitive phenotypes to methyl methanesulfonate (MMS), a DNA damage inducer. Consistent with this observation, MAC5A can regulate alternative splicing of DDR genes to maintain the proper response to genotoxic stress. Interestingly, MAC5A interacts with the 26S proteasome (26SP) and is required for its proteasome activity. MAC core subunits are also involved in MMS-induced DDR. Moreover, we find that MAC5A, the MAC core subunits, and 26SP may act collaboratively to mediate high-boron-induced growth repression through DDR. Collectively, our findings uncover the crucial role of MAC in MMS-induced DDR in orchestrating growth and stress adaptation in plants.

The RNA-binding protein AUF1 facilitates Akt phosphorylation at the membrane

Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), which is part of mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTORC2, controls cellular metabolism in response to levels of nutrients and other growth signals. A hallmark of mTORC2 activation is the phosphorylation of Akt, which becomes upregulated in cancer. How mTORC2 modulates Akt phosphorylation remains poorly understood. Here, we found that the RNA-binding protein, AUF1 (ARE/poly(U)-binding/degradation factor 1), modulates mTORC2/Akt signaling. We determined that AUF1 is required for phosphorylation of Akt at Thr308, Thr450, and Ser473 and that AUF1 also mediates phosphorylation of the mTORC2-modulated metabolic enzyme glutamine fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase 1 at Ser243. In addition, AUF1 immunoprecipitation followed by quantitative RT–PCR revealed that the mRNAs of Akt, glutamine fructose-6-phosphate amidotransferase 1, and the mTORC2 component SIN1 associate with AUF1. Furthermore, expression of the p40 and p45, but not the p37 or p42, isoforms of AUF1 specifically mediate Akt phosphorylation. In the absence of AUF1, subcellular fractionation indicated that Akt fails to localize to the membrane. However, ectopic expression of a membrane-targeted allele of Akt is sufficient to allow Akt-Ser473 phosphorylation despite AUF1 depletion. Finally, conditions that enhance mTORC2 signaling, such as acute glutamine withdrawal, augment AUF1 phosphorylation, whereas mTOR inhibition abolishes AUF1 phosphorylation. Our findings unravel a role for AUF1 in promoting membrane localization of Akt to facilitate its phosphorylation on this cellular compartment. Targeting AUF1 could have therapeutic benefit for cancers with upregulated mTORC2/Akt signaling.

DNA Damage Regulates the Functions of the RNA Binding Protein Sam68 through ATM-Dependent Phosphorylation

Simple Summary

Alterations of the complex network of interactions between the DNA damage response pathway and RNA metabolism have been described in several tumors, and increasing efforts are devoted to the elucidation of the molecular mechanisms involved in this network. Previous large-scale proteomic studies identified the RNA binding protein Sam68 as a putative target of the ATM kinase. Herein, we demonstrate that ATM phosphorylates Sam68 upon DNA damage induction, and this post-translational modification regulates both the signaling function of Sam68 in the initial phase of the DNA damage response and its RNA processing activity. Thus, our study uncovers anew crosstalk between ATM and Sam68, which may represent a paradigm for the functional interaction between the DDR pathway and RNA binding proteins, and a possible actionabletarget in human cancers.

Abstract

Cancer cells frequently exhibit dysregulation of the DNA damage response (DDR), genomic instability, and altered RNA metabolism. Recent genome-wide studies have strongly suggested an interaction between the pathways involved in the cellular response to DDR and in the regulation of RNA metabolism, but the molecular mechanism(s) involved in this crosstalk are largely unknown. Herein, we found that activation of the DDR kinase ATM promotes its interaction with Sam68, leading to phosphorylation of this multifunctional RNA binding protein (RBP) on three residues: threonine 61, serine 388 and serine 390. Moreover, we demonstrate that ATM-dependent phosphorylation of threonine 61 promotes the function of Sam68 in the DDR pathway and enhances its RNA processing activity. Importantly, ATM-mediated phosphorylation of Sam68 in prostate cancer cells modulates alternative polyadenylation of transcripts that are targets of Sam68, supporting the notion that the ATM–Sam68 axis exerts a multifaceted role in the response to DNA damage. Thus, our work validates Sam68 as an ATM kinase substrate and uncovers an unexpected bidirectional interplay between ATM and Sam68, which couples the DDR pathway to modulation of RNA metabolism in response to genotoxic stress.

A novel lncRNA RP11-386G11.10 reprograms lipid metabolism to promote hepatocellular carcinoma progression

Objective

Emerging studies suggest that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play crucial roles in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A rapidly increasing number of studies have shown that metabolic changes including lipid metabolic reprogramming play a significant role in the progression of HCC. But it remains to be elucidated how lncRNAs affect tumor cell metabolism.

Methods

Through analysis and screening of The Cancer Genome Atlas-Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma (TCGA-LIHC) dataset, we found a novel lncRNA RP11-386G11.10 was overexpressed, related to prognosis, conserved and non-protein-coding in HCC and related to poor prognosis. Then, CCK-8, colony formation, Transwell invasion, wound healing assays were performed and nude mouse subcutaneous tumour formation and lung metastasis models were established to explore the effect of RP11-386G11.10 on HCC tumour growth and metastasis. Chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and Nile red staining detected the effect of RP11-386G11.10 on lipid metabolism in HCC. Mechanistically, we clarified the RP11-386G11.10/miR-345-3p/HNRNPU signalling pathway through dual luciferase reporter, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays and identified ZBTB7A as a transcription factor of RP11-386G11.10.

Results

RP11-386G11.10 was overexpressed in HCC and positively correlated with tumour size, TNM stage, and poor prognosis in HCC patients. RP11-386G11.10 promoted the proliferation and metastasis of HCC cells in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, RP11-386G11.10 acted as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) for miR-345-3p to regulate the expression of HNRNPU and its downstream lipogenic enzymes, leading to lipid accumulation in HCC cells and promoting their growth and metastasis. In addition, we identified ZBTB7A as a transcription factor of RP11-386G11.10. Moreover, HNRNPU promoted the expression of ZBTB7A in HCC cells, thereby increasing the transcriptional activity of RP11-386G11.10, and forming a positive feedback loop, ultimately leading continuous lipid accumulation, growth and metastasis in HCC cells.

Conclusions

Our results indicated that the lncRNA RP11-386G11.10 was a novel oncogenic lncRNA that was strongly correlated with the poor prognosis of HCC. The ZBTB7A-RP11-386G11.10-HNRNPU positive feedback loop promoted the progression of HCC by regulating lipid anabolism. RP11-386G11.10 may become a new diagnostic and prognostic biomarker and therapy target for HCC.

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LncRNA RP11-386G11.10 was up-regulated in HCC.

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Overexpression of lncRNA RP11-386G11.10 promoted the proliferation, metastasis of HCC cells in vivo and in vitro.

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We confirmed that regulation of HNRNPU expression by RP11-286H15.1 resulted in lipid accumulation in HCC cells.

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HNRNPU forms a ZBTB7A- RP11-386G11.10 -HNRNPU positive feedback loop by promoting mRNA stability of ZBTB7A.

Walking a tightrope: The complex balancing act of R-loops in genome stability

Although transcription is an essential cellular process, it is paradoxically also a well-recognized cause of genomic instability. R-loops, non-B DNA structures formed when nascent RNA hybridizes to DNA to displace the non-template strand as single-stranded DNA (ssDNA), are partially responsible for this instability. Yet, recent work has begun to elucidate regulatory roles for R-loops in maintaining the genome. In this review, we discuss the cellular contexts in which R-loops contribute to genomic instability, particularly during DNA replication and double-strand break (DSB) repair. We also summarize the evidence that R-loops participate as an intermediate during repair and may influence pathway choice to preserve genomic integrity. Finally, we discuss the immunogenic potential of R-loops and highlight their links to disease should they become pathogenic.

DNA Double-Strand Breaks as Pathogenic Lesions in Neurological Disorders

The damage and repair of DNA is a continuous process required to maintain genomic integrity. DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are the most lethal type of DNA damage and require timely repair by dedicated machinery. DSB repair is uniquely important to nondividing, post-mitotic cells of the central nervous system (CNS). These long-lived cells must rely on the intact genome for a lifetime while maintaining high metabolic activity. When these mechanisms fail, the loss of certain neuronal populations upset delicate neural networks required for higher cognition and disrupt vital motor functions. Mammalian cells engage with several different strategies to recognize and repair chromosomal DSBs based on the cellular context and cell cycle phase, including homologous recombination (HR)/homology-directed repair (HDR), microhomology-mediated end-joining (MMEJ), and the classic non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ). In addition to these repair pathways, a growing body of evidence has emphasized the importance of DNA damage response (DDR) signaling, and the involvement of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) family proteins in the repair of neuronal DSBs, many of which are linked to age-associated neurological disorders. In this review, we describe contemporary research characterizing the mechanistic roles of these non-canonical proteins in neuronal DSB repair, as well as their contributions to the etiopathogenesis of selected common neurological diseases.

R-Loop Immunoprecipitation: A Method to Detect R-Loop Interacting Factors

R-loops are non-B-DNA structures consisting of an RNA/DNA hybrid and a displaced single-stranded DNA. They arise during transcription and play important biological roles. However, perturbation of R-loop levels represents a source of DNA damage and genome instability resulting in human diseases, including cancer and neurodegeneration. In this chapter, we describe a protocol which allows detection of R-loop interactors using affinity purification with S9.6 antibody, specific for RNA/DNA hybrids, followed by Western blotting or mass spectrometry. Multiple specificity controls including addition of synthetic competitors and RNase H treatment are described to verify the specificity of identified R-loop-binding factors. The identification of new R-loop interacting factors and the characterization of their involvement in R-loop biology provides a powerful resource to study the role of these important structures in health and disease.

Genes for RNA-binding proteins involved in neural-specific functions and diseases are downregulated in Rubinstein-Taybi iNeurons

Taking advantage of the fast-growing knowledge of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) we review the signature of downregulated genes for RBPs in the transcriptome of induced pluripotent stem cell neurons (iNeurons) modelling the neurodevelopmental Rubinstein Taybi Syndrome (RSTS) caused by mutations in the genes encoding CBP/p300 acetyltransferases. We discuss top and functionally connected downregulated genes sorted to “RNA processing” and “Ribonucleoprotein complex biogenesis” Gene Ontology clusters. The first set of downregulated RBPs includes members of hnRNHP (A1, A2B1, D, G, H2-H1, MAGOHB, PAPBC), core subunits of U small nuclear ribonucleoproteins and Serine-Arginine splicing regulators families, acting in precursor messenger RNA alternative splicing and processing. Consistent with literature findings on reduced transcript levels of serine/arginine repetitive matrix 4 (SRRM4) protein, the main regulator of the neural-specific microexons splicing program upon depletion of Ep300 and Crebbp in mouse neurons, RSTS iNeurons show downregulated genes for proteins impacting this network. We link downregulated genes to neurological disorders including the new HNRNPH1-related intellectual disability syndrome with clinical overlap to RSTS. The set of downregulated genes for Ribosome biogenesis includes several components of ribosomal subunits and nucleolar proteins, such NOP58 and fibrillarin that form complexes with snoRNAs with a central role in guiding post-transcriptional modifications needed for rRNA maturation. These nucleolar proteins are “dual” players as fibrillarin is also required for epigenetic regulation of ribosomal genes and conversely NOP58-associated snoRNA levels are under the control of NOP58 interactor BMAL1, a transcriptional regulator of the circadian rhythm. Additional downregulated genes for “dual specificity” RBPs such as RUVBL1 and METTL1 highlight the links between chromatin and the RBP-ome and the contribution of perturbations in their cross-talk to RSTS. We underline the hub position of CBP/p300 in chromatin regulation, the impact of its defect on neurons’ post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression and the potential use of epidrugs in therapeutics of RBP-caused neurodevelopmental disorders.

AU-Rich Element RNA Binding Proteins: At the Crossroads of Post-Transcriptional Regulation and Genome Integrity

Genome integrity must be tightly preserved to ensure cellular survival and to deter the genesis of disease. Endogenous and exogenous stressors that impose threats to genomic stability through DNA damage are counteracted by a tightly regulated DNA damage response (DDR). RNA binding proteins (RBPs) are emerging as regulators and mediators of diverse biological processes. Specifically, RBPs that bind to adenine uridine (AU)-rich elements (AREs) in the 3' untranslated region (UTR) of mRNAs (AU-RBPs) have emerged as key players in regulating the DDR and preserving genome integrity. Here we review eight established AU-RBPs (AUF1, HuR, KHSRP, TIA-1, TIAR, ZFP36, ZFP36L1, ZFP36L2) and their ability to maintain genome integrity through various interactions. We have reviewed canonical roles of AU-RBPs in regulating the fate of mRNA transcripts encoding DDR genes at multiple post-transcriptional levels. We have also attempted to shed light on non-canonical roles of AU-RBPs exploring their post-translational modifications (PTMs) and sub-cellular localization in response to genotoxic stresses by various factors involved in DDR and genome maintenance. Dysfunctional AU-RBPs have been increasingly found to be associated with many human cancers. Further understanding of the roles of AU-RBP_S in maintaining genomic integrity may uncover novel therapeutic strategies for cancer.

HNRNPUL1 inhibits cisplatin sensitivity of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma through regulating the formation of circMAN1A2

Cisplatin (CDDP) is widely used for chemotherapy of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) but the drug resistance limits its therapeutic benefit. Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein U-like 1 (HNRNPUL1) belongs to the family of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and is involved in DNA damage repair. To investigate whether and how HNRNPUL1 affects CDDP resistance of ESCC, we evaluated the expression of HNRNPUL1 and found that it was associated with recurrence in ESCC patients receiving postoperative platinum-based chemotherapy and was an independent prognostic factor for disease-free survival (DFS). Besides, we showed that the reduced expression of HNRNPUL1 enhanced the CDDP sensitivity of ESCC cells. Furthermore, RNA immunoprecipitation coupled with high-throughput sequencing (RIP-seq) were performed and a range of HNRNPUL1-binding RNAs influenced by CDDP treatment were identified followed by bioinformatics analysis. In terms of mechanism, we found that HNRNPUL1 inhibited CDDP sensitivity of ESCC cells by regulating the CDDP sensitivity-inhibited circular RNA (circRNA) MAN1A2 formation. Taken together, our results first demonstrated the role of HNRNPUL1 in CDDP resistance of ESCC and suggested that HNRNPUL1 may be a potential target of ESCC chemotherapy.

The role of SAF-A/hnRNP U in regulating chromatin structure

Scaffold attachment factor A (SAF-A) or hnRNP U is a nuclear RNA-binding protein with a well-documented role in processing newly transcribed RNA. Recent studies also indicate that SAF-A can oligomerise in an ATP-dependent manner and interact with RNA to form a dynamic nuclear mesh. This mesh is thought to regulate nuclear and chromatin architecture, yet a mechanistic understanding is lacking. Here, we review developments in the field to understand how the SAF-A/RNA mesh affects chromatin organisation in interphase and mitosis. As SAF-A has an intrinsically disordered domain we discuss how the chromatin mesh is related to nuclear phase-separated condensates, which in other situations have been shown to regulate transcription and cell functions. Finally, we infer possible links between diseases emerging from SAF-A mutations and its role in chromatin organisation and regulation.

The Sm core components of small nuclear ribonucleoproteins promote homologous recombination repair

DNA Double strand breaks (DSBs) are highly hazardous to the cell, and are repaired predominantly via non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) and homologous recombination (HR). Using DSB-mimicking DNA templates, our proteomic studies identified a group of Sm core proteins of small nuclear ribonucleoproteins (snRNPs) as potential DSB-associated proteins. We further confirmed that these Sm proteins were recruited to laser-induced DNA damage sites, and co-localized with established DNA damage repair factors. Depletion of Sm-D3 or Sm-B induced accumulation of γ-H2AX, and impaired the repair efficiency of HR, but not NHEJ. Furthermore, disruption of Sm-D3 reduced the protein level of HR factors, especially RAD51 and CHK1, but caused no change in the expression of repair factors involved in NHEJ. Mechanistically, Sm-D3 proteins bound RAD51, suppressed the ubiquitination of RAD51, and mediated the stabilization of RAD51; Sm-D3 depletion particularly impacted the level of RAD51 and CHK1 on damaged chromatin. As such, our studies characterized a role of Sm proteins in HR repair, via a new mechanism that is distinct from their conventional functions in RNA processing and gene regulation, but consistent with their direct recruitment to DNA damage sites and association with repair factors.

Characterization of R-Loop-Interacting Proteins in Embryonic Stem Cells Reveals Roles in rRNA Processing and Gene Expression

Chromatin-associated RNAs have diverse roles in the nucleus. However, their mechanisms of action are poorly understood, in part because of the inability to identify proteins that specifically associate with chromatin-bound RNAs. Here, we address this problem for a subset of chromatin-associated RNAs that form R-loops-RNA-DNA hybrid structures that include a displaced strand of ssDNA. R-loops generally form cotranscriptionally and have important roles in regulation of gene expression, immunoglobulin class switching, and other processes. However, unresolved R-loops can lead to DNA damage and chromosome instability. To identify factors that may bind and regulate R-loop accumulation or mediate R-loop-dependent functions, we used a comparative immunoprecipitation/MS approach, with and without RNA-protein crosslinking, to identify a stringent set of R-loop-binding proteins in mouse embryonic stem cells. We identified 364 R-loop-interacting proteins, which were highly enriched for proteins with predicted RNA-binding functions. We characterized several R-loop-interacting proteins of the DEAD-box family of RNA helicases and found that these proteins localize to the nucleolus and, to a lesser degree, the nucleus. Consistent with their localization patterns, we found that these helicases are required for rRNA processing and regulation of gene expression. Surprisingly, depletion of these helicases resulted in misregulation of highly overlapping sets of protein-coding genes, including many genes that function in differentiation and development. We conclude that R-loop-interacting DEAD-box helicases have nonredundant roles that are critical for maintaining the normal embryonic stem cell transcriptome.

Transcription/Replication Conflicts in Tumorigenesis and Their Potential Role as Novel Therapeutic Targets in Multiple Myeloma

Simple Summary

Multiple myeloma is a hematologic cancer characterized by the accumulation of malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow. It remains a mostly incurable disease due to the inability to overcome refractory disease and drug-resistant relapse. Oncogenic transformation of PC in multiple myeloma is thought to occur within the secondary lymphoid organs. However, the precise molecular events leading to myelomagenesis remain obscure. Here, we identified genes involved in the prevention and the resolution of conflicts between the replication and transcription significantly overexpressed during the plasma cell differentiation process and in multiple myeloma cells. We discussed the potential role of these factors in myelomagenesis and myeloma biology. The specific targeting of these factors might constitute a new therapeutic strategy in multiple myeloma.

Abstract

Plasma cells (PCs) have an essential role in humoral immune response by secretion of antibodies, and represent the final stage of B lymphocytes differentiation. During this differentiation, the pre-plasmablastic stage is characterized by highly proliferative cells that start to secrete immunoglobulins (Igs). Thus, replication and transcription must be tightly regulated in these cells to avoid transcription/replication conflicts (TRCs), which could increase replication stress and lead to genomic instability. In this review, we analyzed expression of genes involved in TRCs resolution during B to PC differentiation and identified 41 genes significantly overexpressed in the pre-plasmablastic stage. This illustrates the importance of mechanisms required for adequate processing of TRCs during PCs differentiation. Furthermore, we identified that several of these factors were also found overexpressed in purified PCs from patients with multiple myeloma (MM) compared to normal PCs. Malignant PCs produce high levels of Igs concomitantly with cell cycle deregulation. Therefore, increasing the TRCs occurring in MM cells could represent a potent therapeutic strategy for MM patients. Here, we describe the potential roles of TRCs resolution factors in myelomagenesis and discuss the therapeutic interest of targeting the TRCs resolution machinery in MM.

Senataxin Ortholog Sen1 Limits DNA:RNA Hybrid Accumulation at DNA Double-Strand Breaks to Control End Resection and Repair Fidelity

An important but still enigmatic function of DNA:RNA hybrids is their role in DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair. Here, we show that Sen1, the budding yeast ortholog of the human helicase Senataxin, is recruited at an HO endonuclease-induced DSB and limits the local accumulation of DNA:RNA hybrids. In the absence of Sen1, hybrid accumulation proximal to the DSB promotes increased binding of the Ku70-80 (KU) complex at the break site, mutagenic non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), micro-homology-mediated end joining (MMEJ), and chromosome translocations. We also show that homology-directed recombination (HDR) by gene conversion is mostly proficient in sen1 mutants after single DSB. However, in the absence of Sen1, DNA:RNA hybrids, Mre11, and Dna2 initiate resection through a non-canonical mechanism. We propose that this resection mechanism through local DNA:RNA hybrids acts as a backup to prime HDR when canonical pathways are altered, but at the expense of genome integrity.

PARP1-mediated PARylation of TonEBP prevents R-loop-associated DNA damage

Lack of coordination between the DNA replication and transcription machineries can increase the frequency of transcription-replication conflicts, leading ultimately to DNA damage and genomic instability. A major source of these conflicts is the formation of R-loops, which consist of a transcriptionally generated RNA-DNA hybrid and the displaced single-stranded DNA. R-loops play important physiological roles and have been implicated in human diseases. Although these structures have been extensively studied, many aspects of R-loop biology and R-loop-mediated genome instability remain unclear. We found that in cancer cells, tonicity-responsive enhancer-binding protein (TonEBP, also called NFAT5) interacted with PARP1 and localized to R-loops in response to DNA-damaging agent camptothecin (CPT), which is associated with R-loop formation. PARP1-mediated PARylation was required for recruitment of TonEBP to the sites of R-loop-associated DNA damage. Loss of TonEBP increased levels of R-loop accumulation and DNA damage, and promoted cell death in response to CPT. These findings suggest that TonEBP mediates resistance to CPT-induced cell death by preventing R-loop accumulation in cancer cells.

New Faces of old Friends: Emerging new Roles of RNA-Binding Proteins in the DNA Double-Strand Break Response

DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are highly cytotoxic DNA lesions. To protect genomic stability and ensure cell homeostasis, cells mount a complex signaling-based response that not only coordinates the repair of the broken DNA strand but also activates cell cycle checkpoints and, if necessary, induces cell death. The last decade has seen a flurry of studies that have identified RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) as novel regulators of the DSB response. While many of these RBPs have well-characterized roles in gene expression, it is becoming increasingly clear that they also have non-canonical functions in the DSB response that go well beyond transcription, splicing and mRNA processing. Here, we review the current understanding of how RBPs are integrated into the cellular response to DSBs and describe how these proteins directly participate in signal transduction, amplification and repair at damaged chromatin. In addition, we discuss the implications of an RBP-mediated DSB response for genome instability and age-associated diseases such as cancer and neurodegeneration.

HSP90 identified by a proteomic approach as druggable target to reverse platinum resistance in ovarian cancer

Acquired resistance to platinum (Pt)-based therapies is an urgent unmet need in the management of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) patients. Here, we characterized by an unbiased proteomics method three isogenic EOC models of acquired Pt resistance (TOV-112D, OVSAHO, and MDAH-2774). Using this approach, we identified several differentially expressed proteins in Pt-resistant (Pt-res) compared to parental cells and the chaperone HSP90 as a central hub of these protein networks. Accordingly, up-regulation of HSP90 was observed in all Pt-res cells and heat-shock protein 90 alpha isoform knockout resensitizes Pt-res cells to cisplatin (CDDP) treatment. Moreover, pharmacological HSP90 inhibition using two different inhibitors [17-(allylamino)-17-demethoxygeldanamycin (17AAG) and ganetespib] synergizes with CDDP in killing Pt-res cells in all tested models. Mechanistically, genetic or pharmacological HSP90 inhibition plus CDDP -induced apoptosis and increased DNA damage, particularly in Pt-res cells. Importantly, the antitumor activities of HSP90 inhibitors (HSP90i) were confirmed both ex vivo in primary cultures derived from Pt-res EOC patients ascites and in vivo in a xenograft model. Collectively, our data suggest an innovative antitumor strategy, based on Pt compounds plus HSP90i, to rechallenge Pt-res EOC patients that might warrant further clinical evaluation.

R-loops as Janus-faced modulators of DNA repair

R-loops are non-B DNA structures with intriguing dual consequences for gene expression and genome stability. In addition to their recognized roles in triggering DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), R-loops have recently been demonstrated to accumulate in cis to DSBs, especially those induced in transcriptionally active loci. In this Review, we discuss whether R-loops actively participate in DSB repair or are detrimental by-products that must be removed to avoid genome instability.

Jack of all trades? The versatility of RNA in DNA double-strand break repair

The mechanisms by which RNA acts in the DNA damage response (DDR), specifically in the repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), are emerging as multifaceted and complex. Different RNA species, including but not limited to; microRNA (miRNA), long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), RNA:DNA hybrid structures, the recently identified damage-induced lncRNA (dilncRNA), damage-responsive transcripts (DARTs), and DNA damage-dependent small RNAs (DDRNAs), have been shown to play integral roles in the DSB response. The diverse properties of these RNAs, such as sequence, structure, and binding partners, enable them to fulfil a variety of functions in different cellular contexts. Additionally, RNA can be modified post-transcriptionally, a process which is regulated in response to cellular stressors such as DNA damage. Many of these mechanisms are not yet understood and the literature contradictory, reflecting the complexity and expansive nature of the roles of RNA in the DDR. However, it is clear that RNA is pivotal in ensuring the maintenance of genome integrity. In this review, we will discuss and summarise recent evidence which highlights the roles of these various RNAs in preserving genomic integrity, with a particular focus on the emerging role of RNA in the DSB repair response.

C1orf109L binding DHX9 promotes DNA damage depended on the R-loop accumulation and enhances camptothecin chemosensitivity

Objectives

R‐loop is a three‐stranded nucleic acid structure of RNA/DNA hybrid, which occurs naturally during transcription, and more R‐loop accumulation can trigger serious DNA damage. There has been increasing attention to the issue of R‐loop accumulation acted as a target for cancer therapy. However, the regulation of R‐loop‐associated proteins is poorly explored.

Material and method

Quantitative real‐time PCR and Western blot were used to measure the expression of C1orf109 in cell lines. In addition, C1orf109L (C1orf109 longest isoform) protein binding partner was identified and validated using immunoprecipitation‐mass spectrometric (IP‐MS) and immunoprecipitation assays. DNA‐RNA immunoprecipitation (DR‐IP) and immunofluorescence determined the C1orf109L location on R‐loop. R‐loop accumulation was determined by immunofluorescence. Cell cycle was determined by flow cytometry. Finally, time‐lapse assay and cell counting were conducted to determined cell survival in response to camptothecin (CPT).

Results

We found that C1orf109L could mediate cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase and DNA damage depended on R‐loop accumulation. Meanwhile, C1orf109L could bind with DHX9 to trigger R‐loop accumulation. And C1orf109L was competitive with PARP1 binding to DHX9, which would block the function of DHX9‐PARP1 to prevent the R‐loop accumulation. Furthermore, C1orf109L could enhance the chemosensitivity of CPT, a chemotherapeutic drug capable of promoting R‐loop formation.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate that C1orf109L triggers R‐loop accumulation and DNA damage to arrest cell cycle.

SMART (Single Molecule Analysis of Resection Tracks) Technique for Assessing DNA end-Resection in Response to DNA Damage

DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) are among the most toxic lesions affecting genome integrity. DSBs are mainly repaired through non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) and homologous recombination (HR). A crucial step of the HR process is the generation, through DNA end-resection, of a long 3' single-strand DNA stretch, necessary to prime DNA synthesis using a homologous region as a template, following DNA strand invasion. DNA end resection inhibits NHEJ and triggers homology-directed DSB repair, ultimately guaranteeing a faithful DNA repair. Established methods to evaluate the DNA end-resection process are the immunofluorescence analysis of the phospho-S4/8 RPA32 protein foci, a marker of DNA end-resection, or of the phospho-S4/8 RPA32 protein levels by Western blot. Recently, the Single Molecule Analysis of Resection Tracks (SMART) has been described as a reliable method to visualize, by immunofluorescence, the long 3' single-strand DNA tails generated upon cell treatment with a S-phase specific DNA damaging agent (such as camptothecin). Then, DNA tract lengths can be measured through an image analysis software (such as Photoshop), to evaluate the processivity of the DNA end-resection machinery. The preparation of DNA fibres is performed in non-denaturing conditions so that the immunofluorescence detects only the specific long 3' single-strand DNA tails, generated from DSB processing.

One, No One, and One Hundred Thousand: The Many Forms of Ribonucleotides in DNA

In the last decade, it has become evident that RNA is frequently found in DNA. It is now well established that single embedded ribonucleoside monophosphates (rNMPs) are primarily introduced by DNA polymerases and that longer stretches of RNA can anneal to DNA, generating RNA:DNA hybrids. Among them, the most studied are R-loops, peculiar three-stranded nucleic acid structures formed upon the re-hybridization of a transcript to its template DNA. In addition, polyribonucleotide chains are synthesized to allow DNA replication priming, double-strand breaks repair, and may as well result from the direct incorporation of consecutive rNMPs by DNA polymerases. The bright side of RNA into DNA is that it contributes to regulating different physiological functions. The dark side, however, is that persistent RNA compromises genome integrity and genome stability. For these reasons, the characterization of all these structures has been under growing investigation. In this review, we discussed the origin of single and multiple ribonucleotides in the genome and in the DNA of organelles, focusing on situations where the aberrant processing of RNA:DNA hybrids may result in multiple rNMPs embedded in DNA. We concluded by providing an overview of the currently available strategies to study the presence of single and multiple ribonucleotides in DNA in vivo.

The dark side of RNA:DNA hybrids

RNA:DNA hybrids form when nascent transcripts anneal to the DNA template strand or any homologous DNA region. Co-transcriptional RNA:DNA hybrids, organized in R-loop structures together with the displaced non-transcribed strand, assist gene expression, DNA repair and other physiological cellular functions. A dark side of the matter is that RNA:DNA hybrids are also a cause of DNA damage and human diseases. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the understanding of the mechanisms by which the impairment of hybrid turnover promotes DNA damage and genome instability via the interference with DNA replication and DNA double-strand break repair. We also discuss how hybrids could contribute to cancer, neurodegeneration and susceptibility to viral infections, focusing on dysfunctions associated with the anti-R-loop helicase Senataxin.

New Frontiers in Stem Cell Research and Translational Approaches

Stem cell biology represents a challenging research area with a huge potential translational approach. This review focuses on the most recent findings on stem cell basics and clinics in several fields of research, as final outcome of the 10th conference held by Stem Cell Research Italy (SCR Italy) in Naples, Italy in June 2019. Current state-of-the-art and novel findings on stem cell research are discussed, bringing together basic and applied research with the newest insights in stem cell therapy.

Regulation of DNA Double Strand Breaks Processing: Focus on Barriers

In all the eukaryotic cells, nucleolytic processing (resection) of a double strand DNA break (DSB) is a key step to channel the repair of the lesion toward the homologous recombination, at the expenses of the non-homologous end joining (NHEJ). The coordinated action of several nucleases and helicases generates 3′ single strand (ss) DNA, which is covered by RPA and recombination factors. Molecular details of the process have been first dissected in the model organism Saccharomyces cerevisiae. When DSB ends are occupied by KU, a central component of the NHEJ, the Mre11-Rad50-Xrs2 (MRX) nuclease complex (MRN in human), aided by the associated factors Sae2 (CTIP in human), initiates the resection process, inducing a nick close to the DSB ends. Then, starting from the nick, the nucleases Mre11, Exo1, Dna2, in cooperation with Sgs1 helicase (BLM in human), degrade DNA strand in both the directions, creating the 3′ ssDNA filament. Multiple levels of regulation of the break processing ensure faithful DSB repair, preventing chromosome rearrangements, and genome instability. Here we review the DSB resection process and its regulation in the context of chromatin. Particularly, we focus on proteins that limit DSB resection, acting as physical barriers toward nucleases and helicases. Moreover, we also take into consideration recent evidence regarding functional interplay between DSB repair and RNA molecules nearby the break site.