1
|
Chen Q, Li D, Jiang L, Wu Y, Yuan H, Shi G, Liu F, Wu P, Jiang K. Biological functions and clinical significance of tRNA-derived small fragment (tsRNA) in tumors: Current state and future perspectives. Cancer Lett 2024; 587:216701. [PMID: 38369004 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216701] [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: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
A new class of noncoding RNAs, tsRNAs are not only abundant in humans but also have high tissue specificity. Recently, an increasing number of studies have explored the correlations between tsRNAs and tumors, showing that tsRNAs can affect biological behaviors of tumor cells, such as proliferation, apoptosis and metastasis, by modulating protein translation, RNA transcription or posttranscriptional regulation. In addition, tsRNAs are widely distributed and stably expressed, which endows them with broad application prospects in diagnosing and predicting the prognosis of tumors, and they are expected to become new biomarkers. However, notably, the current research on tsRNAs still faces problems that need to be solved. In this review, we describe the characteristics of tsRNAs as well as their unique features and functions in tumors. Moreover, we also discuss the potential opportunities and challenges in clinical applications and research of tsRNAs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qun Chen
- Pancreas Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Danrui Li
- Pancreas Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Luyang Jiang
- Pancreas Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yang Wu
- Pancreas Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hao Yuan
- Pancreas Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guodong Shi
- Pancreas Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fengyuan Liu
- Pancreas Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Pengfei Wu
- Pancreas Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Kuirong Jiang
- Pancreas Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Wu F, Yang Q, Pan W, Meng W, Ma Z, Wang W. tRNA-derived fragments: mechanism of gene regulation and clinical application in lung cancer. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024; 47:37-54. [PMID: 37642916 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-023-00864-z] [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] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung cancer, being the most widespread and lethal form of cancer globally, has a high incidence and mortality rate primarily attributed to challenges associated with early detection, extensive metastasis, and frequent recurrence. In the context of lung cancer development, noncoding RNA molecules have a crucial role in governing gene expression and protein synthesis. Specifically, tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs), a subset of noncoding RNAs, exert significant biological influences on cancer progression, encompassing transcription and translation processes as well as epigenetic regulation. This article primarily examines the mechanisms by which tRFs modulate gene expression and contribute to tumorigenesis in lung cancer. Furthermore, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current bioinformatics analysis of tRFs in lung cancer, with the objective of offering a systematic and efficient approach for studying the expression profiling, functional enrichment, and molecular mechanisms of tRFs in this disease. Finally, we discuss the clinical significance and potential avenues for future research on tRFs in lung cancer. This paper presents a comprehensive systematic review of the existing research findings on tRFs in lung cancer, aiming to offer improved biomarkers and drug targets for clinical management of lung cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fan Wu
- Lab for Noncoding RNA & Cancer, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 381 Nanchen Road, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Qianqian Yang
- Lab for Noncoding RNA & Cancer, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 381 Nanchen Road, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Wei Pan
- Lab for Noncoding RNA & Cancer, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 381 Nanchen Road, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Wei Meng
- Lab for Noncoding RNA & Cancer, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 381 Nanchen Road, Shanghai, 200444, China
| | - Zhongliang Ma
- Lab for Noncoding RNA & Cancer, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, 381 Nanchen Road, Shanghai, 200444, China.
| | - Weiwei Wang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Cancer Hospital, Yunnan Cancer Center, Kunming, 650118, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yu M, Yi J, Qiu Q, Yao D, Li J, Yang J, Mi C, Zhou L, Lu B, Lu W, Ying K, Chen W, Chen E, Zhang H, Lu Z, Lu Y, Liu P. Pan-cancer tRNA-derived fragment CAT1 coordinates RBPMS to stabilize NOTCH2 mRNA to promote tumorigenesis. Cell Rep 2023; 42:113408. [PMID: 37943661 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2023.113408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Transfer RNA-derived fragments (tRFs) are a class of small non-coding regulatory RNAs that are involved in the pathophysiology of many diseases. However, the role of tRFs in cancer progression remains largely elusive. Here, we demonstrate that a pan-cancer 3'-tRF, CAT1 (cancer associated tRF 1), is ubiquitously upregulated in tumors and associated with poor prognosis of a variety of cancers, including lung cancer. The upregulated CAT1 in cancer cells binds to RNA-binding protein with multiple splicing (RBPMS) and displaces NOTCH2 association from RBPMS, thereby inhibiting the subsequent CCR4-NOT deadenylation-complex-mediated NOTCH2 mRNA decay. The CAT1-enhanced NOTCH2 expression promotes lung cancer cell proliferation and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. In addition, plasma CAT1 levels are substantially increased in patients with lung cancer compared to non-cancer control subjects. Our findings reveal an intrinsic connection between cancer-specific upregulation of CAT1 and cancer progression, show the regulation of NOTCH signaling in cancer by a 3'-tRF, and highlight its great clinical potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengqian Yu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Jiani Yi
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
| | - Qiongzi Qiu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Dongxia Yao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Jia Li
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
| | - Juze Yang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
| | - Chunyi Mi
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China
| | - Liyuan Zhou
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China
| | - Bingjian Lu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Weiguo Lu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Kejing Ying
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Wantao Chen
- Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Enguo Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Honghe Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Research Unit of Intelligence Classification of Tumor Pathology and Precision Therapy, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China
| | - Zhimin Lu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pancreatic Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China.
| | - Yan Lu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Women's Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310006, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China.
| | - Pengyuan Liu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310016, China; Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, China; Department of Physiology, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, AZ 85724, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Maqueda JJ, Santos M, Ferreira M, Marinho S, Rocha S, Rocha M, Saraiva N, Bonito N, Carvalho J, Oliveira C. NGS Data Repurposing Allows Detection of tRNA Fragments as Gastric Cancer Biomarkers in Patient-Derived Extracellular Vesicles. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108961. [PMID: 37240307 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108961] [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: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Transfer RNA fragments (tRFs) have gene silencing effects similarly to miRNAs, can be sorted into extracellular vesicles (EVs) and are emerging as potential circulating biomarkers for cancer diagnoses. We aimed at analyzing the expression of tRFs in gastric cancer (GC) and understanding their potential as biomarkers. We explored miRNA datasets from gastric tumors and normal adjacent tissues (NATs) from TCGA repository, as well as proprietary 3D-cultured GC cell lines and corresponding EVs, in order to identify differentially represented tRFs using MINTmap and R/Bioconductor packages. Selected tRFs were validated in patient-derived EVs. We found 613 Differentially Expressed (DE)-tRFs in the TCGA dataset, of which 19 were concomitantly upregulated in TCGA gastric tumors and present in 3D cells and EVs, but barely expressed in NATs. Moreover, 20 tRFs were expressed in 3D cells and EVs and downregulated in TCGA gastric tumors. Of these 39 DE-tRFs, 9 tRFs were also detected in patient-derived EVs. Interestingly, the targets of these 9 tRFs affect neutrophil activation and degranulation, cadherin binding, focal adhesion and the cell-substrate junction, highlighting these pathways as major targets of EV-mediated crosstalk with the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, as they are present in four distinct GC datasets and can be detected even in low quality patient-derived EV samples, they hold promise as GC biomarkers. By repurposing already available NGS data, we could identify and cross-validate a set of tRFs holding potential as GC diagnosis biomarkers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joaquín J Maqueda
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Bioinf2Bio LDA, 4200-150 Porto, Portugal
| | - Mafalda Santos
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- IPATIMUP-Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine-iBiMED, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Marta Ferreira
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- IPATIMUP-Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sérgio Marinho
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara Rocha
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- IPATIMUP-Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Mafalda Rocha
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- IPATIMUP-Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Nadine Saraiva
- Instituto Português de Oncologia de Coimbra Francisco Gentil, E.P.E. (IPOCFG, E.P.E.), 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nuno Bonito
- Instituto Português de Oncologia de Coimbra Francisco Gentil, E.P.E. (IPOCFG, E.P.E.), 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana Carvalho
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- IPATIMUP-Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Carla Oliveira
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Bioinf2Bio LDA, 4200-150 Porto, Portugal
- IPATIMUP-Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Di Fazio A, Gullerova M. An old friend with a new face: tRNA-derived small RNAs with big regulatory potential in cancer biology. Br J Cancer 2023; 128:1625-1635. [PMID: 36759729 PMCID: PMC10133234 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02191-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) essential for protein translation. Emerging evidence suggests that tRNAs can also be processed into smaller fragments, tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), a novel class of sncRNAs with powerful applications and high biological relevance to cancer. tsRNAs biogenesis is heterogeneous and involves different ribonucleases, such as Angiogenin and Dicer. For many years, tsRNAs were thought to be just degradation products. However, accumulating evidence shows their roles in gene expression: either directly via destabilising the mRNA or the ribosomal machinery, or indirectly via regulating the expression of ribosomal components. Furthermore, tsRNAs participate in various biological processes linked to cancer, including apoptosis, cell cycle, immune response, and retroviral insertion into the human genome. It is emerging that tsRNAs have significant therapeutic potential. Endogenous tsRNAs can be used as cancer biomarkers, while synthetic tsRNAs and antisense oligonucleotides can be employed to regulate gene expression. In this review, we are recapitulating the regulatory roles of tsRNAs, with a focus on cancer biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Di Fazio
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3RE, UK
| | - Monika Gullerova
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3RE, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Gong M, Deng Y, Xiang Y, Ye D. The role and mechanism of action of tRNA-derived fragments in the diagnosis and treatment of malignant tumors. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:62. [PMID: 36964534 PMCID: PMC10036988 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01079-3] [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: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and death worldwide. While various factors are established as causing malignant tumors, the mechanisms underlying cancer development remain poorly understood. Early diagnosis and the development of effective treatments for cancer are important research topics. Transfer RNA (tRNA), the most abundant class of RNA molecules in the human transcriptome, participates in both protein synthesis and cellular metabolic processes. tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) are produced by specific cleavage of pre-tRNA and mature tRNA molecules, which are highly conserved and occur widely in various organisms. tRFs were initially thought to be random products with no physiological function, but have been redefined as novel functional small non-coding RNA molecules that help to regulate RNA stability, modulate translation, and influence target gene expression, as well as other biological processes. There is increasing evidence supporting roles for tRFs in tumorigenesis and cancer development, including the regulation of tumor cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and drug resistance. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms by which tRFs impact these processes has potential to inform malignant tumor diagnosis and treatment. Further, tRFs are expected to become new biological markers for early diagnosis and prognosis prediction in patients with tumors, as well as a targets for precision cancer therapies. Video abstract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengdan Gong
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yongqin Deng
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yizhen Xiang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dong Ye
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Magesh S, Gande P, Yalamarty R, John D, Chakladar J, Li WT, Ongkeko WM. Characterization of tRNA-Derived Fragments in Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma with Respect to Tobacco Smoke. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24065501. [PMID: 36982573 PMCID: PMC10057801 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24065501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) is a highly heterogeneous cancer that is influenced by etiological agents such as tobacco smoke. Accordingly, transfer RNA-derived fragments (tRFs) are implicated in both cancer onset and development and demonstrate the potential to act as targets for cancer treatments and therapies. Therefore, we aimed to characterize tRF expression with respect to LUSC pathogenesis and clinical outcomes. Specifically, we analyzed the effect of tobacco smoke on tRF expression. In order to do so, we extracted tRF read counts from MINTbase v2.0 for 425 primary tumor samples and 36 adjacent normal samples. We analyzed the data in three primary cohorts: (1) all primary tumor samples (425 samples), (2) smoking-induced LUSC primary tumor samples (134 samples), and (3) non-smoking-induced LUSC primary tumor samples (18 samples). Differential expression analysis was performed to examine tRF expression in each of the three cohorts. tRF expression was correlated to clinical variables and patient survival outcomes. We identified unique tRFs in primary tumor samples, smoking-induced LUSC primary tumor samples, and non-smoking-induced LUSC primary tumor samples. In addition, many of these tRFs demonstrated correlations to worse patient survival outcomes. Notably, tRFs in the smoking-induced LUSC and non-smoking-induced LUSC primary tumor cohorts were significantly correlated to clinical variables pertaining to cancer stage and treatment efficacy. We hope that our results will be used to better inform future LUSC diagnostic and therapeutic modalities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shruti Magesh
- Department of Surgery, Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, UC San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
| | - Pranava Gande
- Department of Surgery, Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, UC San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
| | - Rishabh Yalamarty
- Department of Surgery, Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, UC San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
| | - Daniel John
- Department of Surgery, Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, UC San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
| | - Jaideep Chakladar
- Department of Surgery, Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, UC San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
| | - Wei Tse Li
- Department of Surgery, Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, UC San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA
| | - Weg M. Ongkeko
- Department of Surgery, Division of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, UC San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-858-552-8585 (ext. 7165)
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Liu W, Yu M, Cheng S, Zhou X, Li J, Lu Y, Liu P, Ding S. tRNA-Derived RNA Fragments Are Novel Biomarkers for Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Tumor Subtypes in Prostate Cancer. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:981-999. [PMID: 36661724 PMCID: PMC9857875 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30010075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND tRNA-derived RNA fragments (tRFs) are a novel class of small ncRNA that are derived from precursor or mature tRNAs. Recently, the general relevance of their roles and clinical values in tumorigenesis, metastasis, and recurrence have been increasingly highlighted. However, there has been no specific systematic study to elucidate any potential clinical significance for these tRFs in prostate adenocarcinoma (PRAD), one of the most common and malignant cancers that threatens male health worldwide. Here, we investigate the clinical value of 5'-tRFs in PRAD. METHODS Small RNA sequencing data were analyzed to discover new 5'-tRFs biomarkers for PRAD. Machine learning algorithms were used to identify 5'-tRF classifiers to distinguish PRAD tumors from normal tissues. LASSO and Cox regression analyses were used to construct 5'-tRF prognostic predictive models. NMF and consensus clustering analyses were performed on 5'-tRF profiles to identify molecular subtypes of PRAD. RESULTS The overall levels of 5'-tRFs were significantly upregulated in the PRAD tumor samples compared to their adjacent normal samples. tRF classifiers composed of 13 5'-tRFs achieved AUC values as high as 0.963, showing high sensitivity and specificity in distinguishing PRAD tumors from normal samples. Multiple 5'-tRFs were identified as being associated with the PRAD prognosis. The tRF score, defined by a set of eight 5'-tRFs, was highly predictive of survival in PRAD patients. The combination of tRF and Gleason scores showed a significantly better performance than the Gleason score alone, suggesting that 5'-tRFs can offer PRAD patients additional and improved prognostic information. Four molecular subtypes of the PRAD tumor were identified based on their 5'-tRF expression profiles. Genetically, these 5'-tRFs PRAD tumor subtypes exhibited distinct genomic landscapes in tumor cells. Clinically, they showed marked differences in survival and clinicopathological features. CONCLUSIONS 5'-tRFs are potential clinical biomarkers for the diagnosis, prognosis, and classification of tumor subtypes on a molecular level. These can help clinicians formulate personalized treatment plans for PRAD patients and may have similar potential applications for other disease types.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weigang Liu
- Department of Cell Biology, The Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Mengqian Yu
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang Province, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China
| | - Sheng Cheng
- Department of Urology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China
| | - Xiaoxu Zhou
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Women’s Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
| | - Jia Li
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang Province, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China
| | - Yan Lu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis and Therapy for Major Gynecological Diseases, Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Women’s Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310006, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310013, China
| | - Pengyuan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine in Diagnosis and Monitoring Research of Zhejiang Province, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, China
- Cancer Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310013, China
- Department of Physiology and Center of Systems Molecular Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Shiping Ding
- Department of Cell Biology, The Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Cingaram PR. The tRNA-derived fragment signature in lung cancer. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2022; 27:1-2. [PMID: 36185616 PMCID: PMC9489533 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2022.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep Reddy Cingaram
- University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Human Genetics, Biomedical Research Building, 1501 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136, USA
- Corresponding author Pradeep Reddy Cingaram, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Human Genetics, Biomedical Research Building, 1501 NW 10th Avenue, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Gao Z, Jijiwa M, Nasu M, Borgard H, Gong T, Xu J, Chen S, Fu Y, Chen Y, Hu X, Huang G, Deng Y. Comprehensive landscape of tRNA-derived fragments in lung cancer. Mol Ther Oncolytics 2022; 26:207-225. [PMID: 35892120 PMCID: PMC9307607 DOI: 10.1016/j.omto.2022.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived fragment (tRDF) is a novel small non-coding RNA that presents in different types of cancer. The comprehensive understanding of tRDFs in non-small cell lung cancer remains largely unknown. In this study, 1,550 patient samples of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) were included, and 52 tRDFs with four subtypes were identified. Six tRDFs were picked as diagnostic signatures based on the tRDFs expression patterns, and area under the curve (AUC) in independent validations is up to 0.90. Two signatures were validated successfully in plasma samples, and six signatures confirmed the consistency of distinguished expression in NSCLC cell lines. Ten tRDFs along with independent risk scores can be used to predict survival outcomes by stages; 5a_tRF-Ile-AAT/GAT can be a prognosis biomarker for early stage. Association analysis of tRDFs-signatures-correlated mRNAs and microRNA (miRNA) were targeted to the cell cycle and oocyte meiosis signaling pathways. Five tRDFs were assessed to associate with PD-L1 immune checkpoint and correlated with the genes that target in PD-L1 checkpoint signaling pathway. Our study is the first to provide a comprehensive analysis of tRDFs in lung cancer, including four subtypes of tRDFs, investigating the diagnostic and prognostic values, and demonstrated their biological function and transcriptional role as well as potential immune therapeutic value.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zitong Gao
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
- Molecular Biosciences and Bioengineering Program, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
- Genomics and Bioinformatics Shared Resource, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
| | - Mayumi Jijiwa
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
| | - Masaki Nasu
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
| | - Heather Borgard
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
| | - Ting Gong
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
- Molecular Biosciences and Bioengineering Program, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - Jinwen Xu
- School of Geosciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA
| | - Shaoqiu Chen
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
- Molecular Biosciences and Bioengineering Program, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - Yuanyuan Fu
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
| | - Yu Chen
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
- Molecular Biosciences and Bioengineering Program, College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - Xiamin Hu
- College of Pharmacy, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai 201318, China
| | - Gang Huang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Molecular Imaging, Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai 201318, China
| | - Youping Deng
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
- Genomics and Bioinformatics Shared Resource, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Diallo I, Ho J, Lambert M, Benmoussa A, Husseini Z, Lalaouna D, Massé E, Provost P. A tRNA-derived fragment present in E. coli OMVs regulates host cell gene expression and proliferation. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010827. [PMID: 36108089 PMCID: PMC9514646 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA-sequencing has led to a spectacular increase in the repertoire of bacterial sRNAs and improved our understanding of their biological functions. Bacterial sRNAs have also been found in outer membrane vesicles (OMVs), raising questions about their potential involvement in bacteria-host relationship, but few studies have documented this issue. Recent RNA-Sequencing analyses of bacterial RNA unveiled the existence of abundant very small RNAs (vsRNAs) shorter than 16 nt. These especially include tRNA fragments (tRFs) that are selectively loaded in OMVs and are predicted to target host mRNAs. Here, in Escherichia coli (E. coli), we report the existence of an abundant vsRNA, Ile-tRF-5X, which is selectively modulated by environmental stress, while remaining unaffected by inhibition of transcription or translation. Ile-tRF-5X is released through OMVs and can be transferred to human HCT116 cells, where it promoted MAP3K4 expression. Our findings provide a novel perspective and paradigm on the existing symbiosis between bacteria and human cells. We previously outlined by RNA-Sequencing (RNA-seq) the existence of abundant very small (<16 nt) bacterial and eukaryote RNA (vsRNA) population with potential regulatory functions. However, it is not exceptional to see vsRNA species removed from the RNA-seq libraries or datasets because being considered as random degradation products. As a proof of concept, we present in this study a 13 nt in length isoleucine tRNA-derived fragment (Ile-tRF-5X) which is selectively modulated by nutritional and thermal stress while remaining unaffected by transcription and translation inhibitions. We also showed that OMVs and their Ile-tRF-5X vsRNAs are delivered into human HCT116 cells and both can promote host cell gene expression and proliferation. Ile-tRF-5X appears to regulate gene silencing properties of miRNAs by competition. Our findings provide a novel perspective and paradigm on the existing symbiosis between hosts and bacteria but also brings a new insight of host-pathogen interactions mediated by tRFs which remain so far poorly characterized in bacteria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Idrissa Diallo
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center/CHUL Pavilion, Department of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jeffrey Ho
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center/CHUL Pavilion, Department of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marine Lambert
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center/CHUL Pavilion, Department of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Abderrahim Benmoussa
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center/CHUL Pavilion, Department of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Zeinab Husseini
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center/CHUL Pavilion, Department of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - David Lalaouna
- CRCHUS, RNA Group, Department of Biochemistry and Functional Genomics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Eric Massé
- CRCHUS, RNA Group, Department of Biochemistry and Functional Genomics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Patrick Provost
- CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center/CHUL Pavilion, Department of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kazimierczyk M, Wojnicka M, Biała E, Żydowicz-Machtel P, Imiołczyk B, Ostrowski T, Kurzyńska-Kokorniak A, Wrzesinski J. Characteristics of Transfer RNA-Derived Fragments Expressed during Human Renal Cell Development: The Role of Dicer in tRF Biogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073644. [PMID: 35409004 PMCID: PMC8998818 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
tRNA-derived fragments participate in the regulation of many processes, such as gene silencing, splicing and translation in many organisms, ranging from bacteria to humans. We were interested to know how tRF abundance changes during the different stages of renal cell development. The research model used here consisted of the following human renal cells: hESCs, HEK-293T, HK-2 and A-489 kidney tumor cells, which, together, mimic the different stages of kidney development. The characteristics of the most abundant tRFs, tRFGly(CCC), tRFVal(AAC) and tRFArg(CCU), were presented. It was found that these parental tRNAs present in cells are the source of many tRFs, thus increasing the pool of potential regulatory RNAs. Indeed, a bioinformatic analysis showed the possibility that tRFGly(CCC) and tRRFVal(AAC) could regulate the activity of a range of kidney proteins. Moreover, the distribution of tRFs and the efficiency of their expression is similar in adult and embryonic stem cells. During the formation of tRFs, HK-2 cells resemble A-498 cancer cells more than other cells. Additionally, we postulate the involvement of Dicer nuclease in the formation of tRF-5b in all the analyzed tRNAs. To confirm this, 293T NoDice cells, which in the absence of Dicer activity do not generate tRF-5b, were used.
Collapse
|
13
|
Liu B, Cao J, Wang X, Guo C, Liu Y, Wang T. Deciphering the tRNA-derived small RNAs: origin, development, and future. Cell Death Dis 2021; 13:24. [PMID: 34934044 PMCID: PMC8692627 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04472-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), a novel category of small noncoding RNAs, are enzymatically cleaved from tRNAs. Previous reports have shed some light on the roles of tsRNAs in the development of human diseases. However, our knowledge about tsRNAs is still relatively lacking. In this paper, we review the biogenesis, classification, subcellular localization as well as action mechanism of tsRNAs, and discuss the association between chemical modifications of tRNAs and the production and functions of tsRNAs. Furthermore, using immunity, metabolism, and malignancy as examples, we summarize the molecular mechanisms of tsRNAs in diseases and evaluate the potential of tsRNAs as new biomarkers and therapeutic targets. At the same time, we compile and introduce several resource databases that are currently publicly available for analyzing tsRNAs. Finally, we discuss the challenges associated with research in this field and future directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bowen Liu
- Research Center for Molecular Oncology and Functional Nucleic Acids, School of Laboratory Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, 453003, Xinxiang, Henan, PR China.
| | - Jinling Cao
- Research Center for Molecular Oncology and Functional Nucleic Acids, School of Laboratory Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, 453003, Xinxiang, Henan, PR China
| | - Xiangyun Wang
- Research Center for Molecular Oncology and Functional Nucleic Acids, School of Laboratory Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, 453003, Xinxiang, Henan, PR China
| | - Chunlei Guo
- Research Center for Molecular Oncology and Functional Nucleic Acids, School of Laboratory Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, 453003, Xinxiang, Henan, PR China
| | - Yunxia Liu
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | - Tianjiao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 300071, Tianjin, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Pan X, Geng X, Liu Y, Yu M, Mishra MK, Xu X, Ding X, Liu P, Liang M. Transfer RNA Fragments in the Kidney in Hypertension. Hypertension 2021; 77:1627-1637. [PMID: 33775129 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.121.16994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
[Figure: see text].
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqing Pan
- Department of Mathematics, Shanghai Normal University, China (X.P.).,Center of Systems Molecular Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (X.P., X.G., Y.L., M.K.M., P.L., M.L.)
| | - Xuemei Geng
- Center of Systems Molecular Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (X.P., X.G., Y.L., M.K.M., P.L., M.L.).,Department of Nephrology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai Institute of Kidney and Dialysis, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Kidney and Blood Purification, Shanghai Medical Center of Kidney Disease, China (X.G., X.X., X.D.)
| | - Yong Liu
- Center of Systems Molecular Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (X.P., X.G., Y.L., M.K.M., P.L., M.L.)
| | - Mengqian Yu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China (M.Y., P.L.)
| | - Manoj K Mishra
- Center of Systems Molecular Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (X.P., X.G., Y.L., M.K.M., P.L., M.L.)
| | - Xialian Xu
- Department of Nephrology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai Institute of Kidney and Dialysis, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Kidney and Blood Purification, Shanghai Medical Center of Kidney Disease, China (X.G., X.X., X.D.)
| | - Xiaoqiang Ding
- Department of Nephrology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai Institute of Kidney and Dialysis, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Kidney and Blood Purification, Shanghai Medical Center of Kidney Disease, China (X.G., X.X., X.D.)
| | - Pengyuan Liu
- Center of Systems Molecular Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (X.P., X.G., Y.L., M.K.M., P.L., M.L.).,Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China (M.Y., P.L.)
| | - Mingyu Liang
- Center of Systems Molecular Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee (X.P., X.G., Y.L., M.K.M., P.L., M.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Fort RS, Duhagon MA. Pan-cancer chromatin analysis of the human vtRNA genes uncovers their association with cancer biology. F1000Res 2021; 10:182. [PMID: 34354812 PMCID: PMC8287541 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.28510.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The vault RNAs (vtRNAs) are a class of 84-141-nt eukaryotic non-coding RNAs transcribed by RNA polymerase III, associated to the ribonucleoprotein complex known as vault particle. Of the four human vtRNA genes, vtRNA1-1, vtRNA1-2 and vtRNA1-3, clustered at locus 1, are integral components of the vault particle, while vtRNA2-1 is a more divergent homologue located in a second locus. Gene expression studies of vtRNAs in large cohorts have been hindered by their unsuccessful sequencing using conventional transcriptomic approaches. Methods: VtRNA expression in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Pan-Cancer cohort was estimated using the genome-wide DNA methylation and chromatin accessibility data (ATAC-seq) of their genes as surrogate variables. The association between vtRNA expression and patient clinical outcome, immune subtypes and transcriptionally co-regulated gene programs was analyzed in the dataset. Results: VtRNAs promoters are enriched in transcription factors related to viral infection. VtRNA2-1 is likely the most independently regulated homologue. VtRNA1-1 has the most accessible chromatin, followed by vtRNA1-2, vtRNA2-1 and vtRNA1-3. VtRNA1-1 and vtRNA1-3 chromatin status does not significantly change in cancer tissues. Meanwhile, vtRNA2-1 and vtRNA1-2 expression is widely deregulated in neoplastic tissues and its alteration is compatible with a broad oncogenic role for vtRNA1-2, and both tumor suppressor and oncogenic functions for vtRNA2-1. Yet, vtRNA1-1, vtRNA1-2 and vtRNA2-1 promoter DNA methylation predicts a shorter patient overall survival cancer-wide. In addition, gene ontology analyses of vtRNAs co-regulated genes identify a chromosome regulatory domain, epithelial differentiation, immune and thyroid cancer gene sets for specific vtRNAs. Furthermore, vtRNA expression patterns are associated with cancer immune subtypes and vtRNA1-2 expression is positively associated with cell proliferation and wound healing. Conclusions: Our study presents the landscape of vtRNA chromatin status cancer-wide, identifying co-regulated gene networks and ontological pathways associated with the different vtRNA genes that may account for their diverse roles in cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Sebastián Fort
- Laboratorio de Interacciones Moleculares, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Montevideo, 11400, Uruguay.,Depto. de Genómica, Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas Clemente Estable, Montevideo, Montevideo, 11600, Uruguay
| | - María Ana Duhagon
- Laboratorio de Interacciones Moleculares, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Montevideo, 11400, Uruguay.,Depto. de Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Montevideo, 11400, Uruguay
| |
Collapse
|