The multistructural forms of box C/D ribonucleoprotein particles

Emergent microenvironments of nucleoli

In higher eukaryotes, the nucleolus harbors at least three sub-phases that facilitate multiple functionalities including ribosome biogenesis. The three prominent coexisting sub-phases are the fibrillar center (FC), the dense fibrillar component (DFC), and the granular component (GC). Here, we review recent efforts in profiling sub-phase compositions that shed light on the types of physicochemical properties that emerge from compositional biases and territorial organization of specific types of macromolecules. We highlight roles played by molecular grammars which refers to protein sequence features including the substrate binding domains, the sequence features of intrinsically disordered regions, and the multivalence of these distinct types of domains / regions. We introduce the concept of a barcode of emergent physicochemical properties of nucleoli. Although our knowledge of the full barcode remains incomplete, we hope that the concept prompts investigations into undiscovered emergent properties and engenders an appreciation for how and why unique microenvironments control biochemical reactions.

Metagenomic insights into Heimdallarchaeia clades from the deep-sea cold seep and hydrothermal vent

Heimdallarchaeia is a class of the Asgardarchaeota, are the most probable candidates for the archaeal protoeukaryote ancestor that have been identified to date. However, little is known about their life habits regardless of their ubiquitous distribution in diverse habitats, which is especially true for Heimdallarchaeia from deep-sea environments. In this study, we obtained 13 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) of Heimdallarchaeia from the deep-sea cold seep and hydrothermal vent. These MAGs belonged to orders o_Heimdallarchaeales and o_JABLTI01, and most of them (9 MAGs) come from the family f_Heimdallarchaeaceae according to genome taxonomy database (GTDB). These are enriched for common eukaryote-specific signatures. Our results show that these Heimdallarchaeia have the metabolic potential to reduce sulfate (assimilatory) and nitrate (dissimilatory) to sulfide and ammonia, respectively, suggesting a previously unappreciated role in biogeochemical cycling. Furthermore, we find that they could perform both TCA and rTCA pathways coupled with pyruvate metabolism for energy conservation, fix CO2 and generate organic compounds through an atypical Wood-Ljungdahl pathway. In addition, many genes closely associated with bacteriochlorophyll and carotenoid biosynthesis, and oxygen-dependent metabolic pathways are identified in these Heimdallarchaeia MAGs, suggesting a potential light-utilization by pigments and microoxic lifestyle. Taken together, our results indicate that Heimdallarchaeia possess a mixotrophic lifestyle, which may give them more flexibility to adapt to the harsh deep-sea conditions.

Evolutionary origins of archaeal and eukaryotic RNA-guided RNA modification in bacterial IS110 transposons

Transposase genes are ubiquitous in all domains of life and provide a rich reservoir for the evolution of novel protein functions. Here we report deep evolutionary links between bacterial IS110 transposases, which catalyze RNA-guided DNA recombination using bridge RNAs, and archaeal/eukaryotic Nop5-family proteins, which promote RNA-guided RNA 2'-O-methylation using C/D-box snoRNAs. Based on conservation in the protein primary sequence, domain architecture, and three-dimensional structure, as well as common architectural features of the non-coding RNA components, we propose that programmable RNA modification emerged via exaptation of components derived from IS110-like transposons. Alongside recent studies highlighting the origins of CRISPR-Cas9 and Cas12 in IS605-family transposons, these findings underscore how recurrent domestication events of transposable elements gave rise to complex RNA-guided biological mechanisms.

Macromolecular condensation organizes nucleolar sub-phases to set up a pH gradient

Nucleoli are multicomponent condensates defined by coexisting sub-phases. We identified distinct intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs), including acidic (D/E) tracts and K-blocks interspersed by E-rich regions, as defining features of nucleolar proteins. We show that the localization preferences of nucleolar proteins are determined by their IDRs and the types of RNA or DNA binding domains they encompass. In vitro reconstitutions and studies in cells showed how condensation, which combines binding and complex coacervation of nucleolar components, contributes to nucleolar organization. D/E tracts of nucleolar proteins contribute to lowering the pH of co-condensates formed with nucleolar RNAs in vitro. In cells, this sets up a pH gradient between nucleoli and the nucleoplasm. By contrast, juxta-nucleolar bodies, which have different macromolecular compositions, featuring protein IDRs with very different charge profiles, have pH values that are equivalent to or higher than the nucleoplasm. Our findings show that distinct compositional specificities generate distinct physicochemical properties for condensates.

Multiple structural flavors of RNase P in precursor tRNA processing

The precursor transfer RNAs (pre-tRNAs) require extensive processing to generate mature tRNAs possessing proper fold, structural stability, and functionality required to sustain cellular viability. The road to tRNA maturation follows an ordered process: 5'-processing, 3'-processing, modifications at specific sites, if any, and 3'-CCA addition before aminoacylation and recruitment to the cellular protein synthesis machinery. Ribonuclease P (RNase P) is a universally conserved endonuclease in all domains of life, performing the hydrolysis of pre-tRNA sequences at the 5' end by the removal of phosphodiester linkages between nucleotides at position -1 and +1. Except for an archaeal species: Nanoarchaeum equitans where tRNAs are transcribed from leaderless-position +1, RNase P is indispensable for life and displays fundamental variations in terms of enzyme subunit composition, mechanism of substrate recognition and active site architecture, utilizing in all cases a two metal ion-mediated conserved catalytic reaction. While the canonical RNA-based ribonucleoprotein RNase P has been well-known to occur in bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes, the occurrence of RNA-free protein-only RNase P in eukaryotes and RNA-free homologs of Aquifex RNase P in prokaryotes has been discovered more recently. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of structural diversity displayed by various RNA-based and RNA-free RNase P holoenzymes towards harnessing critical RNA-protein and protein-protein interactions in achieving conserved pre-tRNA processing functionality. Furthermore, alternate roles and functional interchangeability of RNase P are discussed in the context of its employability in several clinical and biotechnological applications. This article is categorized under: RNA Processing > tRNA Processing RNA Evolution and Genomics > RNA and Ribonucleoprotein Evolution RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA-Protein Complexes.

Single-molecule quantitation of RNA-binding protein occupancy and stoichiometry defines a role for Yra1 (Aly/REF) in nuclear mRNP organization

RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) interact with mRNA to form supramolecular complexes called messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) particles. These dynamic assemblies direct and regulate individual steps of gene expression; however, their composition and functional importance remain largely unknown. Here, we develop a total internal reflection fluorescence-based single-molecule imaging assay to investigate stoichiometry and co-occupancy of 15 RBPs within mRNPs from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We show compositional heterogeneity of single mRNPs and plasticity across different growth conditions, with major co-occupants of mRNPs containing the nuclear cap-binding complex identified as Yra1 (1-10 copies), Nab2 (1-6 copies), and Npl3 (1-6 copies). Multicopy Yra1-bound mRNPs are specifically co-occupied by the THO complex and assembled on mRNAs biased by transcript length and RNA secondary structure. Yra1 depletion results in decreased compaction of nuclear mRNPs demonstrating a packaging function. Together, we provide a quantitative framework for gene- and condition-dependent RBP occupancy and stoichiometry in individual nuclear mRNPs.

Small but strong: the emerging role of small nucleolar RNA in cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide. Numerous studies have demonstrated that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a primary role in CVD development. Therefore, studies on the mechanisms of ncRNAs are essential for further efforts to prevent and treat CVDs. Small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) are a novel species of non-conventional ncRNAs that guide post-transcriptional modifications and the subsequent maturation of small nuclear RNA and ribosomal RNA. Evidently, snoRNAs are extensively expressed in human tissues and may regulate different illnesses. Particularly, as the next-generation sequencing techniques have progressed, snoRNAs have been shown to be differentially expressed in CVDs, suggesting that they may play a role in the occurrence and progression of cardiac illnesses. However, the molecular processes and signaling pathways underlying the function of snoRNAs remain unidentified. Therefore, it is of great value to comprehensively investigate the association between snoRNAs and CVDs. The aim of this review was to collate existing literature on the biogenesis, characteristics, and potential regulatory mechanisms of snoRNAs. In particular, we present a scientific update on these snoRNAs and their relevance to CVDs in an effort to cast new light on the functions of snoRNAs in the clinical diagnosis of CVDs.

Deregulation of Ribosome Biogenesis in Nitrite-Oxidizing Bacteria Leads to Nitrite Accumulation

Nitrite (NO2-) accumulation caused by nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB) inhibition in nitrification is a double-edged sword, i.e., a disaster in aquatic environments but a hope for innovating nitrogen removal technology in wastewater treatment. However, little information is available regarding the molecular mechanism of NOB inhibition at the cellular level. Herein, we investigate the response of NOB inhibition on NO2- accumulation established by a side-stream free ammonia treatment unit in a nitrifying reactor using integrated metagenomics and metaproteomics. Results showed that compared with the baseline, the relative abundance and activity of NOB in the experimental stage decreased by 91.64 and 68.66%, respectively, directly resulting in a NO2- accumulation rate of 88%. Moreover, RNA polymerase, translation factors, and aa-tRNA ligase were significantly downregulated, indicating that protein synthesis in NOB was interfered during NO2- accumulation. Further investigations showed that ribosomal proteins and GTPases, responsible for bindings between either ribosomal proteins and rRNA or ribosome subunits, were remarkably downregulated. This suggests that ribosome biogenesis was severely disrupted, which might be the key reason for the inhibited protein synthesis. Our findings fill a knowledge gap regarding the underlying mechanisms of NO2- accumulation, which would be beneficial for regulating the accumulation of NO2- in aquatic environments and engineered systems.

snoRNAs in hematopoiesis and blood malignancies: A comprehensive review

Small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) are noncoding RNA molecules of highly variable size, usually ranging from 60 to 150 nucleotides. They are classified into H/ACA box snoRNAs, C/D box snoRNAs, and scaRNAs. Their functional profile includes biogenesis of ribosomes, processing of rRNAs, 2'-O-methylation and pseudouridylation of RNAs, alternative splicing and processing of mRNAs and the generation of small RNA molecules like miRNA. The snoRNAs have been observed to have an important role in hematopoiesis and malignant hematopoietic conditions including leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma. Blood malignancies arise in immune system cells or the bone marrow due to chromosome abnormalities. It has been estimated that annually over 1.25 million cases of blood cancer occur worldwide. The snoRNAs often show a differential expression profile in blood malignancies. Recent reports associate the abnormal expression of snoRNAs with the inhibition of apoptosis, uncontrolled cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis. This implies that targeting snoRNAs could be a potential way to treat hematologic malignancies. In this review, we describe the various functions of snoRNAs, their role in hematopoiesis, and the consequences of their dysregulation in blood malignancies. We also evaluate the potential of the dysregulated snoRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for blood malignancies.

The conservation and diversity of the exons encoding the glycine and arginine rich domain of the fibrillarin gene in vertebrates, with special focus on reptiles and birds

The nucleolar rRNA 2'-O-methyltransferase fibrillarin (FBL) contains a highly conserved methyltransferase domain at the C-terminus and a diverse glycine arginine-rich (GAR) domain at the N-terminus in eukaryotes. We found that a nine-exon configuration of fbl and exon 2-3 encoded GAR domain are conserved and specific in vertebrates. All internal exons except exon 2 and 3 are of the same lengths in different vertebrate lineages. The lengths of exon 2 and 3 vary in different vertebrate species but the ones with longer exon 2 usually have shorter exon 3 complementarily, limiting lengths of the GAR domain within a certain range. In tetrapods except for reptiles, exon 2 appears to be longer than exon 3. We specifically analyzed different lineages of reptiles for their GAR sequences and exon lengths. The lengths of exon 2 in reptiles are around 80-130-nt shorter and the lengths of exon 3 in reptiles are around 50-90 nt longer than those in other tetrapods, all in the GAR-coding regions. An FSPR sequence is present at the beginning of the GAR domain encoded by exon 2 in all vertebrates, and a specific FXSP/G element (X can be K, R, Q, N, and H) exist in the middle of GAR with phenylalanine as the 3rd exon 3-encoded amino acid residue starting from jawfish. Snakes, turtles, and songbirds contain shorter exon 2 compared with lizards, indicating continuous deletions in exon 2 and insertions/duplications in exon 3 in these lineages. Specifically, we confirmed the presence the fbl gene in chicken and validated the RNA expression. Our analyses of the GAR-encoding exons of fbl in vertebrates and reptiles should provide the basis for further evolutionary analyses of more GAR domain encoding proteins.

The roles of NOP56 in cancer and SCA36

NOP56 is a highly conserved nucleolar protein. Amplification of the intron GGCCTG hexanucleotide repeat sequence of the NOP56 gene results in spinal cerebellar ataxia type 36 (SCA36). NOP56 contains an N-terminal domain, a coiled-coil domain, and a C-terminal domain. Nucleolar protein NOP56 is significantly abnormally expressed in a number of malignant tumors, and its mechanism is different in different tumors, but its regulatory mechanism in most tumors has not been fully explored. NOP56 promotes tumorigenesis in some cancers and inhibits tumorigenesis in others. In addition, NOP56 is associated with methylation in some tumors, suggesting that NOP56 has the potential to become a tumor-specific marker. This review focuses on the structure, function, related signaling pathways, and role of NOP56 in the progression of various malignancies, and discusses the progression of NOP56 in neurodegenerative and other diseases.

Maturation of small nucleolar RNAs: from production to function

Small Nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) are an abundant group of non-coding RNAs with well-defined roles in ribosomal RNA processing, folding and chemical modification. Besides their classic roles in ribosome biogenesis, snoRNAs are also implicated in several other cellular activities including regulation of splicing, transcription, RNA editing, cellular trafficking, and miRNA-like functions. Mature snoRNAs must undergo a series of processing steps tightly regulated by transiently associating factors and coordinated with other cellular processes including transcription and splicing. In addition to their mature forms, snoRNAs can contribute to gene expression regulation through their derivatives and degradation products. Here, we review the current knowledge on mechanisms of snoRNA maturation, including the different pathways of processing, and the regulatory mechanisms that control snoRNA levels and complex assembly. We also discuss the significance of studying snoRNA maturation, highlight the gaps in the current knowledge and suggest directions for future research in this area.

Artificial intelligence-assisted cryoEM structure of Bfr2-Lcp5 complex observed in the yeast small subunit processome

Eukaryotic ribosome is maturated through an elaborate process that includes modification, processing and folding of pre-ribosomal RNA (pre-rRNAs) by a series of ribosome assembly intermediates. More than 70 factors participate in the dynamic assembly and disassembly of the small subunit processome (90S) inside nucleolus, leading to the early maturation of small subunit. The 5' domain of the 18S rRNA is the last to be incorporated into the stable 90S prior to the cleavage of pre-rRNA at the A1 site. This step is facilitated by the Kre33-Enp2-Bfr2-Lcp5 protein module with the participation of the DEAD-box protein Dbp4. Though structures of Kre33 and Enp2 have been modeled in previously observed 90S structures, that of Bfr2-Lcp5 complex remains unavailable. Here, we report an AlphaFold-assisted structure determination of the Bfr2-Lcp5 complex captured in a 3.99 Å - 7.24 Å cryoEM structure of 90S isolated from yeast cells depleted of Pih1, a chaperone protein of the 90S core assembly. The structure model is consistent with the protein-protein interaction results and the secondary structures of recombinant Bfr2 and Bfr2-Lcp5 complex obtained by Circular Dichroism. The Bfr2-Lcp5 complex interaction mimics that of exosome factors Rrp6-Rrp47 and acts to regulate 90S transitions.

Ribosomal RNA 2'-O-methylations regulate translation by impacting ribosome dynamics

SignificanceThe presence of RNA chemical modifications has long been known, but their precise molecular consequences remain unknown. 2'-O-methylation is an abundant modification that exists in RNA in all domains of life. Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) represents a functionally important RNA that is heavily modified by 2'-O-methylations. Although abundant at functionally important regions of the rRNA, the contribution of 2'-O-methylations to ribosome activities is unknown. By establishing a method to disturb rRNA 2'-O-methylation patterns, we show that rRNA 2'-O-methylations affect the function and fidelity of the ribosome and change the balance between different ribosome conformational states. Our work links 2'-O-methylation to ribosome dynamics and defines a set of critical rRNA 2'-O-methylations required for ribosome biogenesis and others that are dispensable.

Splice variants denote differences between a cancer stem cell side population of EWSR1‑ERG‑based Ewing sarcoma cells, its main population and EWSR1‑FLI‑based cells

Ewing sarcoma is a challenging cancer entity, which, besides the characteristic presence of a fusion gene, is driven by multiple alternative splicing events. So far, splice variants in Ewing sarcoma cells were mainly analyzed for EWSR1‑FLI1. The present study provided a comprehensive alternative splicing study on CADO‑ES1, an Ewing model cell line for an EWSR1‑ERG fusion gene. Based on a well‑-characterized RNA‑sequencing dataset with extensive control mechanisms across all levels of analysis, the differential spliced genes in Ewing cancer stem cells were ATP13A3 and EPB41, while the main population was defined by ACADVL, NOP58 and TSPAN3. All alternatively spliced genes were further characterized by their Gene Ontology (GO) terms and by their membership in known protein complexes. These results confirm and extend previous studies towards a systematic whole‑transcriptome analysis. A highlight is the striking segregation of GO terms associated with five basic splice events. This mechanistic insight, together with a coherent integration of all observations with prior knowledge, indicates that EWSR1‑ERG is truly a close twin to EWSR1‑FLI1, but still exhibits certain individuality. Thus, the present study provided a measure of variability in Ewing sarcoma, whose understanding is essential both for clinical procedures and basic mechanistic insight.

Discovery of Cofactor Competitive Inhibitors against the Human Methyltransferase Fibrillarin

Fibrillarin (FBL) is an essential and evolutionarily highly conserved S-adenosyl methionine (SAM) dependent methyltransferase. It is the catalytic component of a multiprotein complex that facilitates 2'-O-methylation of ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs), a modification essential for accurate and efficient protein synthesis in eukaryotic cells. It was recently established that human FBL (hFBL) is critical for Nipah, Hendra, and respiratory syncytial virus infections. In addition, overexpression of hFBL contributes towards tumorgenesis and is associated with poor survival in patients with breast cancer, suggesting that hFBL is a potential target for the development of both antiviral and anticancer drugs. An attractive strategy to target cofactor-dependent enzymes is the selective inhibition of cofactor binding, which has been successful for the development of inhibitors against several protein methyltransferases including PRMT5, DOT1L, and EZH2. In this work, we solved crystal structures of the methyltransferase domain of hFBL in apo form and in complex with the cofactor SAM. Screening of a fluorinated fragment library, via X-ray crystallography and 19F NMR spectroscopy, yielded seven hit compounds that competed with cofactor binding, two of which resulted in co-crystal structures. One of these structures revealed unexpected conformational variability in the cofactor binding site, which allows it to accommodate a compound significantly different from SAM. Our structural data provide critical information for the design of selective cofactor competitive inhibitors targeting hFBL, and preliminary elaboration of hit compounds has led to additional cofactor site binders.

Cooperativity and Interdependency between RNA Structure and RNA-RNA Interactions

Complex RNA–RNA interactions are increasingly known to play key roles in numerous biological processes from gene expression control to ribonucleoprotein granule formation. By contrast, the nature of these interactions and characteristics of their interfaces, especially those that involve partially or wholly structured RNAs, remain elusive. Herein, we discuss different modalities of RNA–RNA interactions with an emphasis on those that depend on secondary, tertiary, or quaternary structure. We dissect recently structurally elucidated RNA–RNA complexes including RNA triplexes, riboswitches, ribozymes, and reverse transcription complexes. These analyses highlight a reciprocal relationship that intimately links RNA structure formation with RNA–RNA interactions. The interactions not only shape and sculpt RNA structures but also are enabled and modulated by the structures they create. Understanding this two-way relationship between RNA structure and interactions provides mechanistic insights into the expanding repertoire of noncoding RNA functions, and may inform the design of novel therapeutics that target RNA structures or interactions.

Compound heterozygous variants in SHQ1 are associated with a spectrum of neurological features, including early-onset dystonia

SHQ1 is essential for biogenesis of H/ACA ribonucleoproteins, a class of molecules important for processing ribosomal RNAs, modifying spliceosomal small nuclear RNAs, and stabilizing telomerase. Components of the H/ACA ribonucleoprotein complex have been linked to neurological developmental defects. Here we report two sibling pairs from unrelated families with compound heterozygous variants in SHQ1. Exome sequencing was used to detect disease causing variants which were submitted to 'matching' platforms linked to MatchMaker Exchange. Phenotype comparisons supported these matches. The affected individuals present with early-onset dystonia, with individuals from one family displaying additional neurological phenotypes, including neurodegeneration. As a result of CSF studies suggesting possible abnormal dopamine metabolism, a trial of levodopa replacement therapy was started but no clear response was noted. We show that fibroblasts from affected individuals have dramatic loss of SHQ1 protein. Variants from both families were expressed in S. cerevisiae, resulting in a strong reduction in H/ACA snoRNA production and remarkable defects in rRNA processing and ribosome formation. Our study identifies SHQ1 as associated with neurological disease, including early-onset dystonia, and begins to delineate the molecular etiology of this novel condition.

Protein cofactors and substrate influence Mg2+-dependent structural changes in the catalytic RNA of archaeal RNase P

The ribonucleoprotein (RNP) form of archaeal RNase P comprises one catalytic RNA and five protein cofactors. To catalyze Mg²⁺-dependent cleavage of the 5′ leader from pre-tRNAs, the catalytic (C) and specificity (S) domains of the RNase P RNA (RPR) cooperate to recognize different parts of the pre-tRNA. While ∼250–500 mM Mg²⁺ renders the archaeal RPR active without RNase P proteins (RPPs), addition of all RPPs lowers the Mg²⁺ requirement to ∼10–20 mM and improves the rate and fidelity of cleavage. To understand the Mg²⁺- and RPP-dependent structural changes that increase activity, we used pre-tRNA cleavage and ensemble FRET assays to characterize inter-domain interactions in Pyrococcus furiosus (Pfu) RPR, either alone or with RPPs ± pre-tRNA. Following splint ligation to doubly label the RPR (Cy3-RPR_{C domain} and Cy5-RPR_{S domain}), we used native mass spectrometry to verify the final product. We found that FRET correlates closely with activity, the Pfu RPR and RNase P holoenzyme (RPR + 5 RPPs) traverse different Mg²⁺-dependent paths to converge on similar functional states, and binding of the pre-tRNA by the holoenzyme influences Mg²⁺ cooperativity. Our findings highlight how Mg²⁺ and proteins in multi-subunit RNPs together favor RNA conformations in a dynamic ensemble for functional gains.

Antisense ribosomal siRNAs inhibit RNA polymerase I-directed transcription in C. elegans

Eukaryotic cells express a wide variety of endogenous small regulatory RNAs that function in the nucleus. We previously found that erroneous rRNAs induce the generation of antisense ribosomal siRNAs (risiRNAs) which silence the expression of rRNAs via the nuclear RNAi defective (Nrde) pathway. To further understand the biological roles and mechanisms of this class of small regulatory RNAs, we conducted forward genetic screening to identify factors involved in risiRNA generation in Caenorhabditis elegans. We found that risiRNAs accumulated in the RNA exosome mutants. risiRNAs directed the association of NRDE proteins with pre-rRNAs and the silencing of pre-rRNAs. In the presence of risiRNAs, NRDE-2 accumulated in the nucleolus and colocalized with RNA polymerase I. risiRNAs inhibited the transcription elongation of RNA polymerase I by decreasing RNAP I occupancy downstream of the RNAi-targeted site. Meanwhile, exosomes mislocalized from the nucleolus to nucleoplasm in suppressor of siRNA (susi) mutants, in which erroneous rRNAs accumulated. These results established a novel model of rRNA surveillance by combining ribonuclease-mediated RNA degradation with small RNA-directed nucleolar RNAi system.

Division of labor in epitranscriptomics: What have we learnt from the structures of eukaryotic and viral multimeric RNA methyltransferases?

The translation of an mRNA template into the corresponding protein is a highly complex and regulated choreography performed by ribosomes, tRNAs, and translation factors. Most RNAs involved in this process are decorated by multiple chemical modifications (known as epitranscriptomic marks) contributing to the efficiency, the fidelity, and the regulation of the mRNA translation process. Many of these epitranscriptomic marks are written by holoenzymes made of a catalytic subunit associated with an activating subunit. These holoenzymes play critical roles in cell development. Indeed, several mutations being identified in the genes encoding for those proteins are linked to human pathologies such as cancers and intellectual disorders for instance. This review describes the structural and functional properties of RNA methyltransferase holoenzymes, which when mutated often result in brain development pathologies. It illustrates how structurally different activating subunits contribute to the catalytic activity of these holoenzymes through common mechanistic trends that most likely apply to other classes of holoenzymes. This article is categorized under: RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification RNA Processing > Capping and 5' End Modifications.

High-resolution structure of eukaryotic Fibrillarin interacting with Nop56 amino-terminal domain

Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) carries extensive 2'-O-methyl marks at functionally important sites. This simple chemical modification is thought to confer stability, promote RNA folding, and contribute to generate a heterogenous ribosome population with a yet-uncharacterized function. 2'-O-methylation occurs both in archaea and eukaryotes and is accomplished by the Box C/D RNP enzyme in an RNA-guided manner. Extensive and partially conflicting structural information exists for the archaeal enzyme, while no structural data is available for the eukaryotic enzyme. The yeast Box C/D RNP consists of a guide RNA, the RNA-primary binding protein Snu13, the two scaffold proteins Nop56 and Nop58, and the enzymatic module Nop1. Here we present the high-resolution structure of the eukaryotic Box C/D methyltransferase Nop1 from Saccharomyces cerevisiae bound to the amino-terminal domain of Nop56. We discuss similarities and differences between the interaction modes of the two proteins in archaea and eukaryotes and demonstrate that eukaryotic Nop56 recruits the methyltransferase to the Box C/D RNP through a protein-protein interface that differs substantially from the archaeal orthologs. This study represents a first achievement in understanding the evolution of the structure and function of these proteins from archaea to eukaryotes.

Conservation of Archaeal C/D Box sRNA-Guided RNA Modifications

Post-transcriptional modifications fulfill many important roles during ribosomal RNA maturation in all three domains of life. Ribose 2'-O-methylations constitute the most abundant chemical rRNA modification and are, for example, involved in RNA folding and stabilization. In archaea, these modification sites are determined by variable sets of C/D box sRNAs that guide the activity of the rRNA 2'-O-methyltransferase fibrillarin. Each C/D box sRNA contains two guide sequences that can act in coordination to bridge rRNA sequences. Here, we will review the landscape of archaeal C/D box sRNA genes and their target sites. One focus is placed on the apparent accelerated evolution of guide sequences and the varied pairing of the two individual guides, which results in different rRNA modification patterns and RNA chaperone activities.

Mapping rRNA 2'-O-methylations and identification of C/D snoRNAs in Arabidopsis thaliana plants

In all eukaryotic cells, the most abundant modification of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) is methylation at the ribose moiety (2ʹ-O-methylation). Ribose methylation at specific rRNA sites is guided by small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) of C/D-box type (C/D snoRNA) and achieved by the methyltransferase Fibrillarin (FIB). Here we used the Illumina-based RiboMethSeq approach for mapping rRNA 2ʹ-O-methylation sites in A. thaliana Col-0 (WT) plants. This analysis detected novel C/D snoRNA-guided rRNA 2ʹ-O-methylation positions and also some orphan sites without a matching C/D snoRNA. Furthermore, immunoprecipitation of Arabidopsis FIB2 identified and demonstrated expression of C/D snoRNAs corresponding to majority of mapped rRNA sites. On the other hand, we show that disruption of Arabidopsis Nucleolin 1 gene (NUC1), encoding a major nucleolar protein, decreases 2ʹ-O-methylation at specific rRNA sites suggesting functional/structural interconnections of 2ʹ-O-methylation with nucleolus organization and plant development. Finally, based on our findings and existent database sets, we introduce a new nomenclature system for C/D snoRNA in Arabidopsis plants.

Fibrillarin evolution through the Tree of Life: Comparative genomics and microsynteny network analyses provide new insights into the evolutionary history of Fibrillarin

Fibrillarin (FIB), a methyltransferase essential for life in the vast majority of eukaryotes, is involved in methylation of rRNA required for proper ribosome assembly, as well as methylation of histone H2A of promoter regions of rRNA genes. RNA viral progression that affects both plants and animals requires FIB proteins. Despite the importance and high conservation of fibrillarins, there little is known about the evolutionary dynamics of this small gene family. We applied a phylogenomic microsynteny-network approach to elucidate the evolutionary history of FIB proteins across the Tree of Life. We identified 1063 non-redundant FIB sequences across 1049 completely sequenced genomes from Viruses, Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya. FIB is a highly conserved single-copy gene through Archaea and Eukarya lineages, except for plants, which have a gene family expansion due to paleopolyploidy and tandem duplications. We found a high conservation of the FIB genomic context during plant evolution. Surprisingly, FIB in mammals duplicated after the Eutheria split (e.g., ruminants, felines, primates) from therian mammals (e.g., marsupials) to form two main groups of sequences, the FIB and FIB-like groups. The FIB-like group transposed to another genomic context and remained syntenic in all the eutherian mammals. This transposition correlates with differences in the expression patterns of FIB-like proteins and with elevated Ks values potentially due to reduced evolutionary constraints of the duplicated copy. Our results point to a unique evolutionary event in mammals, between FIB and FIB-like genes, that led to non-redundant roles of the vital processes in which this protein is involved.

The Existence and Localization of Nuclear snoRNAs in Arabidopsis thaliana Revisited

Ribosome biogenesis is one cell function-defining process. It depends on efficient transcription of rDNAs in the nucleolus as well as on the cytosolic synthesis of ribosomal proteins. For newly transcribed rRNA modification and ribosomal protein assembly, so-called small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) and ribosome biogenesis factors (RBFs) are required. For both, an inventory was established for model systems like yeast and humans. For plants, many assignments are based on predictions. Here, RNA deep sequencing after nuclei enrichment was combined with single molecule species detection by northern blot and in vivo fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH)-based localization studies. In addition, the occurrence and abundance of selected snoRNAs in different tissues were determined. These approaches confirm the presence of most of the database-deposited snoRNAs in cell cultures, but some of them are localized in the cytosol rather than in the nucleus. Further, for the explored snoRNA examples, differences in their abundance in different tissues were observed, suggesting a tissue-specific function of some snoRNAs. Thus, based on prediction and experimental confirmation, many plant snoRNAs can be proposed, while it cannot be excluded that some of the proposed snoRNAs perform alternative functions than are involved in rRNA modification.

Functional diversity of small nucleolar RNAs

Small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) are short non-protein-coding RNAs with a long-recognized role in tuning ribosomal and spliceosomal function by guiding ribose methylation and pseudouridylation at targeted nucleotide residues of ribosomal and small nuclear RNAs, respectively. SnoRNAs are increasingly being implicated in regulation of new types of post-transcriptional processes, for example rRNA acetylation, modulation of splicing patterns, control of mRNA abundance and translational efficiency, or they themselves are processed to shorter stable RNA species that seem to be the principal or alternative bioactive isoform. Intriguingly, some display unusual cellular localization under exogenous stimuli, or tissue-specific distribution. Here, we discuss the new and unforeseen roles attributed to snoRNAs, focusing on the presumed mechanisms of action. Furthermore, we review the experimental approaches to study snoRNA function, including high resolution RNA:protein and RNA:RNA interaction mapping, techniques for analyzing modifications on targeted RNAs, and cellular and animal models used in snoRNA biology research.

The guide sRNA sequence determines the activity level of box C/D RNPs

2'-O-rRNA methylation, which is essential in eukaryotes and archaea, is catalysed by the Box C/D RNP complex in an RNA-guided manner. Despite the conservation of the methylation sites, the abundance of site-specific modifications shows variability across species and tissues, suggesting that rRNA methylation may provide a means of controlling gene expression. As all Box C/D RNPs are thought to adopt a similar structure, it remains unclear how the methylation efficiency is regulated. Here, we provide the first structural evidence that, in the context of the Box C/D RNP, the affinity of the catalytic module fibrillarin for the substrate-guide helix is dependent on the RNA sequence outside the methylation site, thus providing a mechanism by which both the substrate and guide RNA sequences determine the degree of methylation. To reach this result, we develop an iterative structure-calculation protocol that exploits the power of integrative structural biology to characterize conformational ensembles.

Yeast R2TP Interacts with Extended Termini of Client Protein Nop58p

The AAA + ATPase R2TP complex facilitates assembly of a number of ribonucleoprotein particles (RNPs). Although the architecture of R2TP is known, its molecular basis for acting upon multiple RNPs remains unknown. In yeast, the core subunit of the box C/D small nucleolar RNPs, Nop58p, is the target for R2TP function. In the recently observed U3 box C/D snoRNP as part of the 90 S small subunit processome, the unfolded regions of Nop58p are observed to form extensive interactions, suggesting a possible role of R2TP in stabilizing the unfolded region of Nop58p prior to its assembly. Here, we analyze the interaction between R2TP and a Maltose Binding Protein (MBP)-fused Nop58p by biophysical and yeast genetics methods. We present evidence that R2TP interacts largely with the unfolded termini of Nop58p. Our results suggest a general mechanism for R2TP to impart specificity by recognizing unfolded regions in its clients.

C/D box snoRNAs in viral infections: RNA viruses use old dogs for new tricks

C/D box snoRNAs (SNORDs) are a highly expressed class of non-coding RNAs. Besides their well-established role in rRNA modification, C/D box snoRNAs form protein complexes devoid of fibrillarin and regulate pre-mRNA splicing and polyadenylation of numerous genes. There is an emerging body of evidence for functional interactions between RNA viruses and C/D box snoRNAs. The infectivity of some RNA viruses depends on enzymatically active fibrillarin, and many RNA viral proteins associate with nucleolin or nucleophosmin, suggesting that viruses benefit from their cytosolic accumulation. These interactions are likely reflected by morphological changes in the nucleolus, often leading to relocalization of nucleolar proteins and ncRNAs to the cytosol that are a characteristic feature of viral infections. Knock-down studies have also shown that RNA viruses need specific C/D box snoRNAs for optimal replication, suggesting that RNA viruses benefit from gene expression programs regulated by SNORDs, or that viruses have evolved “new” uses for these humble ncRNAs to advance their prospects during infection.