1
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Joo SY, Sung K, Lee H. Balancing act: BRCA2's elaborate management of telomere replication through control of G-quadruplex dynamicity. Bioessays 2024; 46:e2300229. [PMID: 38922965 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202300229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
In billion years of evolution, eukaryotes preserved the chromosome ends with arrays of guanine repeats surrounded by thymines and adenines, which can form stacks of four-stranded planar structure known as G-quadruplex (G4). The rationale behind the evolutionary conservation of the G4 structure at the telomere remained elusive. Our recent study has shed light on this matter by revealing that telomere G4 undergoes oscillation between at least two distinct folded conformations. Additionally, tumor suppressor BRCA2 exhibits a unique mode of interaction with telomere G4. To elaborate, BRCA2 directly interacts with G-triplex (G3)-derived intermediates that form during the interconversion of the two different G4 states. In doing so, BRCA2 remodels the G4, facilitating the restart of stalled replication forks. In this review, we succinctly summarize the findings regarding the dynamicity of telomeric G4, emphasize its importance in maintaining telomere replication homeostasis, and the physiological consequences of losing G4 dynamicity at the telomere.
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Affiliation(s)
- So Young Joo
- Department of Biological Sciences & Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics (IMBG), Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Keewon Sung
- Center for RNA Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hyunsook Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences & Institute of Molecular Biology and Genetics (IMBG), Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
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2
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Khayat F, Alshmery M, Pal M, Oliver A, Bianchi A. Binding of the TRF2 iDDR motif to RAD50 highlights a convergent evolutionary strategy to inactivate MRN at telomeres. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:7704-7719. [PMID: 38884214 PMCID: PMC11260466 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae509] [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: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomeres protect chromosome ends from unscheduled DNA repair, including from the MRN (MRE11, RAD50, NBS1) complex, which processes double-stranded DNA breaks (DSBs) via activation of the ATM kinase, promotes DNA end-tethering aiding the non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) pathway, and initiates DSB resection through the MRE11 nuclease. A protein motif (MIN, for MRN inhibitor) inhibits MRN at budding yeast telomeres by binding to RAD50 and evolved at least twice, in unrelated telomeric proteins Rif2 and Taz1. We identify the iDDR motif of human shelterin protein TRF2 as a third example of convergent evolution for this telomeric mechanism for binding MRN, despite the iDDR lacking sequence homology to the MIN motif. CtIP is required for activation of MRE11 nuclease action, and we provide evidence for binding of a short C-terminal region of CtIP to a RAD50 interface that partly overlaps with the iDDR binding site, indicating that the interaction is mutually exclusive. In addition, we show that the iDDR impairs the DNA binding activity of RAD50. These results highlight direct inhibition of MRN action as a crucial role of telomeric proteins across organisms and point to multiple mechanisms enforced by the iDDR to disable the many activities of the MRN complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freddy Khayat
- Genome Damage and Stability Centre, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Majedh Alshmery
- Genome Damage and Stability Centre, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
- Department of Life Sciences, Hafr Al Batin University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohinder Pal
- Genome Damage and Stability Centre, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Antony W Oliver
- Genome Damage and Stability Centre, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - Alessandro Bianchi
- Genome Damage and Stability Centre, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
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3
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Cai SW, Takai H, Zaug AJ, Dilgen TC, Cech TR, Walz T, de Lange T. POT1 recruits and regulates CST-Polα/primase at human telomeres. Cell 2024; 187:3638-3651.e18. [PMID: 38838667 PMCID: PMC11246235 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Telomere maintenance requires the extension of the G-rich telomeric repeat strand by telomerase and the fill-in synthesis of the C-rich strand by Polα/primase. At telomeres, Polα/primase is bound to Ctc1/Stn1/Ten1 (CST), a single-stranded DNA-binding complex. Like mutations in telomerase, mutations affecting CST-Polα/primase result in pathological telomere shortening and cause a telomere biology disorder, Coats plus (CP). We determined cryogenic electron microscopy structures of human CST bound to the shelterin heterodimer POT1/TPP1 that reveal how CST is recruited to telomeres by POT1. Our findings suggest that POT1 hinge phosphorylation is required for CST recruitment, and the complex is formed through conserved interactions involving several residues mutated in CP. Our structural and biochemical data suggest that phosphorylated POT1 holds CST-Polα/primase in an inactive, autoinhibited state until telomerase has extended the telomere ends. We propose that dephosphorylation of POT1 releases CST-Polα/primase into an active state that completes telomere replication through fill-in synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah W Cai
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Genetics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA; Laboratory of Molecular Electron Microscopy, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Hiroyuki Takai
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Genetics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Arthur J Zaug
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80303, USA; BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80303, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80303, USA
| | - Teague C Dilgen
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Genetics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Thomas R Cech
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80303, USA; BioFrontiers Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80303, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80303, USA
| | - Thomas Walz
- Laboratory of Molecular Electron Microscopy, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA.
| | - Titia de Lange
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Genetics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA.
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4
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Stuart A, de Lange T. Replicative senescence is ATM driven, reversible, and accelerated by hyperactivation of ATM at normoxia. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.24.600514. [PMID: 38979390 PMCID: PMC11230194 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.24.600514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Programmed telomere shortening limits tumorigenesis through the induction of replicative senescence. Here we address three long-standing questions concerning senescence. First, we show that the ATM kinase is solely responsible for the induction of replicative senescence. Senescence was delayed by ATM inhibition (ATMi) or overexpression of TRF2, the shelterin subunit dedicated to ATM repression. In contrast, there was no evidence for ATR signaling contributing to replicative senescence even when ATMi was combined with ATR inhibition. Second, we show ATMi can induce apparently normal cell divisions in a subset of senescent cells, indicating that senescence can be reversed. Third, we show that the extended replicative life span at low (physiological) oxygen is due to diminished ATM activity. At low oxygen, cells show a decreased ATM response to dysfunctional telomeres and genome-wide DSBs compared to 20% oxygen. As this effect could be reversed by NAC, the attenuated response of ATM to critically short telomeres and the resulting extended life span at low oxygen is likely due to ROS-induced formation of cysteine disulfide-bridges that crosslink ATM dimers into a form that is not activated by DSBs. These findings show how primary human cells detect shortened telomeres and reveal the molecular mechanism underlying the telomere tumor suppressor pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Stuart
- Laboratory for Cell Biology and Genetics, Rockefeller University, New York, USA
| | - Titia de Lange
- Laboratory for Cell Biology and Genetics, Rockefeller University, New York, USA
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5
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Li B, Xiong W, Zuo W, Shi Y, Wang T, Chang L, Wu Y, Ma H, Bian Q, Chang ACY. Proximal telomeric decompaction due to telomere shortening drives FOXC1-dependent myocardial senescence. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:6269-6284. [PMID: 38634789 PMCID: PMC11194093 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae274] [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: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomeres, TTAGGGn DNA repeat sequences located at the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes, play a pivotal role in aging and are targets of DNA damage response. Although we and others have demonstrated presence of short telomeres in genetic cardiomyopathic and heart failure cardiomyocytes, little is known about the role of telomere lengths in cardiomyocyte. Here, we demonstrate that in heart failure patient cardiomyocytes, telomeres are shortened compared to healthy controls. We generated isogenic human induced pluripotent stem cell derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) with short telomeres (sTL-CMs) and normal telomeres (nTL-CMs) as model. Compared to nTL-CMs, short telomeres result in cardiac dysfunction and expression of senescent markers. Using Hi-C and RNASeq, we observe that short telomeres induced TAD insulation decrease near telomeric ends and this correlated with a transcription upregulation in sTL-CMs. FOXC1, a key transcription factor involved in early cardiogenesis, was upregulated in sTL-CMs and its protein levels were negatively correlated with telomere lengths in heart failure patients. Overexpression of FOXC1 induced hiPSC-CM aging, mitochondrial and contractile dysfunction; knockdown of FOXC1 rescued these phenotypes. Overall, the work presented demonstrate that increased chromatin accessibility due to telomere shortening resulted in the induction of FOXC1-dependent expression network responsible for contractile dysfunction and myocardial senescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Li
- Department of Cardiology and Shanghai Institute of Precision Medicine, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200125, China
| | - Weiyao Xiong
- Department of Cardiology and Shanghai Institute of Precision Medicine, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200125, China
| | - Wu Zuo
- Department of Cardiology and Shanghai Institute of Precision Medicine, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200125, China
| | - Yuanyuan Shi
- Department of Cardiology and Shanghai Institute of Precision Medicine, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200125, China
| | - Teng Wang
- Department of Cardiology and Shanghai Institute of Precision Medicine, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200125, China
| | - Lingling Chang
- Department of Cardiology and Shanghai Institute of Precision Medicine, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200125, China
| | - Yueheng Wu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Heng Ma
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Fourth Military Medical University, No. 169 Changle West Rd, Xi'an 710032, China
| | - Qian Bian
- Department of Cardiology and Shanghai Institute of Precision Medicine, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200125, China
| | - Alex C Y Chang
- Department of Cardiology and Shanghai Institute of Precision Medicine, Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200125, China
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6
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Xiang L, Lou J, Zhao J, Geng Y, Zhang J, Wu Y, Zhao Y, Tao Z, Li Y, Qi J, Chen J, Yang L, Zhou K. Underlying Mechanism of Lysosomal Membrane Permeabilization in CNS Injury: A Literature Review. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04290-6. [PMID: 38888836 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04290-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Lysosomes play a crucial role in various intracellular pathways as their final destination. Various stressors, whether mild or severe, can induce lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP), resulting in the release of lysosomal enzymes into the cytoplasm. LMP not only plays a pivotal role in various cellular events but also significantly contributes to programmed cell death (PCD). Previous research has demonstrated the participation of LMP in central nervous system (CNS) injuries, including traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord injury (SCI), subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). However, the mechanisms underlying LMP in CNS injuries are poorly understood. The occurrence of LMP leads to the activation of inflammatory pathways, increased levels of oxidative stress, and PCD. Herein, we present a comprehensive overview of the latest findings regarding LMP and highlight its functions in cellular events and PCDs (lysosome-dependent cell death, apoptosis, pyroptosis, ferroptosis, and autophagy). In addition, we consolidate the most recent insights into LMP in CNS injury by summarizing and exploring the latest advances. We also review potential therapeutic strategies that aim to preserve LMP or inhibit the release of enzymes from lysosomes to alleviate the consequences of LMP in CNS injury. A better understanding of the role that LMP plays in CNS injury may facilitate the development of strategic treatment options for CNS injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linyi Xiang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Junsheng Lou
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Jiayi Zhao
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Yibo Geng
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Jiacheng Zhang
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Yuzhe Wu
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Yinuo Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310000, China
| | - Zhichao Tao
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Yao Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics, Wenzhou, 325027, China
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China
| | - Jianjun Qi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241001, China.
| | - Jiaoxiang Chen
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
| | - Liangliang Yang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, WenzhouZhejiang, 325035, China.
| | - Kailiang Zhou
- Department of Orthopaedics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopaedics, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
- The Second Clinical Medical College of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325027, China.
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7
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Davis JA, Chakrabarti K. Molecular and Evolutionary Analysis of RNA-Protein Interactions in Telomerase Regulation. Noncoding RNA 2024; 10:36. [PMID: 38921833 PMCID: PMC11206666 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna10030036] [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: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomerase is an enzyme involved in the maintenance of telomeres. Telomere shortening due to the end-replication problem is a threat to the genome integrity of all eukaryotes. Telomerase inside cells depends on a myriad of protein-protein and RNA-protein interactions to properly assemble and regulate the function of the telomerase holoenzyme. These interactions are well studied in model eukaryotes, like humans, yeast, and the ciliated protozoan known as Tetrahymena thermophila. Emerging evidence also suggests that deep-branching eukaryotes, such as the parasitic protist Trypanosoma brucei require conserved and novel RNA-binding proteins for the assembly and function of their telomerase. In this review, we will discuss telomerase regulatory pathways in the context of telomerase-interacting proteins, with special attention paid to RNA-binding proteins. We will discuss these interactors on an evolutionary scale, from parasitic protists to humans, to provide a broader perspective on the extensive role that protein-protein and RNA-protein interactions play in regulating telomerase activity in eukaryotes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kausik Chakrabarti
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA;
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8
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Schmidt TT, Tyer C, Rughani P, Haggblom C, Jones JR, Dai X, Frazer KA, Gage FH, Juul S, Hickey S, Karlseder J. High resolution long-read telomere sequencing reveals dynamic mechanisms in aging and cancer. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5149. [PMID: 38890299 PMCID: PMC11189484 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48917-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are the protective nucleoprotein structures at the end of linear eukaryotic chromosomes. Telomeres' repetitive nature and length have traditionally challenged the precise assessment of the composition and length of individual human telomeres. Here, we present Telo-seq to resolve bulk, chromosome arm-specific and allele-specific human telomere lengths using Oxford Nanopore Technologies' native long-read sequencing. Telo-seq resolves telomere shortening in five population doubling increments and reveals intrasample, chromosome arm-specific, allele-specific telomere length heterogeneity. Telo-seq can reliably discriminate between telomerase- and ALT-positive cancer cell lines. Thus, Telo-seq is a tool to study telomere biology during development, aging, and cancer at unprecedented resolution.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carly Tyer
- Oxford Nanopore Technologies, Inc., New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Candy Haggblom
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Jeffrey R Jones
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Xiaoguang Dai
- Oxford Nanopore Technologies, Inc., New York, NY, USA
| | - Kelly A Frazer
- Institute of Genomic Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0761, USA
| | - Fred H Gage
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Sissel Juul
- Oxford Nanopore Technologies, Inc., New York, NY, USA
| | - Scott Hickey
- Oxford Nanopore Technologies, Inc., New York, NY, USA.
| | - Jan Karlseder
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA.
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9
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Bettin N, Querido E, Gialdini I, Grupelli GP, Goretti E, Cantarelli M, Andolfato M, Soror E, Sontacchi A, Jurikova K, Chartrand P, Cusanelli E. TERRA transcripts localize at long telomeres to regulate telomerase access to chromosome ends. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadk4387. [PMID: 38865460 PMCID: PMC11168465 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adk4387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
The function of TERRA in the regulation of telomerase in human cells is still debated. While TERRA interacts with telomerase, how it regulates telomerase function remains unknown. Here, we show that TERRA colocalizes with the telomerase RNA subunit hTR in the nucleoplasm and at telomeres during different phases of the cell cycle. We report that TERRA transcripts relocate away from chromosome ends during telomere lengthening, leading to a reduced number of telomeric TERRA-hTR molecules and consequent increase in "TERRA-free" telomerase molecules at telomeres. Using live-cell imaging and super-resolution microscopy, we show that upon transcription, TERRA relocates from its telomere of origin to long chromosome ends. Furthermore, TERRA depletion by antisense oligonucleotides promoted hTR localization to telomeres, leading to increased residence time and extended half-life of hTR molecules at telomeres. Overall, our findings indicate that telomeric TERRA transcripts inhibit telomere elongation by telomerase acting in trans, impairing telomerase access to telomeres that are different from their chromosome end of origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Bettin
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department CIBIO, University of Trento, via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Emmanuelle Querido
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Montreal, 2900 boul. Edouard Montpetit, H3T1J4 Montreal, Canada
| | - Irene Gialdini
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department CIBIO, University of Trento, via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Glenda Paola Grupelli
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department CIBIO, University of Trento, via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Elena Goretti
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department CIBIO, University of Trento, via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Marta Cantarelli
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department CIBIO, University of Trento, via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Marta Andolfato
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department CIBIO, University of Trento, via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Eslam Soror
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department CIBIO, University of Trento, via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Alessandra Sontacchi
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department CIBIO, University of Trento, via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Katarina Jurikova
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department CIBIO, University of Trento, via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Ilkovičova 6, Mlynská dolina, 84215 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Pascal Chartrand
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Montreal, 2900 boul. Edouard Montpetit, H3T1J4 Montreal, Canada
| | - Emilio Cusanelli
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department CIBIO, University of Trento, via Sommarive 9, 38123 Trento, Italy
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10
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Teplitz GM, Pasquier E, Bonnell E, De Laurentiis E, Bartle L, Lucier JF, Sholes S, Greider CW, Wellinger RJ. A mechanism for telomere-specific telomere length regulation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.12.598646. [PMID: 38915611 PMCID: PMC11195199 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.12.598646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Telomeric DNA, composed of short, direct repeats, is of crucial importance for chromosome stability. Due to intrinsic problems with replicating this DNA, the repeat tracts shorten at each cell division. Once repeat tracts become critically short, a telomeric stress signal induces cellular senescence and division arrest, which eventually may lead to devastating age-related degenerative diseases associated with dysfunctional telomers. Conversely, maintenance of telomere length by telomerase upregulation is a hallmark of cancer. Therefore, telomere length is a critical determinant of telomere function. How telomere length is established and molecular mechanisms for telomere-specific length regulation remained unknown. Here we show that subtelomeric chromatin is a determinant for how telomere equilibrium set-length is established in cis. The results demonstrate that telomerase recruitment mediated by the telomere-associated Sir4 protein is modulated on chromosome 3L in a telomere-specific way. Increased Sir4 abundance on subtelomeric heterochromatin of this specific telomere leads to telomere lengthening of only that telomere in cis, but not at other telomeres. Therefore, this work describes a mechanism for a how telomere-specific repeat tract length can be established. Further, our results will force the evaluation of telomere length away from a generalized view to a more telomere-specific consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela M. Teplitz
- Department of Microbiology and Infectiology, Faculty of Medicine and Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
| | - Emeline Pasquier
- Department of Microbiology and Infectiology, Faculty of Medicine and Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
- Current Address: CNRS-UMR9019, Gustave Roussy Institute, Villejuif, France
| | - Erin Bonnell
- Department of Microbiology and Infectiology, Faculty of Medicine and Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
| | - Evelina De Laurentiis
- Department of Microbiology and Infectiology, Faculty of Medicine and Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
| | - Louise Bartle
- Department of Microbiology and Infectiology, Faculty of Medicine and Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
- Current Address: School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, The University of Adelaide, Urrbrae, Australia
| | - Jean-François Lucier
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke Canada
| | - Samantha Sholes
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Biochemistry, Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Current Address: Merck & Co., 770 Sumneytown Pike, West Point, USA
| | - Carol W. Greider
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA
- Department of Molecular Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, USA
| | - Raymund J. Wellinger
- Department of Microbiology and Infectiology, Faculty of Medicine and Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
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11
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Brankiewicz-Kopcinska W, Kallingal A, Krzemieniecki R, Baginski M. Targeting shelterin proteins for cancer therapy. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104056. [PMID: 38844065 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
As a global health challenge, cancer prompts continuous exploration for innovative therapies that are also based on new targets. One promising avenue is targeting the shelterin protein complex, a safeguard for telomeres crucial in preventing DNA damage. The role of shelterin in modulating ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) and ataxia-telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) kinases, key players in the DNA damage response (DDR), establishes its significance in cancer cells. Disrupting these defence mechanisms of shelterins, especially in cancer cells, renders telomeres vulnerable, potentially leading to genomic instability and hindering cancer cell survival. In this review, we outline recent approaches exploring shelterins as potential anticancer targets, highlighting the prospect of developing selective molecules to exploit telomere vulnerabilities toward new innovative cancer treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wioletta Brankiewicz-Kopcinska
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland; Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Kirkeveien 166, 0450 Oslo, Norway.
| | - Anoop Kallingal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Radoslaw Krzemieniecki
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Maciej Baginski
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biochemistry, Gdansk University of Technology, G. Narutowicza St 11/12, 80-233 Gdansk, Poland.
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12
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Nageshan RK, Ortega R, Krogan N, Cooper JP. Fate of telomere entanglements is dictated by the timing of anaphase midregion nuclear envelope breakdown. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4707. [PMID: 38830842 PMCID: PMC11148042 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48382-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Persisting replication intermediates can confer mitotic catastrophe. Loss of the fission yeast telomere protein Taz1 (ortholog of mammalian TRF1/TRF2) causes telomeric replication fork (RF) stalling and consequently, telomere entanglements that stretch between segregating mitotic chromosomes. At ≤20 °C, these entanglements fail to resolve, resulting in lethality. Rif1, a conserved DNA replication/repair protein, hinders the resolution of telomere entanglements without affecting their formation. At mitosis, local nuclear envelope (NE) breakdown occurs in the cell's midregion. Here we demonstrate that entanglement resolution occurs in the cytoplasm following this NE breakdown. However, in response to taz1Δ telomeric entanglements, Rif1 delays midregion NE breakdown at ≤20 °C, in turn disfavoring entanglement resolution. Moreover, Rif1 overexpression in an otherwise wild-type setting causes cold-specific NE defects and lethality, which are rescued by membrane fluidization. Hence, NE properties confer the cold-specificity of taz1Δ lethality, which stems from postponement of NE breakdown. We propose that such postponement promotes clearance of simple stalled RFs, but resolution of complex entanglements (involving strand invasion between nonsister telomeres) requires rapid exposure to the cytoplasm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rishi Kumar Nageshan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Raquel Ortega
- Department of Molecular Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - Nevan Krogan
- Quantitative Biosciences Institute (QBI), University of California, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology, University of California, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
- Gladstone Institute of Data Science and Biotechnology, J. David Gladstone Institutes, San Francisco, CA, 94158, USA
| | - Julia Promisel Cooper
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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13
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Shoeb M, Meighan T, Kodali VK, Abadin H, Faroon O, Zarus GM, Erdely A, Antonini JM. TERT-independent telomere elongation and shelterin dysregulation after pulmonary exposure to stainless-steel welding fume in-vivo. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 250:118515. [PMID: 38373547 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
Telomeres are inert DNA sequences (TTAGGG) at the end of chromosomes that protect genetic information and maintain DNA integrity. Emerging evidence has demonstrated that telomere alteration can be closely related to occupational exposure and the development of various disease conditions, including cancer. However, the functions and underlying molecular mechanisms of telomere alteration and shelterin dysregulation after welding fume exposures have not been broadly defined. In this study, we analyzed telomere length and shelterin complex proteins in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and in lung tissue recovered from male Sprague-Dawley rats following exposure by intratracheal instillation (ITI) to 2 mg/rat of manual metal arc-stainless steel (MMA-SS) welding fume particulate or saline (vehicle control). PBMCs and lung tissue were harvested at 30 d after instillation. Our study identified telomere elongation and shelterin dysregulation in PBMCs and lung tissue after welding fume exposure. Mechanistically, telomere elongation was independent of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) activation. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that welding fume-induced telomere elongation was (a) TERT-independent and (b) associated with shelterin complex dysregulation. It is possible that an alteration of telomere length and its regulatory proteins may be utilized as predictive biomarkers for various disease conditions after welding fume exposure. This needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Shoeb
- Office of Innovation and Analytics, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 4770 Buford Highway, Mailstop S106-5, Chamblee, GA, 30341, USA.
| | - Terence Meighan
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Vamsi K Kodali
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - Henry Abadin
- Office of Innovation and Analytics, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 4770 Buford Highway, Mailstop S106-5, Chamblee, GA, 30341, USA
| | - Obaid Faroon
- Office of Innovation and Analytics, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 4770 Buford Highway, Mailstop S106-5, Chamblee, GA, 30341, USA
| | - Gregory M Zarus
- Office of Innovation and Analytics, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 4770 Buford Highway, Mailstop S106-5, Chamblee, GA, 30341, USA
| | - Aaron Erdely
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
| | - James M Antonini
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, WV, 26505, USA
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14
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Coelho MA, David-Palma M, Shea T, Bowers K, McGinley-Smith S, Mohammad AW, Gnirke A, Yurkov AM, Nowrousian M, Sun S, Cuomo CA, Heitman J. Comparative genomics of the closely related fungal genera Cryptococcus and Kwoniella reveals karyotype dynamics and suggests evolutionary mechanisms of pathogenesis. PLoS Biol 2024; 22:e3002682. [PMID: 38843310 PMCID: PMC11185503 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024] Open
Abstract
In exploring the evolutionary trajectories of both pathogenesis and karyotype dynamics in fungi, we conducted a large-scale comparative genomic analysis spanning the Cryptococcus genus, encompassing both global human fungal pathogens and nonpathogenic species, and related species from the sister genus Kwoniella. Chromosome-level genome assemblies were generated for multiple species, covering virtually all known diversity within these genera. Although Cryptococcus and Kwoniella have comparable genome sizes (about 19.2 and 22.9 Mb) and similar gene content, hinting at preadaptive pathogenic potential, our analysis found evidence of gene gain (via horizontal gene transfer) and gene loss in pathogenic Cryptococcus species, which might represent evolutionary signatures of pathogenic development. Genome analysis also revealed a significant variation in chromosome number and structure between the 2 genera. By combining synteny analysis and experimental centromere validation, we found that most Cryptococcus species have 14 chromosomes, whereas most Kwoniella species have fewer (11, 8, 5, or even as few as 3). Reduced chromosome number in Kwoniella is associated with formation of giant chromosomes (up to 18 Mb) through repeated chromosome fusion events, each marked by a pericentric inversion and centromere loss. While similar chromosome inversion-fusion patterns were observed in all Kwoniella species with fewer than 14 chromosomes, no such pattern was detected in Cryptococcus. Instead, Cryptococcus species with less than 14 chromosomes showed reductions primarily through rearrangements associated with the loss of repeat-rich centromeres. Additionally, Cryptococcus genomes exhibited frequent interchromosomal translocations, including intercentromeric recombination facilitated by transposons shared between centromeres. Overall, our findings advance our understanding of genetic changes possibly associated with pathogenicity in Cryptococcus and provide a foundation to elucidate mechanisms of centromere loss and chromosome fusion driving distinct karyotypes in closely related fungal species, including prominent global human pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco A. Coelho
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Márcia David-Palma
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Terrance Shea
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Katharine Bowers
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Sage McGinley-Smith
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Arman W. Mohammad
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Andreas Gnirke
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Andrey M. Yurkov
- Leibniz Institute DSMZ-German Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Minou Nowrousian
- Lehrstuhl für Molekulare und Zelluläre Botanik, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Sheng Sun
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Christina A. Cuomo
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Joseph Heitman
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
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15
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Qiu YD, Yan Q, Wang Y, Ye YF, Wang Y, Wang MY, Wang PP, Zhang SY, Wang DL, Yan H, Ruan J, Zhao YJ, Huang LH, Cho N, Wang K, Zheng XH, Liu ZG. Discovery of a selective TRF2 inhibitor FKB04 induced telomere shortening and senescence in liver cancer cells. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:1276-1286. [PMID: 38438580 PMCID: PMC11130216 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-024-01243-6] [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: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomere repeat binding factor 2 (TRF2), a critical element of the shelterin complex, plays a vital role in the maintenance of genome integrity. TRF2 overexpression is found in a wide range of malignant cancers, whereas its down-regulation could cause cell death. Despite its potential role, the selectively small-molecule inhibitors of TRF2 and its therapeutic effects on liver cancer remain largely unknown. Our clinical data combined with bioinformatic analysis demonstrated that TRF2 is overexpressed in liver cancer and that high expression is associated with poor prognosis. Flavokavain B derivative FKB04 potently inhibited TRF2 expression in liver cancer cells while having limited effects on the other five shelterin subunits. Moreover, FKB04 treatment induced telomere shortening and increased the amounts of telomere-free ends, leading to the destruction of T-loop structure. Consequently, FKB04 promoted liver cancer cell senescence without modulating apoptosis levels. In corroboration with these findings, FKB04 inhibited tumor cell growth by promoting telomeric TRF2 deficiency-induced telomere shortening in a mouse xenograft tumor model, with no obvious side effects. These results demonstrate that TRF2 is a potential therapeutic target for liver cancer and suggest that FKB04 may be a selective small-molecule inhibitor of TRF2, showing promise in the treatment of liver cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-da Qiu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
- College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Qi Yan
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Yi Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Yan-Fei Ye
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Yan Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Meng-Ying Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Pei-Pei Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Shu-Yuan Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Da-Long Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Hao Yan
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Jing Ruan
- Department of Pathology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
| | - Yun-Jie Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Le-Hao Huang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Namki Cho
- College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Kun Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China
| | - Xiao-Hui Zheng
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
| | - Zhi-Guo Liu
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
- Oujiang Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, China.
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16
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Hinchie AM, Sanford SL, Loughridge KE, Sutton RM, Parikh AH, Gil Silva AA, Sullivan DI, Chun-On P, Morrell MR, McDyer JF, Opresko PL, Alder JK. A persistent variant telomere sequence in a human pedigree. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4681. [PMID: 38824190 PMCID: PMC11144197 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49072-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
The telomere sequence, TTAGGG, is conserved across all vertebrates and plays an essential role in suppressing the DNA damage response by binding a set of proteins termed shelterin. Changes in the telomere sequence impair shelterin binding, initiate a DNA damage response, and are toxic to cells. Here we identify a family with a variant in the telomere template sequence of telomerase, the enzyme responsible for telomere elongation, that led to a non-canonical telomere sequence. The variant is inherited across at least one generation and one family member reports no significant medical concerns despite ~9% of their telomeres converting to the novel sequence. The variant template disrupts telomerase repeat addition processivity and decreased the binding of the telomere-binding protein POT1. Despite these disruptions, the sequence is readily incorporated into cellular chromosomes. Incorporation of a variant sequence prevents POT1-mediated inhibition of telomerase suggesting that incorporation of a variant sequence may influence telomere addition. These findings demonstrate that telomeres can tolerate substantial degeneracy while remaining functional and provide insights as to how incorporation of a non-canonical telomere sequence might alter telomere length dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela M Hinchie
- Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Samantha L Sanford
- Environmental and Occupational Health Department, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Kelly E Loughridge
- Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Rachel M Sutton
- Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Anishka H Parikh
- Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Agustin A Gil Silva
- Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Daniel I Sullivan
- Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Pattra Chun-On
- Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Matthew R Morrell
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - John F McDyer
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Patricia L Opresko
- Environmental and Occupational Health Department, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- Pharmacology and Chemical Biology Department, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Jonathan K Alder
- Dorothy P. and Richard P. Simmons Center for Interstitial Lung Disease, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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17
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Sonmez C, Toia B, Eickhoff P, Matei AM, El Beyrouthy M, Wallner B, Douglas ME, de Lange T, Lottersberger F. DNA-PK controls Apollo's access to leading-end telomeres. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:4313-4327. [PMID: 38407308 PMCID: PMC11077071 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae105] [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: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The complex formed by Ku70/80 and DNA-PKcs (DNA-PK) promotes the synapsis and the joining of double strand breaks (DSBs) during canonical non-homologous end joining (c-NHEJ). In c-NHEJ during V(D)J recombination, DNA-PK promotes the processing of the ends and the opening of the DNA hairpins by recruiting and/or activating the nuclease Artemis/DCLRE1C/SNM1C. Paradoxically, DNA-PK is also required to prevent the fusions of newly replicated leading-end telomeres. Here, we describe the role for DNA-PK in controlling Apollo/DCLRE1B/SNM1B, the nuclease that resects leading-end telomeres. We show that the telomeric function of Apollo requires DNA-PKcs's kinase activity and the binding of Apollo to DNA-PK. Furthermore, AlphaFold-Multimer predicts that Apollo's nuclease domain has extensive additional interactions with DNA-PKcs, and comparison to the cryo-EM structure of Artemis bound to DNA-PK phosphorylated on the ABCDE/Thr2609 cluster suggests that DNA-PK can similarly grant Apollo access to the DNA end. In agreement, the telomeric function of DNA-PK requires the ABCDE/Thr2609 cluster. These data reveal that resection of leading-end telomeres is regulated by DNA-PK through its binding to Apollo and its (auto)phosphorylation-dependent positioning of Apollo at the DNA end, analogous but not identical to DNA-PK dependent regulation of Artemis at hairpins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ceylan Sonmez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping 58 183, Sweden
| | - Beatrice Toia
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping 58 183, Sweden
| | - Patrik Eickhoff
- Chester Beatty Laboratories, The Institute of Cancer Research, 237 Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Andreea Medeea Matei
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping 58 183, Sweden
| | - Michael El Beyrouthy
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping 58 183, Sweden
| | - Björn Wallner
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Linköping University, Linköping 58 183, Sweden
| | - Max E Douglas
- Chester Beatty Laboratories, The Institute of Cancer Research, 237 Fulham Road, London SW3 6JB, UK
| | - Titia de Lange
- Laboratory for Cell Biology and Genetics, The Rockefeller University, 1230 York Avenue, NY, NY 10021, USA
| | - Francisca Lottersberger
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping 58 183, Sweden
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18
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Duseikaite M, Gedvilaite G, Mikuzis P, Andrulionyte J, Kriauciuniene L, Liutkeviciene R. Investigating the Relationship between Telomere-Related Gene Variants and Leukocyte Telomere Length in Optic Neuritis Patients. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2694. [PMID: 38731223 PMCID: PMC11084964 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13092694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Optic neuritis (ON) is a condition marked by optic nerve inflammation due to various potential triggers. Research indicates a link between telomeres and inflammation, as studies demonstrate that inflammation can lead to increased telomere shortening. Aim: We aimed to determine the associations of telomere-related telomeric repeat binding factor 1 (TERF1) rs1545827, rs10107605, and telomeric repeat binding factor 2 (TERF2) rs251796 polymorphisms and relative leukocyte telomere length (LTL) with the occurrence of ON. Methods: In this research, a total of 73 individuals diagnosed with optic neuritis (ON) were studied and the control group included 170 individuals without any health issues. The DNA samples were obtained from peripheral blood leukocytes, which were purified using the DNA salting-out technique. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assessed single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and relative leukocyte telomere lengths (LTL). The data obtained were processed and analyzed using the "IBM SPSS Statistics 29.0" program. Results: Our study revealed the following results: in the male group, TERF2 rs251796 (AA, AG, and TT) statistically significantly differed between the long and short telomere group, with frequencies of 65.7%, 22.9%, and 2.0% in long telomeres, compared to 35.1%, 56.8%, and 8.1% in the short telomere group (p = 0.013). The TERF2 rs251796 CT genotype, compared to CC, under the codominant genetic model, was associated with 4.7-fold decreased odds of telomere shortening (p = 0.005). Meanwhile, CT+TT genotypes, compared to CC under the dominant genetic model, were associated with 3.5-fold decreased odds of telomere shortening (p = 0.011). Also, the CT genotype, compared to CC+TT, under the overdominant genetic model, was associated with 4.4-fold decreased odds of telomere shortening (p = 0.004). Conclusions: The current evidence may suggest a protective role of TERF2 rs251796 in the occurrence of ON in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Duseikaite
- Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Institute of Neuroscience, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eivenių Street 2, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania; (G.G.); (L.K.); (R.L.)
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Sukilėlių Pr. 13, LT-50166 Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Greta Gedvilaite
- Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Institute of Neuroscience, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eivenių Street 2, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania; (G.G.); (L.K.); (R.L.)
- Medical Faculty, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania; (P.M.); (J.A.)
| | - Paulius Mikuzis
- Medical Faculty, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania; (P.M.); (J.A.)
| | - Juste Andrulionyte
- Medical Faculty, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania; (P.M.); (J.A.)
| | - Loresa Kriauciuniene
- Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Institute of Neuroscience, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eivenių Street 2, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania; (G.G.); (L.K.); (R.L.)
| | - Rasa Liutkeviciene
- Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Institute of Neuroscience, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eivenių Street 2, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania; (G.G.); (L.K.); (R.L.)
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19
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Doksani Y, Lottersberger F. The risky business of ADP-ribosylating telomeric DNA. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2024; 31:737-738. [PMID: 38714888 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-024-01285-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Ylli Doksani
- IFOM ETS - The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Milan, Italy.
| | - Francisca Lottersberger
- Division of Molecular Medicine and Virology, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
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20
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Audry J, Zhang H, Kerr C, Berkner KL, Runge K. Ccq1 restrains Mre11-mediated degradation to distinguish short telomeres from double-strand breaks. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:3722-3739. [PMID: 38321948 PMCID: PMC11040153 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkae044] [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: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomeres protect chromosome ends and are distinguished from DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) by means of a specialized chromatin composed of DNA repeats bound by a multiprotein complex called shelterin. We investigated the role of telomere-associated proteins in establishing end-protection by studying viable mutants lacking these proteins. Mutants were studied using a Schizosaccharomyces pombe model system that induces cutting of a 'proto-telomere' bearing telomere repeats to rapidly form a new stable chromosomal end, in contrast to the rapid degradation of a control DSB. Cells lacking the telomere-associated proteins Taz1, Rap1, Poz1 or Rif1 formed a chromosome end that was stable. Surprisingly, cells lacking Ccq1, or impaired for recruiting Ccq1 to the telomere, converted the cleaved proto-telomere to a rapidly degraded DSB. Ccq1 recruits telomerase, establishes heterochromatin and affects DNA damage checkpoint activation; however, these functions were separable from protection of the new telomere by Ccq1. In cells lacking Ccq1, telomere degradation was greatly reduced by eliminating the nuclease activity of Mre11 (part of the Mre11-Rad50-Nbs1/Xrs2 DSB processing complex), and higher amounts of nuclease-deficient Mre11 associated with the new telomere. These results demonstrate a novel function for S. pombe Ccq1 to effect end-protection by restraining Mre11-dependent degradation of the DNA end.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Audry
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Haitao Zhang
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Carly Kerr
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Kathleen L Berkner
- Department of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
| | - Kurt W Runge
- Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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21
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Padmanaban S, Lambacher NJ, Tesmer VM, Zhang J, Shibuya H, Nandakumar J. Caenorhabditis elegans telomere-binding proteins TEBP-1 and TEBP-2 adapt the Myb module to dimerize and bind telomeric DNA. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2316651121. [PMID: 38588418 PMCID: PMC11032478 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2316651121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Protecting chromosome ends from misrecognition as double-stranded (ds) DNA breaks is fundamental to eukaryotic viability. The protein complex shelterin prevents a DNA damage response at mammalian telomeres. Mammalian shelterin proteins TRF1 and TRF2 and their homologs in yeast and protozoa protect telomeric dsDNA. N-terminal homodimerization and C-terminal Myb-domain-mediated dsDNA binding are two structural hallmarks of end protection by TRF homologs. Yet our understanding of how Caenorhabditis elegans protects its telomeric dsDNA is limited. Recently identified C. elegans proteins TEBP-1 (also called DTN-1) and TEBP-2 (also called DTN-2) are functional homologs of TRF proteins, but how they bind DNA and whether or how they dimerize is not known. TEBP-1 and TEBP-2 harbor three Myb-containing domains (MCDs) and no obvious dimerization domain. We demonstrate biochemically that only the third MCD binds DNA. We solve the X-ray crystal structure of TEBP-2 MCD3 with telomeric dsDNA to reveal the structural mechanism of telomeric dsDNA protection in C. elegans. Mutagenesis of the DNA-binding site of TEBP-1 and TEBP-2 compromises DNA binding in vitro, and increases DNA damage signaling, lengthens telomeres, and decreases brood size in vivo. Via an X-ray crystal structure, biochemical validation of the dimerization interface, and SEC-MALS analysis, we demonstrate that MCD1 and MCD2 form a composite dimerization module that facilitates not only TEBP-1 and TEBP-2 homodimerization but also heterodimerization. These findings provide fundamental insights into C. elegans telomeric dsDNA protection and highlight how different eukaryotes have evolved distinct strategies to solve the chromosome end protection problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa Padmanaban
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI48109
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO63110
| | - Nils J. Lambacher
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden41390
| | - Valerie M. Tesmer
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI48109
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden41390
| | - Hiroki Shibuya
- Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden41390
- Laboratory for Gametogenesis, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe650-0047, Japan
| | - Jayakrishnan Nandakumar
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI48109
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22
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Shou S, Li Y, Chen J, Zhang X, Zhang C, Jiang X, Liu F, Yi L, Zhang X, Geer E, Pu Z, Pang B. Understanding, diagnosing, and treating pancreatic cancer from the perspective of telomeres and telomerase. Cancer Gene Ther 2024:10.1038/s41417-024-00768-6. [PMID: 38594465 DOI: 10.1038/s41417-024-00768-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Telomerase is associated with cellular aging, and its presence limits cellular lifespan. Telomerase by preventing telomere shortening can extend the number of cell divisions for cancer cells. In adult pancreatic cells, telomeres gradually shorten, while in precancerous lesions of cancer, telomeres in cells are usually significantly shortened. At this time, telomerase is still in an inactive state, and it is not until before and after the onset of cancer that telomerase is reactivated, causing cancer cells to proliferate. Methylation of the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter and regulation of telomerase by lactate dehydrogenase B (LDHB) is the mechanism of telomerase reactivation in pancreatic cancer. Understanding the role of telomeres and telomerase in pancreatic cancer will help to diagnose and initiate targeted therapy as early as possible. This article reviews the role of telomeres and telomerase as biomarkers in the development of pancreatic cancer and the progress of research on telomeres and telomerase as targets for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songting Shou
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanliang Li
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiaqin Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Xing Zhang
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chuanlong Zhang
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaochen Jiang
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Fudong Liu
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Li Yi
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiyuan Zhang
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - En Geer
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenqing Pu
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Pang
- Guang'anmen Hospital, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China.
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23
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Li C, Yang J, Chu L, Tian J, Xiao J, Huang Y, Wang Q, Guo B, Huang L, Hu Y, Luo Y. The function of Bazhen decoction in rescuing progeroid cell senescence via facilitating G-quadruplex resolving and telomere elongation. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 323:117694. [PMID: 38163559 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The Bazhen decoction is one of the most extensively used Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) prescriptions for treatment of aging related diseases. However, due to the complexity of the components, the pharmacological mechanism of Bazhen decoction is still limited. AIM OF THE STUDY In this study, with the aim of helping the clinical precision medicine of TCM, we try out a systematic analysis for dissecting the molecular mechanism of complicated TCM prescription: Bazhen decoction. We identify the pharmacological mechanism of Bazhen decoction in telomere elongation as revealed by systematic analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS By RNA sequencing and transcriptome analysis of Bazhen decoction treated wild type cells, we reveal the transcriptome profile induced by Bazhen decoction. We utilized the cells derived from Werner syndrome (WS) mice, which is known to be dysfunctional in telomere elongation due to the deficiency of DNA helicase Wrn. By Western blot, qPCR, Immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, telomere FISH, and SA-β-Gal staining, we verify the transcriptome data and confirm the pharmacological function of Bazhen decoction and its drug containing serum in telomere elongation and reversing progeroid cell senescence. RESULTS We reveal that Bazhen decoction may systematically regulate multiple anti-aging pathways, including stem cell regulation, protein homeostasis, cardiovascular function, neuronal function, anti-inflammation, anti-DNA damage induced stress, DNA helicase activity and telomere lengthening. We find that Bazhen decoction and its drug containing serum could up-regulate multiple DNA helicases and telomere regulating proteins. The increased DNA helicases promote the resolving of G-quadruplex (G4) structures, and facilitate DNA replication and telomere elongation. These improvements also endow the cellular resistance to DNA damages induced by replication stress, and rescue the WS caused cellular senescence. CONCLUSIONS Together these data suggest that Bazhen decoction up-regulate the expression of DNA helicases, thus facilitate G4 resolving and telomere maintenance, which rescue the progeroid cellular senescence and contribute to its anti-aging properties. Our data reveal a new molecular mechanism of Bazhen decoction in anti-aging related diseases via elongating telomere, this may shed light in the application of Bazhen decoction in multiple degenerative diseases caused by telomere erosion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanbiao Li
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou, China
| | - Lili Chu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou, China
| | - Jie Tian
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou, China
| | - Jinchao Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou, China
| | - Yong Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Functions and Applications of Medicinal Plants, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou, China
| | - Qianqian Wang
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou, China
| | - Bing Guo
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou, China
| | - Liming Huang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guizhou, China
| | - Ying Hu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou, China.
| | - Ying Luo
- Department of Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guizhou, China.
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24
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Singh M, Raseley K, Perez AM, MacKenzie D, Kosiyatrakul ST, Desai S, Batista N, Guru N, Loomba KK, Abid HZ, Wang Y, Udo-Bellner L, Stout RF, Schildkraut CL, Xiao M, Zhang D. Elucidation of the molecular mechanism of the breakage-fusion-bridge (BFB) cycle using a CRISPR-dCas9 cellular model. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.03.587951. [PMID: 38617299 PMCID: PMC11014597 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.03.587951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Chromosome instability (CIN) is frequently observed in many tumors. The breakage-fusion-bridge (BFB) cycle has been proposed to be one of the main drivers of CIN during tumorigenesis and tumor evolution. However, the detailed mechanisms for the individual steps of the BFB cycle warrants further investigation. Here, we demonstrated that a nuclease-dead Cas9 (dCas9) coupled with a telomere-specific single-guide RNA (sgTelo) can be used to model the BFB cycle. First, we showed that targeting dCas9 to telomeres using sgTelo impeded DNA replication at telomeres and induced a pronounced increase of replication stress and DNA damage. Using Single-Molecule Telomere Assay via Optical Mapping (SMTA-OM), we investigated the genome-wide features of telomeres in the dCas9/sgTelo cells and observed a dramatic increase of chromosome end fusions, including fusion/ITS+ and fusion/ITS-.Consistently, we also observed an increase in the formation of dicentric chromosomes, anaphase bridges, and intercellular telomeric chromosome bridges (ITCBs). Utilizing the dCas9/sgTelo system, we uncovered many novel molecular and structural features of the ITCB and demonstrated that multiple DNA repair pathways are implicated in the formation of ITCBs. Our studies shed new light on the molecular mechanisms of the BFB cycle, which will advance our understanding of tumorigenesis, tumor evolution, and drug resistance.
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25
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Córdova-Oriz I, Polonio AM, Cuadrado-Torroglosa I, Chico-Sordo L, Medrano M, García-Velasco JA, Varela E. Chromosome ends and the theory of marginotomy: implications for reproduction. Biogerontology 2024; 25:227-248. [PMID: 37943366 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-023-10071-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Telomeres are the protective structures located at the ends of linear chromosomes. They were first described in the 1930s, but their biology remained unexplored until the early 70s, when Alexey M. Olovnikov, a theoretical biologist, suggested that telomeres cannot be fully copied during DNA replication. He proposed a theory that linked this phenomenon with the limit of cell proliferation capacity and the "duration of life" (theory of marginotomy), and suggested a potential of telomere lenghthening for the prevention of aging (anti-marginotomy). The impact of proliferative telomere shortening on life expectancy was later confirmed. In humans, telomere shortening is counteracted by telomerase, an enzyme that is undetectable in most adult somatic cells, but present in cancer cells and adult and embryonic stem and germ cells. Although telomere length dynamics are different in male and female gametes during gametogenesis, telomere lengths are reset at the blastocyst stage, setting the initial length of the species. The role of the telomere pathway in reproduction has been explored for years, mainly because of increased infertility resulting from delayed childbearing. Short telomere length in ovarian somatic cells is associated to decreased fertility and higher aneuploidy rates in embryos. Consequently, there is a growing interest in telomere lengthening strategies, aimed at improving fertility. It has also been observed that lifestyle factors can affect telomere length and improve fertility outcomes. In this review, we discuss the implications of telomere theory in fertility, especially in oocytes, spermatozoa, and embryos, as well as therapies to enhance reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Córdova-Oriz
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Alba M Polonio
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Isabel Cuadrado-Torroglosa
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Lucía Chico-Sordo
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Marta Medrano
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Juan A García-Velasco
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Edificio Departamental II, Rey Juan Carlos University, Av. de Atenas, s/n, 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa Varela
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain.
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Edificio Departamental II, Rey Juan Carlos University, Av. de Atenas, s/n, 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain.
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26
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Savage SA. Telomere length and cancer risk: finding Goldilocks. Biogerontology 2024; 25:265-278. [PMID: 38109000 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-023-10080-9] [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: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Telomeres are the nucleoprotein complex at chromosome ends essential in genomic stability. Baseline telomere length (TL) is determined by rare and common germline genetic variants but shortens with age and is susceptible to certain environmental exposures. Cellular senescence or apoptosis are normally triggered when telomeres reach a critically short length, but cancer cells overcome these protective mechanisms and continue to divide despite chromosomal instability. Rare germline variants in telomere maintenance genes cause exceedingly short telomeres for age (< 1st percentile) and the telomere biology disorders, which are associated with elevated risks of bone marrow failure, myelodysplastic syndrome, acute myeloid leukemia, and squamous cell carcinoma of the head/neck and anogenital regions. Long telomeres due to rare germline variants in the same or different telomere maintenance genes are associated with elevated risks of other cancers, such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia or sarcoma. Early epidemiology studies of TL in the general population lacked reproducibility but new methods, including creation of a TL polygenic score using common variants, have found longer telomeres associated with excess risks of renal cell carcinoma, glioma, lung cancer, and others. It has become clear that when it comes to TL and cancer etiology, not too short, not too long, but "just right" telomeres are important in minimizing cancer risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon A Savage
- Clinical Genetics Branch, Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, 9609 Medical Center Drive, 6E456, Bethesda, MD, 20892-6772, USA.
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27
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Vaurs M, Dolu EB, Decottignies A. Mitochondria and telomeres: hand in glove. Biogerontology 2024; 25:289-300. [PMID: 37864609 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-023-10074-7] [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: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Born as an endosymbiont, the bacteria engulfed by the proto-eukaryotic cell more than 1.45 billion years ago progressively evolved as an important organelle with multiple interactions with the host cell. In particular, strong connections between mitochondria and the chromosome ends, the telomeres, led to propose a new theory of ageing in which dysfunctional telomeres and mitochondria are the main actors of a vicious circle reducing cell fitness and promoting cellular ageing. We review the evidences that oxidative stress and dysfunctional mitochondria damage telomeres and further discuss the interrelationship between telomere biology and mitochondria through the lens of telomerase which shuttles between the nucleus and mitochondria. Finally, we elaborate on the possible role of the mitochondrial genome on the inheritance of human telomere length through the expression of mitochondrial gene variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélina Vaurs
- de Duve Institute, UCLouvain, Avenue Hippocrate, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Elif Beyza Dolu
- de Duve Institute, UCLouvain, Avenue Hippocrate, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
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28
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Nordenskiöld L, Shi X, Korolev N, Zhao L, Zhai Z, Lindman B. Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) in DNA and chromatin systems from the perspective of colloid physical chemistry. Adv Colloid Interface Sci 2024; 326:103133. [PMID: 38547652 DOI: 10.1016/j.cis.2024.103133] [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: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
DNA is a highly charged polyelectrolyte and is prone to associative phase separation driven by the presence of multivalent cations, charged surfactants, proteins, polymers and colloids. The process of DNA phase separation induced by positively charged species is often called DNA condensation. Generally, it refers to either intramolecular DNA compaction (coil-globule transition) or intermolecular DNA aggregation with macroscopic phase separation, but the formation of a DNA liquid crystalline system is also displayed. This has traditionally been described by polyelectrolyte theory and qualitative (Flory-Huggins-based) polymer theory approaches. DNA in the cell nucleus is packed into chromatin wound around the histone octamer (a protein complex comprising two copies each of the four histone proteins H2A, H2B, H3 and H4) to form nucleosomes separated by linker DNA. During the last decade, the phenomenon of the formation of biomolecular condensates (dynamic droplets) by liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) has emerged as a generally important mechanism for the formation of membraneless organelles from proteins, nucleic acids and their complexes. DNA and chromatin droplet formation through LLPS has recently received much attention by in vitro as well as in vivo studies that established the importance of this for compartmentalisation in the cell nucleus. Here, we review DNA and chromatin LLPS from a general colloid physical chemistry perspective. We start with a general discussion of colloidal phase separation in aqueous solutions and review the original (pre-LLPS era) work on DNA (macroscopic) phase separation for simpler systems with DNA in the presence of multivalent cations and well-defined surfactants and colloids. Following that, we discuss and illustrate the similarities of such macroscopic phase separation with the general behaviour of LLPS droplet formation by associative phase separation for DNA-protein systems, including chromatin; we also note cases of segregative association. The review ends with a discussion of chromatin LLPS in vivo and its physiological significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Nordenskiöld
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551, Singapore.
| | - Xiangyan Shi
- Department of Biology, Shenzhen MSU-BIT University, Shenzhen 518172, China.
| | - Nikolay Korolev
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551, Singapore
| | - Lei Zhao
- Department of Biology, Shenzhen MSU-BIT University, Shenzhen 518172, China
| | - Ziwei Zhai
- Department of Biology, Shenzhen MSU-BIT University, Shenzhen 518172, China
| | - Björn Lindman
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637551, Singapore; Physical Chemistry, University of Lund, P.O. Box 124, S-221 00 Lund, Sweden; Coimbra Chemistry Centre, Department of Chemistry, University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-535 Coimbra, Portugal.
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29
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Yudin NS, Igoshin AV, Romashov GA, Martynov AA, Larkin DM. Influence of breed and environment on leukocyte telomere length in cattle. Vavilovskii Zhurnal Genet Selektsii 2024; 28:190-197. [PMID: 38680187 PMCID: PMC11043504 DOI: 10.18699/vjgb-24-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
High milk yield is associated with reduced longevity in high-producing dairy cattle breeds. Pre-term culling leads to high replacement heifer demand and economic losses for the dairy industry. Selection for this trait is limited because of low heritability and difficulties in phenotype measurement. Telomeres are elements found at the ends of chromosomes, consisting of repetitive DNA sequences, several thousand base pairs in length, coupled with nucleoprotein complexes. Eventually, in humans and most other animals, telomere length reduces with age. When telomeric DNA is truncated to a critical length, cell ageing, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis are induced. As a result, telomere length can be considered as a predictor of health risks and an individual's lifespan. The leukocyte telomere length may be used as a proxy phenotype of productive lifespan to improve cattle selection. Our objectives were to assess the effects of breed and breed group (dairy vs. beef) on the leukocyte telomere length and to estimate the effect of cold climate on this trait in Kalmyk cattle populations from the South (Rostov Oblast) and Far North (Republic of Sakha) regions of Russia. The leukocyte telomere lengths were estimated computationally from whole-genome resequencing data. We leveraged data on leukocyte telomere length, sex, and age of 239 animals from 17 cattle breeds. The breed factor had a significant effect on leukocyte telomere length across our sample. There was no difference in leukocyte telomere length between dairy and beef groups. The population factor had a significant effect on leukocyte telomere length in Kalmyk animals. In conclusion, we found that breed, but not breed group (dairy vs. beef), was significantly associated with leukocyte telomere length in cattle. Residence in colder climates was associated with longer leukocyte telomere length in Kalmyk breed cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- N S Yudin
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - A V Igoshin
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - G A Romashov
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - A A Martynov
- Arctic State Agrotechnological University, Yakutsk, Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), Russia
| | - D M Larkin
- Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London United Kingdom
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30
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Bartle L, Wellinger RJ. Methods that shaped telomerase research. Biogerontology 2024; 25:249-263. [PMID: 37903970 PMCID: PMC10998806 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-023-10073-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
Telomerase, the ribonucleoprotein (RNP) responsible for telomere maintenance, has a complex life. Complex in that it is made of multiple proteins and an RNA, and complex because it undergoes many changes, and passes through different cell compartments. As such, many methods have been developed to discover telomerase components, delve deep into understanding its structure and function and to figure out how telomerase biology ultimately relates to human health and disease. While some old gold-standard methods are still key for determining telomere length and measuring telomerase activity, new technologies are providing promising new ways to gain detailed information that we have never had access to before. Therefore, we thought it timely to briefly review the methods that have revealed information about the telomerase RNP and outline some of the remaining questions that could be answered using new methodology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Bartle
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Applied Cancer Research Pavilion, 3201 rue Jean-Mignault, Sherbrooke, QC, J1E 4K8, Canada
| | - Raymund J Wellinger
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Applied Cancer Research Pavilion, 3201 rue Jean-Mignault, Sherbrooke, QC, J1E 4K8, Canada.
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31
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Ozturk S. The close relationship between oocyte aging and telomere shortening, and possible interventions for telomere protection. Mech Ageing Dev 2024; 218:111913. [PMID: 38307343 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2024.111913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
As women delay childbearing due to socioeconomic reasons, understanding molecular mechanisms decreasing oocyte quantity and quality during ovarian aging becomes increasingly important. The ovary undergoes biological aging at a higher pace when compared to other organs. As is known, telomeres play crucial roles in maintaining genomic integrity, and their shortening owing to increased reactive oxygen species, consecutive cellular divisions, genetic and epigenetic alterations is associated with loss of developmental competence of oocytes. Novel interventions such as antioxidant treatments and regulation of gene expression are being investigated to prevent or rescue telomere attrition and thereby oocyte aging. Herein, potential factors and molecular mechanisms causing telomere shortening in aging oocytes were comprehensively reviewed. For the purpose of extending reproductive lifespan, possible therapeutic interventions to protect telomere length were also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saffet Ozturk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey.
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Bories C, Lejour T, Adolphe F, Kermasson L, Couvé S, Tanguy L, Luszczewska G, Watzky M, Poillerat V, Garnier P, Groisman R, Ferlicot S, Richard S, Saparbaev M, Revy P, Gad S, Renaud F. DCLRE1B/Apollo germline mutations associated with renal cell carcinoma impair telomere protection. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:167107. [PMID: 38430974 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2024.167107] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Hereditary renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is caused by germline mutations in a subset of genes, including VHL, MET, FLCN, and FH. However, many familial RCC cases do not harbor mutations in the known predisposition genes. Using Whole Exome Sequencing, we identified two germline missense variants in the DCLRE1B/Apollo gene (ApolloN246I and ApolloY273H) in two unrelated families with several RCC cases. Apollo encodes an exonuclease involved in DNA Damage Response and Repair (DDRR) and telomere integrity. We characterized these two functions in the human renal epithelial cell line HKC8. The decrease or inhibition of Apollo expression sensitizes these cells to DNA interstrand crosslink damage (ICLs). HKC8 Apollo-/- cells appear defective in the DDRR and present an accumulation of telomere damage. Wild-type and mutated Apollo forms could interact with TRF2, a shelterin protein involved in telomere protection. However, only ApolloWT can rescue the telomere damage in HKC8 Apollo-/- cells. Our results strongly suggest that ApolloN246I and ApolloY273H are loss-of-function mutants that cause impaired telomere integrity and could lead to genomic instability. Altogether, our results suggest that mutations in Apollo could induce renal oncogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlie Bories
- EPHE, PSL Université, Paris, France; UMR 9019 CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, Villejuif 94800, France
| | - Thomas Lejour
- EPHE, PSL Université, Paris, France; UMR 9019 CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, Villejuif 94800, France
| | - Florine Adolphe
- EPHE, PSL Université, Paris, France; UMR 9019 CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, Villejuif 94800, France
| | - Laëtitia Kermasson
- Laboratory of Genome Dynamics in the Immune System, Laboratoire labellisé Ligue Nationale contre le Cancer, INSERM UMR 1163, Université de Paris, Imagine Institute, Paris, France
| | - Sophie Couvé
- EPHE, PSL Université, Paris, France; UMR 9019 CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, Villejuif 94800, France
| | - Laura Tanguy
- EPHE, PSL Université, Paris, France; UMR 9019 CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, Villejuif 94800, France
| | - Gabriela Luszczewska
- EPHE, PSL Université, Paris, France; UMR 9019 CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, Villejuif 94800, France
| | - Manon Watzky
- EPHE, PSL Université, Paris, France; UMR 9019 CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, Villejuif 94800, France
| | - Victoria Poillerat
- EPHE, PSL Université, Paris, France; UMR 9019 CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, Villejuif 94800, France
| | - Pauline Garnier
- EPHE, PSL Université, Paris, France; UMR 9019 CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, Villejuif 94800, France
| | - Regina Groisman
- UMR 9019 CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, Villejuif 94800, France
| | - Sophie Ferlicot
- UMR 9019 CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, Villejuif 94800, France; Département de Pathologie, AP-HP, Université Paris-Saclay, Hôpital de Bicêtre, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Stéphane Richard
- EPHE, PSL Université, Paris, France; UMR 9019 CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, Villejuif 94800, France; Réseau National de Référence pour Cancers Rares de l'Adulte PREDIR labellisé par l'INCa, Hôpital de Bicêtre, AP-HP, et Service d'Urologie, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Murat Saparbaev
- UMR 9019 CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, Villejuif 94800, France
| | - Patrick Revy
- Laboratory of Genome Dynamics in the Immune System, Laboratoire labellisé Ligue Nationale contre le Cancer, INSERM UMR 1163, Université de Paris, Imagine Institute, Paris, France
| | - Sophie Gad
- EPHE, PSL Université, Paris, France; UMR 9019 CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, Villejuif 94800, France
| | - Flore Renaud
- EPHE, PSL Université, Paris, France; UMR 9019 CNRS, Gustave Roussy, Université Paris-Saclay, 114 rue Edouard Vaillant, Villejuif 94800, France.
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Wolf SE, Woodruff MJ, Chang van Oordt DA, Clotfelter ED, Cristol DA, Derryberry EP, Ferguson SM, Stanback MT, Taff CC, Vitousek MN, Westneat DF, Rosvall KA. Among-population variation in telomere regulatory proteins and their potential role as hidden drivers of intraspecific variation in life history. J Anim Ecol 2024. [PMID: 38509838 DOI: 10.1111/1365-2656.14071] [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: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Biologists aim to explain patterns of growth, reproduction and ageing that characterize life histories, yet we are just beginning to understand the proximate mechanisms that generate this diversity. Existing research in this area has focused on telomeres but has generally overlooked the telomere's most direct mediator, the shelterin protein complex. Shelterin proteins physically interact with the telomere to shape its shortening and repair. They also regulate metabolism and immune function, suggesting a potential role in life history variation in the wild. However, research on shelterin proteins is uncommon outside of biomolecular work. Intraspecific analyses can play an important role in resolving these unknowns because they reveal subtle variation in life history within and among populations. Here, we assessed ecogeographic variation in shelterin protein abundance across eight populations of tree swallow (Tachycineta bicolor) with previously documented variation in environmental and life history traits. Using the blood gene expression of four shelterin proteins in 12-day-old nestlings, we tested the hypothesis that shelterin protein gene expression varies latitudinally and in relation to both telomere length and life history. Shelterin protein gene expression differed among populations and tracked non-linear variation in latitude: nestlings from mid-latitudes expressed nearly double the shelterin mRNA on average than those at more northern and southern sites. However, telomere length was not significantly related to latitude. We next assessed whether telomere length and shelterin protein gene expression correlate with 12-day-old body mass and wing length, two proxies of nestling growth linked to future fecundity and survival. We found that body mass and wing length correlated more strongly (and significantly) with shelterin protein gene expression than with telomere length. These results highlight telomere regulatory shelterin proteins as potential mediators of life history variation among populations. Together with existing research linking shelterin proteins and life history variation within populations, these ecogeographic patterns underscore the need for continued integration of ecology, evolution and telomere biology, which together will advance understanding of the drivers of life history variation in nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah E Wolf
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Mary J Woodruff
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana, USA
| | - David A Chang van Oordt
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | | | - Daniel A Cristol
- Department of Biology, William & Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Elizabeth P Derryberry
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Stephen M Ferguson
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Richmond, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Mark T Stanback
- Department of Biology, Davidson College, Davidson, North Carolina, USA
| | - Conor C Taff
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Maren N Vitousek
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - David F Westneat
- Department of Biology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky, USA
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Pizzul P, Casari E, Rinaldi C, Gnugnoli M, Mangiagalli M, Tisi R, Longhese MP. Rif2 interaction with Rad50 counteracts Tel1 functions in checkpoint signalling and DNA tethering by releasing Tel1 from MRX binding. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:2355-2371. [PMID: 38180815 PMCID: PMC10954470 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad1246] [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: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The yeast Rif2 protein is known to inhibit Mre11 nuclease and the activation of Tel1 kinase through a short motif termed MIN, which binds the Rad50 subunit and simulates its ATPase activity in vitro. The mechanism by which Rif2 restrains Tel1 activation and the consequences of this inhibition at DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) are poorly understood. In this study, we employed AlphaFold-Multimer modelling to pinpoint and validate the interaction surface between Rif2 MIN and Rad50. We also engineered the rif2-S6E mutation that enhances the inhibitory effect of Rif2 by increasing Rif2-Rad50 interaction. Unlike rif2Δ, the rif2-S6E mutation impairs hairpin cleavage. Furthermore, it diminishes Tel1 activation by inhibiting Tel1 binding to DSBs while leaving MRX association unchanged, indicating that Rif2 can directly inhibit Tel1 recruitment to DSBs. Additionally, Rif2S6E reduces Tel1-MRX interaction and increases stimulation of ATPase by Rad50, indicating that Rif2 binding to Rad50 induces an ADP-bound MRX conformation that is not suitable for Tel1 binding. The decreased Tel1 recruitment to DSBs in rif2-S6E cells impairs DSB end-tethering and this bridging defect is suppressed by expressing a Tel1 mutant variant that increases Tel1 persistence at DSBs, suggesting a direct role for Tel1 in the bridging of DSB ends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Pizzul
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano - Bicocca, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Erika Casari
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano - Bicocca, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Carlo Rinaldi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano - Bicocca, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Marco Gnugnoli
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano - Bicocca, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Marco Mangiagalli
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano - Bicocca, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Renata Tisi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano - Bicocca, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Maria Pia Longhese
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie e Bioscienze, Università degli Studi di Milano - Bicocca, 20126 Milano, Italy
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Bertrand A, Ba I, Kermasson L, Pirabakaran V, Chable N, Lainey E, Ménard C, Kallel F, Picard C, Hadiji S, Coolen-Allou N, Blanchard E, de Villartay JP, Moshous D, Roelens M, Callebaut I, Kannengiesser C, Revy P. Characterization of novel mutations in the TEL-patch domain of the telomeric factor TPP1 associated with telomere biology disorders. Hum Mol Genet 2024; 33:612-623. [PMID: 38176734 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddad210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are nucleoprotein structures that protect the chromosome ends from degradation and fusion. Telomerase is a ribonucleoprotein complex essential to maintain the length of telomeres. Germline defects that lead to short and/or dysfunctional telomeres cause telomere biology disorders (TBDs), a group of rare and heterogeneous Mendelian diseases including pulmonary fibrosis, dyskeratosis congenita, and Høyeraal-Hreidarsson syndrome. TPP1, a telomeric factor encoded by the gene ACD, recruits telomerase at telomere and stimulates its activity via its TEL-patch domain that directly interacts with TERT, the catalytic subunit of telomerase. TBDs due to TPP1 deficiency have been reported only in 11 individuals. We here report four unrelated individuals with a wide spectrum of TBD manifestations carrying either heterozygous or homozygous ACD variants consisting in the recurrent and previously described in-frame deletion of K170 (K170∆) and three novel missense mutations G179D, L184R, and E215V. Structural and functional analyses demonstrated that the four variants affect the TEL-patch domain of TPP1 and impair telomerase activity. In addition, we identified in the ACD gene several motifs associated with small deletion hotspots that could explain the recurrence of the K170∆ mutation. Finally, we detected in a subset of blood cells from one patient, a somatic TERT promoter-activating mutation that likely provides a selective advantage over non-modified cells, a phenomenon known as indirect somatic genetic rescue. Together, our results broaden the genetic and clinical spectrum of TPP1 deficiency and specify new residues in the TEL-patch domain that are crucial for length maintenance and stability of human telomeres in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Bertrand
- Laboratory of Genome Dynamics in the Immune System, Equipe Labellisée Ligue contre le Cancer, INSERM UMR 1163, Imagine Institute, 24 boulevard du Montparnasse, Paris 75015, France
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Paris 75015, France
| | - Ibrahima Ba
- Laboratory of Genome Dynamics in the Immune System, Equipe Labellisée Ligue contre le Cancer, INSERM UMR 1163, Imagine Institute, 24 boulevard du Montparnasse, Paris 75015, France
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Paris 75015, France
- Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Bichat, Service de Génétique, Université Paris Diderot, Paris 75018, France
| | - Laëtitia Kermasson
- Laboratory of Genome Dynamics in the Immune System, Equipe Labellisée Ligue contre le Cancer, INSERM UMR 1163, Imagine Institute, 24 boulevard du Montparnasse, Paris 75015, France
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Paris 75015, France
| | - Vithura Pirabakaran
- Laboratory of Genome Dynamics in the Immune System, Equipe Labellisée Ligue contre le Cancer, INSERM UMR 1163, Imagine Institute, 24 boulevard du Montparnasse, Paris 75015, France
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Paris 75015, France
| | - Noémie Chable
- Laboratory of Genome Dynamics in the Immune System, Equipe Labellisée Ligue contre le Cancer, INSERM UMR 1163, Imagine Institute, 24 boulevard du Montparnasse, Paris 75015, France
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Paris 75015, France
| | - Elodie Lainey
- Hematology Laboratory, Robert Debré Hospital-AssistancePublique-Hôpitaux de Paris (APHP), INSERM UMR 1131-Hematology University Institute-Denis Diderot School of Medicine, Paris 75019, France
| | - Christelle Ménard
- Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Bichat, Service de Génétique, Université Paris Diderot, Paris 75018, France
| | - Faten Kallel
- Hematology Department, Hedi Chaker Hospital, 3029, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Capucine Picard
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Paris 75015, France
- Department of Pediatric Immunology, Hematology and Rheumatology, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, (APHP), Paris 75015, France
- Centre de références des déficits immunitaires Héréditaires (CEREDIH), Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital APHP, Paris 75015, France
- Laboratory of Lymphocyte Activation and Susceptibility to EBV infection, Inserm UMR 1163, Institut Imagine, Paris 75015, France
| | - Sondes Hadiji
- Hematology Department, Hedi Chaker Hospital, 3029, Sfax, Tunisia
| | - Nathalie Coolen-Allou
- Service de Pneumologie, Hôpital Félix Guyon, CHU Réunion, Saint-Denis de la Réunion 97400, France
| | - Elodie Blanchard
- Service de Pneumologie, Hôpital Haut-Lévêque, CHU Bordeaux, Bordeaux 33604, France
| | - Jean-Pierre de Villartay
- Laboratory of Genome Dynamics in the Immune System, Equipe Labellisée Ligue contre le Cancer, INSERM UMR 1163, Imagine Institute, 24 boulevard du Montparnasse, Paris 75015, France
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Paris 75015, France
| | - Despina Moshous
- Laboratory of Genome Dynamics in the Immune System, Equipe Labellisée Ligue contre le Cancer, INSERM UMR 1163, Imagine Institute, 24 boulevard du Montparnasse, Paris 75015, France
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Paris 75015, France
- Department of Pediatric Immunology, Hematology and Rheumatology, Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital, (APHP), Paris 75015, France
| | - Marie Roelens
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Paris 75015, France
- Centre de références des déficits immunitaires Héréditaires (CEREDIH), Necker-Enfants Malades Hospital APHP, Paris 75015, France
| | - Isabelle Callebaut
- Sorbonne Université, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, UMR CNRS 7590, Institut de Minéralogie, de Physique des Matériaux et de Cosmochimie, IMPMC, Paris 75005, France
| | - Caroline Kannengiesser
- Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Bichat, Service de Génétique, Université Paris Diderot, Paris 75018, France
| | - Patrick Revy
- Laboratory of Genome Dynamics in the Immune System, Equipe Labellisée Ligue contre le Cancer, INSERM UMR 1163, Imagine Institute, 24 boulevard du Montparnasse, Paris 75015, France
- Université Paris Cité, Imagine Institute, Paris 75015, France
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36
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Nasheuer HP, Meaney AM. Starting DNA Synthesis: Initiation Processes during the Replication of Chromosomal DNA in Humans. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:360. [PMID: 38540419 PMCID: PMC10969946 DOI: 10.3390/genes15030360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The initiation reactions of DNA synthesis are central processes during human chromosomal DNA replication. They are separated into two main processes: the initiation events at replication origins, the start of the leading strand synthesis for each replicon, and the numerous initiation events taking place during lagging strand DNA synthesis. In addition, a third mechanism is the re-initiation of DNA synthesis after replication fork stalling, which takes place when DNA lesions hinder the progression of DNA synthesis. The initiation of leading strand synthesis at replication origins is regulated at multiple levels, from the origin recognition to the assembly and activation of replicative helicase, the Cdc45-MCM2-7-GINS (CMG) complex. In addition, the multiple interactions of the CMG complex with the eukaryotic replicative DNA polymerases, DNA polymerase α-primase, DNA polymerase δ and ε, at replication forks play pivotal roles in the mechanism of the initiation reactions of leading and lagging strand DNA synthesis. These interactions are also important for the initiation of signalling at unperturbed and stalled replication forks, "replication stress" events, via ATR (ATM-Rad 3-related protein kinase). These processes are essential for the accurate transfer of the cells' genetic information to their daughters. Thus, failures and dysfunctions in these processes give rise to genome instability causing genetic diseases, including cancer. In their influential review "Hallmarks of Cancer: New Dimensions", Hanahan and Weinberg (2022) therefore call genome instability a fundamental function in the development process of cancer cells. In recent years, the understanding of the initiation processes and mechanisms of human DNA replication has made substantial progress at all levels, which will be discussed in the review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heinz Peter Nasheuer
- Centre for Chromosome Biology, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Biochemistry, University of Galway, H91 TK33 Galway, Ireland;
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37
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Iachettini S, Terrenato I, Porru M, Di Vito S, Rizzo A, D'Angelo C, Petti E, Dinami R, Maresca C, Di Benedetto A, Palange A, Mulè A, Santoro A, Palazzo A, Fuso P, Stoppacciaro A, Vici P, Filomeno L, Di Lisa FS, Arcuri T, Krasniqi E, Fabi A, Biroccio A, Zizza P. TRF2 as novel marker of tumor response to taxane-based therapy: from mechanistic insight to clinical implication. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2024; 43:75. [PMID: 38459559 PMCID: PMC10924347 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-024-02998-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast Cancer (BC) can be classified, due to its heterogeneity, into multiple subtypes that differ for prognosis and clinical management. Notably, triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) - the most aggressive BC form - is refractory to endocrine and most of the target therapies. In this view, taxane-based therapy still represents the elective strategy for the treatment of this tumor. However, due variability in patients' response, management of TNBC still represents an unmet medical need. Telomeric Binding Factor 2 (TRF2), a key regulator of telomere integrity that is over-expressed in several tumors, including TNBC, has been recently found to plays a role in regulating autophagy, a degradative process that is involved in drug detoxification. Based on these considerations, we pointed, here, at investigating if TRF2, regulating autophagy, can affect tumor sensitivity to therapy. METHODS Human TNBC cell lines, over-expressing or not TRF2, were subjected to treatment with different taxanes and drug efficacy was tested in terms of autophagic response and cell proliferation. Autophagy was evaluated first biochemically, by measuring the levels of LC3, and then by immunofluorescence analysis of LC3-puncta positive cells. Concerning the proliferation, cells were subjected to colony formation assays associated with western blot and FACS analyses. The obtained results were then confirmed also in mouse models. Finally, the clinical relevance of our findings was established by retrospective analysis on a cohort of TNBC patients subjected to taxane-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy. RESULTS This study demonstrated that TRF2, inhibiting autophagy, is able to increase the sensitivity of TNBC cells to taxanes. The data, first obtained in in vitro models, were then recapitulated in preclinical mouse models and in a cohort of TNBC patients, definitively demonstrating that TRF2 over-expression enhances the efficacy of taxane-based neoadjuvant therapy in reducing tumor growth and its recurrence upon surgical intervention. CONCLUSIONS Based on our finding it is possible to conclude that TRF2, already known for its role in promoting tumor formation and progression, might represents an Achilles' heel for cancer. In this view, TRF2 might be exploited as a putative biomarker to predict the response of TNBC patients to taxane-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Iachettini
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Translational Oncology Research Unit, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Irene Terrenato
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Clinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics Unit, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Porru
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Translational Oncology Research Unit, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Serena Di Vito
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Translational Oncology Research Unit, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Rizzo
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Translational Oncology Research Unit, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Carmen D'Angelo
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Translational Oncology Research Unit, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Petti
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Translational Oncology Research Unit, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Roberto Dinami
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Translational Oncology Research Unit, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Carmen Maresca
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Translational Oncology Research Unit, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Di Benedetto
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Pathology Unit, Via Elio Chianesi 53, Rome, Italy
| | - Aldo Palange
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Pathology Unit, Via Elio Chianesi 53, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonino Mulè
- Pathology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Santoro
- Pathology Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Palazzo
- Medical Oncology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Fuso
- Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Stoppacciaro
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sant'Andrea Hospital, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Vici
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Unit of Phase IV Trials, Via Elio Chianesi 53, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorena Filomeno
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Unit of Phase IV Trials, Via Elio Chianesi 53, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Sofia Di Lisa
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Unit of Phase IV Trials, Via Elio Chianesi 53, Rome, Italy
| | - Teresa Arcuri
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Unit of Phase IV Trials, Via Elio Chianesi 53, Rome, Italy
| | - Eriseld Krasniqi
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Unit of Phase IV Trials, Via Elio Chianesi 53, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Fabi
- Precision Medicine Unit in Senology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Annamaria Biroccio
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Translational Oncology Research Unit, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy.
| | - Pasquale Zizza
- IRCCS - Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Translational Oncology Research Unit, Via Elio Chianesi 53, 00144, Rome, Italy.
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38
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Fang T, Zhang Z, Ren K, Zou L. Genetically determined telomere length as a risk factor for hematological malignancies: evidence from Mendelian randomization analysis. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:4684-4698. [PMID: 38451181 PMCID: PMC10968690 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over the past years, the exact correlation between telomere length and hematological malignancies was still not fully understood. METHODS We performed a two-sample Mendelian randomization study to investigate the causal relationship between telomere length and hematological malignancies. We selected genetic instruments associated with telomere length. The genetic associations for lymphoid and hematopoietic malignant neoplasms were obtained from the most recent publicly accessible FinnGen study R9 data. Inverse variant weighted (IVW) analysis was adopted as the primary method, and we also performed the weighted-median method and the MR-Egger, and MRPRESSO methods as sensitive analysis. RESULTS Significant associations have been observed between telomere length and primary lymphoid (IVW: OR = 1.52, P = 2.11 × 10-6), Hodgkin lymphoma (IVW: OR = 1.64, P = 0.014), non-Hodgkin lymphoma (IVW: OR = 1.70, P = 0.002), B-cell lymphoma (IVW: OR = 1.57, P = 0.015), non-follicular lymphoma (IVW: OR = 1.58, P = 1.7 × 10-3), mantle cell lymphoma (IVW: OR = 3.13, P = 0.003), lymphoid leukemia (IVW: OR = 2.56, P = 5.92E-09), acute lymphocytic leukemia (IVW: OR = 2.65, P = 0.021) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (IVW: OR = 2.80, P = 8.21 × 10-6), along with multiple myeloma (IVW: OR = 1.85, P = 0.016). CONCLUSION This MR study found a significant association between telomere length and a wide range of hematopoietic malignancies. But no substantial impact of lymphoma and hematopoietic malignancies on telomere length has been detected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Fang
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhihao Zhang
- Department of Breast Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Kexing Ren
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liqun Zou
- Department of Medical Oncology, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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39
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Azzalin CM. TERRA and the alternative lengthening of telomeres: a dangerous affair. FEBS Lett 2024. [PMID: 38445359 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Eukaryotic telomeres are transcribed into the long noncoding RNA TERRA. A fraction of TERRA remains associated with telomeres by forming RNA:DNA hybrids dubbed telR-loops. TERRA and telR-loops are essential to promote telomere elongation in human cancer cells that maintain telomeres through a homology-directed repair pathway known as alternative lengthening of telomeres or ALT. However, TERRA and telR-loops compromise telomere integrity and cell viability if their levels are not finely tuned. The study of telomere transcription in ALT cells will enormously expand our understanding of the ALT mechanism and of how genome integrity is maintained. Moreover, telomere transcription, TERRA and telR-loops are likely to become exceptionally suited targets for the development of novel anti-cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claus M Azzalin
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes (iMM), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal
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40
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Das A, Giri AK, Bhattacharjee P. Targeting 'histone mark': Advanced approaches in epigenetic regulation of telomere dynamics in cancer. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2024; 1867:195007. [PMID: 38237857 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2024.195007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Telomere integrity is required for the maintenance of genome stability and prevention of oncogenic transformation of cells. Recent evidence suggests the presence of epigenetic modifications as an important regulator of mammalian telomeres. Telomeric and subtelomeric regions are rich in epigenetic marks that regulate telomere length majorly through DNA methylation and post-translational histone modifications. Specific histone modifying enzymes play an integral role in establishing telomeric histone codes necessary for the maintenance of structural integrity. Alterations of crucial histone moieties and histone modifiers cause deregulations in the telomeric chromatin leading to carcinogenic manifestations. This review delves into the significance of histone modifications and their influence on telomere dynamics concerning cancer. Additionally, it highlights the existing research gaps that hold the potential to drive the development of therapeutic interventions targeting the telomere epigenome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Das
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Calcutta, Kolkata 700019, India; Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, Kolkata 700019, India
| | - Ashok K Giri
- Molecular Genetics Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata 700032, India
| | - Pritha Bhattacharjee
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Calcutta, Kolkata 700019, India.
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41
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Smoom R, May CL, Skordalakes E, Kaestner KH, Tzfati Y. Separation of telomere protection from length regulation by two different point mutations at amino acid 492 of RTEL1. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.26.582005. [PMID: 38464183 PMCID: PMC10925190 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.26.582005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
RTEL1 is an essential DNA helicase that plays multiple roles in genome stability and telomere length regulation. A variant of RTEL1 with a lysine at position 492 is associated with short telomeres in Mus spretus , while a conserved methionine at this position is found in M. musculus, which has ultra-long telomeres. In humans, a missense mutation at this position ( RTEL1 M492I ) causes a fatal telomere biology disease termed Hoyeraal-Hreidarsson syndrome (HHS). We previously described a M. musculus mouse model termed 'Telomouse', in which changing methionine 492 to a lysine (M492K) shortened the telomeres to their length in humans. Here, we report on the derivation of a mouse strain carrying the M492I mutation, termed 'HHS mouse'. The HHS mouse telomeres are not as short as those of Telomice but nevertheless they display higher levels of telomeric DNA damage, fragility and recombination, associated with anaphase bridges and micronuclei. These observations indicate that the two mutations separate critical functions of RTEL1: M492K mainly reduces the telomere length setpoint, while M492I predominantly disrupts telomere protection. The two mouse models enable dissecting the mechanistic roles of RTEL1 and the different contributions of short telomeres and DNA damage to telomere biology diseases, genomic instability, cancer, and aging.
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42
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Johnson S, Paul T, Sanford S, Schnable BL, Detwiler A, Thosar S, Van Houten B, Myong S, Opresko P. BG4 antibody can recognize telomeric G-quadruplexes harboring destabilizing base modifications and lesions. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:1763-1778. [PMID: 38153143 PMCID: PMC10939409 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad1209] [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: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BG4 is a single-chain variable fragment antibody shown to bind various G-quadruplex (GQ) topologies with high affinity and specificity, and to detect GQ in cells, including GQ structures formed within telomeric TTAGGG repeats. Here, we used ELISA and single-molecule pull-down (SiMPull) detection to test how various lengths and GQ destabilizing base modifications in telomeric DNA constructs alter BG4 binding. We observed high-affinity BG4 binding to telomeric GQ independent of telomere length, although three telomeric repeat constructs that cannot form stable intramolecular GQ showed reduced affinity. A single guanine substitution with 8-aza-7-deaza-G, T, A, or C reduced affinity to varying degrees depending on the location and base type, whereas two G substitutions in the telomeric construct dramatically reduced or abolished binding. Substitution with damaged bases 8-oxoguanine and O6-methylguanine failed to prevent BG4 binding although affinity was reduced depending on lesion location. SiMPull combined with FRET revealed that BG4 binding promotes folding of telomeric GQ harboring a G to T substitution or 8-oxoguanine. Atomic force microscopy revealed that BG4 binds telomeric GQ with a 1:1 stoichiometry. Collectively, our data suggest that BG4 can recognize partially folded telomeric GQ structures and promote telomeric GQ stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel A Johnson
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Molecular Biophysics and Structural Biology Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Tapas Paul
- Department of Biophysics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Samantha L Sanford
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Brittani L Schnable
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Molecular Biophysics and Structural Biology Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
| | - Ariana C Detwiler
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Sanjana A Thosar
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Bennett Van Houten
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Molecular Biophysics and Structural Biology Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA 15213, USA
| | - Sua Myong
- Department of Biophysics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Patricia L Opresko
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
- UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
- Molecular Biophysics and Structural Biology Graduate Program, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15260, USA
- Department of Pharmacology and Chemical Biology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA 15213, USA
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43
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Olson CL, Wuttke DS. Guardians of the Genome: How the Single-Stranded DNA-Binding Proteins RPA and CST Facilitate Telomere Replication. Biomolecules 2024; 14:263. [PMID: 38540683 PMCID: PMC10968030 DOI: 10.3390/biom14030263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomeres act as the protective caps of eukaryotic linear chromosomes; thus, proper telomere maintenance is crucial for genome stability. Successful telomere replication is a cornerstone of telomere length regulation, but this process can be fraught due to the many intrinsic challenges telomeres pose to the replication machinery. In addition to the famous "end replication" problem due to the discontinuous nature of lagging strand synthesis, telomeres require various telomere-specific steps for maintaining the proper 3' overhang length. Bulk telomere replication also encounters its own difficulties as telomeres are prone to various forms of replication roadblocks. These roadblocks can result in an increase in replication stress that can cause replication forks to slow, stall, or become reversed. Ultimately, this leads to excess single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) that needs to be managed and protected for replication to continue and to prevent DNA damage and genome instability. RPA and CST are single-stranded DNA-binding protein complexes that play key roles in performing this task and help stabilize stalled forks for continued replication. The interplay between RPA and CST, their functions at telomeres during replication, and their specialized features for helping overcome replication stress at telomeres are the focus of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conner L. Olson
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Deborah S. Wuttke
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
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44
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Kinzig CG, Zakusilo G, Takai KK, Myler LR, de Lange T. ATR blocks telomerase from converting DNA breaks into telomeres. Science 2024; 383:763-770. [PMID: 38359122 PMCID: PMC11267623 DOI: 10.1126/science.adg3224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Telomerase, the enzyme that maintains telomeres at natural chromosome ends, should be repressed at double-strand breaks (DSBs), where neotelomere formation can cause terminal truncations. We developed an assay to detect neotelomere formation at Cas9- or I-SceI-induced DSBs in human cells. Telomerase added telomeric repeats to DSBs, leading to interstitial telomeric repeat insertions or the formation of functional neotelomeres accompanied by terminal deletions. The threat that telomerase poses to genome integrity was minimized by ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related (ATR) kinase signaling, which inhibited telomerase at resected DSBs. In addition to acting at resected DSBs, telomerase used the extruded strand in the Cas9 enzyme-product complex as a primer for neotelomere formation. We propose that although neotelomere formation is detrimental in normal human cells, it may allow cancer cells to escape from breakage-fusion-bridge cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles G. Kinzig
- Laboratory for Cell Biology and Genetics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Weill Cornell/Rockefeller/Sloan Kettering Tri-Institutional MD/PhD Program, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - George Zakusilo
- Laboratory for Cell Biology and Genetics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
- Weill Cornell/Rockefeller/Sloan Kettering Tri-Institutional MD/PhD Program, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Kaori K. Takai
- Laboratory for Cell Biology and Genetics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Logan R. Myler
- Laboratory for Cell Biology and Genetics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Titia de Lange
- Laboratory for Cell Biology and Genetics, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065, USA
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45
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Zhao X, Vogirala VK, Liu M, Zhou Y, Rhodes D, Sandin S, Yan J. Exploring TRF2-Dependent DNA Distortion Through Single-DNA Manipulation Studies. Commun Biol 2024; 7:148. [PMID: 38310140 PMCID: PMC10838314 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-05838-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
TRF2 is a component of shelterin, a telomere-specific protein complex that protects the ends of mammalian chromosomes from DNA damage signaling and improper repair. TRF2 functions as a homodimer and its interaction with telomeric DNA has been studied, but its full-length DNA-binding properties are unknown. This study examines TRF2's interaction with single-DNA strands and focuses on the conformation of the TRF2-DNA complex and TRF2's preference for DNA chirality. The results show that TRF2-DNA can switch between extended and compact conformations, indicating multiple DNA-binding modes, and TRF2's binding does not have a strong preference for DNA supercoiling chirality when DNA is under low tension. Instead, TRF2 induces DNA bending under tension. Furthermore, both the N-terminal domain of TRF2 and the Myb domain enhance its affinity for the telomere sequence, highlighting the crucial role of multivalent DNA binding in enhancing its affinity and specificity for telomere sequence. These discoveries offer unique insights into TRF2's interaction with telomeric DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodan Zhao
- Department of Physics, National University of Singapore, 117551, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Vinod Kumar Vogirala
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technology University, 637551, Singapore, Singapore
- Electron Bio-Imaging Centre (eBIC), Diamond Light Source, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Didcot, UK
| | - Meihan Liu
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, 117411, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yu Zhou
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, 117411, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Daniela Rhodes
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technology University, 637551, Singapore, Singapore
- NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technology University, 636921, Singapore, Singapore
- Medical Research Council, Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, UK
| | - Sara Sandin
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technology University, 637551, Singapore, Singapore.
- NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technology University, 636921, Singapore, Singapore.
- Umeå university, KBC-huset (KB), Linnaeus väg 10, Umeå, 90187, Sweden.
| | - Jie Yan
- Department of Physics, National University of Singapore, 117551, Singapore, Singapore.
- Mechanobiology Institute, National University of Singapore, 117411, Singapore, Singapore.
- Joint School of National University of Singapore and Tianjin University, International Campus of Tianjin University, Binhai New City, Fuzhou, 350207, China.
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46
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Muthumalage T, Goracci C, Rahman I. Club cell-specific telomere protection protein 1 (TPP1) protects against tobacco smoke-induced lung inflammation, xenobiotic metabolic dysregulation, and injurious responses. FASEB Bioadv 2024; 6:53-71. [PMID: 38344410 PMCID: PMC10853660 DOI: 10.1096/fba.2023-00115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Inhaling xenobiotics, such as tobacco smoke is a major risk factor for pulmonary diseases, e.g., COPD/emphysema, interstitial lung disease, and pre-invasive diseases. Shelterin complex or telosome provides telomeric end protection during replication. Telomere protection protein 1 (TPP1) is one of the main six subunits of the shelterin complex supporting the telomere stability and genomic integrity. Dysfunctional telomeres and shelterin complex are associated as a disease mechanism of tobacco smoke-induced pulmonary damage and disease processes. The airway epithelium is critical to maintaining respiratory homeostasis and is implicated in lung diseases. Club cells (also known as clara cells) play an essential role in the immune response, surfactant production, and metabolism. Disrupted shelterin complex may lead to dysregulated cellular function, DNA damage, and disease progression. However, it is unknown if the conditional removal of TPP1 from Club cells can induce lung disease pathogenesis caused by tobacco smoke exposure. In this study, conditional knockout of Club-cell specific TPP1 demonstrated the instability of other shelterin protein subunits, such as TRF1, dysregulation of cell cycle checkpoint proteins, p53 and downstream targets, and dysregulation of telomeric genes. This was associated with age-dependent senescence-associated genes, increased DNA damage, and upregulated RANTES/IL13/IL33 mediated lung inflammation and injury network by cigarette smoke (CS). These phenomena are also associated with alterations in cytochrome P450 and glutathione transferases, upregulated molecular pathways promoting lung lesions, bronchial neoplasms, and adenocarcinomas. These findings suggest a pivotal role of TPP1 in maintaining lung homeostasis and injurious responses in response to CS. Thus, these data TPP1 may have therapeutic value in alleviating telomere-related chronic lung diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thivanka Muthumalage
- Department of Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine and DentistryUniversity of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
| | - Chiara Goracci
- Department of Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine and DentistryUniversity of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
| | - Irfan Rahman
- Department of Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine and DentistryUniversity of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
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47
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Rai R, Sodeinde T, Boston A, Chang S. Telomeres cooperate with the nuclear envelope to maintain genome stability. Bioessays 2024; 46:e2300184. [PMID: 38047499 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202300184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian telomeres have evolved safeguards to prevent their recognition as DNA double-stranded breaks by suppressing the activation of various DNA sensing and repair proteins. We have shown that the telomere-binding proteins TRF2 and RAP1 cooperate to prevent telomeres from undergoing aberrant homology-directed recombination by mediating t-loop protection. Our recent findings also suggest that mammalian telomere-binding proteins interact with the nuclear envelope to maintain chromosome stability. RAP1 interacts with nuclear lamins through KU70/KU80, and disruption of RAP1 and TRF2 function result in nuclear envelope rupture, promoting telomere-telomere recombination to form structures termed ultrabright telomeres. In this review, we discuss the importance of the interactions between shelterin components and the nuclear envelope to maintain telomere homeostasis and genome stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rekha Rai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Tori Sodeinde
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Ava Boston
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sandy Chang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Pathology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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48
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Hourvitz N, Awad A, Tzfati Y. The many faces of the helicase RTEL1 at telomeres and beyond. Trends Cell Biol 2024; 34:109-121. [PMID: 37532653 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2023.07.002] [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: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Regulator of telomere elongation 1 (RTEL1) is known as a DNA helicase that is important for telomeres and genome integrity. However, the diverse phenotypes of RTEL1 dysfunction, the wide spectrum of symptoms caused by germline RTEL1 mutations, and the association of RTEL1 mutations with cancers suggest that RTEL1 is a complex machine that interacts with DNA, RNA, and proteins, and functions in diverse cellular pathways. We summarize the proposed functions of RTEL1 and discuss their implications for telomere maintenance. Studying RTEL1 is crucial for understanding the complex interplay between telomere maintenance and other nuclear pathways, and how compromising these pathways causes telomere biology diseases, various aging-associated pathologies, and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noa Hourvitz
- Department of Genetics, The Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Safra Campus, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Aya Awad
- Department of Genetics, The Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Safra Campus, Jerusalem 91904, Israel
| | - Yehuda Tzfati
- Department of Genetics, The Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Safra Campus, Jerusalem 91904, Israel.
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49
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Qin J, Garus A, Autexier C. The C-terminal extension of dyskerin is a dyskeratosis congenita mutational hotspot that modulates interaction with telomerase RNA and subcellular localization. Hum Mol Genet 2024; 33:318-332. [PMID: 37879098 PMCID: PMC10840380 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddad180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Dyskerin is a component of the human telomerase complex and is involved in stabilizing the human telomerase RNA (hTR). Many mutations in the DKC1 gene encoding dyskerin are found in X-linked dyskeratosis congenita (X-DC), a premature aging disorder and other related diseases. The C-terminal extension (CTE) of dyskerin contributes to its interaction with the molecular chaperone SHQ1 during the early stage of telomerase biogenesis. Disease mutations in this region were proposed to disrupt dyskerin-SHQ1 interaction and destabilize dyskerin, reducing hTR levels indirectly. However, biochemical evidence supporting this hypothesis is still lacking. In addition, the effects of many CTE disease mutations on hTR have not been examined. In this study, we tested eight dyskerin CTE variants and showed that they failed to maintain hTR levels. These mutants showed slightly reduced but not abolished interaction with SHQ1, and caused defective binding to hTR. Deletion of the CTE further reduced binding to hTR, and perturbed localization of dyskerin to the Cajal bodies and the nucleolus, and the interaction with TCAB1 as well as GAR1. Our findings suggest impaired dyskerin-hTR interaction in cells as a previously overlooked mechanism through which dyskerin CTE mutations cause X-DC and related telomere syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Qin
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, 3640 University Street, Montreal, Quebec, QC H3A 0C7, Canada
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, 3755 Chem, de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Alexandre Garus
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, 3640 University Street, Montreal, Quebec, QC H3A 0C7, Canada
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, 3755 Chem, de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - Chantal Autexier
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, 3640 University Street, Montreal, Quebec, QC H3A 0C7, Canada
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, 3755 Chem, de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
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50
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Tire B, Talibova G, Ozturk S. The crosstalk between telomeres and DNA repair mechanisms: an overview to mammalian somatic cells, germ cells, and preimplantation embryos. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:277-291. [PMID: 38165506 PMCID: PMC10894803 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-03008-2] [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: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are located at the ends of linear chromosomes and play a critical role in maintaining genomic stability by preventing premature activation of DNA repair mechanisms. Because of exposure to various genotoxic agents, telomeres can undergo shortening and genetic changes. In mammalian cells, the basic DNA repair mechanisms, including base excision repair, nucleotide excision repair, double-strand break repair, and mismatch repair, function in repairing potential damages in telomeres. If these damages are not repaired correctly in time, the unfavorable results such as apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and cancerous transition may occur. During lifespan, mammalian somatic cells, male and female germ cells, and preimplantation embryos experience a number of telomeric damages. Herein, we comprehensively reviewed the crosstalk between telomeres and the DNA repair mechanisms in the somatic cells, germ cells, and embryos. Infertility development resulting from possible defects in this crosstalk is also discussed in the light of existing studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betul Tire
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Campus, 07070, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Gunel Talibova
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Campus, 07070, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Saffet Ozturk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Campus, 07070, Antalya, Turkey.
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