1
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Shelkovnikova TA, Hautbergue GM. RNP granules in ALS and neurodegeneration: From multifunctional membraneless organelles to therapeutic opportunities. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2024; 176:455-479. [PMID: 38802180 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and related neurodegenerative diseases are characterised by dysfunction of a host of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and a severely disrupted RNA metabolism. Recently, RBP-harbouring phase-separated complexes, ribonucleoprotein (RNP) granules, have come into the limelight as "crucibles" of neuronal pathology in ALS. RNP granules are indispensable for the multitude of regulatory processes underlying cellular RNA metabolism and serve as critical organisers of cellular biochemistry. Neurons, highly specialised cells, heavily rely on RNP granules for efficient trafficking, signalling and stress responses. Multiple RNP granule components, primarily RBPs such as TDP-43 and FUS, are affected by ALS mutations. However, even in the absence of mutations, RBP proteinopathies represent pathophysiological hallmarks of ALS. Given the high local concentrations of RBPs and RNAs, their weakened or enhanced interactions within RNP granules disrupt their homeostasis. Thus, the physiological process of phase separation and RNP granule formation, vital for maintaining the high-functioning state of neuronal cells, becomes their Achilles heel. Here, we will review the recent literature on the causes and consequences of abnormal RNP granule functioning in ALS and related disorders. In particular, we will summarise the evidence for the network-level dysfunction of RNP granules in these conditions and discuss considerations for therapeutic interventions to target RBPs, RNP granules and their network as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatyana A Shelkovnikova
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
| | - Guillaume M Hautbergue
- Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience (SITraN), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Neuroscience Institute, University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield, United Kingdom; Healthy Lifespan Institute (HELSI), University of Sheffield, Firth Court, Western Bank, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
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2
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Kenderdine T, Fabris D. The multifaceted roles of mass spectrometric analysis in nucleic acids drug discovery and development. MASS SPECTROMETRY REVIEWS 2023; 42:1332-1357. [PMID: 34939674 PMCID: PMC9218015 DOI: 10.1002/mas.21766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The deceptively simple concepts of mass determination and fragment analysis are the basis for the application of mass spectrometry (MS) to a boundless range of analytes, including fundamental components and polymeric forms of nucleic acids (NAs). This platform affords the intrinsic ability to observe first-hand the effects of NA-active drugs on the chemical structure, composition, and conformation of their targets, which might affect their ability to interact with cognate NAs, proteins, and other biomolecules present in a natural environment. The possibility of interfacing with high-performance separation techniques represents a multiplying factor that extends these capabilities to cover complex sample mixtures obtained from organisms that were exposed to NA-active drugs. This report provides a brief overview of these capabilities in the context of the analysis of the products of NA-drug activity and NA therapeutics. The selected examples offer proof-of-principle of the applicability of this platform to all phases of the journey undertaken by any successful NA drug from laboratory to bedside, and provide the rationale for its rapid expansion outside traditional laboratory settings in support to ever growing manufacturing operations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dan Fabris
- Department of Chemistry, University of Connecticut
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3
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Amicone L, Marchetti A, Cicchini C. The lncRNA HOTAIR: a pleiotropic regulator of epithelial cell plasticity. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 2023; 42:147. [PMID: 37308974 DOI: 10.1186/s13046-023-02725-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a trans-differentiation process that endows epithelial cells with mesenchymal properties, including motility and invasion capacity; therefore, its aberrant reactivation in cancerous cells represents a critical step to gain a metastatic phenotype. The EMT is a dynamic program of cell plasticity; many partial EMT states can be, indeed, encountered and the full inverse mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET) appears fundamental to colonize distant secondary sites. The EMT/MET dynamics is granted by a fine modulation of gene expression in response to intrinsic and extrinsic signals. In this complex scenario, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) emerged as critical players. This review specifically focuses on the lncRNA HOTAIR, as a master regulator of epithelial cell plasticity and EMT in tumors. Molecular mechanisms controlling its expression in differentiated as well as trans-differentiated epithelial cells are highlighted here. Moreover, current knowledge about HOTAIR pleiotropic functions in regulation of both gene expression and protein activities are described. Furthermore, the relevance of the specific HOTAIR targeting and the current challenges of exploiting this lncRNA for therapeutic approaches to counteract the EMT are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Amicone
- Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Alessandra Marchetti
- Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, Rome, 00161, Italy
| | - Carla Cicchini
- Istituto Pasteur Italia-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, Rome, 00161, Italy.
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4
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Chingarande RG, Tian K, Kuang Y, Sarangee A, Hou C, Ma E, Ren J, Hawkins S, Kim J, Adelstein R, Chen S, Gillis KD, Gu LQ. Real-time label-free detection of dynamic aptamer-small molecule interactions using a nanopore nucleic acid conformational sensor. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2108118120. [PMID: 37276386 PMCID: PMC10268594 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2108118120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Nucleic acids can undergo conformational changes upon binding small molecules. These conformational changes can be exploited to develop new therapeutic strategies through control of gene expression or triggering of cellular responses and can also be used to develop sensors for small molecules such as neurotransmitters. Many analytical approaches can detect dynamic conformational change of nucleic acids, but they need labeling, are expensive, and have limited time resolution. The nanopore approach can provide a conformational snapshot for each nucleic acid molecule detected, but has not been reported to detect dynamic nucleic acid conformational change in response to small -molecule binding. Here we demonstrate a modular, label-free, nucleic acid-docked nanopore capable of revealing time-resolved, small molecule-induced, single nucleic acid molecule conformational transitions with millisecond resolution. By using the dopamine-, serotonin-, and theophylline-binding aptamers as testbeds, we found that these nucleic acids scaffolds can be noncovalently docked inside the MspA protein pore by a cluster of site-specific charged residues. This docking mechanism enables the ion current through the pore to characteristically vary as the aptamer undergoes conformational changes, resulting in a sequence of current fluctuations that report binding and release of single ligand molecules from the aptamer. This nanopore tool can quantify specific ligands such as neurotransmitters, elucidate nucleic acid-ligand interactions, and pinpoint the nucleic acid motifs for ligand binding, showing the potential for small molecule biosensing, drug discovery assayed via RNA and DNA conformational changes, and the design of artificial riboswitch effectors in synthetic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rugare G. Chingarande
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
| | - Kai Tian
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
| | - Yu Kuang
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
| | - Aby Sarangee
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
| | - Chengrui Hou
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
| | - Emily Ma
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
| | - Jarett Ren
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
| | - Sam Hawkins
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
| | - Joshua Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
| | - Ray Adelstein
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
| | - Sally Chen
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
| | - Kevin D. Gillis
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
| | - Li-Qun Gu
- Department of Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
- Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO65211
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5
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Malbert B, Labaurie V, Dorme C, Paget E. Group I Intron as a Potential Target for Antifungal Compounds: Development of a Trans-Splicing High-Throughput Screening Strategy. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28114460. [PMID: 37298936 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28114460] [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: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The search for safe and efficient new antifungal compounds for agriculture has led to more efforts in finding new modes of action. This involves the discovery of new molecular targets, including coding and non-coding RNA. Rarely found in plants and animals but present in fungi, group I introns are of interest as their complex tertiary structure may allow selective targeting using small molecules. In this work, we demonstrate that group I introns present in phytopathogenic fungi have a self-splicing activity in vitro that can be adapted in a high-throughput screening to find new antifungal compounds. Ten candidate introns from different filamentous fungi were tested and one group ID intron found in F. oxysporum showed high self-splicing efficiency in vitro. We designed the Fusarium intron to act as a trans-acting ribozyme and used a fluorescence-based reporter system to monitor its real time splicing activity. Together, these results are opening the way to study the druggability of such introns in crop pathogen and potentially discover small molecules selectively targeting group I introns in future high-throughput screenings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastien Malbert
- Early Discovery, Biochemistry Excellence, Centre de Recherche La Dargoire, Bayer SAS, 69009 Lyon, France
| | - Virginie Labaurie
- Early Discovery, Biochemistry Excellence, Centre de Recherche La Dargoire, Bayer SAS, 69009 Lyon, France
| | - Cécile Dorme
- Early Discovery, Biochemistry Excellence, Centre de Recherche La Dargoire, Bayer SAS, 69009 Lyon, France
| | - Eric Paget
- Early Discovery, Biochemistry Excellence, Centre de Recherche La Dargoire, Bayer SAS, 69009 Lyon, France
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6
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Ryan C, Rahman MM, Kumar V, Rozners E. Triplex-Forming Peptide Nucleic Acid Controls Dynamic Conformations of RNA Bulges. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:10497-10504. [PMID: 37155726 PMCID: PMC10198159 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c12488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
RNA folding is driven by the formation of double-helical segments interspaced by loops of unpaired nucleotides. Among the latter, bulges formed by one or several unpaired nucleotides are one of the most common structural motifs that play an important role in stabilizing RNA-RNA, RNA-protein, and RNA-small molecule interactions. Single-nucleotide bulges can fold in alternative structures where the unpaired nucleobase is either looped-out (flexible) in a solvent or stacked-in (intercalated) between the base pairs. In the present study, we discovered that triplex-forming peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) had unusually high affinity for single-purine-nucleotide bulges in double-helical RNA. Depending on the PNA's sequence, the triplex formation shifted the equilibrium between looped-out and stacked-in conformations. The ability to control the dynamic equilibria of RNA's structure will be an important tool for studying structure-function relationships in RNA biology and may have potential in novel therapeutic approaches targeting disease-related RNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher
A. Ryan
- Department of Chemistry, The State
University of New York, Binghamton University, Binghamton, New York 13902, United States
| | - Md Motiar Rahman
- Department of Chemistry, The State
University of New York, Binghamton University, Binghamton, New York 13902, United States
| | - Vipin Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, The State
University of New York, Binghamton University, Binghamton, New York 13902, United States
| | - Eriks Rozners
- Department of Chemistry, The State
University of New York, Binghamton University, Binghamton, New York 13902, United States
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7
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An H, Elvers KT, Gillespie JA, Jones K, Atack JR, Grubisha O, Shelkovnikova TA. A toolkit for the identification of NEAT1_2/paraspeckle modulators. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:e119. [PMID: 36099417 PMCID: PMC9723620 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Paraspeckles are ribonucleoprotein granules assembled by NEAT1_2 lncRNA, an isoform of Nuclear Paraspeckle Assembly Transcript 1 (NEAT1). Dysregulation of NEAT1_2/paraspeckles has been linked to multiple human diseases making them an attractive drug target. However currently NEAT1_2/paraspeckle-focused translational research and drug discovery are hindered by a limited toolkit. To fill this gap, we developed and validated a set of tools for the identification of NEAT1_2 binders and modulators comprised of biochemical and cell-based assays. The NEAT1_2 triple helix stability element was utilized as the target in the biochemical assays, and the cellular assay ('ParaQuant') was based on high-content imaging of NEAT1_2 in fixed cells. As a proof of principle, these assays were used to screen a 1,200-compound FDA-approved drug library and a 170-compound kinase inhibitor library and to confirm the screening hits. The assays are simple to establish, use only commercially-available reagents and are scalable for higher throughput. In particular, ParaQuant is a cost-efficient assay suitable for any cells growing in adherent culture and amenable to multiplexing. Using ParaQuant, we identified dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitors as potent negative modulators of paraspeckles. The tools we describe herein should boost paraspeckle studies and help guide the search, validation and optimization of NEAT1_2/paraspeckle-targeted small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan An
- Medicines Discovery Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK
| | - Karen T Elvers
- Medicines Discovery Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK
| | - Jason A Gillespie
- Medicines Discovery Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK
| | - Kimberley Jones
- Medicines Discovery Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK
| | - John R Atack
- Medicines Discovery Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK
| | - Olivera Grubisha
- Medicines Discovery Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK
| | - Tatyana A Shelkovnikova
- Medicines Discovery Institute, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3AT, UK.,Sheffield Institute for Translational Neuroscience, Department of Neuroscience, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2HQ, UK
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8
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Autophagy regulation by RNA alternative splicing and implications in human diseases. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2735. [PMID: 35585060 PMCID: PMC9117662 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30433-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Autophagy and RNA alternative splicing are two evolutionarily conserved processes involved in overlapping physiological and pathological processes. However, the extent of functional connection is not well defined. Here, we consider the role for alternative splicing and generation of autophagy-related gene isoforms in the regulation of autophagy in recent work. The impact of changes to the RNA alternative splicing machinery and production of alternative spliced isoforms on autophagy are reviewed with particular focus on disease relevance. The use of drugs targeting both alternative splicing and autophagy as well as the selective regulation of single autophagy-related protein isoforms, are considered as therapeutic strategies. Both alternative splicing and autophagy are core cell biological processes, but where they intersect has received little attention. Here, the authors reflect on recent connections identified between these pathways and consider their impact on human disease.
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9
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Tran TPA, Poulet S, Pernak M, Rayar A, Azoulay S, Di Giorgio A, Duca M. Development of 2-deoxystreptamine-nucleobase conjugates for the inhibition of oncogenic miRNA production. RSC Med Chem 2022; 13:311-319. [PMID: 35434630 PMCID: PMC8942232 DOI: 10.1039/d1md00345c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The discovery of new original scaffolds for selective RNA targeting is one of the main challenges of current medicinal chemistry since therapeutically relevant RNAs represent potential targets for a number of pathologies. Recent efforts have been devoted to the search for RNA ligands targeting the biogenesis of oncogenic miRNAs whose overexpression has been directly linked to the development of various cancers. In this work, we developed a new series of RNA ligands for the targeting of oncogenic miRNA biogenesis based on the 2-deoxystreptamine scaffold. The latter is part of the aminoglycoside neomycin and is known to play an essential role in the RNA interaction of this class of RNA binders. 2-deoxystreptamine was thus conjugated to natural and artificial nucleobases to obtain new binders of the oncogenic miR-372 precursor (pre-miR-372). We identified some conjugates exhibiting a similar biological activity to previously synthesized neomycin analogs and studied their mode of binding with the target pre-miR-372.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sylvain Poulet
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Institut de Chimie de Nice (ICN) Nice France
| | - Mélanie Pernak
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Institut de Chimie de Nice (ICN) Nice France
| | - Anita Rayar
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Institut de Chimie de Nice (ICN) Nice France
| | - Stéphane Azoulay
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Institut de Chimie de Nice (ICN) Nice France
| | - Audrey Di Giorgio
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Institut de Chimie de Nice (ICN) Nice France
| | - Maria Duca
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Institut de Chimie de Nice (ICN) Nice France
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10
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Bush JA, Williams CC, Meyer SM, Tong Y, Haniff HS, Childs-Disney JL, Disney MD. Systematically Studying the Effect of Small Molecules Interacting with RNA in Cellular and Preclinical Models. ACS Chem Biol 2021; 16:1111-1127. [PMID: 34166593 PMCID: PMC8867596 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.1c00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The interrogation and manipulation of biological systems by small molecules is a powerful approach in chemical biology. Ideal compounds selectively engage a target and mediate a downstream phenotypic response. Although historically small molecule drug discovery has focused on proteins and enzymes, targeting RNA is an attractive therapeutic alternative, as many disease-causing or -associated RNAs have been identified through genome-wide association studies. As the field of RNA chemical biology emerges, the systematic evaluation of target validation and modulation of target-associated pathways is of paramount importance. In this Review, through an examination of case studies, we outline the experimental characterization, including methods and tools, to evaluate comprehensively the impact of small molecules that target RNA on cellular phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A Bush
- The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Chemistry, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Christopher C Williams
- The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Chemistry, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Samantha M Meyer
- The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Chemistry, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Yuquan Tong
- The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Chemistry, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Hafeez S Haniff
- The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Chemistry, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Jessica L Childs-Disney
- The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Chemistry, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Matthew D Disney
- The Scripps Research Institute, Department of Chemistry, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
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11
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Haify SN, Buijsen RAM, Verwegen L, Severijnen LAWFM, de Boer H, Boumeester V, Monshouwer R, Yang WY, Cameron MD, Willemsen R, Disney MD, Hukema RK. Small molecule 1a reduces FMRpolyG-mediated toxicity in in vitro and in vivo models for FMR1 premutation. Hum Mol Genet 2021; 30:1632-1648. [PMID: 34077515 PMCID: PMC8369842 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddab143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Fragile X-associated tremor and ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) is a late-onset, progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by tremors, ataxia and neuropsychological problems. This disease is quite common in the general population with approximately 20 million carriers worldwide. The risk of developing FXTAS increases dramatically with age, with about 45% of male carriers over the age of 50 being affected. FXTAS is caused by a CGG-repeat expansion (CGGexp) in the fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) gene. CGGexp RNA is translated into the FMRpolyG protein by a mechanism called RAN translation. Although both gene and pathogenic trigger are known, no therapeutic interventions are available at this moment. Here, we present, for the first time, primary hippocampal neurons derived from the ubiquitous inducible mouse model which is used as a screening tool for targeted interventions. A promising candidate is the repeat binding, RAN translation blocking, small molecule 1a. Small molecule 1a shields the disease-causing CGGexp from being translated into the toxic FMRpolyG protein. Primary hippocampal neurons formed FMRpolyG-positive inclusions, and upon treatment with 1a, the numbers of FMRpolyG-positive inclusions are reduced. We also describe for the first time the formation of FMRpolyG-positive inclusions in the liver of this mouse model. Treatment with 1a reduced the insoluble FMRpolyG protein fraction in the liver but not the number of inclusions. Moreover, 1a treatment had a reducing effect on the number of Rad23b-positive inclusions and insoluble Rad23b protein levels. These data suggest that targeted small molecule therapy is effective in an FXTAS mouse model and has the potential to treat CGGexp-mediated diseases, including FXTAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saif N Haify
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ronald A M Buijsen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Human Genetics, LUMC, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Lucas Verwegen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Cell Biology, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Helen de Boer
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Roos Monshouwer
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Wong Y Yang
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research Institute, Florida, the United States
| | - Michael D Cameron
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research Institute, Florida, the United States
| | - Rob Willemsen
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Matthew D Disney
- Department of Chemistry, Scripps Research Institute, Florida, the United States
| | - Renate K Hukema
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Department of Health Care Studies, Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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12
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Nucleobase-Modified Triplex-Forming Peptide Nucleic Acids for Sequence-Specific Recognition of Double-Stranded RNA. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2105:157-172. [PMID: 32088869 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0243-0_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Because of the important roles noncoding RNAs play in gene expression, their sequence-specific recognition is important for both fundamental science and the pharmaceutical industry. However, most noncoding RNAs fold in complex helical structures that are challenging problems for molecular recognition. Herein, we describe a method for sequence-specific recognition of double-stranded RNA using peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) that form triple helices in the major grove of RNA under physiologically relevant conditions. We also outline methods for solid-phase conjugation of PNA with cell-penetrating peptides and fluorescent dyes. Protocols for PNA preparation and binding studies using isothermal titration calorimetry are described in detail.
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13
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Kelly ML, Chu CC, Shi H, Ganser LR, Bogerd HP, Huynh K, Hou Y, Cullen BR, Al-Hashimi HM. Understanding the characteristics of nonspecific binding of drug-like compounds to canonical stem-loop RNAs and their implications for functional cellular assays. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2021; 27:12-26. [PMID: 33028652 PMCID: PMC7749633 DOI: 10.1261/rna.076257.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/26/2020] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Identifying small molecules that selectively bind an RNA target while discriminating against all other cellular RNAs is an important challenge in RNA-targeted drug discovery. Much effort has been directed toward identifying drug-like small molecules that minimize electrostatic and stacking interactions that lead to nonspecific binding of aminoglycosides and intercalators to many stem-loop RNAs. Many such compounds have been reported to bind RNAs and inhibit their cellular activities. However, target engagement and cellular selectivity assays are not routinely performed, and it is often unclear whether functional activity directly results from specific binding to the target RNA. Here, we examined the propensities of three drug-like compounds, previously shown to bind and inhibit the cellular activities of distinct stem-loop RNAs, to bind and inhibit the cellular activities of two unrelated HIV-1 stem-loop RNAs: the transactivation response element (TAR) and the rev response element stem IIB (RREIIB). All compounds bound TAR and RREIIB in vitro, and two inhibited TAR-dependent transactivation and RRE-dependent viral export in cell-based assays while also exhibiting off-target interactions consistent with nonspecific activity. A survey of X-ray and NMR structures of RNA-small molecule complexes revealed that aminoglycosides and drug-like molecules form hydrogen bonds with functional groups commonly accessible in canonical stem-loop RNA motifs, in contrast to ligands that specifically bind riboswitches. Our results demonstrate that drug-like molecules can nonspecifically bind stem-loop RNAs most likely through hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions and reinforce the importance of assaying for off-target interactions and RNA selectivity in vitro and in cells when assessing novel RNA-binders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan L Kelly
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Virology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Chia-Chieh Chu
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Virology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Honglue Shi
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Virology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Laura R Ganser
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Virology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Hal P Bogerd
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Center for Virology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Kelly Huynh
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Virology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Yuze Hou
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Virology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Bryan R Cullen
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Center for Virology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
| | - Hashim M Al-Hashimi
- Department of Biochemistry, Center for Virology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Center for Virology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710, USA
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14
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Benhamou RI, Vezina-Dawod S, Choudhary S, Won Wang K, Meyer SM, Yildirim I, Disney MD. Macrocyclization of a Ligand Targeting a Toxic RNA Dramatically Improves Potency. Chembiochem 2020; 21:3229-3233. [PMID: 32649032 PMCID: PMC7674229 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202000445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
RNA molecules both contribute to and are causative of many human diseases. One method to perturb RNA function is to target its structure with small molecules. However, discovering bioactive ligands for RNA targets is challenging. Here, we show that the bioactivity of a linear dimeric ligand that inactivates the RNA trinucleotide repeat expansion that causes myotonic dystrophy type 1 [DM1; r(CUG)exp ] can be improved by macrocyclization. Indeed, the macrocyclic compound is ten times more potent than the linear compound for improving DM1-associated defects in cells, including in patient-derived myotubes (muscle cells). This enhancement in potency is due to the macrocycle's increased affinity and selectively for the target, which inhibit r(CUG)exp 's toxic interaction with muscleblind-like 1 (MBNL1), and its superior cell permeability. Macrocyclization could prove to be an effective way to enhance the bioactivity of modularly assembled ligands targeting RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raphael I Benhamou
- Departments of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Simon Vezina-Dawod
- Departments of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Shruti Choudhary
- Departments of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Kye Won Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Florida Atlantic University, John D. MacArthur Campus, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Samantha M Meyer
- Departments of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Ilyas Yildirim
- Department of Chemistry, Florida Atlantic University, John D. MacArthur Campus, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Matthew D Disney
- Departments of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, 130 Scripps Way, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
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15
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Ursu A, Childs-Disney JL, Angelbello AJ, Costales MG, Meyer SM, Disney MD. Gini Coefficients as a Single Value Metric to Define Chemical Probe Selectivity. ACS Chem Biol 2020; 15:2031-2040. [PMID: 32568503 PMCID: PMC7442733 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.0c00486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Selectivity is a key requirement of high-quality chemical probes and lead medicines; however, methods to quantify and compare the selectivity of small molecules have not been standardized across the field. Herein, we discuss the origins and use of a comprehensive, single value term to quantify selectivity, the Gini coefficient. Case studies presented include compounds that target protein kinases, small molecules that bind RNA structures, and small molecule chimeras that bind to and degrade the target RNA. With an increasing number of transcriptome- and proteome-wide studies, we submit that reporting Gini coefficients as a quantitative descriptor of selectivity should be used broadly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei Ursu
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458
| | | | | | | | - Samantha M. Meyer
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458
| | - Matthew D. Disney
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458
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16
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Brzuzan P, Mazur-Marzec H, Florczyk M, Stefaniak F, Fidor A, Konkel R, Woźny M. Luciferase reporter assay for small-molecule inhibitors of MIR92b-3p function: Screening cyanopeptolins produced by Nostoc from the Baltic Sea. Toxicol In Vitro 2020; 68:104951. [PMID: 32721573 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2020.104951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
We developed a cell sensor that detects the liver cancer-specific microRNA MIR92b-3p, involved in hepatocellular carcinoma development and hepatitis C virus infection. To validate our small-molecule screen that employs a Huh7 human hepatoma cell line stably transfected with a pmirGLO vector containing dual luciferase reporters, we used i) a MIR92b-3p antisense or a MIR92b-3p mimicking agent (concentrations from 0.1 pM to 100 nM), ii) expression of XIST, a long non-coding RNA that is a cellular target of MIR92b, and iii) ectopic expression of Luc2 luciferase. This reporter system was used to test four cyanopeptolins from a de novo library of peptides that were isolated from the Baltic Sea cyanobacteria Nostoc edaphicum strain CCNP1411. Exposure of the Huh7-pmirGLO-MIR92b-3p cells to increasing concentrations (from 10 nM to 100 μM) of the cyanopeptolins and microcystin-LR (MC-LR; a treatment control) did not lead to a dose-dependent restoration of the luciferase signal. Instead, when the reporter cells were treated with MC-LR, the luciferase signal decreased markedly, most likely due to non-target, toxic effects of MC-LR on the cells. Although the first use of this reporter system to screen selected Nostoc peptides did not identify inhibitors of MIR92b, this method provides a means to identify functional miRNA regulators and could be readily extended to other compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Brzuzan
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Faculty of Geoengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland.
| | | | - Maciej Florczyk
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Faculty of Geoengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Filip Stefaniak
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics and Protein Engineering, International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Fidor
- Division of Marine Biotechnology, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Robert Konkel
- Division of Marine Biotechnology, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Maciej Woźny
- Department of Environmental Biotechnology, Faculty of Geoengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Poland
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17
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Angelbello AJ, Chen JL, Disney MD. Small molecule targeting of RNA structures in neurological disorders. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2020; 1471:57-71. [PMID: 30964958 PMCID: PMC6785366 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.14051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2018] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Aberrant RNA structure and function operate in neurological disease progression and severity. As RNA contributes to disease pathology in a complex fashion, that is, via various mechanisms, it has become an attractive therapeutic target for small molecules and oligonucleotides. In this review, we discuss the identification of RNA structures that cause or contribute to neurological diseases as well as recent progress toward the development of small molecules that target them, including small molecule modulators of pre-mRNA splicing and RNA repeat expansions that cause microsatellite disorders such as Huntington's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The use of oligonucleotide-based modalities is also discussed. There are key differences between small molecule and oligonucleotide targeting of RNA. The former targets RNA structure, while the latter prefers unstructured regions. Thus, some targets will be preferentially targeted by oligonucleotides and others by small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jonathan L Chen
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida
| | - Matthew D Disney
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida
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18
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Padroni G, Patwardhan NN, Schapira M, Hargrove AE. Systematic analysis of the interactions driving small molecule-RNA recognition. RSC Med Chem 2020; 11:802-813. [PMID: 33479676 DOI: 10.1039/d0md00167h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA molecules are becoming an important target class in drug discovery. However, the principles for designing RNA-binding small molecules are yet to be fully uncovered. In this study, we examined the Protein Data Bank (PDB) to highlight privileged interactions underlying small molecule-RNA recognition. By comparing this analysis with previously determined small molecule-protein interactions, we find that RNA recognition is driven mostly by stacking and hydrogen bonding interactions, while protein recognition is instead driven by hydrophobic effects. Furthermore, we analyze patterns of interactions to highlight potential strategies to tune RNA recognition, such as stacking and cation-π interactions that favor purine and guanine recognition, and note an unexpected paucity of backbone interactions, even for cationic ligands. Collectively, this work provides further understanding of RNA-small molecule interactions that may inform the design of small molecules targeting RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Padroni
- Department of Chemistry , Duke University , Durham , North Carolina 27708 , USA .
| | - N N Patwardhan
- Department of Chemistry , Duke University , Durham , North Carolina 27708 , USA .
| | - M Schapira
- Structural Genomics Consortium , University of Toronto , Toronto , ON M5G 1L7 , Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , University of Toronto , Toronto , ON M5S 1A8 , Canada
| | - A E Hargrove
- Department of Chemistry , Duke University , Durham , North Carolina 27708 , USA .
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19
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Chen JL, Zhang P, Abe M, Aikawa H, Zhang L, Frank AJ, Zembryski T, Hubbs C, Park H, Withka J, Steppan C, Rogers L, Cabral S, Pettersson M, Wager TT, Fountain MA, Rumbaugh G, Childs-Disney JL, Disney MD. Design, Optimization, and Study of Small Molecules That Target Tau Pre-mRNA and Affect Splicing. J Am Chem Soc 2020; 142:8706-8727. [PMID: 32364710 PMCID: PMC7357857 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.0c00768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Approximately 95% of human genes are alternatively spliced, and aberrant splicing events can cause disease. One pre-mRNA that is alternatively spliced and linked to neurodegenerative diseases is tau (microtubule-associated protein tau), which can cause frontotemporal dementia and parkinsonism linked to chromosome 17 (FTDP-17) and can contribute to Alzheimer's disease. Here, we describe the design of structure-specific lead small molecules that directly target tau pre-mRNA from sequence. This was followed by hit expansion and analogue synthesis to further improve upon these initial lead molecules. The emergent compounds were assessed for functional activity in a battery of assays, including binding assays and an assay that mimics molecular recognition of tau pre-mRNA by a U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) splicing factor. Compounds that emerged from these studies had enhanced potency and selectivity for the target RNA relative to the initial hits, while also having significantly improved drug-like properties. The compounds are shown to directly target tau pre-mRNA in cells, via chemical cross-linking and isolation by pull-down target profiling, and to rescue disease-relevant splicing of tau pre-mRNA in a variety of cellular systems, including primary neurons. More broadly, this study shows that lead, structure-specific compounds can be designed from sequence and then further optimized for their physicochemical properties while at the same time enhancing their activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan L. Chen
- Department of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Peiyuan Zhang
- Department of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Masahito Abe
- Department of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Haruo Aikawa
- Department of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Liying Zhang
- Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Alexander J. Frank
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, State University of New York at Fredonia, Fredonia, New York 14063, United States
| | - Timothy Zembryski
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, State University of New York at Fredonia, Fredonia, New York 14063, United States
| | - Christopher Hubbs
- Department of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - HaJeung Park
- Department of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Jane Withka
- Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Claire Steppan
- Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, Groton, Connecticut 06340, United States
| | - Lucy Rogers
- Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, Groton, Connecticut 06340, United States
| | - Shawn Cabral
- Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, Groton, Connecticut 06340, United States
| | - Martin Pettersson
- Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Travis T. Wager
- Pfizer Worldwide Research and Development, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Matthew A. Fountain
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, State University of New York at Fredonia, Fredonia, New York 14063, United States
| | - Gavin Rumbaugh
- Department of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Jessica L. Childs-Disney
- Department of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, Florida 33458, United States
| | - Matthew D. Disney
- Department of Chemistry and Neuroscience, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter
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20
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Ganser LR, Kelly ML, Herschlag D, Al-Hashimi HM. The roles of structural dynamics in the cellular functions of RNAs. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2020; 20:474-489. [PMID: 31182864 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-019-0136-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 263] [Impact Index Per Article: 65.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
RNAs fold into 3D structures that range from simple helical elements to complex tertiary structures and quaternary ribonucleoprotein assemblies. The functions of many regulatory RNAs depend on how their 3D structure changes in response to a diverse array of cellular conditions. In this Review, we examine how the structural characterization of RNA as dynamic ensembles of conformations, which form with different probabilities and at different timescales, is improving our understanding of RNA function in cells. We discuss the mechanisms of gene regulation by microRNAs, riboswitches, ribozymes, post-transcriptional RNA modifications and RNA-binding proteins, and how the cellular environment and processes such as liquid-liquid phase separation may affect RNA folding and activity. The emerging RNA-ensemble-function paradigm is changing our perspective and understanding of RNA regulation, from in vitro to in vivo and from descriptive to predictive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura R Ganser
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Megan L Kelly
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Daniel Herschlag
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford ChEM-H Chemistry, Engineering, and Medicine for Human Health, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.,Department of Chemical Engineering, Stanford ChEM-H Chemistry, Engineering, and Medicine for Human Health, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.,Department of Chemistry, Stanford ChEM-H Chemistry, Engineering, and Medicine for Human Health, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Hashim M Al-Hashimi
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA. .,Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA.
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21
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Benhamou RI, Angelbello AJ, Andrews RJ, Wang ET, Moss WN, Disney MD. Structure-Specific Cleavage of an RNA Repeat Expansion with a Dimeric Small Molecule Is Advantageous over Sequence-Specific Recognition by an Oligonucleotide. ACS Chem Biol 2020; 15:485-493. [PMID: 31927948 PMCID: PMC7081929 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.9b00958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Myotonic dystrophy type 2 (DM2) is a genetically defined muscular dystrophy that is caused by an expanded repeat of r(CCUG) [r(CCUG)exp] in intron 1 of a CHC-type zinc finger nucleic acid binding protein (CNBP) pre-mRNA. Various mechanisms contribute to DM2 pathology including pre-mRNA splicing defects caused by sequestration of the RNA splicing regulator muscleblind-like-1 (MBNL1) by r(CCUG)exp. Herein, we study the biological impacts of the molecular recognition of r(CCUG)exp's structure by a designer dimeric small molecule that directly cleaves the RNA in patient-derived cells. The compound is comprised of two RNA-binding modules conjugated to a derivative of the natural product bleomycin. Careful design of the chimera affords RNA-specific cleavage, as attachment of the bleomycin cleaving module was done in a manner that disables DNA cleavage. The chimeric cleaver is more potent than the parent binding compound for alleviating DM2-associated defects. Importantly, oligonucleotides targeting the r(CCUG)exp sequence for cleavage exacerbate DM2 defects due to recognition of a short r(CCUG) sequence that is embedded in CNBP, argonaute-1 (AGO1), and MBNL1, reducing their levels. The latter event causes a greater depletion of functional MBNL1 than the amount already sequestered by r(CCUG)exp. Thus, compounds targeting RNA structures can have functional advantages over oligonucleotides that target the sequence in some disease settings, particularly in DM2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raphael I Benhamou
- Department of Chemistry , The Scripps Research Institute , 110 Scripps Way , Jupiter , Florida 33458 , United States
| | - Alicia J Angelbello
- Department of Chemistry , The Scripps Research Institute , 110 Scripps Way , Jupiter , Florida 33458 , United States
| | - Ryan J Andrews
- Roy J. Carver Department of Biophysics, Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology , Iowa State University , Ames , Iowa 50011 , United States
| | - Eric T Wang
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Center for NeuroGenetics, UF Genetics Institute , University of Florida , 2033 Mowry Road , Gainesville , Florida 32610 , United States
| | - Walter N Moss
- Roy J. Carver Department of Biophysics, Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology , Iowa State University , Ames , Iowa 50011 , United States
| | - Matthew D Disney
- Department of Chemistry , The Scripps Research Institute , 110 Scripps Way , Jupiter , Florida 33458 , United States
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22
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Morgan BS, Sanaba BG, Donlic A, Karloff DB, Forte JE, Zhang Y, Hargrove AE. R-BIND: An Interactive Database for Exploring and Developing RNA-Targeted Chemical Probes. ACS Chem Biol 2019; 14:2691-2700. [PMID: 31589399 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.9b00631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
While the opportunities available for targeting RNA with small molecules have been widely appreciated, the challenges associated with achieving specific RNA recognition in biological systems have hindered progress and prevented many researchers from entering the field. To facilitate the discovery of RNA-targeted chemical probes and their subsequent applications, we curated the RNA-targeted BIoactive ligaNd Database (R-BIND). This collection contains an array of information on reported chemical probes that target non-rRNA and have biological activity, and analysis has led to the discovery of RNA-privileged properties. Herein, we developed an online platform to make this information freely available to the community, offering search options, a suite of tools for probe development, and an updated R-BIND data set with detailed experimental information for each probe. We repeated the previous cheminformatics analysis on the updated R-BIND list and found that the distinguishing physicochemical, structural, and spatial properties remained unchanged, despite an almost 50% increase in the database size. Further, we developed several user-friendly tools, including queries based on cheminformatic parameters, experimental details, functional groups, and substructures. In addition, a nearest neighbor algorithm can assess the similarity of user-uploaded molecules to R-BIND ligands. These tools and resources can be used to design small molecule libraries, optimize lead ligands, or select targets, probes, assays, and control experiments. Chemical probes are critical to the study and discovery of novel functions for RNA, and we expect this resource to greatly assist researchers in exploring and developing successful RNA-targeted probes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany S. Morgan
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, 210 Washtenaw Avenue, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Bilva G. Sanaba
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, 124 Science Drive, Durham, North Carolina 27705, United States
| | - Anita Donlic
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, 124 Science Drive, Durham, North Carolina 27705, United States
| | - Diane B. Karloff
- Department of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, United States
| | - Jordan E. Forte
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, 475 Vine Street, Winston Salem, North Carolina 27101, United States
| | - Yuqi Zhang
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Amanda E. Hargrove
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, 124 Science Drive, Durham, North Carolina 27705, United States
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23
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Venkata Subbaiah KC, Hedaya O, Wu J, Jiang F, Yao P. Mammalian RNA switches: Molecular rheostats in gene regulation, disease, and medicine. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2019; 17:1326-1338. [PMID: 31741723 PMCID: PMC6849081 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2019.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Alteration of RNA structure by environmental signals is a fundamental mechanism of gene regulation. For example, the riboswitch is a noncoding RNA regulatory element that binds a small molecule and causes a structural change in the RNA, thereby regulating transcription, splicing, or translation of an mRNA. The role of riboswitches in metabolite sensing and gene regulation in bacteria and other lower species was reported almost two decades ago, but riboswitches have not yet been discovered in mammals. An analog of the riboswitch, the protein-directed RNA switch (PDRS), has been identified as an important regulatory mechanism of gene expression in mammalian cells. RNA-binding proteins and microRNAs are two major executors of PDRS via their interaction with target transcripts in mammals. These protein-RNA interactions influence cellular functions by integrating environmental signals and intracellular pathways from disparate stimuli to modulate stability or translation of specific mRNAs. The discovery of a riboswitch in eukaryotes that is composed of a single class of thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP) suggests that additional ligand-sensing RNAs may be present to control eukaryotic or mammalian gene expression. In this review, we focus on protein-directed RNA switch mechanisms in mammals. We offer perspectives on the potential discovery of mammalian protein-directed and compound-dependent RNA switches that are related to human disease and medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kadiam C Venkata Subbaiah
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14586, United States
| | - Omar Hedaya
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14586, United States.,Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14586, United States
| | - Jiangbin Wu
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14586, United States
| | - Feng Jiang
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14586, United States.,Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14586, United States
| | - Peng Yao
- Aab Cardiovascular Research Institute, Department of Medicine, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14586, United States.,Department of Biochemistry & Biophysics, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14586, United States.,The Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14586, United States.,The Center for Biomedical Informatics, University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14586, United States
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24
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Chu CC, Plangger R, Kreutz C, Al-Hashimi HM. Dynamic ensemble of HIV-1 RRE stem IIB reveals non-native conformations that disrupt the Rev-binding site. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 47:7105-7117. [PMID: 31199872 PMCID: PMC6649712 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkz498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The HIV-1 Rev response element (RRE) RNA element mediates the nuclear export of intron containing viral RNAs by forming an oligomeric complex with the viral protein Rev. Stem IIB and nearby stem II three-way junction nucleate oligomerization through cooperative binding of two Rev molecules. Conformational flexibility at this RRE region has been shown to be important for Rev binding. However, the nature of the flexibility has remained elusive. Here, using NMR relaxation dispersion, including a new strategy for directly observing transient conformational states in large RNAs, we find that stem IIB alone or when part of the larger RREII three-way junction robustly exists in dynamic equilibrium with non-native excited state (ES) conformations that have a combined population of ∼20%. The ESs disrupt the Rev-binding site by changing local secondary structure, and their stabilization via point substitution mutations decreases the binding affinity to the Rev arginine-rich motif (ARM) by 15- to 80-fold. The ensemble clarifies the conformational flexibility observed in stem IIB, reveals long-range conformational coupling between stem IIB and the three-way junction that may play roles in cooperative Rev binding, and also identifies non-native RRE conformational states as new targets for the development of anti-HIV therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Chieh Chu
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Raphael Plangger
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences (CMBI), Universität Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Christoph Kreutz
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Center for Molecular Biosciences (CMBI), Universität Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Hashim M Al-Hashimi
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
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25
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Morgan BS, Forte JE, Hargrove AE. Insights into the development of chemical probes for RNA. Nucleic Acids Res 2019; 46:8025-8037. [PMID: 30102391 PMCID: PMC6144806 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gky718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the past decade, the RNA revolution has revealed thousands of non-coding RNAs that are essential for cellular regulation and are misregulated in disease. While the development of methods and tools to study these RNAs has been challenging, the power and promise of small molecule chemical probes is increasingly recognized. To harness existing knowledge, we compiled a list of 116 ligands with reported activity against RNA targets in biological systems (R-BIND). In this survey, we examine the RNA targets, design and discovery strategies, and chemical probe characterization techniques of these ligands. We discuss the applicability of current tools to identify and evaluate RNA-targeted chemical probes, suggest criteria to assess the quality of RNA chemical probes and targets, and propose areas where new tools are particularly needed. We anticipate that this knowledge will expedite the discovery of RNA-targeted ligands and the next phase of the RNA revolution.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jordan E Forte
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Amanda E Hargrove
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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Disney MD, Velagapudi SP, Li Y, Costales MG, Childs-Disney JL. Identifying and validating small molecules interacting with RNA (SMIRNAs). Methods Enzymol 2019; 623:45-66. [PMID: 31239057 PMCID: PMC6628145 DOI: 10.1016/bs.mie.2019.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
High throughput sequencing has revolutionized our ability to identify aberrant RNA expression and mutations that cause or contribute to disease. These data can be used directly to design oligonucleotide-based modalities using Watson-Crick pairing to target unstructured regions in an RNA. A complementary, although more difficult, strategy to deactivate a malfunctioning RNA is to target highly structured regions with small molecules. Indeed, RNA structures are directly causative of disease. Herein, we discuss emerging strategies to design high affinity, selective, bioactive ligands targeting RNA, or small molecules interacting with RNA (SMIRNAs), and target validation and profiling methods. An experimental foundation is required for a lead identification strategy for RNA structures, constructed from a library-vs.-library screen that probes vast libraries of small molecules for binding RNA three dimensional folds. Dubbed 2-dimensional combinatorial screening (2DCS), the resulting data can be mined against transcriptomes or the composite of RNAs that are produced in an organism to define folded RNA structures that can be targeted. By applying SMIRNAs to cells and using target validation tools such as Chemical Cross-Linking and Isolation by Pull-down (Chem-CLIP) and Small Molecule Nucleic Acid Profiling by Cleavage Applied to RNA (RiboSNAP), all targets engaged in cells can be defined, along with rules for molecular recognition to affect RNA biology. This chapter will describe lessons learned in applying these approaches in vitro, in cells, and in pre-clinical animal models of disease, enabling SMIRNAs to capture opportunities in chemical biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew D Disney
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL, United States.
| | | | - Yue Li
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL, United States
| | - Matthew G Costales
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL, United States
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Arjmand F, Afsan Z, Sharma S, Parveen S, Yousuf I, Sartaj S, Siddique HR, Tabassum S. Recent advances in metallodrug-like molecules targeting non-coding RNAs in cancer chemotherapy. Coord Chem Rev 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ccr.2019.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Velagapudi SP, Li Y, Disney MD. A cross-linking approach to map small molecule-RNA binding sites in cells. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2019; 29:1532-1536. [PMID: 30987892 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2019.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2018] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Methods to identify RNAs bound by small molecules in cells are sparse. Herein, an advance to identify the direct RNA targets of small molecules in cells is described. The approach, dubbed Chemical Cross-Linking and Isolation by Pull-down to Map Small Molecule-RNA Binding Sites (Chem-CLIP-Map-Seq), appends a cross-linker and a purification tag onto a small molecule. In cells, the compound binds to RNA and undergoes a proximity-based reaction. The cross-linked RNA is purified and then amplified using a universal reverse transcription (RT) primer and gene-specific PCR primers. At nucleotides proximal to the binding site, RT "stops" are observed. This approach has broad utility in identifying and validating the RNA targets and binding sites of small molecules in the context of a complex cellular system.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yue Li
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA
| | - Matthew D Disney
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, USA.
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Precise small-molecule cleavage of an r(CUG) repeat expansion in a myotonic dystrophy mouse model. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:7799-7804. [PMID: 30926669 PMCID: PMC6475439 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1901484116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of small-molecule lead medicines that potently and specifically modulate RNA function is challenging. We designed a small molecule that cleaves r(CUG)exp, the RNA repeat expansion that causes myotonic dystrophy type 1. In cells and in an animal model, the small-molecule cleaver specifically recognizes the 3-dimensional structure of r(CUG)exp, cleaving it more selectively among transcripts containing short, nonpathogenic r(CUG) repeats than an oligonucleotide that recognizes RNA sequence via Watson-Crick base pairing. The small molecule broadly relieves disease-associated phenotype in a mouse model. Thus, small molecules that recognize and cleave RNA structures should be considered a therapeutic strategy for targeting RNA in vivo. Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is an incurable neuromuscular disorder caused by an expanded CTG repeat that is transcribed into r(CUG)exp. The RNA repeat expansion sequesters regulatory proteins such as Muscleblind-like protein 1 (MBNL1), which causes pre-mRNA splicing defects. The disease-causing r(CUG)exp has been targeted by antisense oligonucleotides, CRISPR-based approaches, and RNA-targeting small molecules. Herein, we describe a designer small molecule, Cugamycin, that recognizes the structure of r(CUG)exp and cleaves it in both DM1 patient-derived myotubes and a DM1 mouse model, leaving short repeats of r(CUG) untouched. In contrast, oligonucleotides that recognize r(CUG) sequence rather than structure cleave both long and short r(CUG)-containing transcripts. Transcriptomic, histological, and phenotypic studies demonstrate that Cugamycin broadly and specifically relieves DM1-associated defects in vivo without detectable off-targets. Thus, small molecules that bind and cleave RNA have utility as lead chemical probes and medicines and can selectively target disease-causing RNA structures to broadly improve defects in preclinical animal models.
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Kotikam V, Kennedy SD, MacKay JA, Rozners E. Synthetic, Structural, and RNA Binding Studies on 2-Aminopyridine-Modified Triplex-Forming Peptide Nucleic Acids. Chemistry 2019; 25:4367-4372. [PMID: 30746843 DOI: 10.1002/chem.201806293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The development of new RNA-binding ligands is attracting increasing interest in fundamental science and the pharmaceutical industry. The goal of this study was to improve the RNA binding properties of triplex-forming peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) by further increasing the pKa of 2-aminopyridine (M). Protonation of M was the key for enabling triplex formation at physiological pH in earlier studies. Substitution on M by an electron-donating 4-methoxy substituent resulted in slight destabilization of the PNA-dsRNA triplex, contrary to the expected stabilization due to more favorable protonation. To explain this unexpected result, the first NMR structural studies were performed on an M-modified PNA-dsRNA triplex which, combined with computational modeling identified unfavorable steric and electrostatic repulsion between the 4-methoxy group of M and the oxygen of the carbonyl group connecting the adjacent nucleobase to PNA backbone. The structural studies also provided insights into hydrogen-bonding interactions that might be responsible for the high affinity and unusual RNA-binding preference of PNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venubabu Kotikam
- Department of Chemistry, Binghamton University, Binghamton, New York, 13902, USA
| | - Scott D Kennedy
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, 14642, USA
| | - James A MacKay
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Elizabethtown College, Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, 17022, USA
| | - Eriks Rozners
- Department of Chemistry, Binghamton University, Binghamton, New York, 13902, USA
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Costales MG, Hoch DG, Abegg D, Childs-Disney JL, Velagapudi SP, Adibekian A, Disney MD. A Designed Small Molecule Inhibitor of a Non-Coding RNA Sensitizes HER2 Negative Cancers to Herceptin. J Am Chem Soc 2019; 141:2960-2974. [PMID: 30726072 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.8b10558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
A small molecule (1) with overlapping affinity for two microRNA (miRNA) precursors was used to inform design of a dimeric compound (2) selective for one of the miRNAs. In particular, 2 selectively targets the microRNA(miR)-515 hairpin precursor to inhibit production of miR-515 that represses sphingosine kinase 1 (SK1), a key enzyme in the biosynthesis of sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P). Application of 2 to breast cancer cells enhanced SK1 and S1P levels, triggering a migratory phenotype. Knockout of SK1, forced overexpression of miR-515, and application of a small molecule SK1 inhibitor all ablated 2's effect on phenotype, consistent with its designed mode of action. Target profiling studies via Chem-CLIP showed that 2 bound selectively to the miR-515 hairpin precursor in cells. Global neoprotein synthesis upon addition of 2 to MCF-7 breast cancer cells demonstrated 2's selectivity and upregulation of cancer-associated proteins regulated by S1P. The most upregulated protein was human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (ERBB2/HER2), which is regulated by the SK1/S1P pathway and is normally not expressed in MCF-7 cells. Like triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells, the lack of HER2 renders them insusceptible to Herceptin and its antibody-drug conjugate Kadcyla. In addition to proteomics, an RNA-seq study supports that 2 has limited off target effects and other studies support that 2 is more selective than an oligonucleotide. We therefore hypothesized that 2 could sensitize MCF-7 cells to anti-HER2 therapies. Indeed, application of 2 sensitized cells to Herceptin. These results were confirmed in two other cell lines that express miR-515 and are HER2-, the hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG2 and the TNBC line MDA-MB-231. Importantly, normal breast epithelial cells (MCF-10A) that do not express miR-515 are not affected by 2. These observations suggest a precision medicine approach to sensitize HER2- cancers to approved anticancer medicines. This study has implications for broadening the therapeutic utility of known targeted cancer therapeutics by using a secondary targeted approach to render otherwise insensitive cells, sensitive to a targeted therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew G Costales
- Department of Chemistry , The Scripps Research Institute , 130 Scripps Way , Jupiter , Florida 33458 , United States
| | - Dominic G Hoch
- Department of Chemistry , The Scripps Research Institute , 130 Scripps Way , Jupiter , Florida 33458 , United States
| | - Daniel Abegg
- Department of Chemistry , The Scripps Research Institute , 130 Scripps Way , Jupiter , Florida 33458 , United States
| | - Jessica L Childs-Disney
- Department of Chemistry , The Scripps Research Institute , 130 Scripps Way , Jupiter , Florida 33458 , United States
| | - Sai Pradeep Velagapudi
- Department of Chemistry , The Scripps Research Institute , 130 Scripps Way , Jupiter , Florida 33458 , United States
| | - Alexander Adibekian
- Department of Chemistry , The Scripps Research Institute , 130 Scripps Way , Jupiter , Florida 33458 , United States
| | - Matthew D Disney
- Department of Chemistry , The Scripps Research Institute , 130 Scripps Way , Jupiter , Florida 33458 , United States
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Abstract
While <2% of DNA encodes for functional proteins, >70% is transcribed into RNA. Although the function of most RNA transcripts is unknown, such non-coding RNAs are attractive targets for molecular recognition because of the potentially important roles they play in regulation of gene expression and development of disease. In this chapter, we describe peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) that form sequence-specific triple helices with double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). We provide protocols for sequence design and biophysical characterization of PNAs and discuss first examples where such PNAs have been used for functional modulation of dsRNA. The triplex-forming PNAs represent a new approach for RNA recognition that may find future applications in fundamental science, biotechnology and medicine.
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Rice GM, Nutiu R, Gampe CM. Direct Chemical Biotinylation of RNA 5'-Ends Using a Diazo Reagent. Methods Mol Biol 2018; 1870:81-87. [PMID: 30539548 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-8808-2_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
Introduction of chemical labels into biomolecules is of utmost importance in chemical biology research. However, methods for selective chemical labeling of in vitro transcribed RNA are scarce. Herein, we describe experimental details for direct labeling of the 5'-phosphate of RNA using a diazo biotin-reagent, as exemplified on a 110 nucleotide RNA obtained via in vitro transcription. The method exploits the fact that, under neutral buffer conditions (~pH 6.8), the 5'-phosphate carries the only mildly acidic proton in the RNA molecule, which allows for selective functionalization at that site using diazo reagents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greggory M Rice
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Razvan Nutiu
- Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA
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Haniff HS, Graves A, Disney MD. Selective Small Molecule Recognition of RNA Base Pairs. ACS COMBINATORIAL SCIENCE 2018; 20:482-491. [PMID: 29966095 PMCID: PMC6325646 DOI: 10.1021/acscombsci.8b00049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Many types of RNAs exist in the human transcriptome, yet only the bacterial ribosome has been exploited as a small molecule drug target. Aside from rRNA, other cellular RNAs such as noncoding RNAs have primarily secondary structure and limited tertiary structure. Within these secondary structures of noncanonically paired and unpaired regions, more than 50% are base paired, with most efforts to target these structures focused on looped regions. A void exists in the availability of small molecules capable of targeting RNA base pairs. Using chemoinformatics, an RNA-focused library enriched for nitrogen-containing heterocycles was developed and tested for binding RNA base pairs, leading to the identification of six selective and previously unknown binders. While all binders were derivatives of benzimidazoles, those with expanded aromatic polycycles bound selectively to AU pairs, while those with flexible urea side chains bound selectively to GC pairs. Two of the three selective GC pair binders can distinguish between two different orientations, 5'GG/3'CC and 5'GC/3'CG pairs. Furthermore, all six molecules showed >50-fold selectivity for RNA over DNA. These studies provide foundational knowledge to better exploit RNA as targets for small molecule chemical probes or lead therapeutics by using modules that target RNA base pairs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hafeez S Haniff
- Department of Chemistry , The Scripps Research Institute , Jupiter , Florida 33458 , United States
| | - Amanda Graves
- Department of Chemistry , The Scripps Research Institute , Jupiter , Florida 33458 , United States
| | - Matthew D Disney
- Department of Chemistry , The Scripps Research Institute , Jupiter , Florida 33458 , United States
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Warner KD, Hajdin CE, Weeks KM. Principles for targeting RNA with drug-like small molecules. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2018; 17:547-558. [PMID: 29977051 PMCID: PMC6420209 DOI: 10.1038/nrd.2018.93] [Citation(s) in RCA: 410] [Impact Index Per Article: 68.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have indicated the potential to develop small-molecule drugs that act on RNA targets, leading to burgeoning interest in the field. This article discusses general principles for discovering small-molecule drugs that target RNA and argues that the overarching challenge is to identify appropriate target structures in disease-causing RNAs that have high information content and, consequently, appropriate ligand-binding pockets. RNA molecules are essential for cellular information transfer and gene regulation, and RNAs have been implicated in many human diseases. Messenger and non-coding RNAs contain highly structured elements, and evidence suggests that many of these structures are important for function. Targeting these RNAs with small molecules offers opportunities to therapeutically modulate numerous cellular processes, including those linked to 'undruggable' protein targets. Despite this promise, there is currently only a single class of human-designed small molecules that target RNA used clinically — the linezolid antibiotics. However, a growing number of small-molecule RNA ligands are being identified, leading to burgeoning interest in the field. Here, we discuss principles for discovering small-molecule drugs that target RNA and argue that the overarching challenge is to identify appropriate target structures — namely, in disease-causing RNAs that have high information content and, consequently, appropriate ligand-binding pockets. If focus is placed on such druggable binding sites in RNA, extensive knowledge of the typical physicochemical properties of drug-like small molecules could then enable small-molecule drug discovery for RNA targets to become (only) roughly as difficult as for protein targets.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kevin M Weeks
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Donlic A, Hargrove AE. Targeting RNA in mammalian systems with small molecules. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS. RNA 2018; 9:e1477. [PMID: 29726113 PMCID: PMC6002909 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The recognition of RNA functions beyond canonical protein synthesis has challenged the central dogma of molecular biology. Indeed, RNA is now known to directly regulate many important cellular processes, including transcription, splicing, translation, and epigenetic modifications. The misregulation of these processes in disease has led to an appreciation of RNA as a therapeutic target. This potential was first recognized in bacteria and viruses, but discoveries of new RNA classes following the sequencing of the human genome have invigorated exploration of its disease-related functions in mammals. As stable structure formation is evolving as a hallmark of mammalian RNAs, the prospect of utilizing small molecules to specifically probe the function of RNA structural domains and their interactions is gaining increased recognition. To date, researchers have discovered bioactive small molecules that modulate phenotypes by binding to expanded repeats, microRNAs, G-quadruplex structures, and RNA splice sites in neurological disorders, cancers, and other diseases. The lessons learned from achieving these successes both call for additional studies and encourage exploration of the plethora of mammalian RNAs whose precise mechanisms of action remain to be elucidated. Efforts toward understanding fundamental principles of small molecule-RNA recognition combined with advances in methodology development should pave the way toward targeting emerging RNA classes such as long noncoding RNAs. Together, these endeavors can unlock the full potential of small molecule-based probing of RNA-regulated processes and enable us to discover new biology and underexplored avenues for therapeutic intervention in human disease. This article is categorized under: RNA Methods > RNA Analyses In Vitro and In Silico RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Small Molecule-RNA Interactions RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Donlic
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Amanda E Hargrove
- Department of Chemistry, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Biochemistry, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
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38
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Jain SS, Anderson CM, Sapse IA, Lundgren SH, Freer AK, Hoang H, Jain K, Breshears M. A ruthenium-platinum metal complex that binds to sarcin ricin loop RNA and lowers mRNA expression. Chem Commun (Camb) 2018; 54:8987-8990. [PMID: 29951655 DOI: 10.1039/c8cc02131g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
IT127 is a dinuclear transition metal complex that contains a Pt(ii) and a Ru(iii) metal center. We have shown that IT127 is significantly more effective in binding the 29-base sarcin ricin loop (SRL) RNA in comparison to Cisplatin, a hallmark anticancer agent. Binding site analysis shows that IT127 prefers purine bases and the GAGA tetraloop region of SRL RNA. Our results with a dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) model system reveal that IT127 binding to mRNA reduces translation of DHFR enzyme and that the Ru(iii) and Pt(ii) centers in IT127 appear to work in a synergistic manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swapan S Jain
- Department of Chemistry, Bard College, 30 Campus Road, Annandale-on-Hudson, New York 12504, USA.
| | - Craig M Anderson
- Department of Chemistry, Bard College, 30 Campus Road, Annandale-on-Hudson, New York 12504, USA.
| | - Iden A Sapse
- Department of Chemistry, Bard College, 30 Campus Road, Annandale-on-Hudson, New York 12504, USA.
| | - Silvie H Lundgren
- Department of Chemistry, Bard College, 30 Campus Road, Annandale-on-Hudson, New York 12504, USA.
| | - Abigail K Freer
- Department of Chemistry, Bard College, 30 Campus Road, Annandale-on-Hudson, New York 12504, USA.
| | - Hang Hoang
- Department of Chemistry, Bard College, 30 Campus Road, Annandale-on-Hudson, New York 12504, USA.
| | - Kyan Jain
- Department of Chemistry, Bard College, 30 Campus Road, Annandale-on-Hudson, New York 12504, USA.
| | - Madeleine Breshears
- Department of Chemistry, Bard College, 30 Campus Road, Annandale-on-Hudson, New York 12504, USA.
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Wang J, Schultz PG, Johnson KA. Mechanistic studies of a small-molecule modulator of SMN2 splicing. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018; 115:E4604-E4612. [PMID: 29712837 PMCID: PMC5960314 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1800260115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
RG-7916 is a first-in-class drug candidate for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) that functions by modulating pre-mRNA splicing of the SMN2 gene, resulting in a 2.5-fold increase in survival of motor neuron (SMN) protein level, a key protein lacking in SMA patients. RG-7916 is currently in three interventional phase 2 clinical trials for various types of SMA. In this report, we show that SMN-C2 and -C3, close analogs of RG-7916, act as selective RNA-binding ligands that modulate pre-mRNA splicing. Chemical proteomic and genomic techniques reveal that SMN-C2 directly binds to the AGGAAG motif on exon 7 of the SMN2 pre-mRNA, and promotes a conformational change in two to three unpaired nucleotides at the junction of intron 6 and exon 7 in both in vitro and in-cell models. This change creates a new functional binding surface that increases binding of the splicing modulators, far upstream element binding protein 1 (FUBP1) and its homolog, KH-type splicing regulatory protein (KHSRP), to the SMN-C2/C3-SMN2 pre-mRNA complex and enhances SMN2 splicing. These findings underscore the potential of small-molecule drugs to selectively bind RNA and modulate pre-mRNA splicing as an approach to the treatment of human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingxin Wang
- California Institute for Biomedical Research, La Jolla, CA 92037
| | - Peter G Schultz
- California Institute for Biomedical Research, La Jolla, CA 92037;
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037
- Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037
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Nan Y, Zhang YJ. Antisense Phosphorodiamidate Morpholino Oligomers as Novel Antiviral Compounds. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:750. [PMID: 29731743 PMCID: PMC5920040 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.00750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Phosphorodiamidate morpholino oligomers (PMO) are short single-stranded DNA analogs that are built upon a backbone of morpholine rings connected by phosphorodiamidate linkages. As uncharged nucleic acid analogs, PMO bind to complementary sequences of target mRNA by Watson–Crick base pairing to block protein translation through steric blockade. PMO interference of viral protein translation operates independently of RNase H. Meanwhile, PMO are resistant to a variety of enzymes present in biologic fluids, a characteristic that makes them highly suitable for in vivo applications. Notably, PMO-based therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration which is now a hallmark for PMO-based antisense therapy. In this review, the development history of PMO, delivery methods for improving cellular uptake of neutrally charged PMO molecules, past studies of PMO antagonism against RNA and DNA viruses, PMO target selection, and remaining questions of PMO antiviral strategies are discussed in detail and new insights are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Nan
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China.,Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine and Maryland Pathogen Research Institute, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | - Yan-Jin Zhang
- Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine and Maryland Pathogen Research Institute, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
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41
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Berger KD, Kennedy SD, Schroeder SJ, Znosko BM, Sun H, Mathews DH, Turner DH. Surprising Sequence Effects on GU Closure of Symmetric 2 × 2 Nucleotide RNA Internal Loops. Biochemistry 2018; 57:2121-2131. [PMID: 29570276 PMCID: PMC5963885 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.7b01306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
GU base pairs are important RNA structural motifs and often close loops. Accurate prediction of RNA structures relies upon understanding the interactions determining structure. The thermodynamics of some 2 × 2 nucleotide internal loops closed by GU pairs are not well understood. Here, several self-complementary oligonucleotide sequences expected to form duplexes with 2 × 2 nucleotide internal loops closed by GU pairs were investigated. Surprisingly, nuclear magnetic resonance revealed that many of the sequences exist in equilibrium between hairpin and duplex conformations. This equilibrium is not observed with loops closed by Watson-Crick pairs. To measure the thermodynamics of some 2 × 2 nucleotide internal loops closed by GU pairs, non-self-complementary sequences that preclude formation of hairpins were designed. The measured thermodynamics indicate that some internal loops closed by GU pairs are unusually unstable. This instability accounts for the observed equilibria between duplex and hairpin conformations. Moreover, it suggests that future three-dimensional structures of loops closed by GU pairs may reveal interactions that unexpectedly destabilize folding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle D. Berger
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
- Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Scott D. Kennedy
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
- Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
| | | | - Brent M. Znosko
- Department of Chemistry, Saint Louis University, St. Louis MO 63103
| | - Hongying Sun
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
- Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - David H. Mathews
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
- Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Douglas H. Turner
- Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
- Department of Chemistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14627
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Lin C, Yang L. Long Noncoding RNA in Cancer: Wiring Signaling Circuitry. Trends Cell Biol 2018; 28:287-301. [PMID: 29274663 PMCID: PMC5869122 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2017.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 386] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Revised: 11/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), which are encoded by a vast less explored region of the human genome, may hold missing drivers of cancer and have gained attention recently as a potentially crucial layer of cancer cell regulation. lncRNAs are aberrantly expressed in a broad spectrum of cancers, and they play key roles in promoting and maintaining tumor initiation and progression, demonstrating their clinical potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Recent discoveries have revealed that lncRNAs act as key signal transduction mediators in cancer signaling pathways by interacting with proteins, RNA, and lipids. Here, we review the mechanisms by which lncRNAs regulate cellular responses to extracellular signals and discuss their clinical potential as diagnostic indicators, stratification markers, and therapeutic targets of combinatorial treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunru Lin
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Liuqing Yang
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Center for RNA Interference and Non-Coding RNAs, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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43
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Smith LG, Zhao J, Mathews DH, Turner DH. Physics-based all-atom modeling of RNA energetics and structure. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2018; 8. [PMID: 28815951 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2016] [Revised: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The database of RNA sequences is exploding, but knowledge of energetics, structures, and dynamics lags behind. All-atom computational methods, such as molecular dynamics, hold promise for closing this gap. New algorithms and faster computers have accelerated progress in improving the reliability and accuracy of predictions. Currently, the methods can facilitate refinement of experimentally determined nuclear magnetic resonance and x-ray structures, but are 'unreliable' for predictions based only on sequence. Much remains to be discovered, however, about the many molecular interactions driving RNA folding and the best way to approximate them quantitatively. The large number of parameters required means that a wide variety of experimental results will be required to benchmark force fields and different approaches. As computational methods become more reliable and accessible, they will be used by an increasing number of biologists, much as x-ray crystallography has expanded. Thus, many fundamental physical principles underlying the computational methods are described. This review presents a summary of the current state of molecular dynamics as applied to RNA. It is designed to be helpful to students, postdoctoral fellows, and faculty who are considering or starting computational studies of RNA. WIREs RNA 2017, 8:e1422. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1422.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis G Smith
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics and Center for RNA Biology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Jianbo Zhao
- Department of Chemistry and Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - David H Mathews
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics and Center for RNA Biology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Douglas H Turner
- Department of Chemistry and Center for RNA Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, USA
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Dohno C, Kimura M, Nakatani K. Restoration of Ribozyme Tertiary Contact and Function by Using a Molecular Glue for RNA. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201709041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Chikara Dohno
- Department of Regulatory Bioorganic Chemistry; The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research; Osaka University; 8-1 Mihogaoka Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0047 Japan
| | - Maki Kimura
- Department of Regulatory Bioorganic Chemistry; The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research; Osaka University; 8-1 Mihogaoka Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0047 Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Nakatani
- Department of Regulatory Bioorganic Chemistry; The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research; Osaka University; 8-1 Mihogaoka Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0047 Japan
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45
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Restoration of Ribozyme Tertiary Contact and Function by Using a Molecular Glue for RNA. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2017; 57:506-510. [DOI: 10.1002/anie.201709041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 10/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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46
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Guan L, Luo Y, Ja WW, Disney MD. Small molecule alteration of RNA sequence in cells and animals. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2017; 28:2794-2796. [PMID: 29079470 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2017.10.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2017] [Revised: 10/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
RNA regulation and maintenance are critical for proper cell function. Small molecules that specifically alter RNA sequence would be exceptionally useful as probes of RNA structure and function or as potential therapeutics. Here, we demonstrate a photochemical approach for altering the trinucleotide expanded repeat causative of myotonic muscular dystrophy type 1 (DM1), r(CUG)exp. The small molecule, 2H-4-Ru, binds to r(CUG)exp and converts guanosine residues to 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanosine upon photochemical irradiation. We demonstrate targeted modification upon irradiation in cell culture and in Drosophila larvae provided a diet containing 2H-4-Ru. Our results highlight a general chemical biology approach for altering RNA sequence in vivo by using small molecules and photochemistry. Furthermore, these studies show that addition of 8-oxo-G lesions into RNA 3' untranslated regions does not affect its steady state levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lirui Guan
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, United States
| | - Yiling Luo
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, United States
| | - William W Ja
- Department of Neuroscience, Center on Aging, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, United States
| | - Matthew D Disney
- Department of Chemistry, The Scripps Research Institute, Jupiter, FL 33458, United States.
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Kabza AM, Sczepanski JT. An l-RNA Aptamer with Expanded Chemical Functionality that Inhibits MicroRNA Biogenesis. Chembiochem 2017; 18:1824-1827. [PMID: 28696509 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.201700362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
To facilitate isolation of l-aptamers with novel RNA-binding properties, we employed a cationic nucleotide, 5-aminoallyluridine, during the mirror image in vitro selection process. Through this effort, we identified a modified l-RNA aptamer (MlRA) capable of binding oncogenic precursor microRNA 19a (pre-miR-19a) with exceptional affinity, and we showed that cationic modification is absolutely critical for binding. Furthermore, formation of the MlRA-pre-miR-19a complex inhibited Dicer-mediated cleavage of the pre-miR, thus blocking formation of the mature functional microRNA. The MlRA reported here not only represents the first l-aptamer to be evolved by using modified nucleotides but also the first modified aptamer (of any type) to be selected against a structured RNA target. Our results demonstrate that functionalized l-aptamers, which are intrinsically nuclease-resistant, provide an attractive approach for developing robust RNA-binding reagents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam M Kabza
- Department of Chemistry, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
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Abstract
Most of the human genome encodes RNAs that do not code for proteins. These non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) may affect normal gene expression and disease progression, making them a new class of targets for drug discovery. Because their mechanisms of action are often novel, developing drugs to target ncRNAs will involve equally novel challenges. However, many potential problems may already have been solved during the development of technologies to target mRNA. Here, we discuss the growing field of ncRNA - including microRNA, intronic RNA, repetitive RNA and long non-coding RNA - and assess the potential and challenges in their therapeutic exploitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masayuki Matsui
- Departments of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, UT Southwestern, Dallas, Texas 75390-9041, USA
| | - David R Corey
- Departments of Pharmacology and Biochemistry, UT Southwestern, Dallas, Texas 75390-9041, USA
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Paul P, Mati SS, Bhattacharya SC, Kumar GS. Exploring the interaction of phenothiazinium dyes methylene blue, new methylene blue, azure A and azure B with tRNAPhe: spectroscopic, thermodynamic, voltammetric and molecular modeling approach. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2017; 19:6636-6653. [DOI: 10.1039/c6cp07888e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
RNA targeting by small molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Puja Paul
- Biophysical Chemistry Laboratory
- Organic and Medicinal Chemistry Division
- CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology
- Kolkata 700 032
- India
| | | | | | - Gopinatha Suresh Kumar
- Biophysical Chemistry Laboratory
- Organic and Medicinal Chemistry Division
- CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology
- Kolkata 700 032
- India
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Kumar M, DeVaux R, Herschkowitz J. Molecular and Cellular Changes in Breast Cancer and New Roles of lncRNAs in Breast Cancer Initiation and Progression. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2016; 144:563-586. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2016.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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