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Coelho MA, David-Palma M, Shea T, Bowers K, McGinley-Smith S, Mohammad AW, Gnirke A, Yurkov AM, Nowrousian M, Sun S, Cuomo CA, Heitman J. Comparative genomics of the closely related fungal genera Cryptococcus and Kwoniella reveals karyotype dynamics and suggests evolutionary mechanisms of pathogenesis. PLoS Biol 2024; 22:e3002682. [PMID: 38843310 PMCID: PMC11185503 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024] Open
Abstract
In exploring the evolutionary trajectories of both pathogenesis and karyotype dynamics in fungi, we conducted a large-scale comparative genomic analysis spanning the Cryptococcus genus, encompassing both global human fungal pathogens and nonpathogenic species, and related species from the sister genus Kwoniella. Chromosome-level genome assemblies were generated for multiple species, covering virtually all known diversity within these genera. Although Cryptococcus and Kwoniella have comparable genome sizes (about 19.2 and 22.9 Mb) and similar gene content, hinting at preadaptive pathogenic potential, our analysis found evidence of gene gain (via horizontal gene transfer) and gene loss in pathogenic Cryptococcus species, which might represent evolutionary signatures of pathogenic development. Genome analysis also revealed a significant variation in chromosome number and structure between the 2 genera. By combining synteny analysis and experimental centromere validation, we found that most Cryptococcus species have 14 chromosomes, whereas most Kwoniella species have fewer (11, 8, 5, or even as few as 3). Reduced chromosome number in Kwoniella is associated with formation of giant chromosomes (up to 18 Mb) through repeated chromosome fusion events, each marked by a pericentric inversion and centromere loss. While similar chromosome inversion-fusion patterns were observed in all Kwoniella species with fewer than 14 chromosomes, no such pattern was detected in Cryptococcus. Instead, Cryptococcus species with less than 14 chromosomes showed reductions primarily through rearrangements associated with the loss of repeat-rich centromeres. Additionally, Cryptococcus genomes exhibited frequent interchromosomal translocations, including intercentromeric recombination facilitated by transposons shared between centromeres. Overall, our findings advance our understanding of genetic changes possibly associated with pathogenicity in Cryptococcus and provide a foundation to elucidate mechanisms of centromere loss and chromosome fusion driving distinct karyotypes in closely related fungal species, including prominent global human pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco A. Coelho
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Márcia David-Palma
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Terrance Shea
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Katharine Bowers
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Sage McGinley-Smith
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Arman W. Mohammad
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Andreas Gnirke
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Andrey M. Yurkov
- Leibniz Institute DSMZ-German Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Minou Nowrousian
- Lehrstuhl für Molekulare und Zelluläre Botanik, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sheng Sun
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Christina A. Cuomo
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Joseph Heitman
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
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Zhou S, Wu X, Yuan Y, Qiao X, Wang Z, Wu M, Qi K, Xie Z, Yin H, Zhang S. Evolutionary origin and gradual accumulation with plant evolution of the LACS family. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2024; 24:481. [PMID: 38816698 PMCID: PMC11140897 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-024-05194-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND LACS (long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase) genes are widespread in organisms and have multiple functions in plants, especially in lipid metabolism. However, the origin and evolutionary dynamics of the LACS gene family remain largely unknown. RESULTS Here, we identified 1785 LACS genes in the genomes of 166 diverse plant species and identified the clades (I, II, III, IV, V, VI) of six clades for the LACS gene family of green plants through phylogenetic analysis. Based on the evolutionary history of plant lineages, we found differences in the origins of different clades, with Clade IV originating from chlorophytes and representing the origin of LACS genes in green plants. The structural characteristics of different clades indicate that clade IV is relatively independent, while the relationships between clades (I, II, III) and clades (V, VI) are closer. Dispersed duplication (DSD) and transposed duplication (TRD) are the main forces driving the evolution of plant LACS genes. Network clustering analysis further grouped all LACS genes into six main clusters, with genes within each cluster showing significant co-linearity. Ka/Ks results suggest that LACS family genes underwent purifying selection during evolution. We analyzed the phylogenetic relationships and characteristics of six clades of the LACS gene family to explain the origin, evolutionary history, and phylogenetic relationships of different clades and proposed a hypothetical evolutionary model for the LACS family of genes in plants. CONCLUSIONS Our research provides genome-wide insights into the evolutionary history of the LACS gene family in green plants. These insights lay an important foundation for comprehensive functional characterization in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics & Germplasm Enhancement and Utilization, Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics & Germplasm Enhancement and Utilization, Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
| | - Yubo Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics & Germplasm Enhancement and Utilization, Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xin Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics & Germplasm Enhancement and Utilization, Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Zewen Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics & Germplasm Enhancement and Utilization, Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Mayan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics & Germplasm Enhancement and Utilization, Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Kaijie Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics & Germplasm Enhancement and Utilization, Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Zhihua Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics & Germplasm Enhancement and Utilization, Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Hao Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics & Germplasm Enhancement and Utilization, Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Shaoling Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics & Germplasm Enhancement and Utilization, Sanya Institute of Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
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Ledford WC, Silvestri A, Fiorilli V, Roth R, Rubio-Somoza I, Lanfranco L. A journey into the world of small RNAs in the arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2024; 242:1534-1544. [PMID: 37985403 DOI: 10.1111/nph.19394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis is a mutualistic interaction between fungi and most land plants that is underpinned by a bidirectional exchange of nutrients. AM development is a tightly regulated process that encompasses molecular communication for reciprocal recognition, fungal accommodation in root tissues and activation of symbiotic function. As such, a complex network of transcriptional regulation and molecular signaling underlies the cellular and metabolic reprogramming of host cells upon AM fungal colonization. In addition to transcription factors, small RNAs (sRNAs) are emerging as important regulators embedded in the gene network that orchestrates AM development. In addition to controlling cell-autonomous processes, plant sRNAs also function as mobile signals capable of moving to different organs and even to different plants or organisms that interact with plants. AM fungi also produce sRNAs; however, their function in the AM symbiosis remains largely unknown. Here, we discuss the contribution of host sRNAs in the development of AM symbiosis by considering their role in the transcriptional reprogramming of AM fungal colonized cells. We also describe the characteristics of AM fungal-derived sRNAs and emerging evidence for the bidirectional transfer of functional sRNAs between the two partners to mutually modulate gene expression and control the symbiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Conrad Ledford
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Turin, 10125, Italy
- Molecular Reprogramming and Evolution (MoRE) Lab, Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG), CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB, Barcelona, 08193, Spain
| | - Alessandro Silvestri
- Molecular Reprogramming and Evolution (MoRE) Lab, Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG), CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB, Barcelona, 08193, Spain
| | - Valentina Fiorilli
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Turin, 10125, Italy
| | - Ronelle Roth
- Department of Biology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3RB, UK
| | - Ignacio Rubio-Somoza
- Molecular Reprogramming and Evolution (MoRE) Lab, Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG), CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB, Barcelona, 08193, Spain
- Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Barcelona, 08001, Spain
| | - Luisa Lanfranco
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Turin, 10125, Italy
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Zaheer U, Munir F, Salum YM, He W. Function and regulation of plant ARGONAUTE proteins in response to environmental challenges: a review. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17115. [PMID: 38560454 PMCID: PMC10979746 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Environmental stresses diversely affect multiple processes related to the growth, development, and yield of many crops worldwide. In response, plants have developed numerous sophisticated defense mechanisms at the cellular and subcellular levels to react and adapt to biotic and abiotic stressors. RNA silencing, which is an innate immune mechanism, mediates sequence-specific gene expression regulation in higher eukaryotes. ARGONAUTE (AGO) proteins are essential components of the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). They bind to small noncoding RNAs (sRNAs) and target complementary RNAs, causing translational repression or triggering endonucleolytic cleavage pathways. In this review, we aim to illustrate the recently published molecular functions, regulatory mechanisms, and biological roles of AGO family proteins in model plants and cash crops, especially in the defense against diverse biotic and abiotic stresses, which could be helpful in crop improvement and stress tolerance in various plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uroosa Zaheer
- Plant Protection, State Key Laboratory for Ecological Pest Control of Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Plant Protection, International Joint Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Plant Protection, Ministerial and Provincial Joint Innovation Centre for Safety Production of Cross-Strait Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Faisal Munir
- Plant Protection, State Key Laboratory for Ecological Pest Control of Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Plant Protection, International Joint Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Plant Protection, Ministerial and Provincial Joint Innovation Centre for Safety Production of Cross-Strait Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Yussuf Mohamed Salum
- Plant Protection, State Key Laboratory for Ecological Pest Control of Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Plant Protection, International Joint Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Plant Protection, Ministerial and Provincial Joint Innovation Centre for Safety Production of Cross-Strait Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Weiyi He
- Plant Protection, State Key Laboratory for Ecological Pest Control of Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Plant Protection, International Joint Research Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control, Ministry of Education, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Plant Protection, Ministerial and Provincial Joint Innovation Centre for Safety Production of Cross-Strait Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
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5
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Wang Q, Zhang W, Xu W, Zhang H, Liu X, Chen X, Chen H. Genome-Wide Association Study and Identification of Candidate Genes Associated with Seed Number per Pod in Soybean. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2536. [PMID: 38473783 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) is one of the primary sources of plant protein and oil for human foods, animal feed, and industrial processing. The seed number per pod generally varies from one to four and is an important component of seed number per unit area and seed yield. We used natural variation in 264 landraces and improved cultivars or lines to identify candidate genes involved in the regulation of seed number per pod in soybean. Genome-wide association tests revealed 65 loci that are associated with seed number per pod trait. Among them, 11 could be detected in multiple environments. Candidate genes were identified for seed number per pod phenotype from the most significantly associated loci, including a gene encoding protein argonaute 4, a gene encoding histone acetyltransferase of the MYST family 1, a gene encoding chromosome segregation protein SMC-1 and a gene encoding exocyst complex component EXO84A. In addition, plant hormones were found to be involved in ovule and seed development and the regulation of seed number per pod in soybean. This study facilitates the dissection of genetic networks underlying seed number per pod in soybean, which will be useful for the genetic improvement of seed yield in soybean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Wang
- Institute of Industrial Crops, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Institute of Industrial Crops, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Wenjing Xu
- Institute of Industrial Crops, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Hongmei Zhang
- Institute of Industrial Crops, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Xiaoqing Liu
- Institute of Industrial Crops, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Institute of Industrial Crops, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Huatao Chen
- Institute of Industrial Crops, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
- Zhongshan Biological Breeding Laboratory (ZSBBL), Nanjing 210014, China
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6
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Coelho MA, David-Palma M, Shea T, Bowers K, McGinley-Smith S, Mohammad AW, Gnirke A, Yurkov AM, Nowrousian M, Sun S, Cuomo CA, Heitman J. Comparative genomics of Cryptococcus and Kwoniella reveals pathogenesis evolution and contrasting karyotype dynamics via intercentromeric recombination or chromosome fusion. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.12.27.573464. [PMID: 38234769 PMCID: PMC10793447 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.27.573464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
A large-scale comparative genomic analysis was conducted for the global human fungal pathogens within the Cryptococcus genus, compared to non-pathogenic Cryptococcus species, and related species from the sister genus Kwoniella. Chromosome-level genome assemblies were generated for multiple species of both genera, resulting in a dataset encompassing virtually all of their known diversity. Although Cryptococcus and Kwoniella have comparable genome sizes (about 19.2 and 22.9 Mb) and similar gene content, hinting at pre-adaptive pathogenic potential, our analysis found evidence in pathogenic Cryptococcus species of specific examples of gene gain (via horizontal gene transfer) and gene loss, which might represent evolutionary signatures of pathogenic development. Genome analysis also revealed a significant variation in chromosome number and structure between the two genera. By combining synteny analysis and experimental centromere validation, we found that most Cryptococcus species have 14 chromosomes, whereas most Kwoniella species have fewer (11, 8, 5 or even as few as 3). Reduced chromosome number in Kwoniella is associated with formation of giant chromosomes (up to 18 Mb) through repeated chromosome fusion events, each marked by a pericentric inversion and centromere loss. While similar chromosome inversion-fusion patterns were observed in all Kwoniella species with fewer than 14 chromosomes, no such pattern was detected in Cryptococcus. Instead, Cryptococcus species with less than 14 chromosomes, underwent chromosome reductions primarily through rearrangements associated with the loss of repeat-rich centromeres. Additionally, Cryptococcus genomes exhibited frequent interchromosomal translocations, including intercentromeric recombination facilitated by transposons shared between centromeres. Taken together, our findings advance our understanding of genomic changes possibly associated with pathogenicity in Cryptococcus and provide a foundation to elucidate mechanisms of centromere loss and chromosome fusion driving distinct karyotypes in closely related fungal species, including prominent global human pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco A. Coelho
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Márcia David-Palma
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Terrance Shea
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katharine Bowers
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Andreas Gnirke
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrey M. Yurkov
- Leibniz Institute DSMZ-German Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Minou Nowrousian
- Lehrstuhl für Molekulare und Zelluläre Botanik, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sheng Sun
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Joseph Heitman
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
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7
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Zeng J, Zhao X, Liang Z, Hidalgo I, Gebert M, Fan P, Wenzl C, Gornik SG, Lohmann JU. Nitric oxide controls shoot meristem activity via regulation of DNA methylation. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8001. [PMID: 38049411 PMCID: PMC10696095 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43705-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the importance of Nitric Oxide (NO) as signaling molecule in both plant and animal development, the regulatory mechanisms downstream of NO remain largely unclear. Here, we show that NO is involved in Arabidopsis shoot stem cell control via modifying expression and activity of ARGONAUTE 4 (AGO4), a core component of the RNA-directed DNA Methylation (RdDM) pathway. Mutations in components of the RdDM pathway cause meristematic defects, and reduce responses of the stem cell system to NO signaling. Importantly, we find that the stem cell inducing WUSCHEL transcription factor directly interacts with AGO4 in a NO dependent manner, explaining how these two signaling systems may converge to modify DNA methylation patterns. Taken together, our results reveal that NO signaling plays an important role in controlling plant stem cell homeostasis via the regulation of de novo DNA methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Zeng
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Centre for Organismal Studies, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Xin'Ai Zhao
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Centre for Organismal Studies, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Zhe Liang
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Centre for Organismal Studies, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Inés Hidalgo
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Centre for Organismal Studies, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Michael Gebert
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Centre for Organismal Studies, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- CureVac, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Pengfei Fan
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Centre for Organismal Studies, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Christian Wenzl
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Centre for Organismal Studies, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sebastian G Gornik
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Centre for Organismal Studies, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jan U Lohmann
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, Centre for Organismal Studies, Heidelberg University, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
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8
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Liang C, Wang X, He H, Xu C, Cui J. Beyond Loading: Functions of Plant ARGONAUTE Proteins. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16054. [PMID: 38003244 PMCID: PMC10671604 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
ARGONAUTE (AGO) proteins are key components of the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) that mediates gene silencing in eukaryotes. Small-RNA (sRNA) cargoes are selectively loaded into different members of the AGO protein family and then target complementary sequences to in-duce transcriptional repression, mRNA cleavage, or translation inhibition. Previous reviews have mainly focused on the traditional roles of AGOs in specific biological processes or on the molecular mechanisms of sRNA sorting. In this review, we summarize the biological significance of canonical sRNA loading, including the balance among distinct sRNA pathways, cross-regulation of different RISC activities during plant development and defense, and, especially, the emerging roles of AGOs in sRNA movement. We also discuss recent advances in novel non-canonical functions of plant AGOs. Perspectives for future functional studies of this evolutionarily conserved eukaryotic protein family will facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of the multi-faceted AGO proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jie Cui
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Plant Epigenetics, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; (C.L.); (X.W.); (H.H.); (C.X.)
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9
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Lin Z, Ali MM, Yi X, Zhang L, Wang S, Chen F. Unlocking the Potential of Carbon Quantum Dots for Cell Imaging, Intracellular Localization, and Gene Expression Control in Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15700. [PMID: 37958684 PMCID: PMC10648342 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242115700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Utilizing carbon quantum dots (CQDs) as biomaterials for delivering small substances has gained significant attention in recent research. However, the interactions and mechanisms of action of CQDs on plants have received relatively little focus. Herein, we investigated the transportation of CQDs into various organs of Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. via the vessel system, leading to the epigenetic inheritance of Argonaute family genes. Our findings reveal that CQDs may interact with microRNAs (miRNAs), leading to the repression of post-transcriptional regulation of target genes in the cytoplasm. Transcriptome and quantitative PCR analyses demonstrated consistent gene expression levels in offspring. Moreover, microscopic observations illustrated rapid CQD localization on cell membranes and nuclei, with increased nuclear entry at higher concentrations. Notably, our study identified an alternative regulatory microRNA, microRNA172D, for the Argonaute family genes through methylation analysis, shedding light on the connection between CQDs and microRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhimin Lin
- Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences Biotechnology Institute, Fuzhou 350003, China
| | - Muhammad Moaaz Ali
- College of Horticulture, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (M.M.A.); (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (S.W.); (F.C.)
| | - Xiaoyan Yi
- College of Horticulture, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (M.M.A.); (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (S.W.); (F.C.)
| | - Lijuan Zhang
- College of Horticulture, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (M.M.A.); (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (S.W.); (F.C.)
| | - Shaojuan Wang
- College of Horticulture, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (M.M.A.); (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (S.W.); (F.C.)
| | - Faxing Chen
- College of Horticulture, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China; (M.M.A.); (X.Y.); (L.Z.); (S.W.); (F.C.)
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10
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Guo Q, Sun Y, Ji C, Kong Z, Liu Z, Li Y, Li Y, Lai H. Plant resistance to tomato yellow leaf curl virus is enhanced by Bacillus amyloliquefaciens Ba13 through modulation of RNA interference. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1251698. [PMID: 37869663 PMCID: PMC10587425 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1251698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV), which is a typical member of the genus Begomovirus, causes severe crop yield losses worldwide. RNA interference (RNAi) is an important antiviral defense mechanism in plants, but whether plant beneficial microbes used as biocontrol agents would modulate RNAi in defense against TYLCV remains unclear. Methods Here, we employed whole-transcriptome, bisulfite, and small RNA sequencing to decipher the possible role of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens Ba13 as a bacterial biocontrol agent against TYLCV in RNAi modulation. Results Potted tomato plants were exposed to whiteflies for natural viral infection 14 days after bacterial inoculation. Compared with non-inoculated controls, the abundance of TYLCV gene in the leaves of inoculated plants decreased by 70.1% at 28 days post-infection, which mirrored the pattern observed for plant disease index. The expression of the ARGONAUTE family genes (e.g., AGO3, AGO4, AGO5, and AGO7) involved in antiviral defense markedly increased by 2.44-6.73-fold following bacterial inoculation. The methylation level at CpG site 228 (in the open reading frame region of the RNA interference suppressing gene AV2) and site 461 (in the open reading frame regions of AV1 and AV2) was 183.1 and 63.0% higher in inoculated plants than in non-inoculated controls, respectively. The abundances of 10 small interfering RNAs matched to the TYLCV genome were all reduced in inoculated plants, accompanied by enhancement of photosystem and auxin response pathways. Discussion The results indicate that the application of Ba. amyloliquefaciens Ba13 enhances plant resistance to TYLCV through RNAi modulation by upregulating RNAi-related gene expression and enhancing viral genome methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao Guo
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
| | - Yifan Sun
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
| | - Chenglong Ji
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
| | - Zirong Kong
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
| | - Zhe Liu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
| | - Yulong Li
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
| | - Yunzhou Li
- College of Agriculture, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Hangxian Lai
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
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11
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Chen X, Chen H, Shen T, Luo Q, Xu M, Yang Z. The miRNA-mRNA Regulatory Modules of Pinus massoniana Lamb. in Response to Drought Stress. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14655. [PMID: 37834103 PMCID: PMC10572226 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241914655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Masson pine (Pinus massoniana Lamb.) is a major fast-growing woody tree species and pioneer species for afforestation in barren sites in southern China. However, the regulatory mechanism of gene expression in P. massoniana under drought remains unclear. To uncover candidate microRNAs, their expression profiles, and microRNA-mRNA interactions, small RNA-seq was used to investigate the transcriptome from seedling roots under drought and rewatering in P. massoniana. A total of 421 plant microRNAs were identified. Pairwise differential expression analysis between treatment and control groups unveiled 134, 156, and 96 differential expressed microRNAs at three stages. These constitute 248 unique microRNAs, which were subsequently categorized into six clusters based on their expression profiles. Degradome sequencing revealed that these 248 differentially expressed microRNAs targeted 2069 genes. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis suggested that these target genes were related to translational and posttranslational regulation, cell wall modification, and reactive oxygen species scavenging. miRNAs such as miR482, miR398, miR11571, miR396, miR166, miRN88, and miRN74, along with their target genes annotated as F-box/kelch-repeat protein, 60S ribosomal protein, copper-zinc superoxide dismutase, luminal-binding protein, S-adenosylmethionine synthase, and Early Responsive to Dehydration Stress may play critical roles in drought response. This study provides insights into microRNA responsive to drought and rewatering in Masson pine and advances the understanding of drought tolerance mechanisms in Pinus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinhua Chen
- Research Institute of Tropical Forestry, Chinese Academy of Forestry, 682 Guangshan Road 1, Guangzhou 510520, China;
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Key Laboratory of Forest Genetics and Biotechnology Ministry of Education, College of Forestry, Nanjing Forestry University, 159 Longpan Road, Nanjing 210037, China;
- Engineering Research Center of Masson Pine of State Forestry Administration, Engineering Research Center of Masson Pine of Guangxi, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Superior Timber Trees Resource Cultivation, Guangxi Forestry Research Institute, 23 Yongwu Road, Nanning 530002, China; (H.C.); (Q.L.)
| | - Hu Chen
- Engineering Research Center of Masson Pine of State Forestry Administration, Engineering Research Center of Masson Pine of Guangxi, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Superior Timber Trees Resource Cultivation, Guangxi Forestry Research Institute, 23 Yongwu Road, Nanning 530002, China; (H.C.); (Q.L.)
| | - Tengfei Shen
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Key Laboratory of Forest Genetics and Biotechnology Ministry of Education, College of Forestry, Nanjing Forestry University, 159 Longpan Road, Nanjing 210037, China;
| | - Qunfeng Luo
- Engineering Research Center of Masson Pine of State Forestry Administration, Engineering Research Center of Masson Pine of Guangxi, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Superior Timber Trees Resource Cultivation, Guangxi Forestry Research Institute, 23 Yongwu Road, Nanning 530002, China; (H.C.); (Q.L.)
| | - Meng Xu
- Co-Innovation Center for Sustainable Forestry in Southern China, Key Laboratory of Forest Genetics and Biotechnology Ministry of Education, College of Forestry, Nanjing Forestry University, 159 Longpan Road, Nanjing 210037, China;
| | - Zhangqi Yang
- Engineering Research Center of Masson Pine of State Forestry Administration, Engineering Research Center of Masson Pine of Guangxi, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Superior Timber Trees Resource Cultivation, Guangxi Forestry Research Institute, 23 Yongwu Road, Nanning 530002, China; (H.C.); (Q.L.)
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12
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Tu CW, Huang YW, Lee CW, Kuo SY, Lin NS, Hsu YH, Hu CC. Argonaute 5-mediated antiviral defense and viral counter-defense in Nicotiana benthamiana. Virus Res 2023; 334:199179. [PMID: 37481165 PMCID: PMC10405324 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2023.199179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
The argonaute (AGO) family proteins play a crucial role in preventing viral invasions through the plant antiviral RNA silencing pathway, with distinct AGO proteins recruited for specific antiviral mechanisms. Our previous study revealed that Nicotiana benthamiana AGO5 (NbAGO5) expression was significantly upregulated in response to bamboo mosaic virus (BaMV) infection. However, the roles of NbAGO5 in antiviral mechanisms remained to be explored. In this research, we examined the antiviral functions of NbAGO5 in the infections of different viruses. It was found that the accumulation of NbAGO5 was induced not only at the RNA but also at the protein level following the infections of BaMV, potato virus X (PVX), tobacco mosaic virus (TMV), and cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) in N. benthamiana. To explore the antiviral mechanism and regulatory function of NbAGO5, we generated NbAGO5 overexpression (OE-NbAGO5) and knockout (nbago5) transgenic N. benthamiana lines. Our findings reveal that NbAGO5 provides defense against BaMV, PVX, TMV, and a mutant CMV deficient in 2b gene, but not against the wild-type CMV and turnip mosaic virus (TuMV). Through affinity purification and small RNA northern blotting, we demonstrated that NbAGO5 exerts its antiviral function by binding to viral small interfering RNAs (vsiRNAs). Moreover, we observed that CMV 2b and TuMV HC-Pro interact with NbAGO5, triggering its degradation via the 26S proteasome and autophagy pathways, thereby allowing these viruses to overcome NbAGO5-mediated defense. In addition, TuMV HC-Pro provides another line of counter-defense by interfering with vsiRNA binding by NbAGO5. Our study provides further insights into the antiviral RNA interference mechanism and the complex interplay between NbAGO5 and plant viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-Wei Tu
- PhD Program in Microbial Genomics, National Chung Hsing University and Academia Sinica, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Wen Huang
- Graduate Institute of Biotechnology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan; Advanced Plant Biotechnology Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
| | - Chin-Wei Lee
- Graduate Institute of Biotechnology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
| | - Song-Yi Kuo
- Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117604, Singapore
| | - Na-Sheng Lin
- Institute of Plant and Microbial Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan
| | - Yau-Heiu Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Biotechnology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan; Advanced Plant Biotechnology Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Chi Hu
- Graduate Institute of Biotechnology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan; Advanced Plant Biotechnology Center, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan.
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13
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Mann CWG, Sawyer A, Gardiner DM, Mitter N, Carroll BJ, Eamens AL. RNA-Based Control of Fungal Pathogens in Plants. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12391. [PMID: 37569766 PMCID: PMC10418863 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Our duty to conserve global natural ecosystems is increasingly in conflict with our need to feed an expanding population. The use of conventional pesticides not only damages the environment and vulnerable biodiversity but can also still fail to prevent crop losses of 20-40% due to pests and pathogens. There is a growing call for more ecologically sustainable pathogen control measures. RNA-based biopesticides offer an eco-friendly alternative to the use of conventional fungicides for crop protection. The genetic modification (GM) of crops remains controversial in many countries, though expression of transgenes inducing pathogen-specific RNA interference (RNAi) has been proven effective against many agronomically important fungal pathogens. The topical application of pathogen-specific RNAi-inducing sprays is a more responsive, GM-free approach to conventional RNAi transgene-based crop protection. The specific targeting of essential pathogen genes, the development of RNAi-nanoparticle carrier spray formulations, and the possible structural modifications to the RNA molecules themselves are crucial to the success of this novel technology. Here, we outline the current understanding of gene silencing pathways in plants and fungi and summarize the pioneering and recent work exploring RNA-based biopesticides for crop protection against fungal pathogens, with a focus on spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS). Further, we discuss factors that could affect the success of RNA-based control strategies, including RNA uptake, stability, amplification, and movement within and between the plant host and pathogen, as well as the cost and design of RNA pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher W. G. Mann
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (C.W.G.M.); (A.S.); (B.J.C.)
| | - Anne Sawyer
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (C.W.G.M.); (A.S.); (B.J.C.)
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (D.M.G.); (N.M.)
| | - Donald M. Gardiner
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (D.M.G.); (N.M.)
| | - Neena Mitter
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (D.M.G.); (N.M.)
| | - Bernard J. Carroll
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (C.W.G.M.); (A.S.); (B.J.C.)
| | - Andrew L. Eamens
- School of Health, University of the Sunshine Coast, Maroochydore, QLD 4558, Australia
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14
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Ritz M, Ahmad N, Brueck T, Mehlmer N. Differential RNA-Seq Analysis Predicts Genes Related to Terpene Tailoring in Caryopteris × clandonensis. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:2305. [PMID: 37375930 DOI: 10.3390/plants12122305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Enzymatic terpene functionalization is an essential part of plant secondary metabolite diversity. Within this, multiple terpene-modifying enzymes are required to enable the chemical diversity of volatile compounds essential in plant communication and defense. This work sheds light on the differentially transcribed genes within Caryopteris × clandonensis that are capable of functionalizing cyclic terpene scaffolds, which are the product of terpene cyclase action. The available genomic reference was subjected to further improvements to provide a comprehensive basis, where the number of contigs was minimized. RNA-Seq data of six cultivars, Dark Knight, Grand Bleu, Good as Gold, Hint of Gold, Pink Perfection, and Sunny Blue, were mapped on the reference, and their distinct transcription profile investigated. Within this data resource, we detected interesting variations and additionally genes with high and low transcript abundancies in leaves of Caryopteris × clandonensis related to terpene functionalization. As previously described, different cultivars vary in their modification of monoterpenes, especially limonene, resulting in different limonene-derived molecules. This study focuses on predicting the cytochrome p450 enzymes underlying this varied transcription pattern between investigated samples. Thus, making them a reasonable explanation for terpenoid differences between these plants. Furthermore, these data provide the basis for functional assays and the verification of putative enzyme activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manfred Ritz
- Werner Siemens Chair of Synthetic Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich (TUM), 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Nadim Ahmad
- Werner Siemens Chair of Synthetic Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich (TUM), 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Thomas Brueck
- Werner Siemens Chair of Synthetic Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich (TUM), 85748 Garching, Germany
| | - Norbert Mehlmer
- Werner Siemens Chair of Synthetic Biotechnology, Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich (TUM), 85748 Garching, Germany
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15
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Bélanger S, Zhan J, Meyers BC. Phylogenetic analyses of seven protein families refine the evolution of small RNA pathways in green plants. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 192:1183-1203. [PMID: 36869858 PMCID: PMC10231463 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiad141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Several protein families participate in the biogenesis and function of small RNAs (sRNAs) in plants. Those with primary roles include Dicer-like (DCL), RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RDR), and Argonaute (AGO) proteins. Protein families such as double-stranded RNA-binding (DRB), SERRATE (SE), and SUPPRESSION OF SILENCING 3 (SGS3) act as partners of DCL or RDR proteins. Here, we present curated annotations and phylogenetic analyses of seven sRNA pathway protein families performed on 196 species in the Viridiplantae (aka green plants) lineage. Our results suggest that the RDR3 proteins emerged earlier than RDR1/2/6. RDR6 is found in filamentous green algae and all land plants, suggesting that the evolution of RDR6 proteins coincides with the evolution of phased small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). We traced the origin of the 24-nt reproductive phased siRNA-associated DCL5 protein back to the American sweet flag (Acorus americanus), the earliest diverged, extant monocot species. Our analyses of AGOs identified multiple duplication events of AGO genes that were lost, retained, or further duplicated in subgroups, indicating that the evolution of AGOs is complex in monocots. The results also refine the evolution of several clades of AGO proteins, such as AGO4, AGO6, AGO17, and AGO18. Analyses of nuclear localization signal sequences and catalytic triads of AGO proteins shed light on the regulatory roles of diverse AGOs. Collectively, this work generates a curated and evolutionarily coherent annotation for gene families involved in plant sRNA biogenesis/function and provides insights into the evolution of major sRNA pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Junpeng Zhan
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA
| | - Blake C Meyers
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, MO 63132, USA
- Division of Plant Science and Technology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
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16
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Ding SW. Transgene Silencing, RNA Interference, and the Antiviral Defense Mechanism Directed by Small Interfering RNAs. PHYTOPATHOLOGY 2023; 113:616-625. [PMID: 36441873 DOI: 10.1094/phyto-10-22-0358-ia] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
One important discovery in plant pathology over recent decades is the natural antiviral defense mechanism mediated by RNA interference (RNAi). In antiviral RNAi, virus infection triggers Dicer processing of virus-specific double-stranded RNA into small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). Frequently, further amplified by host enzyme and cofactors, these virus-derived siRNAs direct specific virus clearance in an Argonaute protein-containing effector complex. The siRNAs derived from viruses and viroids accumulate to very high levels during infection. Because they overlap extensively in nucleotide sequence, this allows for deep sequencing and bioinformatics assembly of total small RNAs for rapid discovery and identification of viruses and viroids. Antiviral RNAi acts as the primary defense mechanism against both RNA and DNA viruses in plants, yet viruses still successfully infect plants. They do so because all currently recognized plant viruses combat the RNAi response by encoding at least one protein as a viral suppressor of RNAi (VSR) required for infection, even though plant viruses have small genome sizes with a limited coding capacity. This review article will recapitulate the key findings that have revealed the genetic pathway for the biogenesis and antiviral activity of viral siRNAs and the specific role of VSRs in infection by antiviral RNAi suppression. Moreover, early pioneering studies on transgene silencing, RNAi, and virus-plant/virus-virus interactions paved the road to the discovery of antiviral RNAi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shou-Wei Ding
- Department of Microbiology & Plant Pathology and Center for Plant Cell Biology, Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA
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17
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Si F, Luo H, Yang C, Gong J, Yan B, Liu C, Song X, Cao X. Mobile ARGONAUTE 1d binds 22-nt miRNAs to generate phasiRNAs important for low-temperature male fertility in rice. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2023; 66:197-208. [PMID: 36239908 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-022-2204-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Phased small interfering RNAs (phasiRNAs) are abundantly expressed in anthers and linked to environment-related male fertility in grasses, yet how they function under different environmental conditions remains unclear. Here, we identified a rice (Oryza sativa) low temperature-induced Argonaute (AGO) protein, OsAGO1d, that is responsible for generating phasiRNAs and preserving male fertility at low temperature. Loss of OsAGO1d function causes low-temperature male sterility associated with delayed programmed cell death of tapetal cells during anther development. OsAGO1d binds miR2118 and miR2275 family members and triggers phasiRNA biogenesis; it also binds 21-nt phasiRNAs with a 5' terminal U. In total, phasiRNAs from 972 loci are OsAGO1d-dependent. OsAGO1d protein moves from anther wall cells into meiocytes, where it loads miR2275 to produce 24-nt phasiRNAs. Together, our results show that OsAGO1d acts as a mobile signal to fine-tune phasiRNA production and this function is important for male fertility at low temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuyan Si
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics and National Center for Plant Gene Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Haofei Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics and National Center for Plant Gene Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Chao Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics and National Center for Plant Gene Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Jie Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics and National Center for Plant Gene Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.,The Municipal Key Laboratory of the Molecular Genetics of Hybrid Wheat, Institute of Hybrid Wheat, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences, Beijing, 100097, China
| | - Bin Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics and National Center for Plant Gene Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Chunyan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics and National Center for Plant Gene Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Xianwei Song
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics and National Center for Plant Gene Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China. .,Innovative Academy of Seed Design (INASEED), Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Xiaofeng Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics and National Center for Plant Gene Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China. .,College of Life Sciences, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100039, China. .,CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
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18
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Bajczyk M, Jarmolowski A, Jozwiak M, Pacak A, Pietrykowska H, Sierocka I, Swida-Barteczka A, Szewc L, Szweykowska-Kulinska Z. Recent Insights into Plant miRNA Biogenesis: Multiple Layers of miRNA Level Regulation. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:plants12020342. [PMID: 36679055 PMCID: PMC9864873 DOI: 10.3390/plants12020342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNAs are small RNAs, 20-22 nt long, the main role of which is to downregulate gene expression at the level of mRNAs. MiRNAs are fundamental regulators of plant growth and development in response to internal signals as well as in response to abiotic and biotic factors. Therefore, the deficiency or excess of individual miRNAs is detrimental to particular aspects of a plant's life. In consequence, the miRNA levels must be appropriately adjusted. To obtain proper expression of each miRNA, their biogenesis is controlled at multiple regulatory layers. Here, we addressed processes discovered to influence miRNA steady-state levels, such as MIR transcription, co-transcriptional pri-miRNA processing (including splicing, polyadenylation, microprocessor assembly and activity) and miRNA-encoded peptides synthesis. MiRNA stability, RISC formation and miRNA export out of the nucleus and out of the plant cell also define the levels of miRNAs in various plant tissues. Moreover, we show the evolutionary conservation of miRNA biogenesis core proteins across the plant kingdom.
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19
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Chakraborty T, Payne H, Mosher RA. Expansion and contraction of small RNA and methylation machinery throughout plant evolution. CURRENT OPINION IN PLANT BIOLOGY 2022; 69:102260. [PMID: 35849937 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbi.2022.102260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The revolution in sequencing has created a wealth of plant genomes that can be mined to understand the evolution of biological complexity. Complexity is often driven by gene duplication, which allows paralogs to specialize in an activity of the ancestral gene or acquire novel functions. Angiosperms encode a variety of gene silencing pathways that share related machinery for small RNA biosynthesis and function. Recent phylogenetic analysis of these gene families plots the expansion, specialization, and occasional contraction of this core machinery. This analysis reveals the ancient origin of RNA-directed DNA Methylation in early land plants, or possibly their algal ancestors, as well as ongoing duplications that evolve novel small RNA pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania Chakraborty
- School of Plant Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721-0036, USA
| | - Hayden Payne
- School of Plant Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721-0036, USA
| | - Rebecca A Mosher
- School of Plant Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721-0036, USA.
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20
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Integrated Analysis of Transcriptome and Small RNAome Reveals the Regulatory Network for Rapid Growth in Mikania micrantha. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810596. [PMID: 36142547 PMCID: PMC9501215 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
M. micrantha has caused huge ecological damage and economic losses worldwide due to its rapid growth and serious invasion. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms of its rapid growth and environmental adaption remain unclear. Here, we performed transcriptome and small RNA sequencing with five tissues of M. micrantha to dissect miRNA-mediated regulation in M. micrantha. WGCNA and GO enrichment analysis of transcriptome identified the gene association patterns and potential key regulatory genes for plant growth in each tissue. The genes highly correlated with leaf and stem tissues were mainly involved in the chlorophyll synthesis, response to auxin, the CAM pathway and other photosynthesis-related processes, which promoted the fast growth of M. micrantha. Importantly, we identified 350 conserved and 192 novel miRNAs, many of which displayed differential expression patterns among tissues. PsRNA target prediction analysis uncovered target genes of both conserved and novel miRNAs, including GRFs and TCPs, which were essential for plant growth and development. Further analysis revealed that miRNAs contributed to the regulation of tissue-specific gene expression in M. micrantha, such as mmi-miR396 and mmi-miR319. Taken together, our study uncovered the miRNA-mRNA regulatory networks and the potential vital roles of miRNAs in modulating the rapid growth of M. micrantha.
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21
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Characterization of Virus-Inducible Orchid Argonaute 5b Promoter and Its Functional Characterization in Nicotiana benthamiana during Virus Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23179825. [PMID: 36077222 PMCID: PMC9456093 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23179825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Plant ARGONAUTES (AGOs) play a significant role in the defense against viral infection. Previously, we have demonstrated that AGO5s encoded in Phalaenopsis aphrodite subsp. formosana (PaAGO5s) took an indispensable part in defense against major viruses. To understand the underlying defense mechanism, we cloned PaAGO5s promoters (pPaAGO5s) and analyzed their activity in transgenic Nicotiana benthamiana using β-glucuronidase (GUS) as a reporter gene. GUS activity analyses revealed that during Cymbidium mosaic virus (CymMV) and Odontoglossum ringspot virus (ORSV) infections, pPaAGO5b activity was significantly increased compared to pPaAGO5a and pPaAGO5c. Analysis of pPaAGO5b 5′-deletion revealed that pPaAGO5b_941 has higher activity during virus infection. Further, yeast one-hybrid analysis showed that the transcription factor NbMYB30 physically interacted with pPaAGO5b_941 to enhance its activity. Overexpression and silencing of NbMYB30 resulted in up- and downregulation of GUS expression, respectively. Exogenous application and endogenous measurement of phytohormones have shown that methyl jasmonate and salicylic acid respond to viral infections. NbMYB30 overexpression and its closest related protein, PaMYB30, in P. aphrodite subsp. formosana reduced CymMV accumulation in P. aphrodite subsp. formosana. Based on these discoveries, this study uncovers the interaction between virus-responsive promoter and the corresponding transcription factor in plants.
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22
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Fu M, Chen Y, Li H, Wang L, Liu R, Liu Z. Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analyses of the Cotton AGO Genes and Their Potential Roles in Fiber Development and Stress Response. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13081492. [PMID: 36011401 PMCID: PMC9408788 DOI: 10.3390/genes13081492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Argonaute proteins (AGOs) are indispensable components of RNA silencing. However, systematic characterization of the AGO genes have not been completed in cotton until now. In this study, cotton AGO genes were identified and analyzed with respect to their evolution and expression profile during biotic and abiotic stresses. We identified 14 GaAGO, 14 GrAGO, and 28 GhAGO genes in the genomes of Gossypium arboreum, Gossypium raimondii, and Gossypium hirsutum. Cotton AGO proteins were classified into four subgroups. Structural and functional conservation were observed in the same subgroups based on the analysis of the gene structure and conserved domains. Twenty-four duplicated gene pairs were identified in GhAGO genes, and all of them exhibited strong purifying selection during evolution. Moreover, RNA-seq analysis showed that most of the GhAGO genes exhibit high expression levels in the fiber initiation and elongation processes. Furthermore, the expression profiles of GhAGO genes tested by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) demonstrated that they were sensitive to Verticillium wilt infection and salt and drought stresses. Overall, our results will pave the way for further functional investigation of the cotton AGO gene family, which may be involved in fiber development and stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Zhanji Liu
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-531-6665-9992
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Alvarez-Diaz JC, Richard MMS, Thareau V, Teano G, Paysant-Le-Roux C, Rigaill G, Pflieger S, Gratias A, Geffroy V. Genome-Wide Identification of Key Components of RNA Silencing in Two Phaseolus vulgaris Genotypes of Contrasting Origin and Their Expression Analyses in Response to Fungal Infection. Genes (Basel) 2021; 13:genes13010064. [PMID: 35052407 PMCID: PMC8774654 DOI: 10.3390/genes13010064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA silencing serves key roles in a multitude of cellular processes, including development, stress responses, metabolism, and maintenance of genome integrity. Dicer, Argonaute (AGO), double-stranded RNA binding (DRB) proteins, RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RDR), and DNA-dependent RNA polymerases known as Pol IV and Pol V form core components to trigger RNA silencing. Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is an important staple crop worldwide. In this study, we aimed to unravel the components of the RNA-guided silencing pathway in this non-model plant, taking advantage of the availability of two genome assemblies of Andean and Meso-American origin. We identified six PvDCLs, thirteen PvAGOs, 10 PvDRBs, 5 PvRDRs, in both genotypes, suggesting no recent gene amplification or deletion after the gene pool separation. In addition, we identified one PvNRPD1 and one PvNRPE1 encoding the largest subunits of Pol IV and Pol V, respectively. These genes were categorized into subgroups based on phylogenetic analyses. Comprehensive analyses of gene structure, genomic localization, and similarity among these genes were performed. Their expression patterns were investigated by means of expression models in different organs using online data and quantitative RT-PCR after pathogen infection. Several of the candidate genes were up-regulated after infection with the fungus Colletotrichum lindemuthianum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan C. Alvarez-Diaz
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, INRAE, Université Evry, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris-Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France; (J.C.A.-D.); (M.M.S.R.); (V.T.); (G.T.); (C.P.-L.-R.); (G.R.); (S.P.); (A.G.)
- Université de Paris, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France
| | - Manon M. S. Richard
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, INRAE, Université Evry, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris-Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France; (J.C.A.-D.); (M.M.S.R.); (V.T.); (G.T.); (C.P.-L.-R.); (G.R.); (S.P.); (A.G.)
- Université de Paris, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France
- Molecular Plant Pathology, Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences (SILS), University of Amsterdam, 1098 XH Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Vincent Thareau
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, INRAE, Université Evry, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris-Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France; (J.C.A.-D.); (M.M.S.R.); (V.T.); (G.T.); (C.P.-L.-R.); (G.R.); (S.P.); (A.G.)
- Université de Paris, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France
| | - Gianluca Teano
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, INRAE, Université Evry, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris-Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France; (J.C.A.-D.); (M.M.S.R.); (V.T.); (G.T.); (C.P.-L.-R.); (G.R.); (S.P.); (A.G.)
- Université de Paris, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France
| | - Christine Paysant-Le-Roux
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, INRAE, Université Evry, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris-Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France; (J.C.A.-D.); (M.M.S.R.); (V.T.); (G.T.); (C.P.-L.-R.); (G.R.); (S.P.); (A.G.)
- Université de Paris, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France
| | - Guillem Rigaill
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, INRAE, Université Evry, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris-Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France; (J.C.A.-D.); (M.M.S.R.); (V.T.); (G.T.); (C.P.-L.-R.); (G.R.); (S.P.); (A.G.)
- Université de Paris, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France
- Laboratoire de Mathématiques et Modélisation d’Evry, Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Université Evry, INRAE, 91037 Evry, France
| | - Stéphanie Pflieger
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, INRAE, Université Evry, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris-Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France; (J.C.A.-D.); (M.M.S.R.); (V.T.); (G.T.); (C.P.-L.-R.); (G.R.); (S.P.); (A.G.)
- Université de Paris, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France
| | - Ariane Gratias
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, INRAE, Université Evry, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris-Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France; (J.C.A.-D.); (M.M.S.R.); (V.T.); (G.T.); (C.P.-L.-R.); (G.R.); (S.P.); (A.G.)
- Université de Paris, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France
| | - Valérie Geffroy
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, INRAE, Université Evry, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris-Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France; (J.C.A.-D.); (M.M.S.R.); (V.T.); (G.T.); (C.P.-L.-R.); (G.R.); (S.P.); (A.G.)
- Université de Paris, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris Saclay (IPS2), 91405 Orsay, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-1-69-15-33-65
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