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Yang X, Cao S, Sun H, Deng Y, Zhang X, Li Y, Ma D, Chen H, Li W. The critical roles of the Zn 2Cys 6 transcription factor Fp487 in the development and virulence of Fusarium pseudograminearum: A potential target for Fusarium crown rot control. Microbiol Res 2024; 285:127784. [PMID: 38824820 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2024.127784] [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: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Fusarium crown rot (FCR) caused by Fusarium pseudograminearum poses a significant threat to wheat production in the Huang-Huai-Hai region of China. However, the pathogenic mechanism of F. pseudograminearum is still poorly understood. Zn2Cys6 transcription factors, which are exclusive to fungi, play pivotal roles in regulating fungal development, drug resistance, pathogenicity, and secondary metabolism. In this study, we present the functional characterization of a Zn2Cys6 transcription factor F. pseudograminearum, designated Fp487. In F. pseudograminearum, Fp487 is shown to be required for mycelial growth through gene knockout and phenotypic analyses. Compared with wild-type CF14047, the ∆Fp487 mutant displayed a slight reduction in growth rate but a significant decrease in conidiogenesis, pathogenicity and 3-acetyl-deoxynivalenol (3AcDON) production. Moreover, the mutant exhibited heightened sensitivity to oxidative and cytomembrane stress. Furthermore, we synthesized dsRNA from the Fp487 gene in vitro, resulting in a reduction in the growth rate of F. pseudograminearum and its virulence on barley leaves through spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS). Notably, this study makes the first instance of inducing the expression of abundant dsRNA from F. pseudograminearum by engineering the Escherichia coli strain HT115 (DE3) and utilizing the SIGS technique to evaluate the virulence effect of dsRNA on F. pseudograminearum. In conclusion, our findings revealed the crucial role of Fp487 in regulating pathogenicity, stress responses, DON production, and conidiogenesis in F. pseudograminearum. Furthermore, Fp487 is a potential RNAi-based target for FCR control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyue Yang
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210014, China; Key Laboratory of Sustainable Crop Production in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River (Co-construction by Ministry and Province), College of Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei 434025, China
| | - Shulin Cao
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210014, China; Jiangsu Co-Innovation Centre for Modern Production Technology of Grain Crops, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China
| | - Haiyan Sun
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210014, China
| | - Yuanyu Deng
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210014, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210014, China
| | - Yan Li
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Crop Production in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River (Co-construction by Ministry and Province), College of Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei 434025, China
| | - Dongfang Ma
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Crop Production in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River (Co-construction by Ministry and Province), College of Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei 434025, China
| | - Huaigu Chen
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210014, China; Jiangsu Co-Innovation Centre for Modern Production Technology of Grain Crops, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China.
| | - Wei Li
- Institute of Plant Protection, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210014, China; Jiangsu Co-Innovation Centre for Modern Production Technology of Grain Crops, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu 225009, China.
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2
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Lejars M, Hajnsdorf E. Bacterial RNase III: Targets and physiology. Biochimie 2024; 217:54-65. [PMID: 37482092 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2023.07.009] [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: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Bacteria can rapidly adapt to changes in their environment thanks to the innate flexibility of their genetic expression. The high turnover rate of RNAs, in particular messenger and regulatory RNAs, provides an important contribution to this dynamic adjustment. Recycling of RNAs is ensured by ribonucleases, among which RNase III is the focus of this review. RNase III enzymes are highly conserved from prokaryotes to eukaryotes and have the specific ability to cleave double-stranded RNAs. The role of RNase III in bacterial physiology has remained poorly explored for a long time. However, transcriptomic approaches recently uncovered a large impact of RNase III in gene expression in a wide range of bacteria, generating renewed interest in the physiological role of RNase III. In this review, we first describe the RNase III targets identified from global approaches in 8 bacterial species within 4 Phyla. We then present the conserved and unique functions of bacterial RNase III focusing on growth, resistance to stress, biofilm formation, motility and virulence. Altogether, this review highlights the underestimated impact of RNase III in bacterial adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxence Lejars
- Transborder Medical Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.
| | - Eliane Hajnsdorf
- UMR8261, CNRS, Université Paris Cité, Institut de Biologie Physico-Chimique, 13 Rue Pierre et Marie Curie, 75005, Paris, France.
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3
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Mishra S, Dabaja M, Akhlaq A, Pereira B, Marbach K, Rovcanin M, Chandra R, Caballero A, Fernandes de Abreu D, Ch'ng Q, Alcedo J. Specific sensory neurons and insulin-like peptides modulate food type-dependent oogenesis and fertilization in Caenorhabditis elegans. eLife 2023; 12:e83224. [PMID: 37975568 PMCID: PMC10665013 DOI: 10.7554/elife.83224] [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: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
An animal's responses to environmental cues are critical for its reproductive program. Thus, a mechanism that allows the animal to sense and adjust to its environment should make for a more efficient reproductive physiology. Here, we demonstrate that in Caenorhabditis elegans specific sensory neurons influence onset of oogenesis through insulin signaling in response to food-derived cues. The chemosensory neurons ASJ modulate oogenesis onset through the insulin-like peptide (ILP) INS-6. In contrast, other sensory neurons, the olfactory neurons AWA, regulate food type-dependent differences in C. elegans fertilization rates, but not onset of oogenesis. AWA modulates fertilization rates at least partly in parallel to insulin receptor signaling, since the insulin receptor DAF-2 regulates fertilization independently of food type, which requires ILPs other than INS-6. Together our findings suggest that optimal reproduction requires the integration of diverse food-derived inputs through multiple neuronal signals acting on the C. elegans germline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shashwat Mishra
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State UniversityDetroitUnited States
| | - Mohamed Dabaja
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State UniversityDetroitUnited States
| | - Asra Akhlaq
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State UniversityDetroitUnited States
| | - Bianca Pereira
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State UniversityDetroitUnited States
| | - Kelsey Marbach
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State UniversityDetroitUnited States
| | - Mediha Rovcanin
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State UniversityDetroitUnited States
| | - Rashmi Chandra
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State UniversityDetroitUnited States
| | - Antonio Caballero
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, King’s College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | | | - QueeLim Ch'ng
- Centre for Developmental Neurobiology, King’s College LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Joy Alcedo
- Department of Biological Sciences, Wayne State UniversityDetroitUnited States
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4
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Gruffaz C, Smirnov A. GTPase Era at the heart of ribosome assembly. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1263433. [PMID: 37860580 PMCID: PMC10582724 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1263433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Ribosome biogenesis is a key process in all organisms. It relies on coordinated work of multiple proteins and RNAs, including an array of assembly factors. Among them, the GTPase Era stands out as an especially deeply conserved protein, critically required for the assembly of bacterial-type ribosomes from Escherichia coli to humans. In this review, we bring together and critically analyze a wealth of phylogenetic, biochemical, structural, genetic and physiological data about this extensively studied but still insufficiently understood factor. We do so using a comparative and, wherever possible, synthetic approach, by confronting observations from diverse groups of bacteria and eukaryotic organelles (mitochondria and chloroplasts). The emerging consensus posits that Era intervenes relatively early in the small subunit biogenesis and is essential for the proper shaping of the platform which, in its turn, is a prerequisite for efficient translation. The timing of Era action on the ribosome is defined by its interactions with guanosine nucleotides [GTP, GDP, (p)ppGpp], ribosomal RNA, and likely other factors that trigger or delay its GTPase activity. As a critical nexus of the small subunit biogenesis, Era is subject to sophisticated regulatory mechanisms at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and post-translational levels. Failure of these mechanisms or a deficiency in Era function entail dramatic generalized consequences for the protein synthesis and far-reaching, pleiotropic effects on the organism physiology, such as the Perrault syndrome in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christelle Gruffaz
- UMR7156- Génétique Moléculaire, Génomique, Microbiologie (GMGM), University of Strasbourg, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Strasbourg, France
| | - Alexandre Smirnov
- UMR7156- Génétique Moléculaire, Génomique, Microbiologie (GMGM), University of Strasbourg, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Strasbourg, France
- University of Strasbourg Institute for Advanced Study (USIAS), Strasbourg, France
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5
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Warner BR, Bundschuh R, Fredrick K. Roles of the leader-trailer helix and antitermination complex in biogenesis of the 30S ribosomal subunit. Nucleic Acids Res 2023; 51:5242-5254. [PMID: 37102690 PMCID: PMC10250234 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad316] [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: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Ribosome biogenesis occurs co-transcriptionally and entails rRNA folding, ribosomal protein binding, rRNA processing, and rRNA modification. In most bacteria, the 16S, 23S and 5S rRNAs are co-transcribed, often with one or more tRNAs. Transcription involves a modified RNA polymerase, called the antitermination complex, which forms in response to cis-acting elements (boxB, boxA and boxC) in the nascent pre-rRNA. Sequences flanking the rRNAs are complementary and form long helices known as leader-trailer helices. Here, we employed an orthogonal translation system to interrogate the functional roles of these RNA elements in 30S subunit biogenesis in Escherichia coli. Mutations that disrupt the leader-trailer helix caused complete loss of translation activity, indicating that this helix is absolutely essential for active subunit formation in the cell. Mutations of boxA also reduced translation activity, but by only 2- to 3-fold, suggesting a smaller role for the antitermination complex. Similarly modest drops in activity were seen upon deletion of either or both of two leader helices, termed here hA and hB. Interestingly, subunits formed in the absence of these leader features exhibited defects in translational fidelity. These data suggest that the antitermination complex and precursor RNA elements help to ensure quality control during ribosome biogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin R Warner
- Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Ralf Bundschuh
- Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Physics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus,OH 43210, USA
| | - Kurt Fredrick
- Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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6
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Figueiredo Prates LH, Merlau M, Rühl-Teichner J, Schetelig MF, Häcker I. An Optimized/Scale Up-Ready Protocol for Extraction of Bacterially Produced dsRNA at Good Yield and Low Costs. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119266. [PMID: 37298215 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119266] [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: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) can trigger RNA interference (RNAi) and lead to directed silencing of specific genes. This natural defense mechanism and RNA-based products have been explored for their potential as a sustainable and ecofriendly alternative for pest control of species of agricultural importance and disease vectors. Yet, further research, development of new products and possible applications require a cost-efficient production of dsRNA. In vivo transcription of dsRNA in bacterial cells has been widely used as a versatile and inducible system for production of dsRNA combined with a purification step required to extract the dsRNA. Here, we optimized an acidic phenol-based protocol for extraction of bacterially produced dsRNA at low cost and good yield. In this protocol, bacterial cells are efficiently lysed, with no viable bacterial cells present in the downstream steps of the purification. Furthermore, we performed a comparative dsRNA quality and yield assessment of our optimized protocol and other protocols available in the literature and confirmed the cost-efficiency of our optimized protocol by comparing the cost of extraction and yields of each extraction method.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maximilian Merlau
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35394 Giessen, Germany
| | - Johanna Rühl-Teichner
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35394 Giessen, Germany
| | - Marc F Schetelig
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35394 Giessen, Germany
| | - Irina Häcker
- Department of Insect Biotechnology in Plant Protection, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35394 Giessen, Germany
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7
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Guo H, Long GJ, Liu XZ, Ma YF, Zhang MQ, Gong LL, Dewer Y, Hull JJ, Wang MM, Wang Q, He M, He P. Functional characterization of tyrosine melanin genes in the white-backed planthopper and utilization of a spray-based nanoparticle-wrapped dsRNA technique for pest control. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 230:123123. [PMID: 36603718 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.123123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
As a significant pest of rice the white-backed planthopper (WBPH) Sogatella furcifera is a focus of pest management. However, traditional chemical-based control methods risk the development of pesticide resistance as well as severe ecological repercussions. Although nanoparticle-encapsulated dsRNAs provide a promising alternative method for sustainable pest management, gene targets specific to WBPH have yet to be optimized. Genes in the tyrosine-melanin pathway impact epidermal melanization and sclerotization, two processes essential for insect development and metabolism, have been proposed as good candidate targets for pest management. Seven genes (aaNAT, black, DDC, ebony, tan, TH, and yellow-y) in this group were identified from WBPH genome and functionally characterized by using RNAi for their impact on WBPH body color, development, and mortality. Knockdown of SfDDC, Sfblack, SfaaNAT, and Sftan caused cuticles to turn black, whereas Sfyellow-y and Sfebony knockdown resulted in yellow coloration. SfTH knockdown resulted in pale-colored bodies and high mortality. Additionally, an Escherichia coli expression system for large-scale dsRNA production was coupled with star polycation nanoparticles to develop a sprayable RNAi method targeting SfTH that induced high WBPH mortality rates on rice seedlings. These findings lay the groundwork for the development of large-scale dsRNA nanoparticle sprays as a WBPH control method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Guo
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China
| | - Gui-Jun Long
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China
| | - Xuan-Zheng Liu
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China
| | - Yun-Feng Ma
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China
| | - Meng-Qi Zhang
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China
| | - Lang-Lang Gong
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China
| | - Youssef Dewer
- Phytotoxicity Research Department, Central Agricultural Pesticide Laboratory, Agricultural Research Center, 7 Nadi El-Seid Street, Dokki, 12618 Giza, Egypt
| | - J Joe Hull
- Pest Management and Biocontrol Research Unit, US Arid Land Agricultural Research Center, USDA Agricultural Research Services, Maricopa, AZ, 85138, USA
| | - Mei-Mei Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China
| | - Qin Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China
| | - Ming He
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China.
| | - Peng He
- National Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide, Key Laboratory of Green Pesticide and Agricultural Bioengineering, Ministry of Education, Center for R&D of Fine Chemicals of Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China.
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8
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Hough J, Howard JD, Brown S, Portwood DE, Kilby PM, Dickman MJ. Strategies for the production of dsRNA biocontrols as alternatives to chemical pesticides. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:980592. [PMID: 36299286 PMCID: PMC9588923 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.980592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Current crop pest control strategies rely on insecticidal and fungicidal sprays, plant genetic resistance, transgenes and agricultural practices. However, many insects, plant viruses, and fungi have no current means of control or have developed resistance against traditional pesticides. dsRNA is emerging as a novel sustainable method of plant protection as an alternative to traditional chemical pesticides. The successful commercialisation of dsRNA based biocontrols for effective pest management strategies requires the economical production of large quantities of dsRNA combined with suitable delivery methods to ensure RNAi efficacy against the target pest. A number of methods exist for the production and delivery of dsRNA based biocontrols and here we review alternative methods currently employed and emerging new approaches for their production. Additionally, we highlight potential challenges that will need to be addressed prior to widespread adoption of dsRNA biocontrols as novel sustainable alternatives to traditional chemical pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Hough
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingtom
| | - John D Howard
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingtom
| | - Stephen Brown
- Sheffield RNAi Screening Facility, School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingtom
| | - David E Portwood
- Syngenta, Jealott's Hill International Research Centre, Bracknell, United Kingdom
| | - Peter M Kilby
- Syngenta, Jealott's Hill International Research Centre, Bracknell, United Kingdom
| | - Mark J Dickman
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingtom
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9
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Nwokeoji AO, Nwokeoji EA, Chou T, Togola A. A novel sustainable platform for scaled manufacturing of double-stranded RNA biopesticides. BIORESOUR BIOPROCESS 2022; 9:107. [PMID: 38647833 PMCID: PMC10992233 DOI: 10.1186/s40643-022-00596-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) represents one of the most conserved pathways evolved by eukaryotic cells for regulating gene expression. RNAi utilises non-translatable double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) molecules to sequester or degrade mRNA molecules gene. In RNAi, specifically designed exogenous dsRNA delivered to the cell can silence a target gene, a phenomenon that has been exploited in many functional studies and explored in biopesticide applications. The search for safe and sustainable crop pest management options drives the need to offset the effect of inorganic pesticides on biodiversity. The prospect of replacing inorganic pesticides with dsRNA crop spray is gaining popularity, enhanced by its high-target specificity and low environmental impact. However, for dsRNA to reach the pesticide market, it must be produced cost-effectively and sustainably. In this paper, we develop a high-yield expression media that generates up to 15-fold dsRNA yield compared to existing expression media utilising 1 mM IPTG. We also optimise a low-cost purification method that generates high-quality and purified dsRNA. The developed method circumvents the need for hazardous chemical reagents often found in commercial kits or commercial nucleases to eliminate contaminating DNA or single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) species. We also demonstrate that the production platform is scalable, generating 6.29 mg dsRNA from 259 mg wet E. coli cell pellet. The results also provide structural insights into the heterogeneous dsRNA species within the microbial-derived dsRNA pool. Finally, we also show that the purified 'naked' dsRNA, without prior formulation, can induce insect toxicity under field conditions. This study provides a novel, complete, low-cost process dsRNA platform with potential for application in industrial dsRNA production.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tachung Chou
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
- All First Technologies Co. Ltd, No.208, Longnan Rd, Pingzhen Dist, Taoyuan City, Taiwan
| | - Abou Togola
- International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) Kano Station, PMB 3112, Sabo Bakin Zuwo road, Kano, Kano State, Nigeria
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10
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Agarwal N, Sharma S, Pal P, Kaushal PS, Kumar N. Era, a GTPase-like protein of the Ras family, does not control ribosome assembly in Mycobacterium tuberculosis. MICROBIOLOGY (READING, ENGLAND) 2022; 168. [PMID: 35917161 DOI: 10.1099/mic.0.001200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Era GTPase is universally present in microbes including Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) complex bacteria. While Era is known to regulate ribosomal assembly in Escherichia coli and predicted to be essential for in vitro growth, its function in mycobacteria remains obscured. Herein, we show that Era ortholog in the attenuated Mtb H37Ra strain, MRA_2388 (annotated as EraMT) is a cell envelope localized protein harbouring critical GTP-binding domains, which interacts with several envelope proteins of Mtb. The purified Era from M. smegmatis (annotated as EraMS) exhibiting ~90 % sequence similarity with EraMT, exists in monomeric conformation. While it is co-purified with RNA upon overexpression in E. coli, the presence of RNA does not modulate the GTPase activity of the EraMS as against its counterpart from other organisms. CRISPRi silencing of eraMT does not show any substantial effect on the in vitro growth of Mtb H37Ra, which suggests a redundant function of Era in mycobacteria. Notably, no effect on ribosome assembly, protein synthesis or bacterial susceptibility to protein synthesis inhibitors was observed upon depletion of EraMT in Mtb H37Ra, further indicating a divergent role of Era GTPase in mycobacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisheeth Agarwal
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, 3rd Milestone, Faridabad-Gurgaon Expressway, Faridabad- 121001 (Haryana), India
| | - Shivani Sharma
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, 3rd Milestone, Faridabad-Gurgaon Expressway, Faridabad- 121001 (Haryana), India
| | - Pramila Pal
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, 3rd Milestone, Faridabad-Gurgaon Expressway, Faridabad- 121001 (Haryana), India.,Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Mehrauli Road, New Delhi- 110067 (Delhi), India
| | - Prem S Kaushal
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, 3rd Milestone, Faridabad-Gurgaon Expressway, Faridabad- 121001 (Haryana), India
| | - Naresh Kumar
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, 3rd Milestone, Faridabad-Gurgaon Expressway, Faridabad- 121001 (Haryana), India
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11
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Verdonckt TW, Vanden Broeck J. Methods for the Cost-Effective Production of Bacteria-Derived Double-Stranded RNA for in vitro Knockdown Studies. Front Physiol 2022; 13:836106. [PMID: 35492592 PMCID: PMC9043282 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.836106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a highly conserved pathway for the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. It has become a crucial tool in life science research, with promising potential for pest-management applications. To induce an RNAi response, long double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) sequences specific to the target gene must be delivered to the cells. This dsRNA substrate is then processed to small RNA (sRNA) fragments that direct the silencing response. A major obstacle to applying this technique is the need to produce sufficiently large amounts of dsRNA in a very cost-effective manner. To overcome this issue, much attention has been given to the development and optimization of biological production systems. One such system is the E. coli HT115 strain transformed with the L4440 vector. While its effectiveness at inducing knockdowns in animals through feeding of the bacteria has been demonstrated, there is only limited knowledge on the applicability of bacteria-derived dsRNA for in vitro experiments. In this paper, we describe and compare methods for the economical (43.2 €/mg) and large-scale (mg range) production of high-quality dsRNA from the HT115 bacterial system. We transformed the bacteria with constructs targeting the Helicoverpa-specific gene Dicer2 and, as a non-endogenous control, the Green Fluorescent Protein gene (GFP). First, we compared the total RNA extraction yields of four cell-lysis treatments: heating, lysozyme digestion, sonication, and a control protocol. Second, we assessed the quality and purity of these extracted dsRNAs. Third, we compared methods for the further purification of dsRNAs from crude RNA extracts. Finally, we demonstrated the efficiency of the produced dsRNAs at inducing knockdowns in a lepidopteran cell line. The insights and results from this paper will empower researchers to conduct otherwise prohibitively expensive knockdown studies, and greatly reduce the production times of routinely or large-scale utilized dsRNA substrates.
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Maksimova E, Kravchenko O, Korepanov A, Stolboushkina E. Protein Assistants of Small Ribosomal Subunit Biogenesis in Bacteria. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10040747. [PMID: 35456798 PMCID: PMC9032327 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10040747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Ribosome biogenesis is a fundamental and multistage process. The basic steps of ribosome assembly are the transcription, processing, folding, and modification of rRNA; the translation, folding, and modification of r-proteins; and consecutive binding of ribosomal proteins to rRNAs. Ribosome maturation is facilitated by biogenesis factors that include a broad spectrum of proteins: GTPases, RNA helicases, endonucleases, modification enzymes, molecular chaperones, etc. The ribosome assembly factors assist proper rRNA folding and protein–RNA interactions and may sense the checkpoints during the assembly to ensure correct order of this process. Inactivation of these factors is accompanied by severe growth phenotypes and accumulation of immature ribosomal subunits containing unprocessed rRNA, which reduces overall translation efficiency and causes translational errors. In this review, we focus on the structural and biochemical analysis of the 30S ribosomal subunit assembly factors RbfA, YjeQ (RsgA), Era, KsgA (RsmA), RimJ, RimM, RimP, and Hfq, which take part in the decoding-center folding.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alexey Korepanov
- Correspondence: (A.K.); (E.S.); Tel.: +7-925-7180670 (A.K.); +7-915-4791359 (E.S.)
| | - Elena Stolboushkina
- Correspondence: (A.K.); (E.S.); Tel.: +7-925-7180670 (A.K.); +7-915-4791359 (E.S.)
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13
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Expression of the DeaD RNA helicase is regulated at multiple levels through its long mRNA 5' untranslated region. J Bacteriol 2022; 204:e0061321. [PMID: 35041499 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00613-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
DEAD-box proteins (DBPs) are a prominent class of RNA remodeling proteins that alter RNA structure, a process they typically perform through an ATP-dependent RNA helicase activity. Although many DBPs have been characterized at the structural and functional level in detail, much less is known about how they are regulated. We previously showed that the messenger RNA (mRNA) for the Escherichia coli (E. coli) DeaD DBP contains an unusually long 5' untranslated region (5' UTR) of 838 nucleotides (nts) and that it is the primary RNA determinant of DeaD autoregulation. We speculated that such a long and complex 5' UTR might regulate deaD expression in additional ways. Here we show that the deaD mRNA 5' UTR regulates deaD expression at two additional levels: temperature dependent expression and through a stem-loop structure overlapping the start codon. These results support the hypothesis that a long 5' UTR can regulate gene expression through multiple mechanisms. Importance The expression of genes is frequently regulated by determinants with the 5' UTR. Although many different regulatory mechanisms that operate via the 5' UTR have been described, the functional relevance of genes with long UTRs is less clear. Here, we show that the 838 nt long 5' UTR in the deaD mRNA regulates the expression of DeaD at multiple levels. We propose that long UTRs originate to provide precise control of gene expression through multiple regulatory mechanisms, and they are indicators of the importance of their associated gene products for cellular adaptation to different environments.
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RNase III, Ribosome Biogenesis and Beyond. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9122608. [PMID: 34946208 PMCID: PMC8708148 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9122608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The ribosome is the universal catalyst for protein synthesis. Despite extensive studies, the diversity of structures and functions of this ribonucleoprotein is yet to be fully understood. Deciphering the biogenesis of the ribosome in a step-by-step manner revealed that this complexity is achieved through a plethora of effectors involved in the maturation and assembly of ribosomal RNAs and proteins. Conserved from bacteria to eukaryotes, double-stranded specific RNase III enzymes play a large role in the regulation of gene expression and the processing of ribosomal RNAs. In this review, we describe the canonical role of RNase III in the biogenesis of the ribosome comparing conserved and unique features from bacteria to eukaryotes. Furthermore, we report additional roles in ribosome biogenesis re-enforcing the importance of RNase III.
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15
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Apura P, Gonçalves LG, Viegas SC, Arraiano CM. The world of ribonucleases from pseudomonads: a short trip through the main features and singularities. Microb Biotechnol 2021; 14:2316-2333. [PMID: 34427985 PMCID: PMC8601179 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.13890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of synthetic biology has brought an unprecedented increase in the number molecular tools applicable into a microbial chassis. The exploration of such tools into different bacteria revealed not only the challenges of context dependency of biological functions but also the complexity and diversity of regulatory layers in bacterial cells. Most of the standardized genetic tools and principles/functions have been mostly based on model microorganisms, namely Escherichia coli. In contrast, the non-model pseudomonads lack a deeper understanding of their regulatory layers and have limited molecular tools. They are resistant pathogens and promising alternative bacterial chassis, making them attractive targets for further studies. Ribonucleases (RNases) are key players in the post-transcriptional control of gene expression by degrading or processing the RNA molecules in the cell. These enzymes act according to the cellular requirements and can also be seen as the recyclers of ribonucleotides, allowing a continuous input of these cellular resources. This makes these post-transcriptional regulators perfect candidates to regulate microbial physiology. This review summarizes the current knowledge and unique properties of ribonucleases in the world of pseudomonads, taking into account genomic context analysis, biological function and strategies to use ribonucleases to improve biotechnological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Apura
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António XavierUniversidade Nova de LisboaAv. da República, EANOeiras2780‐157Portugal
| | - Luis G. Gonçalves
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António XavierUniversidade Nova de LisboaAv. da República, EANOeiras2780‐157Portugal
| | - Sandra C. Viegas
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António XavierUniversidade Nova de LisboaAv. da República, EANOeiras2780‐157Portugal
| | - Cecília M. Arraiano
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António XavierUniversidade Nova de LisboaAv. da República, EANOeiras2780‐157Portugal
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16
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Delgado-Martín J, Velasco L. An efficient dsRNA constitutive expression system in Escherichia coli. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2021; 105:6381-6393. [PMID: 34415390 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-021-11494-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic dsRNA are valuable tools for reverse genetics research and virus silencing applications. Its synthesis can be performed both in vivo or in vitro. Whilst the latter presents the drawback of high production cost, the former has the advantage of being less expensive and suitable for scalable production. In general, dsRNAs are obtained in vivo from Escherichia coli heterologous systems that require the gene for the T7 RNA polymerase inducible by IPTG. The (ds)RNAs for gene of interest are then synthesized under the T7 promoter. In this work, we present a reliable vector system that includes the insulated promoter proD for the constitutive expression of dsRNA in E. coli that does not require any inducer and that renders elevated dsRNA yield. In tandem, the T7 and proD promoters render the highest dsRNA yield. The accumulation of dsRNA in this system entails a high metabolic cost for the cell. Bacterial RNA extractions that included dsRNAs homologous to the m5GFPer gene and derived from both the synthetic and constitutive promoters induce silencing of GFP expression in Nicotiana benthamiana 16c.Key points• A vector system that includes a constitutive promoter and a T7 promoter in tandem for maximizing dsRNA synthesis.• The metabolic cost for bacteria is maximum when the two promoters are operating simultaneously and results from the accumulation of dsRNA.• Bacterial RNA extractions from both the induced and constitutive systems that include a mGFP5er-derived dsRNA are capable of silencing the GFP expression in Nicotiana benthamiana 16c plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josemaría Delgado-Martín
- Plant Protection, Centro de Málaga, Instituto Andaluz de Investigación Y Formación Agraria (IFAPA), Churriana, 29140, Málaga, Spain
- Universidad de Málaga, Málaga, Spain
| | - Leonardo Velasco
- Plant Protection, Centro de Málaga, Instituto Andaluz de Investigación Y Formación Agraria (IFAPA), Churriana, 29140, Málaga, Spain.
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17
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Islam MT, Davis Z, Chen L, Englaender J, Zomorodi S, Frank J, Bartlett K, Somers E, Carballo SM, Kester M, Shakeel A, Pourtaheri P, Sherif SM. Minicell-based fungal RNAi delivery for sustainable crop protection. Microb Biotechnol 2021; 14:1847-1856. [PMID: 33624940 PMCID: PMC8313293 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.13699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS) using topical dsRNA applications has risen as a promising, target-specific, and environmentally friendly disease management strategy against phytopathogenic fungi. However, dsRNA stability, efficacy, and scalability are still the main constraints facing SIGS broader application. Here we show that Escherichia coli-derived anucleated minicells can be utilized as a cost-effective, scalable platform for dsRNA production and encapsulation. We demonstrated that minicell-encapsulated dsRNA (ME-dsRNA) was shielded from RNase degradation and stabilized on strawberry surfaces, allowing dsRNA persistence in field-like conditions. ME-dsRNAs targeting chitin synthase class III (Chs3a, Chs3b) and DICER-like proteins (DCL1 and DCL2) genes of Botryotinia fuckeliana selectively knocked-down the target genes and led to significant fungal growth inhibition in vitro. We also observed a compensatory relationship between DCL1 and DCL2 gene transcripts, where the silencing of one gene upregulated the expression of the other. Contrary to naked-dsRNAs, ME-dsRNAs halted disease progression in strawberries for 12 days under greenhouse conditions. These results elucidate the potential of ME-dsRNAs to enable the commercial application of RNAi-based, species-specific biocontrols comparable in efficacy to conventional synthetics. ME-dsRNAs offer a platform that can readily be translated to large-scale production and deployed in open-field applications to control grey mould in strawberries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Tabibul Islam
- Alson H. Smith Jr. Agricultural Research and Extension CenterSchool of Plant and Environmental SciencesVirginia TechWinchesterVA22602USA
| | - Zachery Davis
- AgroSpheres, INC.1180 Seminole Trail, STE 100CharlottesvilleVA22901USA
| | - Lisa Chen
- AgroSpheres, INC.1180 Seminole Trail, STE 100CharlottesvilleVA22901USA
| | - Jacob Englaender
- AgroSpheres, INC.1180 Seminole Trail, STE 100CharlottesvilleVA22901USA
| | - Sepehr Zomorodi
- AgroSpheres, INC.1180 Seminole Trail, STE 100CharlottesvilleVA22901USA
| | - Joseph Frank
- AgroSpheres, INC.1180 Seminole Trail, STE 100CharlottesvilleVA22901USA
| | - Kira Bartlett
- AgroSpheres, INC.1180 Seminole Trail, STE 100CharlottesvilleVA22901USA
| | - Elisabeth Somers
- AgroSpheres, INC.1180 Seminole Trail, STE 100CharlottesvilleVA22901USA
| | | | - Mark Kester
- AgroSpheres, INC.1180 Seminole Trail, STE 100CharlottesvilleVA22901USA
- Department of PharmacologyUniversity of VirginiaCharlottesvilleVA22908USA
| | - Ameer Shakeel
- AgroSpheres, INC.1180 Seminole Trail, STE 100CharlottesvilleVA22901USA
| | - Payam Pourtaheri
- AgroSpheres, INC.1180 Seminole Trail, STE 100CharlottesvilleVA22901USA
| | - Sherif M. Sherif
- Alson H. Smith Jr. Agricultural Research and Extension CenterSchool of Plant and Environmental SciencesVirginia TechWinchesterVA22602USA
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18
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Díaz-Hernández M, Javier-Reyna R, Sotto-Ortega I, García-Rivera G, Montaño S, Betanzos A, Zanatta D, Orozco E. Protein Sumoylation Is Crucial for Phagocytosis in Entamoeba histolytica Trophozoites. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115709. [PMID: 34071922 PMCID: PMC8198320 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Posttranslational modifications provide Entamoeba histolytica proteins the timing and signaling to intervene during different processes, such as phagocytosis. However, SUMOylation has not been studied in E. histolytica yet. Here, we characterized the E. histolytica SUMO gene, its product (EhSUMO), and the relevance of SUMOylation in phagocytosis. Our results indicated that EhSUMO has an extended N-terminus that differentiates SUMO from ubiquitin. It also presents the GG residues at the C-terminus and the ΨKXE/D binding motif, both involved in target protein contact. Additionally, the E. histolytica genome possesses the enzymes belonging to the SUMOylation-deSUMOylation machinery. Confocal microscopy assays disclosed a remarkable EhSUMO membrane activity with convoluted and changing structures in trophozoites during erythrophagocytosis. SUMOylated proteins appeared in pseudopodia, phagocytic channels, and around the adhered and ingested erythrocytes. Docking analysis predicted interaction of EhSUMO with EhADH (an ALIX family protein), and immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence assays revealed that the association increased during phagocytosis; whereas the EhVps32 (a protein of the ESCRT-III complex)-EhSUMO interaction appeared stronger since basal conditions. In EhSUMO knocked-down trophozoites, the bizarre membranous structures disappeared, and EhSUMO interaction with EhADH and EhVps32 diminished. Our results evidenced the presence of a SUMO gene in E. histolytica and the SUMOylation relevance during phagocytosis. This is supported by bioinformatics screening of many other proteins of E. histolytica involved in phagocytosis, which present putative SUMOylation sites and the ΨKXE/D binding motif.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitzi Díaz-Hernández
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (M.D.-H.); (R.J.-R.); (G.G.-R.); (A.B.); (D.Z.)
| | - Rosario Javier-Reyna
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (M.D.-H.); (R.J.-R.); (G.G.-R.); (A.B.); (D.Z.)
| | - Izaid Sotto-Ortega
- Bacteriología y Laboratorio Clínico, Universidad de Santander, 200004 Valledupar, Colombia;
| | - Guillermina García-Rivera
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (M.D.-H.); (R.J.-R.); (G.G.-R.); (A.B.); (D.Z.)
| | - Sarita Montaño
- Laboratorio de Bioinformática y Simulación Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Químico Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa, Sinaloa 80030, Mexico;
| | - Abigail Betanzos
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (M.D.-H.); (R.J.-R.); (G.G.-R.); (A.B.); (D.Z.)
- Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (Conacyt), Mexico City 03940, Mexico
| | - Dxinegueela Zanatta
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (M.D.-H.); (R.J.-R.); (G.G.-R.); (A.B.); (D.Z.)
| | - Esther Orozco
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (M.D.-H.); (R.J.-R.); (G.G.-R.); (A.B.); (D.Z.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +52-55-5747-5642
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19
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Apura P, de Lorenzo V, Arraiano CM, Martínez-García E, Viegas SC. Ribonucleases control distinct traits of Pseudomonas putida lifestyle. Environ Microbiol 2020; 23:174-189. [PMID: 33089610 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.15291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The role of archetypal ribonucleases (RNases) in the physiology and stress endurance of the soil bacterium and metabolic engineering platform Pseudomonas putida KT2440 has been inspected. To this end, variants of this strain lacking each of the most important RNases were constructed. Each mutant lacked either one exoribonuclease (PNPase, RNase R) or one endoribonuclease (RNase E, RNase III, RNase G). The global physiological and metabolic costs of the absence of each of these enzymes were then analysed in terms of growth, motility and morphology. The effects of different oxidative chemicals that mimic the stresses endured by this microorganism in its natural habitats were studied as well. The results highlighted that each ribonuclease is specifically related with different traits of the environmental lifestyle that distinctively characterizes this microorganism. Interestingly, the physiological responses of P. putida to the absence of each enzyme diverged significantly from those known previously in Escherichia coli. This exposed not only species-specific regulatory functions for otherwise known RNase activities but also expanded the panoply of post-transcriptional adaptation devices that P. putida can make use of for facing hostile environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Apura
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Av. da República, EAN, 2780-157, Portugal
| | - Víctor de Lorenzo
- Systems Biology Program, Centro Nacional de Biotecnologia, CSIC, C/Darwin, 3 (Campus de Cantoblanco), Madrid, 28049, Spain
| | - Cecília M Arraiano
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Av. da República, EAN, 2780-157, Portugal
| | - Esteban Martínez-García
- Systems Biology Program, Centro Nacional de Biotecnologia, CSIC, C/Darwin, 3 (Campus de Cantoblanco), Madrid, 28049, Spain
| | - Sandra C Viegas
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Av. da República, EAN, 2780-157, Portugal
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20
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Overproduction of a Dominant Mutant of the Conserved Era GTPase Inhibits Cell Division in Escherichia coli. J Bacteriol 2020; 202:JB.00342-20. [PMID: 32817092 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00342-20] [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] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cell growth and division are coordinated, ensuring homeostasis under any given growth condition, with division occurring as cell mass doubles. The signals and controlling circuit(s) between growth and division are not well understood; however, it is known in Escherichia coli that the essential GTPase Era, which is growth rate regulated, coordinates the two functions and may be a checkpoint regulator of both. We have isolated a mutant of Era that separates its effect on growth and division. When overproduced, the mutant protein Era647 is dominant to wild-type Era and blocks division, causing cells to filament. Multicopy suppressors that prevent the filamentation phenotype of Era647 either increase the expression of FtsZ or decrease the expression of the Era647 protein. Excess Era647 induces complete delocalization of Z rings, providing an explanation for why Era647 induces filamentation, but this effect is probably not due to direct interaction between Era647 and FtsZ. The hypermorphic ftsZ* allele at the native locus can suppress the effects of Era647 overproduction, indicating that extra FtsZ is not required for the suppression, but another hypermorphic allele that accelerates cell division through periplasmic signaling, ftsL*, cannot. Together, these results suggest that Era647 blocks cell division by destabilizing the Z ring.IMPORTANCE All cells need to coordinate their growth and division, and small GTPases that are conserved throughout life play a key role in this regulation. One of these, Era, provides an essential function in the assembly of the 30S ribosomal subunit in Escherichia coli, but its role in regulating E. coli cell division is much less well understood. Here, we characterize a novel dominant negative mutant of Era (Era647) that uncouples these two activities when overproduced; it inhibits cell division by disrupting assembly of the Z ring, without significantly affecting ribosome production. The unique properties of this mutant should help to elucidate how Era regulates cell division and coordinates this process with ribosome biogenesis.
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21
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Lavatelli A, de Mendoza D, Mansilla MC. Defining Caenorhabditis elegans as a model system to investigate lipoic acid metabolism. J Biol Chem 2020; 295:14973-14986. [PMID: 32843480 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra120.013760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipoic acid (LA) is a sulfur-containing cofactor that covalently binds to a variety of cognate enzymes that are essential for redox reactions in all three domains of life. Inherited mutations in the enzymes that make LA, namely lipoyl synthase, octanoyltransferase, and amidotransferase, result in devastating human metabolic disorders. Unfortunately, because many aspects of this essential pathway are still obscure, available treatments only serve to alleviate symptoms. We envisioned that the development of an organismal model system might provide new opportunities to interrogate LA biochemistry, biology, and physiology. Here we report our investigations on three Caenorhabditis elegans orthologous proteins involved in this post-translational modification. We established that M01F1.3 is a lipoyl synthase, ZC410.7 an octanoyltransferase, and C45G3.3 an amidotransferase. Worms subjected to RNAi against M01F1.3 and ZC410.7 manifest larval arrest in the second generation. The arrest was not rescued by LA supplementation, indicating that endogenous synthesis of LA is essential for C. elegans development. Expression of the enzymes M01F1.3, ZC410.7, and C45G3.3 completely rescue bacterial or yeast mutants affected in different steps of the lipoylation pathway, indicating functional overlap. Thus, we demonstrate that, similarly to humans, C. elegans is able to synthesize LA de novo via a lipoyl-relay pathway, and suggest that this nematode could be a valuable model to dissect the role of protein mislipoylation and to develop new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonela Lavatelli
- Laboratory of Microbial Physiology, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Rosario, National Scientific and Technical Research Council, Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina; Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, National University of Rosario, Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Diego de Mendoza
- Laboratory of Microbial Physiology, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Rosario, National Scientific and Technical Research Council, Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina; Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, National University of Rosario, Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - María Cecilia Mansilla
- Laboratory of Microbial Physiology, Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology of Rosario, National Scientific and Technical Research Council, Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina; Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, National University of Rosario, Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina.
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22
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Tombusvirus p19 Captures RNase III-Cleaved Double-Stranded RNAs Formed by Overlapping Sense and Antisense Transcripts in Escherichia coli. mBio 2020; 11:mBio.00485-20. [PMID: 32518184 PMCID: PMC7373196 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00485-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Antisense transcription is widespread in bacteria. By base pairing with overlapping sense RNAs, antisense RNAs (asRNA) can form double-stranded RNAs (dsRNA), which are cleaved by RNase III, a dsRNA endoribonuclease. The ectopic expression of plant Tombusvirus p19 in Escherichia coli stabilizes ∼21-nucleotide (nt) dsRNA RNase III decay intermediates, which enabled us to characterize otherwise highly unstable asRNA by deep sequencing of p19-captured dsRNA. RNase III-produced small dsRNA were formed at most bacterial genes in the bacterial genome and in a plasmid. Antisense transcription is widespread in bacteria. By base pairing with overlapping sense RNAs, antisense RNAs (asRNA) can form double-stranded RNAs (dsRNA), which are cleaved by RNase III, a dsRNA endoribonuclease. The ectopic expression of plant Tombusvirus p19 in Escherichia coli stabilizes ∼21-nucleotide (nt) dsRNA RNase III decay intermediates, which enabled us to characterize otherwise highly unstable asRNA by deep sequencing of p19-captured dsRNA. RNase III-produced small dsRNA were formed at most bacterial genes in the bacterial genome and in a plasmid. We classified the types of asRNA in genomic clusters producing the most abundant p19-captured dsRNA and confirmed RNase III regulation of asRNA and sense RNA decay at three type I toxin-antitoxin loci and at a coding gene, rsd. Furthermore, we provide potential evidence for the RNase III-dependent regulation of CspD protein by asRNA. The analysis of p19-captured dsRNA revealed an RNase III sequence preference for AU-rich sequences 3 nucleotides on either side of the cleavage sites and for GC-rich sequences in the 2-nt overhangs. Unexpectedly, GC-rich sequences were enriched in the middle section of p19-captured dsRNA, suggesting some unexpected sequence bias in p19 protein binding. Nonetheless, the ectopic expression of p19 is a sensitive method for identifying antisense transcripts and RNase III cleavage sites in dsRNA formed by overlapping sense and antisense transcripts in bacteria.
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Asgari M, Ilbeigikhamsehnejad M, Rismani E, Dinparast Djadid N, Raz A. Molecular characterization of RNase III protein of Asaia sp. for developing a robust RNAi-based paratransgensis tool to affect the sexual life-cycle of Plasmodium or Anopheles fitness. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:42. [PMID: 31996254 PMCID: PMC6990573 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-3889-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background According to scientific recommendations, paratransgenesis is one of the solutions for improving the effectiveness of the Global Malaria Eradication Programme. In paratransgenesis, symbiont microorganisms are used for distorting or blocking the parasite life-cycle, affecting the fitness and longevity of vectors or reducing the vectorial competence. It has been revealed recently that bacteria could be used as potent tools for double stranded RNA production and delivery to insects. Moreover, findings showed that RNase III mutant bacteria are more competent for this aim. Asaia spp. have been introduced as potent paratransgenesis candidates for combating malaria and, based on their specific features for this goal, could be considered as effective dsRNA production and delivery tools to Anopheles spp. Therefore, we decided to characterize the rnc gene and its related protein to provide the basic required information for creating an RNase III mutant Asaia bacterium. Methods Asaia bacteria were isolated from field-collected Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes. The rnc gene and its surrounding sequences were characterized by rapid amplification of genomic ends. RNase III recombinant protein was expressed in E. coli BL21 and biological activity of the purified recombinant protein was assayed. Furthermore, Asaia RNaseIII amino acid sequence was analyzed by in silico approaches such as homology modeling and docking to determine its structural properties. Results In this study, the structure of rnc gene and its related operon from Asaia sp. was determined. In addition, by performing superimposition and docking with specific substrate, the structural features of Asaia RNaseIII protein such as critical residues which are involved and essential for proper folding of active site, binding of magnesium ions and double stranded RNA molecule to protein and cleaving of dsRNA molecules, were determined. Conclusions In this study, the basic and essential data for creating an RNase III mutant Asaia sp. strain, which is the first step of developing an efficient RNAi-based paratransgenesis tool, were acquired. Asaia sp. have been found in different medically-important vectors and these data are potentially very helpful for researchers studying paratransgenesis and vector-borne diseases and are interested in applying the RNAi technology in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Asgari
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdokht Ilbeigikhamsehnejad
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Rismani
- Molecular Medicine Department, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Navid Dinparast Djadid
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Abbasali Raz
- Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran.
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Razi A, Davis JH, Hao Y, Jahagirdar D, Thurlow B, Basu K, Jain N, Gomez-Blanco J, Britton RA, Vargas J, Guarné A, Woodson SA, Williamson JR, Ortega J. Role of Era in assembly and homeostasis of the ribosomal small subunit. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 47:8301-8317. [PMID: 31265110 PMCID: PMC6736133 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkz571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Assembly factors provide speed and directionality to the maturation process of the 30S subunit in bacteria. To gain a more precise understanding of how these proteins mediate 30S maturation, it is important to expand on studies of 30S assembly intermediates purified from bacterial strains lacking particular maturation factors. To reveal the role of the essential protein Era in the assembly of the 30S ribosomal subunit, we analyzed assembly intermediates that accumulated in Era-depleted Escherichia coli cells using quantitative mass spectrometry, high resolution cryo-electron microscopy and in-cell footprinting. Our combined approach allowed for visualization of the small subunit as it assembled and revealed that with the exception of key helices in the platform domain, all other 16S rRNA domains fold even in the absence of Era. Notably, the maturing particles did not stall while waiting for the platform domain to mature and instead re-routed their folding pathway to enable concerted maturation of other structural motifs spanning multiple rRNA domains. We also found that binding of Era to the mature 30S subunit destabilized helix 44 and the decoding center preventing binding of YjeQ, another assembly factor. This work establishes Era’s role in ribosome assembly and suggests new roles in maintaining ribosome homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida Razi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C7, Canada
| | - Joseph H Davis
- Department of Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.,Department of Chemistry and The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.,Department of Biology, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA
| | - Yumeng Hao
- T.C. Jenkins Department of Biophysics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Dushyant Jahagirdar
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C7, Canada
| | - Brett Thurlow
- Department of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario L8S4K1, Canada
| | - Kaustuv Basu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C7, Canada
| | - Nikhil Jain
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine,Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Center for Metagenomics and Microbiome Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Josue Gomez-Blanco
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C7, Canada
| | - Robert A Britton
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine,Houston, TX 77030, USA.,Center for Metagenomics and Microbiome Research, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Javier Vargas
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C7, Canada
| | - Alba Guarné
- Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3G 0B1 Canada
| | - Sarah A Woodson
- T.C. Jenkins Department of Biophysics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - James R Williamson
- Department of Molecular Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.,Department of Chemistry and The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | - Joaquin Ortega
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec H3A 0C7, Canada
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25
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Bennison DJ, Irving SE, Corrigan RM. The Impact of the Stringent Response on TRAFAC GTPases and Prokaryotic Ribosome Assembly. Cells 2019; 8:cells8111313. [PMID: 31653044 PMCID: PMC6912228 DOI: 10.3390/cells8111313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Many facets of ribosome biogenesis and function, including ribosomal RNA (rRNA) transcription, 70S assembly and protein translation, are negatively impacted upon induction of a nutrient stress-sensing signalling pathway termed the stringent response. This stress response is mediated by the alarmones guanosine tetra- and penta-phosphate ((p)ppGpp), the accumulation of which leads to a massive cellular response that slows growth and aids survival. The 70S bacterial ribosome is an intricate structure, with assembly both complex and highly modular. Presiding over the assembly process is a group of P-loop GTPases within the TRAFAC (Translation Factor Association) superclass that are crucial for correct positioning of both early and late stage ribosomal proteins (r-proteins) onto the rRNA. Often described as 'molecular switches', members of this GTPase superfamily readily bind and hydrolyse GTP to GDP in a cyclic manner that alters the propensity of the GTPase to carry out a function. TRAFAC GTPases are considered to act as checkpoints to ribosome assembly, involved in binding to immature sections in the GTP-bound state, preventing further r-protein association until maturation is complete. Here we review our current understanding of the impact of the stringent response and (p)ppGpp production on ribosome maturation in prokaryotic cells, focusing on the inhibition of (p)ppGpp on GTPase-mediated subunit assembly, but also touching upon the inhibition of rRNA transcription and protein translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Bennison
- The Florey Institute, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK.
| | - Sophie E Irving
- The Florey Institute, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK.
| | - Rebecca M Corrigan
- The Florey Institute, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK.
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26
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Wood A, Irving SE, Bennison DJ, Corrigan RM. The (p)ppGpp-binding GTPase Era promotes rRNA processing and cold adaptation in Staphylococcus aureus. PLoS Genet 2019; 15:e1008346. [PMID: 31465450 PMCID: PMC6738653 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Ribosome assembly cofactors are widely conserved across all domains of life. One such group, the ribosome-associated GTPases (RA-GTPase), act as molecular switches to coordinate ribosome assembly. We previously identified the Staphylococcus aureus RA-GTPase Era as a target for the stringent response alarmone (p)ppGpp, with binding leading to inhibition of GTPase activity. Era is highly conserved throughout the bacterial kingdom and is essential in many species, although the function of Era in ribosome assembly is unclear. Here we show that Era is not essential in S. aureus but is important for 30S ribosomal subunit assembly. Protein interaction studies reveal that Era interacts with the 16S rRNA endonuclease YbeY and the DEAD-box RNA helicase CshA. We determine that both Era and CshA are required for growth at suboptimal temperatures and rRNA processing. Era and CshA also form direct interactions with the (p)ppGpp synthetase RelSau, with RelSau positively impacting the GTPase activity of Era but negatively affecting the helicase activity of CshA. We propose that in its GTP-bound form, Era acts as a hub protein on the ribosome to direct enzymes involved in rRNA processing/degradation and ribosome subunit assembly to their site of action. This activity is impeded by multiple components of the stringent response, contributing to the slowed growth phenotype synonymous with this stress response pathway. The bacterial ribosome is an essential cellular component and as such is the target for a number of currently used antimicrobials. Correct assembly of this complex macromolecule requires a number of accessory enzymes, the functions of which are poorly characterised. Here we examine the function of Era, a GTPase enzyme involved in 30S ribosomal subunit biogenesis in the important human pathogen S. aureus. We uncover that Era is not an essential enzyme in S. aureus, as it is in many other species, but is important for correct ribosome assembly. In a bid to determine a function for this enzyme in ribosomal assembly, we identify a number of protein interaction partners with roles in ribosomal RNA maturation or degradation, supporting the idea that Era acts as a hub protein facilitating ribosomal biogenesis. We also uncover a link between Era and the (p)ppGpp synthetase RelSau, revealing an additional level of control of rRNA processing by the stringent response. With this study we elaborate on the functions of GTPases in ribosomal assembly, processes that are controlled at multiple points by the stringent response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Wood
- The Florey Institute, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Sophie E. Irving
- The Florey Institute, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel J. Bennison
- The Florey Institute, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca M. Corrigan
- The Florey Institute, Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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27
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Javier-Reyna R, Montaño S, García-Rivera G, Rodríguez MA, González-Robles A, Orozco E. EhRabB mobilises the EhCPADH complex through the actin cytoskeleton during phagocytosis of Entamoeba histolytica. Cell Microbiol 2019; 21:e13071. [PMID: 31219662 DOI: 10.1111/cmi.13071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Movement and phagocytosis are clue events in colonisation and invasion of tissues by Entamoeba histolytica, the protozoan causative of human amoebiasis. During phagocytosis, EhRab proteins interact with other functional molecules, conducting them to the precise cellular site. The gene encoding EhrabB is located in the complementary chain of the DNA fragment containing Ehcp112 and Ehadh genes, which encode for the proteins of the EhCPADH complex, involved in phagocytosis. This particular genetic organisation suggests that the three corresponding proteins may be functionally related. Here, we studied the relationship of EhRabB with EhCPADH and actin during phagocytosis. First, we obtained the EhRabB 3D structure to carry out docking analysis to predict the interaction sites involved in the EhRabB protein and the EhCPADH complex contact. By confocal microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and immunoprecipitation assays, we revealed the interaction among these proteins when they move through different vesicles formed during phagocytosis. The role of the actin cytoskeleton in this event was also confirmed using Latrunculin A to interfere with actin polymerisation. This affected the movement of EhRabB and EhCPADH, as well as the rate of phagocytosis. Mutant trophozoites, silenced in EhrabB gene, evidenced the interaction of this molecule with EhCPADH and strengthened the role of actin during erythrophagocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosario Javier-Reyna
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, CINVESTAV-IPN, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Sarita Montaño
- Laboratorio de Bioinformática, Facultad de Ciencias Químico-Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa (FCQB-UAS), Culiacán, Sinaloa, México
| | | | | | | | - Esther Orozco
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, CINVESTAV-IPN, Mexico City, Mexico
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28
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Altuvia Y, Bar A, Reiss N, Karavani E, Argaman L, Margalit H. In vivo cleavage rules and target repertoire of RNase III in Escherichia coli. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 46:10380-10394. [PMID: 30113670 PMCID: PMC6212723 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gky684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial RNase III plays important roles in the processing and degradation of RNA transcripts. A major goal is to identify the cleavage targets of this endoribonuclease at a transcriptome-wide scale and delineate its in vivo cleavage rules. Here we applied to Escherichia coli grown to either exponential or stationary phase a tailored RNA-seq-based technology, which allows transcriptome-wide mapping of RNase III cleavage sites at a nucleotide resolution. Our analysis of the large-scale in vivo cleavage data substantiated the established cleavage pattern of a double cleavage in an intra-molecular stem structure, leaving 2-nt-long 3′ overhangs, and refined the base-pairing preferences in the cleavage site vicinity. Intriguingly, we observed that the two stem positions between the cleavage sites are highly base-paired, usually involving at least one G-C or C-G base pair. We present a clear distinction between intra-molecular stem structures that are RNase III substrates and intra-molecular stem structures randomly selected across the transcriptome, emphasizing the in vivo specificity of RNase III. Our study provides a comprehensive map of the cleavage sites in both intra-molecular and inter-molecular duplex substrates, providing novel insights into the involvement of RNase III in post-transcriptional regulation in the bacterial cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael Altuvia
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel
| | - Amir Bar
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel
| | - Niv Reiss
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel
| | - Ehud Karavani
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel
| | - Liron Argaman
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel
| | - Hanah Margalit
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Institute for Medical Research Israel-Canada, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem 9112102, Israel
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29
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Zhong C, Smith NA, Zhang D, Goodfellow S, Zhang R, Shan W, Wang MB. Full-Length Hairpin RNA Accumulates at High Levels in Yeast but Not in Bacteria and Plants. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:E458. [PMID: 31208028 PMCID: PMC6627737 DOI: 10.3390/genes10060458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hairpin-structured (hp) RNA has been widely used to induce RNA interference (RNAi) in plants and animals, and an in vivo expression system for hpRNA is important for large-scale RNAi applications. Bacterial expression systems have so far been developed for in vivo expression of hpRNA or double-stranded (ds) RNA, but the structure of the resulting RNAi molecules has remained unclear. Here we report that long hpRNAs expressed in the bacteria Escherichia coli and Sinorhizobium meliloti were largely processed into shorter dsRNA fragments with no or few full-length molecules being present. A loss-of-function mutation in the dsRNA-processing enzyme RNase III, in the widely used E. coli HT115 strain, did not prevent the processing of hpRNA. Consistent with previous observations in plants, the loop sequence of long hpRNA expressed in Agrobacterium-infiltrated Nicotiana benthamiana leaves was excised, leaving no detectable levels of full-length hpRNA molecule. In contrast to bacteria and plants, long hpRNAs expressed in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae accumulated as intact, full-length molecules. RNA extracted from hpRNA-expressing yeast cells was shown to be capable of inducing RNAi against a β-glucuronidase (GUS) reporter gene in tobacco leaves when applied topically on leaf surfaces. Our results indicate that yeast can potentially be used to express full-length hpRNA molecules for RNAi and perhaps other structured RNAs that are important in biological applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengcheng Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China.
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) Agriculture and Food, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.
- College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China.
| | - Neil A Smith
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) Agriculture and Food, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.
| | - Daai Zhang
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) Agriculture and Food, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.
| | - Simon Goodfellow
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia.
| | - Ren Zhang
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Bioscience, University of Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia.
| | - Weixing Shan
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China.
- College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China.
| | - Ming-Bo Wang
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) Agriculture and Food, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia.
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Bechhofer DH, Deutscher MP. Bacterial ribonucleases and their roles in RNA metabolism. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2019; 54:242-300. [PMID: 31464530 PMCID: PMC6776250 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2019.1651816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Ribonucleases (RNases) are mediators in most reactions of RNA metabolism. In recent years, there has been a surge of new information about RNases and the roles they play in cell physiology. In this review, a detailed description of bacterial RNases is presented, focusing primarily on those from Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis, the model Gram-negative and Gram-positive organisms, from which most of our current knowledge has been derived. Information from other organisms is also included, where relevant. In an extensive catalog of the known bacterial RNases, their structure, mechanism of action, physiological roles, genetics, and possible regulation are described. The RNase complement of E. coli and B. subtilis is compared, emphasizing the similarities, but especially the differences, between the two. Included are figures showing the three major RNA metabolic pathways in E. coli and B. subtilis and highlighting specific steps in each of the pathways catalyzed by the different RNases. This compilation of the currently available knowledge about bacterial RNases will be a useful tool for workers in the RNA field and for others interested in learning about this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- David H. Bechhofer
- Department of Pharmacological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Murray P. Deutscher
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
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31
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Ahn SJ, Donahue K, Koh Y, Martin RR, Choi MY. Microbial-Based Double-Stranded RNA Production to Develop Cost-Effective RNA Interference Application for Insect Pest Management. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE 2019; 11:1179543319840323. [PMID: 31040730 PMCID: PMC6482651 DOI: 10.1177/1179543319840323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a convenient tool to identify and characterize biological functions in organisms. Recently, it has become an alternative to chemical insecticides as a biologically based control agent. This promising technology has the potential to avoid many problems associated with conventional chemical insecticides. In order for RNAi application to be practical for field use, a major hurdle is the development of a cost-effective system of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) production for a large quantity of dsRNA. A handful of research reports has demonstrated microbial-based dsRNA production using L4440 vector and HT115 (DE3) Escherichia coli for application to vertebrate and invertebrate systems. However, the dsRNA yield, production efficiency, and biological purity from this in vitro system is still unclear. Thus, our study detailed biochemical and molecular tools for large-scale dsRNA production using the microbial system and investigated the production efficiency and yield of crude and purified dsRNAs. An unrelated insect gene, green fluorescent protein (GFP), and an insect neuropeptide gene, pyrokinin (PK) identified from Drosophila suzukii, were used to construct the recombinant L4440 to be expressed in the HT115 (DE3) cell. A considerable amount of dsRNA, 19.5 µg/mL of liquid culture, was isolated using ultrasonic disruption followed by phenol extraction. The sonication method was further evaluated to extract crude dsRNA without the additional phenol extraction and nuclease treatments and also to reduce potential bacterial viability. The results suggest that the ultrasonic method saved time and costs to isolate crude dsRNA directly from large volumes of cell culture without E coli contamination. We investigated whether the injection of PK dsRNA into flies resulted in increased adult mortality, but it was not statistically significant at 95% confidence level. In this study, the microbial-based dsRNA production has potential for applied RNAi technology to complement current insect pest management practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Joon Ahn
- USDA-ARS Horticultural Crops Research Unit, Corvallis, OR, USA
- Department of Crop and Soil Science, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Kelly Donahue
- USDA-ARS Horticultural Crops Research Unit, Corvallis, OR, USA
| | - Youngho Koh
- Department of Bio-Medical Gerontology, Ilsong Institute of Life Sciences, Hallym University, Anyang, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Man-Yeon Choi
- USDA-ARS Horticultural Crops Research Unit, Corvallis, OR, USA
- Man-Yeon Choi, USDA-ARS Horticultural Crops Research Unit, 3420 NW Orchard Avenue, Corvallis, OR 97330, USA.
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Targeting the polyadenylation factor EhCFIm25 with RNA aptamers controls survival in Entamoeba histolytica. Sci Rep 2018; 8:5720. [PMID: 29632392 PMCID: PMC5890266 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-23997-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Messenger RNA 3'-end polyadenylation is an important regulator of gene expression in eukaryotic cells. In our search for new ways of treating parasitic infectious diseases, we looked at whether or not alterations in polyadenylation might control the survival of Entamoeba histolytica (the agent of amoebiasis in humans). We used molecular biology and computational tools to characterize the mRNA cleavage factor EhCFIm25, which is essential for polyadenylation in E. histolytica. By using a strategy based on the systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment, we identified single-stranded RNA aptamers that target EhCFIm25. The results of RNA-protein binding assays showed that EhCFIm25 binds to the GUUG motif in vitro, which differs from the UGUA motif bound by the homologous human protein. Accordingly, docking experiments and molecular dynamic simulations confirmed that interaction with GUUG stabilizes EhCFIm25. Incubating E. histolytica trophozoites with selected aptamers inhibited parasite proliferation and rapidly led to cell death. Overall, our data indicate that targeting EhCFIm25 is an effective way of limiting the growth of E. histolytica in vitro. The present study is the first to have highlighted the potential value of RNA aptamers for controlling this human pathogen.
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Mitter N, Worrall EA, Robinson KE, Xu ZP, Carroll BJ. Induction of virus resistance by exogenous application of double-stranded RNA. Curr Opin Virol 2017; 26:49-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2017.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 07/10/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Ospina-Villa JD, Guillén N, Lopez-Camarillo C, Soto-Sanchez J, Ramirez-Moreno E, Garcia-Vazquez R, Castañon-Sanchez CA, Betanzos A, Marchat LA. Silencing the cleavage factor CFIm25 as a new strategy to control Entamoeba histolytica parasite. J Microbiol 2017; 55:783-791. [PMID: 28956353 DOI: 10.1007/s12275-017-7259-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Revised: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The 25 kDa subunit of the Clevage Factor Im (CFIm25) is an essential factor for messenger RNA polyadenylation in human cells. Therefore, here we investigated whether the homologous protein of Entamoeba histolytica, the protozoan responsible for human amoebiasis, might be considered as a biochemical target for parasite control. Trophozoites were cultured with bacterial double-stranded RNA molecules targeting the EhCFIm25 gene, and inhibition of mRNA and protein expression was confirmed by RT-PCR and Western blot assays, respectively. EhCFIm25 silencing was associated with a significant acceleration of cell proliferation and cell death. Moreover, trophozoites appeared as larger and multinucleated cells. These morphological changes were accompanied by a reduced mobility, and erythrophagocytosis was significantly diminished. Lastly, the knockdown of EhCFIm25 affected the poly(A) site selection in two reporter genes and revealed that EhCFIm25 stimulates the utilization of downstream poly(A) sites in E. histolytica mRNA. Overall, our data confirm that targeting the polyadenylation process represents an interesting strategy for controlling parasites, including E. histolytica. To our best knowledge, the present study is the first to have revealed the relevance of the cleavage factor CFIm25 as a biochemical target in parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nancy Guillén
- Institut Pasteur, Unité d'Analyses d'Images Biologiques, Paris, France
| | - Cesar Lopez-Camarillo
- Universidad Autónoma de la Ciudad de México - Posgrado en Ciencias Genómicas, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | | | | | | | | | - Abigail Betanzos
- Cátedras, CONACYT, Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, CINVESTAV-IPN, Ciudad de México, Mexico
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35
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Kim MS, Choi SH, Yang JI, Kim KH. Production of RNase III-knockout, auxotrophic Edwardsiella tarda mutant for delivery of long double-stranded RNA and evaluation of its immunostimulatory potential. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2017; 68:474-478. [PMID: 28756288 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2017.07.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Revised: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The artificially synthesized polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly IC) has been widely used to induce type I IFN responses in various vertebrates including fish. However, as poly IC is too expensive to use in aquaculture, the development of another economical long dsRNA producing method is needed to practically use long dsRNAs in aquaculture farms for the control of infectious diseases. In the present study, to produce long dsRNAs economically, we developed a novel long dsRNA production system based on the RNase III gene deleted auxotrophic mutant E. tarda (ΔalrΔrncΔasd E. tarda) and a long dsRNA-producing vector that was equipped with two modified λ phage PR promoters arranged in a head-to-head fashion. As the present genetically engineered E. tarda cannot live without supplementation of d-alanine and DAP, environmental and medicinal risks are minimized. Olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) fingerlings administered the long dsRNA-producing auxotrophic E. tarda mutant (Δalr ΔrncΔasd E. tarda) showed significantly higher expressions of TLR22, Mx1, and ISG15 genes, indicating a potential to increase type I interferon responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Sun Kim
- Graduate School of Integrated Bioindustry, Sejong University, Seoul 05006, South Korea
| | - Seung Hyuk Choi
- Ministry of Science and ICT, Gwacheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, 13809, South Korea
| | - Jeong In Yang
- Department of Aquatic Life Medicine, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, South Korea
| | - Ki Hong Kim
- Department of Aquatic Life Medicine, Pukyong National University, Busan 48513, South Korea.
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Kim M, Kim M, Kim KS. YmdB-mediated down-regulation of sucA inhibits biofilm formation and induces apramycin susceptibility in Escherichia coli. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2016; 483:252-257. [PMID: 28034758 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2016.12.157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 12/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance associated with biofilm formation is a major concern when treating bacterial infections with drugs. The genes and pathways involved in biofilm formation have been extensively studied and are also involved in antibiotic resistance. Recent studies show that overexpression of Escherichia coli (E. coli) YmdB protein alters gene expression profiles and inhibits biofilm formation. Therefore, it is expected that YmdB and its regulated genes play a key role in development of biofilm and antibiotic resistance phenotypes. The present study screened antibiotics to identify those whose susceptibility profiles were regulated by YmdB levels. This protocol identified apramycin. Additional screening for genes negatively regulated by inactivation of RNase III activity via YmdB overexpression revealed that a gene associated with the tricarboxylic acid cycle gene, sucA, was necessary for the YmdB-like phenotype. Taken together, these data suggest that regulation of RNase III activity by trans-acting factors may be the key to identifying genes or pathways connecting biofilm and antibiotic resistance phenotypes. This information could be used to reduce the emergence of biofilm-associated multidrug-resistant bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moonjeong Kim
- Department of Chemistry and Chemistry Institute of Functional Materials, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, South Korea
| | - Minji Kim
- Chemistry Institute for Functional Materials, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, South Korea
| | - Kwang-Sun Kim
- Department of Chemistry and Chemistry Institute of Functional Materials, Pusan National University, Busan, 46241, South Korea.
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37
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Characterization of ribonuclease III from Brucella. Gene 2016; 579:183-92. [PMID: 26778206 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2015.12.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2015] [Revised: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Bacterial ribonuclease III (RNase III) is a highly conserved endonuclease, which plays pivotal roles in RNA maturation and decay pathways by cleaving double-stranded structure of RNAs. Here we cloned rncS gene from the genomic DNA of Brucella melitensis, and analyzed the cleavage properties of RNase III from Brucella. We identified Brucella-encoding small RNA (sRNA) by high-throughput sequencing and northern blot, and found that sRNA of Brucella and Homo miRNA precursor (pre-miRNA) can be bound and cleaved by B.melitensis ribonuclease III (Bm-RNase III). Cleavage activity of Bm-RNase III is bivalent metal cations- and alkaline buffer-dependent. We constructed several point mutations in Bm-RNase III, whose cleavage activity indicated that the 133th Glutamic acid residue was required for catalytic activity. Western blot revealed that Bm-RNase III was differently expressed in Brucella virulence strain 027 and vaccine strain M5-90. Collectively, our data suggest that Brucella RNase III can efficiently bind and cleave stem-loop structure of small RNA, and might participate in regulation of virulence in Brucella.
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Abstract
This review provides a description of the known Escherichia coli ribonucleases (RNases), focusing on their structures, catalytic properties, genes, physiological roles, and possible regulation. Currently, eight E. coli exoribonucleases are known. These are RNases II, R, D, T, PH, BN, polynucleotide phosphorylase (PNPase), and oligoribonuclease (ORNase). Based on sequence analysis and catalytic properties, the eight exoribonucleases have been grouped into four families. These are the RNR family, including RNase II and RNase R; the DEDD family, including RNase D, RNase T, and ORNase; the RBN family, consisting of RNase BN; and the PDX family, including PNPase and RNase PH. Seven well-characterized endoribonucleases are known in E. coli. These are RNases I, III, P, E, G, HI, and HII. Homologues to most of these enzymes are also present in Salmonella. Most of the endoribonucleases cleave RNA in the presence of divalent cations, producing fragments with 3'-hydroxyl and 5'-phosphate termini. RNase H selectively hydrolyzes the RNA strand of RNA?DNA hybrids. Members of the RNase H family are widely distributed among prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms in three distinct lineages, RNases HI, HII, and HIII. It is likely that E. coli contains additional endoribonucleases that have not yet been characterized. First of all, endonucleolytic activities are needed for certain known processes that cannot be attributed to any of the known enzymes. Second, homologues of known endoribonucleases are present in E. coli. Third, endonucleolytic activities have been observed in cell extracts that have different properties from known enzymes.
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RNAi Interrogation of Dietary Modulation of Development, Metabolism, Behavior, and Aging in C. elegans. Cell Rep 2015; 11:1123-33. [PMID: 25959815 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2015.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2014] [Revised: 01/29/2015] [Accepted: 04/11/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Diet affects nearly every aspect of animal life such as development, metabolism, behavior, and aging, both directly by supplying nutrients and indirectly through gut microbiota. C. elegans feeds on bacteria, and like other animals, different bacterial diets induce distinct dietary responses in the worm. However, the lack of certain critical tools hampers the use of worms as a model for dietary signaling. Here, we genetically engineered the bacterial strain OP50, the standard laboratory diet for C. elegans, making it compatible for dsRNA production and delivery. Using this RNAi-compatible OP50 strain and the other bacterial strain HT115, we feed worms different diets while delivering RNAi to interrogate the genetic basis underlying diet-dependent differential modulation of development, metabolism, behavior, and aging. We show by RNAi that neuroendocrine and mTOR pathways are involved in mediating differential dietary responses. This genetic tool greatly facilitates the use of C. elegans as a model for dietary signaling.
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Rostain W, Landrain TE, Rodrigo G, Jaramillo A. Regulatory RNA design through evolutionary computation and strand displacement. Methods Mol Biol 2015; 1244:63-78. [PMID: 25487093 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-1878-2_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The discovery and study of a vast number of regulatory RNAs in all kingdoms of life over the past decades has allowed the design of new synthetic RNAs that can regulate gene expression in vivo. Riboregulators, in particular, have been used to activate or repress gene expression. However, to accelerate and scale up the design process, synthetic biologists require computer-assisted design tools, without which riboregulator engineering will remain a case-by-case design process requiring expert attention. Recently, the design of RNA circuits by evolutionary computation and adapting strand displacement techniques from nanotechnology has proven to be suited to the automated generation of DNA sequences implementing regulatory RNA systems in bacteria. Herein, we present our method to carry out such evolutionary design and how to use it to create various types of riboregulators, allowing the systematic de novo design of genetic control systems in synthetic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Rostain
- Institute of Systems and Synthetic Biology (iSSB-CNRS), Université d'Evry val d'Essonne, Genopole Campus 1, Genavenir 6, 5 rue Henri Desbruères, 91030, Evry Cedex, France
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41
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Court DL, Gan J, Liang YH, Shaw GX, Tropea JE, Costantino N, Waugh DS, Ji X. RNase III: Genetics and function; structure and mechanism. Annu Rev Genet 2014; 47:405-31. [PMID: 24274754 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-genet-110711-155618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
RNase III is a global regulator of gene expression in Escherichia coli that is instrumental in the maturation of ribosomal and other structural RNAs. We examine here how RNase III itself is regulated in response to growth and other environmental changes encountered by the cell and how, by binding or processing double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) intermediates, RNase III controls the expression of genes. Recent insight into the mechanism of dsRNA binding and processing, gained from structural studies of RNase III, is reviewed. Structural studies also reveal new cleavage sites in the enzyme that can generate longer 3' overhangs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald L Court
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702; , , , , , , ,
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42
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Lim B, Ahn S, Sim M, Lee K. RNase III controls mltD mRNA degradation in Escherichia coli. Curr Microbiol 2013; 68:518-23. [PMID: 24343175 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-013-0504-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2013] [Accepted: 10/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
RNase III is a double-stranded RNA-specific endoribonuclease that processes and degrades numerous mRNA molecules in Escherichia coli. A previous genome-wide analysis of E. coli transcripts showed that steady-state levels of mltD mRNA, which encodes membrane-bound lytic murein transglycosylase D, was most affected by changes in cellular concentration of RNase III. Consistent with this observation, in vitro and in vivo analyses of mltD mRNA revealed RNase III cleavage sites in the coding region of mltD mRNA. Introduction of a nucleotide substitution at the identified RNase III cleavage sites inhibited RNase III cleavage activity on mltD mRNA, resulting in, consequently, approximately two-fold increase in the steady-state level of the mRNA. These findings reveal an RNase III-mediated regulatory pathway that modulates mltD expression in E. coli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boram Lim
- Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University, 84 Heuksok-Ro, Dongjak-Gu, Seoul, 156-756, Republic of Korea
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43
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Malagon F. RNase III is required for localization to the nucleoid of the 5' pre-rRNA leader and for optimal induction of rRNA synthesis in E. coli. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2013; 19:1200-7. [PMID: 23893733 PMCID: PMC3753927 DOI: 10.1261/rna.038588.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2013] [Accepted: 06/14/2013] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
It has recently been demonstrated that ribosomes are preferentially localized outside the nucleoid in Escherichia coli, but little is known about the spatial regulation of pre-rRNA processing. In this work, I investigate the cellular distribution of leader pre-rRNAs using RNA-FISH. In contrast to mature rRNA, the 5' proximal leader region associates with the nucleoid, and this association occurs in an RNase III-dependent manner. Moreover, RNase III plays a role in the rapid induction of ribosomal operons during outgrowth and is essential in the absence of the transcriptional regulator Fis, suggesting a linkage of transcription and RNA processing for ribosomal operons in E. coli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Malagon
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-4264, USA.
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44
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The virulence of Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium in the insect model galleria mellonella is impaired by mutations in RNase E and RNase III. Appl Environ Microbiol 2013; 79:6124-33. [PMID: 23913419 DOI: 10.1128/aem.02044-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium is a Gram-negative bacterium able to invade and replicate inside eukaryotic cells. To cope with the host defense mechanisms, the bacterium has to rapidly remodel its transcriptional status. Regulatory RNAs and ribonucleases are the factors that ultimately control the fate of mRNAs and final protein levels in the cell. There is growing evidence of the direct involvement of these factors in bacterial pathogenicity. In this report, we validate the use of a Galleria mellonela model in S. Typhimurium pathogenicity studies through the parallel analysis of a mutant with a mutation in hfq, a well-established Salmonella virulence gene. The results obtained with this mutant are similar to the ones reported in a mouse model. Through the use of this insect model, we demonstrate a role for the main endoribonucleases RNase E and RNase III in Salmonella virulence. These ribonuclease mutants show an attenuated virulence phenotype, impairment in motility, and reduced proliferation inside the host. Interestingly, the two mutants trigger a distinct immune response in the host, and the two mutations seem to have an impact on distinct bacterial functions.
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45
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Najle SR, Nusblat AD, Nudel CB, Uttaro AD. The Sterol-C7 desaturase from the ciliate Tetrahymena thermophila is a Rieske Oxygenase, which is highly conserved in animals. Mol Biol Evol 2013; 30:1630-43. [PMID: 23603937 DOI: 10.1093/molbev/mst076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The ciliate Tetrahymena thermophila incorporates sterols from its environment that desaturates at positions C5(6), C7(8), and C22(23). Phytosterols are additionally modified by removal of the ethyl group at carbon 24 (C24). The enzymes involved are oxygen-, NAD(P)H-, and cytochrome b5 dependent, reason why they were classified as members of the hydroxylases/desaturases superfamily. The ciliate's genome revealed the presence of seven putative sterol desaturases belonging to this family, two of which we have previously characterized as the C24-de-ethylase and C5(6)-desaturase. A Rieske oxygenase was also identified; this type of enzyme, with sterol C7(8)-desaturase activity, was observed only in animals, called Neverland in insects and DAF-36 in nematodes. They perform the conversion of cholesterol into 7-dehydrocholesterol, first step in the synthesis of the essential hormones ecdysteroids and dafachronic acids. By adapting an RNA interference-by-feeding protocol, we easily screened six of the eight genes described earlier, allowing the characterization of the Rieske-like oxygenase as the ciliate's C7(8)-desaturase (Des7p). This characterization was confirmed by obtaining the corresponding knockout mutant, making Des7p the first nonanimal Rieske-sterol desaturase described. To our knowledge, this is the first time that the feeding-RNAi technique was successfully applied in T. thermophila, enabling to consider such methodology for future reverse genetics high-throughput screenings in this ciliate. Bioinformatics analyses revealed the presence of Des7p orthologs in other Oligohymenophorean ciliates and in nonanimal Opisthokonts, like the protists Salpingoeca rosetta and Capsaspora owczarzaki. A horizontal gene transfer event from a unicellular Opisthokont to an ancient phagotrophic Oligohymenophorean could explain the acquisition of the Rieske oxygenase by Tetrahymena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastián R Najle
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario, CONICET, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Argentina
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46
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Karvelis T, Gasiunas G, Miksys A, Barrangou R, Horvath P, Siksnys V. crRNA and tracrRNA guide Cas9-mediated DNA interference in Streptococcus thermophilus. RNA Biol 2013; 10:841-51. [PMID: 23535272 PMCID: PMC3737341 DOI: 10.4161/rna.24203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The Cas9-crRNA complex of the Streptococcus thermophilus DGCC7710 CRISPR3-Cas system functions as an RNA-guided endonuclease with crRNA-directed target sequence recognition and protein-mediated DNA cleavage. We show here that an additional RNA molecule, tracrRNA (trans-activating CRISPR RNA), co-purifies with the Cas9 protein isolated from the heterologous E. coli strain carrying the S. thermophilus DGCC7710 CRISPR3-Cas system. We provide experimental evidence that tracrRNA is required for Cas9-mediated DNA interference both in vitro and in vivo. We show that Cas9 specifically promotes duplex formation between the precursor crRNA (pre-crRNA) transcript and tracrRNA, in vitro. Furthermore, the housekeeping RNase III contributes to primary pre-crRNA-tracrRNA duplex cleavage for mature crRNA biogenesis. RNase III, however, is not required in the processing of a short pre-crRNA transcribed from a minimal CRISPR array containing a single spacer. Finally, we show that an in vitro-assembled ternary Cas9-crRNA-tracrRNA complex cleaves DNA. This study further specifies the molecular basis for crRNA-based re-programming of Cas9 to specifically cleave any target DNA sequence for precise genome surgery. The processes for crRNA maturation and effector complex assembly established here will contribute to the further development of the Cas9 re-programmable system for genome editing applications.
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López-Rosas I, Orozco E, Marchat LA, García-Rivera G, Guillen N, Weber C, Carrillo-Tapia E, Hernández de la Cruz O, Pérez-Plasencia C, López-Camarillo C. mRNA decay proteins are targeted to poly(A)+ RNA and dsRNA-containing cytoplasmic foci that resemble P-bodies in Entamoeba histolytica. PLoS One 2012; 7:e45966. [PMID: 23029343 PMCID: PMC3454373 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0045966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2012] [Accepted: 08/23/2012] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
In higher eukaryotes, mRNA degradation and RNA-based gene silencing occur in cytoplasmic foci referred to as processing bodies (P-bodies). In protozoan parasites, the presence of P-bodies and their putative role in mRNA decay have yet to be comprehensively addressed. Identification of P-bodies might provide information on how mRNA degradation machineries evolved in lower eukaryotes. Here, we used immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy assays to investigate the cellular localization of mRNA degradation proteins in the human intestinal parasite Entamoeba histolytica and found evidence of the existence of P-bodies. Two mRNA decay factors, namely the EhXRN2 exoribonuclease and the EhDCP2 decapping enzyme, were localized in cytoplasmic foci in a pattern resembling P-body organization. Given that amoebic foci appear to be smaller and less rounded than those described in higher eukaryotes, we have named them “P-body-like structures”. These foci contain additional mRNA degradation factors, including the EhCAF1 deadenylase and the EhAGO2-2 protein involved in RNA interference. Biochemical analysis revealed that EhCAF1 co-immunoprecipitated with EhXRN2 but not with EhDCP2 or EhAGO2-2, thus linking deadenylation to 5′-to-3′ mRNA decay. The number of EhCAF1-containing foci significantly decreased after inhibition of transcription and translation with actinomycin D and cycloheximide, respectively. Furthermore, results of RNA-FISH assays showed that (i) EhCAF1 colocalized with poly(A)+ RNA and (ii) during silencing of the Ehpc4 gene by RNA interference, EhAGO2-2 colocalized with small interfering RNAs in cytoplasmic foci. Our observation of decapping, deadenylation and RNA interference proteins within P-body-like foci suggests that these structures have been conserved after originating in the early evolution of eukaryotic lineages. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to report on the localization of mRNA decay proteins within P-body-like structures in E. histolytica. Our findings should open up opportunities for deciphering the mechanisms of mRNA degradation and RNA-based gene silencing in this deep-branching eukaryote.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itzel López-Rosas
- Programa en Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Autónoma de la Ciudad de México, México City, México
| | - Esther Orozco
- Programa en Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Autónoma de la Ciudad de México, México City, México
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México City, México
| | - Laurence A. Marchat
- Programa Institucional de Biomedicina Molecular y Red en Biotecnología, Escuela Nacional de Medicina y Homeopatía, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México City, México
| | - Guillermina García-Rivera
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, México City, México
| | - Nancy Guillen
- Unité Biologie Cellulaire du Parasitisme, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
- INSERM U786, Paris, France
| | - Christian Weber
- Unité Biologie Cellulaire du Parasitisme, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
- INSERM U786, Paris, France
| | - Eduardo Carrillo-Tapia
- Programa en Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Autónoma de la Ciudad de México, México City, México
| | | | - Carlos Pérez-Plasencia
- Unidad de Genómica y Secuenciación Masiva, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología, México City, México
- Unidad de Biomedicina, Facultad de Estudios Superiores-Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México City, México
| | - César López-Camarillo
- Programa en Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Autónoma de la Ciudad de México, México City, México
- * E-mail:
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48
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De novo automated design of small RNA circuits for engineering synthetic riboregulation in living cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2012; 109:15271-6. [PMID: 22949707 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1203831109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
A grand challenge in synthetic biology is to use our current knowledge of RNA science to perform the automatic engineering of completely synthetic sequences encoding functional RNAs in living cells. We report here a fully automated design methodology and experimental validation of synthetic RNA interaction circuits working in a cellular environment. The computational algorithm, based on a physicochemical model, produces novel RNA sequences by exploring the space of possible sequences compatible with predefined structures. We tested our methodology in Escherichia coli by designing several positive riboregulators with diverse structures and interaction models, suggesting that only the energy of formation and the activation energy (free energy barrier to overcome for initiating the hybridization reaction) are sufficient criteria to engineer RNA interaction and regulation in bacteria. The designed sequences exhibit nonsignificant similarity to any known noncoding RNA sequence. Our riboregulatory devices work independently and in combination with transcription regulation to create complex logic circuits. Our results demonstrate that a computational methodology based on first-principles can be used to engineer interacting RNAs with allosteric behavior in living cells.
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49
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Kim KS, Kim KS, Park S, Lee S, Kang SB, Lee J, Lee SG, Ryu CM. A novel fluorescent reporter system for monitoring and identifying RNase III activity and its target RNAs. RNA Biol 2012; 9:1167-76. [PMID: 22951591 DOI: 10.4161/rna.21499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacteriophage vectors for achieving single-copy gene expression linked to a colorigenic reporter assay have been used successfully for genetic screening applications. However, the limited number of cloning sites in these vectors, combined with the requirement for lac- strains and the time- and/or media-dependence of the chemical-based colorimetric reaction, have limited the range of applications for these vectors. An alternative approach using a fluorescent reporter gene such as green fluorescent protein (GFP) or GFP derivatives could overcome some of these technical issues and facilitate real-time monitoring of promoter and/or protein activity. Here, we report the development of a novel translational bacteriophage fusion vector encoding enhanced GFP (eGFP) that can be incorporated into the chromosome as a single-copy gene. We identified a Bacillus promoter (BP) that is stably expressed in Escherichia coli and drives ~6-fold more expression of eGFP than the T7 promoter in the absence of inducer. Incorporating this BP and RNase III target signals into a single system enabled clear detection of the absence or downregulation of RNase III activity in vivo, thereby establishing a system for screening and identifying novel RNase III targets in a matter of days. An RNase III target signal identified in this manner was confirmed by post-transcriptional analysis. We anticipate that this novel translational fusion vector will be used extensively to study activity of both interesting RNases and related complex or to identify or validate targets of RNases that are otherwise difficult to study due to their sensitivity to environmental stresses and/or autoregulatory processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwang-Sun Kim
- Systems and Synthetic Biology Research Center; Korea Research Institute of Bioscience & Biotechnology, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, Korea.
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50
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Bernstein DA, Vyas VK, Fink GR. Genes come and go: the evolutionarily plastic path of budding yeast RNase III enzymes. RNA Biol 2012; 9:1123-8. [PMID: 23018782 PMCID: PMC3579876 DOI: 10.4161/rna.21360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Our recent finding that the Candida albicans RNase III enzyme CaDcr1 is an unusual, multifunctional RNase III coupled with data on the RNase III enzymes from other fungal species prompted us to seek a model that explained the evolution of RNase III’s in modern budding yeast species. CaDcr1 has both dicer function (generates small RNA molecules from dsRNA precursors) and Rnt1 function, (catalyzes the maturation of 35S rRNA and U4 snRNA). Some budding yeast species have two distinct genes that encode these functions, a Dicer and RNT1, whereas others have only an RNT1 and no Dicer. As none of the budding yeast species has the canonical Dicer found in many other fungal lineages and most eukaryotes, the extant species must have evolved from an ancestor that lost the canonical Dicer, and evolved a novel Dicer from the essential RNT1 gene. No single, simple model could explain the evolution of RNase III enzymes from this ancestor because existing sequence data are consistent with two equally plausible models. The models share an architecture for RNase III evolution that involves gene duplication, loss, subfunctionalization, and neofunctionalization. This commentary explains our reasoning, and offers the prospect that further genomic data could further resolve the dilemma surrounding the budding yeast RNase III’s evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas A Bernstein
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Nine Cambridge Center, Cambridge, MA, USA
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