1
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Wang Q, Zhang W, Xu W, Zhang H, Liu X, Chen X, Chen H. Genome-Wide Association Study and Identification of Candidate Genes Associated with Seed Number per Pod in Soybean. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2536. [PMID: 38473783 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) is one of the primary sources of plant protein and oil for human foods, animal feed, and industrial processing. The seed number per pod generally varies from one to four and is an important component of seed number per unit area and seed yield. We used natural variation in 264 landraces and improved cultivars or lines to identify candidate genes involved in the regulation of seed number per pod in soybean. Genome-wide association tests revealed 65 loci that are associated with seed number per pod trait. Among them, 11 could be detected in multiple environments. Candidate genes were identified for seed number per pod phenotype from the most significantly associated loci, including a gene encoding protein argonaute 4, a gene encoding histone acetyltransferase of the MYST family 1, a gene encoding chromosome segregation protein SMC-1 and a gene encoding exocyst complex component EXO84A. In addition, plant hormones were found to be involved in ovule and seed development and the regulation of seed number per pod in soybean. This study facilitates the dissection of genetic networks underlying seed number per pod in soybean, which will be useful for the genetic improvement of seed yield in soybean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Wang
- Institute of Industrial Crops, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Institute of Industrial Crops, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Wenjing Xu
- Institute of Industrial Crops, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Hongmei Zhang
- Institute of Industrial Crops, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Xiaoqing Liu
- Institute of Industrial Crops, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Institute of Industrial Crops, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
| | - Huatao Chen
- Institute of Industrial Crops, Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Nanjing 210014, China
- Zhongshan Biological Breeding Laboratory (ZSBBL), Nanjing 210014, China
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2
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Pachamuthu K, Borges F. Epigenetic control of transposons during plant reproduction: From meiosis to hybrid seeds. CURRENT OPINION IN PLANT BIOLOGY 2023; 75:102419. [PMID: 37480640 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbi.2023.102419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
The regulation of transposable elements (TEs) requires overlapping epigenetic modifications that must be reinforced every cell division and generation. In plants, this is achieved by multiple pathways including small RNAs, DNA methylation, and repressive histone marks that act together to control TE expression and activity throughout the entire life cycle. However, transient TE activation is observed during reproductive transitions as a result of epigenome reprogramming, thus providing windows of opportunity for TE proliferation and epigenetic novelty. Ultimately, these events may originate complex TE-driven transcriptional networks or cell-to-cell communication strategies via mobile small RNAs. In this review, we discuss recent findings and current understanding of TE regulation during sexual plant reproduction, and its implications for fertility, early seed development, and epigenetic inheritance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kannan Pachamuthu
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin (IJPB), 78000, Versailles, France. https://twitter.com/@KannanPachamut1
| | - Filipe Borges
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin (IJPB), 78000, Versailles, France.
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3
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Tirot L, Jullien PE. Epigenetic dynamics during sexual reproduction: At the nexus of developmental control and genomic integrity. CURRENT OPINION IN PLANT BIOLOGY 2022; 69:102278. [PMID: 35970063 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbi.2022.102278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Epigenetic marks influence gene regulation and genomic stability via the repression of transposable elements. During sexual reproduction, tight regulation of the epigenome must take place to maintain the repression of transposable elements while still allowing changes in cell-specific transcriptional programs. In plants, epigenetic marks are reorganized during reproduction and a reinforcing mechanism takes place to ensure transposable elements silencing. In this review, we describe the latest advances in characterizing the cell-specific epigenetic changes occurring from sporogenesis to seed development, with a focus on DNA methylation. We highlight the epigenetic co-regulation between transposable elements and developmental genes at different stages of plant reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Tirot
- Institute of Plant Sciences, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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4
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Liu C, Leng J, Li Y, Ge T, Li J, Chen Y, Guo C, Qi J. A spatiotemporal atlas of organogenesis in the development of orchid flowers. Nucleic Acids Res 2022; 50:9724-9737. [PMID: 36095130 PMCID: PMC9508851 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of floral organs exhibits complex molecular mechanisms involving the co-regulation of many genes specialized and precisely functioning in various tissues and developing stages. Advance in spatial transcriptome technologies allows for quantitative measurement of spatially localized gene abundance making it possible to bridge complex scenario of flower organogenesis with genome-wide molecular phenotypes. Here, we apply the 10× Visium technology in the study of the formation of floral organs through development in an orchid plant, Phalaenopsis Big Chili. Cell-types of early floral development including inflorescence meristems, primordia of floral organs and identity determined tissues, are recognized based on spatial expression distribution of thousands of genes in high resolution. In addition, meristematic cells on the basal position of floral organs are found to continuously function in multiple developmental stages after organ initiation. Particularly, the development of anther, which primordium starts from a single spot to multiple differentiated cell-types in later stages including pollinium and other vegetative tissues, is revealed by well-known MADS-box genes and many other downstream regulators. The spatial transcriptome analyses provide comprehensive information of gene activity for understanding the molecular architecture of flower organogenesis and for future genomic and genetic studies of specific cell-types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Leng
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yonglong Li
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Bamboo Germplasm Resources and Utilization, Forestry College, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Tingting Ge
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Bamboo Germplasm Resources and Utilization, Forestry College, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Jinglong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yamao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunce Guo
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Bamboo Germplasm Resources and Utilization, Forestry College, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, China
| | - Ji Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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5
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You C, Yu Y, Wang Y. Small RNA in plant meiosis and gametogenesis. REPRODUCTION AND BREEDING 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbre.2022.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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6
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Oliver C, Martinez G. Accumulation dynamics of ARGONAUTE proteins during meiosis in Arabidopsis. PLANT REPRODUCTION 2022; 35:153-160. [PMID: 34812935 PMCID: PMC9110482 DOI: 10.1007/s00497-021-00434-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Meiosis is a specialized cell division that is key for reproduction and genetic diversity in sexually reproducing plants. Recently, different RNA silencing pathways have been proposed to carry a specific activity during meiosis, but the pathways involved during this process remain unclear. Here, we explored the subcellular localization of different ARGONAUTE (AGO) proteins, the main effectors of RNA silencing, during male meiosis in Arabidopsis thaliana using immunolocalizations with commercially available antibodies. We detected the presence of AGO proteins associated with posttranscriptional gene silencing (AGO1, 2, and 5) in the cytoplasm and the nucleus, while AGOs associated with transcriptional gene silencing (AGO4 and 9) localized exclusively in the nucleus. These results indicate that the localization of different AGOs correlates with their predicted roles at the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels and provide an overview of their timing and potential role during meiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Oliver
- Department of Plant Biology, Uppsala BioCenter, Swedish University of Agricultural, Sciences and Linnean Center for Plant Biology, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - German Martinez
- Department of Plant Biology, Uppsala BioCenter, Swedish University of Agricultural, Sciences and Linnean Center for Plant Biology, Uppsala, Sweden.
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7
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Lewandowska D, Orr J, Schreiber M, Colas I, Ramsay L, Zhang R, Waugh R. The proteome of developing barley anthers during meiotic prophase I. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2022; 73:1464-1482. [PMID: 34758083 PMCID: PMC8890616 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erab494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Flowering plants reproduce sexually by combining a haploid male and female gametophyte during fertilization. Male gametophytes are localized in the anthers, each containing reproductive (meiocyte) and non-reproductive tissue necessary for anther development and maturation. Meiosis, where chromosomes pair and exchange their genetic material during a process called recombination, is one of the most important and sensitive stages in breeding, ensuring genetic diversity. Most anther development studies have focused on transcript variation, but very few have been correlated with protein abundance. Taking advantage of a recently published barley anther transcriptomic (BAnTr) dataset and a newly developed sensitive mass spectrometry-based approach to analyse the barley anther proteome, we conducted high-resolution mass spectrometry analysis of barley anthers, collected at six time points and representing their development from pre-meiosis to metaphase. Each time point was carefully staged using immunocytology, providing a robust and accurate staging mirroring our previous BAnTr dataset. We identified >6100 non-redundant proteins including 82 known and putative meiotic proteins. Although the protein abundance was relatively stable throughout prophase I, we were able to quantify the dynamic variation of 336 proteins. We present the first quantitative comparative proteomics study of barley anther development during meiotic prophase I when the important process of homologous recombination is taking place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominika Lewandowska
- Cell and Molecular Sciences, The James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie, Dundee DD2 5DA, UK
| | - Jamie Orr
- Cell and Molecular Sciences, The James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie, Dundee DD2 5DA, UK
| | - Miriam Schreiber
- Cell and Molecular Sciences, The James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie, Dundee DD2 5DA, UK
| | - Isabelle Colas
- Cell and Molecular Sciences, The James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie, Dundee DD2 5DA, UK
| | - Luke Ramsay
- Cell and Molecular Sciences, The James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie, Dundee DD2 5DA, UK
| | - Runxuan Zhang
- Information and Computational Sciences, The James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie, Dundee DD2 5DA, UK
| | - Robbie Waugh
- Cell and Molecular Sciences, The James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie, Dundee DD2 5DA, UK
- Division of Plant Sciences, University of Dundee, The James Hutton Institute, Invergowrie, Dundee DD2 5DA, UK
- School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, Waite Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Waite Research Precinct, Glen Osmond, SA 5064, Australia
- Correspondence:
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8
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Oliver C, Annacondia ML, Wang Z, Jullien PE, Slotkin RK, Köhler C, Martinez G. The miRNome function transitions from regulating developmental genes to transposable elements during pollen maturation. THE PLANT CELL 2022; 34:784-801. [PMID: 34755870 PMCID: PMC8824631 DOI: 10.1093/plcell/koab280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Animal and plant microRNAs (miRNAs) are essential for the spatio-temporal regulation of development. Together with this role, plant miRNAs have been proposed to target transposable elements (TEs) and stimulate the production of epigenetically active small interfering RNAs. This activity is evident in the plant male gamete containing structure, the male gametophyte or pollen grain. How the dual role of plant miRNAs, regulating both genes and TEs, is integrated during pollen development and which mRNAs are regulated by miRNAs in this cell type at a genome-wide scale are unknown. Here, we provide a detailed analysis of miRNA dynamics and activity during pollen development in Arabidopsis thaliana using small RNA and degradome parallel analysis of RNA end high-throughput sequencing. Furthermore, we uncover miRNAs loaded into the two main active Argonaute (AGO) proteins in the uninuclear and mature pollen grain, AGO1 and AGO5. Our results indicate that the developmental progression from microspore to mature pollen grain is characterized by a transition from miRNAs targeting developmental genes to miRNAs regulating TE activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Oliver
- Department of Plant Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnean Center for Plant Biology, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
| | - Maria Luz Annacondia
- Department of Plant Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnean Center for Plant Biology, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
| | - Zhenxing Wang
- Department of Plant Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnean Center for Plant Biology, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
- College of Horticulture and State Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Germplasm Enhancement, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
- Key Laboratory of Landscaping, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs and Key Laboratory of Biology of Ornamental Plants in East China, National Forestry and Grassland Administration, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Pauline E Jullien
- Institute of Plant Sciences, University of Bern, Bern 3013, Switzerland
| | - R Keith Slotkin
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, Missouri 63132, USA
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Missouri Columbia, Columbia, Missouri 65201, USA
| | - Claudia Köhler
- Department of Plant Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnean Center for Plant Biology, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
- Max Planck Institute of Molecular Plant Physiology, Potsdam-Golm 14476, Germany
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9
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Gutiérrez Pinzón Y, González Kise JK, Rueda P, Ronceret A. The Formation of Bivalents and the Control of Plant Meiotic Recombination. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:717423. [PMID: 34557215 PMCID: PMC8453087 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.717423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
During the first meiotic division, the segregation of homologous chromosomes depends on the physical association of the recombined homologous DNA molecules. The physical tension due to the sites of crossing-overs (COs) is essential for the meiotic spindle to segregate the connected homologous chromosomes to the opposite poles of the cell. This equilibrated partition of homologous chromosomes allows the first meiotic reductional division. Thus, the segregation of homologous chromosomes is dependent on their recombination. In this review, we will detail the recent advances in the knowledge of the mechanisms of recombination and bivalent formation in plants. In plants, the absence of meiotic checkpoints allows observation of subsequent meiotic events in absence of meiotic recombination or defective meiotic chromosomal axis formation such as univalent formation instead of bivalents. Recent discoveries, mainly made in Arabidopsis, rice, and maize, have highlighted the link between the machinery of double-strand break (DSB) formation and elements of the chromosomal axis. We will also discuss the implications of what we know about the mechanisms regulating the number and spacing of COs (obligate CO, CO homeostasis, and interference) in model and crop plants.
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10
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Dziegielewski W, Ziolkowski PA. License to Regulate: Noncoding RNA Special Agents in Plant Meiosis and Reproduction. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:662185. [PMID: 34489987 PMCID: PMC8418119 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.662185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The complexity of the subcellular processes that take place during meiosis requires a significant remodeling of cellular metabolism and dynamic changes in the organization of chromosomes and the cytoskeleton. Recently, investigations of meiotic transcriptomes have revealed additional noncoding RNA factors (ncRNAs) that directly or indirectly influence the course of meiosis. Plant meiosis is the point at which almost all known noncoding RNA-dependent regulatory pathways meet to influence diverse processes related to cell functioning and division. ncRNAs have been shown to prevent transposon reactivation, create germline-specific DNA methylation patterns, and affect the expression of meiosis-specific genes. They can also influence chromosome-level processes, including the stimulation of chromosome condensation, the definition of centromeric chromatin, and perhaps even the regulation of meiotic recombination. In many cases, our understanding of the mechanisms underlying these processes remains limited. In this review, we will examine how the different functions of each type of ncRNA have been adopted in plants, devoting attention to both well-studied examples and other possible functions about which we can only speculate for now. We will also briefly discuss the most important challenges in the investigation of ncRNAs in plant meiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Piotr A. Ziolkowski
- Laboratory of Genome Biology, Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Poznan, Poland
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11
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AGO2 localizes to cytokinetic protrusions in a p38-dependent manner and is needed for accurate cell division. Commun Biol 2021; 4:726. [PMID: 34117353 PMCID: PMC8196063 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02130-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Argonaute 2 (AGO2) is an indispensable component of the RNA-induced silencing complex, operating at the translational or posttranscriptional level. It is compartmentalized into structures such as GW- and P-bodies, stress granules and adherens junctions as well as the midbody. Here we show using immunofluorescence, image and bioinformatic analysis and cytogenetics that AGO2 also resides in membrane protrusions such as open- and close-ended tubes. The latter are cytokinetic bridges where AGO2 colocalizes at the midbody arms with cytoskeletal components such as α-Τubulin and Aurora B, and various kinases. AGO2, phosphorylated on serine 387, is located together with Dicer at the midbody ring in a manner dependent on p38 MAPK activity. We further show that AGO2 is stress sensitive and important to ensure the proper chromosome segregation and cytokinetic fidelity. We suggest that AGO2 is part of a regulatory mechanism triggered by cytokinetic stress to generate the appropriate micro-environment for local transcript homeostasis. Pantazopoulou et al. find that AGO2 resides in open-ended tunneling nanotubes and close-ended cytokinetic bridges. At the latter location, AGO2 colocalizes with cell division components and the authors show that AGO2 depletion impairs cell division fidelity.
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12
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Mateo de Arias M, Gao L, Sherwood DA, Dwivedi KK, Price BJ, Jamison M, Kowallis BM, Carman JG. Whether Gametophytes are Reduced or Unreduced in Angiosperms Might Be Determined Metabolically. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11121449. [PMID: 33276690 PMCID: PMC7761559 DOI: 10.3390/genes11121449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In angiosperms, meiotic failure coupled with the formation of genetically unreduced gametophytes in ovules (apomeiosis) constitute major components of gametophytic apomixis. These aberrant developmental events are generally thought to be caused by mutation. However, efforts to locate the responsible mutations have failed. Herein, we tested a fundamentally different hypothesis: apomeiosis is a polyphenism of meiosis, with meiosis and apomeiosis being maintained by different states of metabolic homeostasis. Microarray analyses of ovules and pistils were used to differentiate meiotic from apomeiotic processes in Boechera (Brassicaceae). Genes associated with translation, cell division, epigenetic silencing, flowering, and meiosis characterized sexual Boechera (meiotic). In contrast, genes associated with stress responses, abscisic acid signaling, reactive oxygen species production, and stress attenuation mechanisms characterized apomictic Boechera (apomeiotic). We next tested whether these metabolic differences regulate reproductive mode. Apomeiosis switched to meiosis when premeiotic ovules of apomicts were cultured on media that increased oxidative stress. These treatments included drought, starvation, and H2O2 applications. In contrast, meiosis switched to apomeiosis when premeiotic pistils of sexual plants were cultured on media that relieved oxidative stress. These treatments included antioxidants, glucose, abscisic acid, fluridone, and 5-azacytidine. High-frequency apomeiosis was initiated in all sexual species tested: Brassicaceae, Boechera stricta, Boechera exilis, and Arabidopsis thaliana; Fabaceae, Vigna unguiculata; Asteraceae, Antennaria dioica. Unreduced gametophytes formed from ameiotic female and male sporocytes, first division restitution dyads, and nucellar cells. These results are consistent with modes of reproduction and types of apomixis, in natural apomicts, being regulated metabolically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayelyn Mateo de Arias
- Plants, Soils, and Climate Department, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-4820, USA; (M.M.d.A.); (L.G.); (D.A.S.); (B.J.P.)
- Instituto Tecnológico de Santo Domingo, 10103 Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - Lei Gao
- Plants, Soils, and Climate Department, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-4820, USA; (M.M.d.A.); (L.G.); (D.A.S.); (B.J.P.)
- College of Pharmacy and Life Science, Jiujiang University, Jiujiang 332000, China
| | - David A. Sherwood
- Plants, Soils, and Climate Department, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-4820, USA; (M.M.d.A.); (L.G.); (D.A.S.); (B.J.P.)
- Sherwood Pet Health, Logan, UT 84321, USA
| | - Krishna K. Dwivedi
- Caisson Laboratories, Inc., Smithfield, UT 84335, USA; (K.K.D.); (M.J.); (B.M.K.)
- Crop Improvement Division, Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, 284003 Jhansi, India
| | - Bo J. Price
- Plants, Soils, and Climate Department, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-4820, USA; (M.M.d.A.); (L.G.); (D.A.S.); (B.J.P.)
- Molecular Biology Program, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-5750, USA
| | - Michelle Jamison
- Caisson Laboratories, Inc., Smithfield, UT 84335, USA; (K.K.D.); (M.J.); (B.M.K.)
- Wescor, Inc. An Elitech Company, Logan, UT 84321, USA
| | - Becky M. Kowallis
- Caisson Laboratories, Inc., Smithfield, UT 84335, USA; (K.K.D.); (M.J.); (B.M.K.)
- Cytiva, Inc., Logan, UT 84321, USA
| | - John G. Carman
- Plants, Soils, and Climate Department, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322-4820, USA; (M.M.d.A.); (L.G.); (D.A.S.); (B.J.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-435-512-4913
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13
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Christophorou N, She W, Long J, Hurel A, Beaubiat S, Idir Y, Tagliaro-Jahns M, Chambon A, Solier V, Vezon D, Grelon M, Feng X, Bouché N, Mézard C. AXR1 affects DNA methylation independently of its role in regulating meiotic crossover localization. PLoS Genet 2020; 16:e1008894. [PMID: 32598340 PMCID: PMC7351236 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Meiotic crossovers (COs) are important for reshuffling genetic information between homologous chromosomes and they are essential for their correct segregation. COs are unevenly distributed along chromosomes and the underlying mechanisms controlling CO localization are not well understood. We previously showed that meiotic COs are mis-localized in the absence of AXR1, an enzyme involved in the neddylation/rubylation protein modification pathway in Arabidopsis thaliana. Here, we report that in axr1-/-, male meiocytes show a strong defect in chromosome pairing whereas the formation of the telomere bouquet is not affected. COs are also redistributed towards subtelomeric chromosomal ends where they frequently form clusters, in contrast to large central regions depleted in recombination. The CO suppressed regions correlate with DNA hypermethylation of transposable elements (TEs) in the CHH context in axr1-/- meiocytes. Through examining somatic methylomes, we found axr1-/- affects DNA methylation in a plant, causing hypermethylation in all sequence contexts (CG, CHG and CHH) in TEs. Impairment of the main pathways involved in DNA methylation is epistatic over axr1-/- for DNA methylation in somatic cells but does not restore regular chromosome segregation during meiosis. Collectively, our findings reveal that the neddylation pathway not only regulates hormonal perception and CO distribution but is also, directly or indirectly, a major limiting pathway of TE DNA methylation in somatic cells. In sexually reproducing organisms, each parent transmits one and only one copy of each chromosome to their progeny via their packaging in haploid gametes. To ensure the proper transmission of the chromosomes, pairs of homologous chromosomes must associate and exchange genetic information (also called reciprocal recombination) during a special division called meiosis that lead to the formation of the gametes. The recombination process is highly controlled in terms of number and localization of the events along the chromosomes. Disruption of this control may cause an inappropriate transmission of the chromosomes in the gametes leading to abnormal chromosome numbers in the offspring which is usually deleterious. In the plant Arabidopis thaliana, we show that when the pathway modifying proteins through ubiquitination/neddylation is impaired, the number of reciprocal recombination events is maintained but they are delocalized toward the ends of the chromosomes and some chromosomes do not exchange material. We also detected changes of patterns for DNA methylation, an epigenetic modification localised on DNA cytosines. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the methylation of cytosines is not causal to the localization change of meiotic recombination events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Christophorou
- Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, UMR1318 INRA-AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, Versailles, France
| | - Wenjing She
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, John Innes Centre, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Jincheng Long
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, John Innes Centre, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Aurélie Hurel
- Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, UMR1318 INRA-AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, Versailles, France
| | - Sébastien Beaubiat
- Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, UMR1318 INRA-AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, Versailles, France
| | - Yassir Idir
- Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, UMR1318 INRA-AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, Versailles, France
| | - Marina Tagliaro-Jahns
- Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, UMR1318 INRA-AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, Versailles, France
| | - Aurélie Chambon
- Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, UMR1318 INRA-AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, Versailles, France
| | - Victor Solier
- Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, UMR1318 INRA-AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, Versailles, France
| | - Daniel Vezon
- Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, UMR1318 INRA-AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, Versailles, France
| | - Mathilde Grelon
- Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, UMR1318 INRA-AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, Versailles, France
| | - Xiaoqi Feng
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, John Innes Centre, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Nicolas Bouché
- Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, UMR1318 INRA-AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, Versailles, France
- * E-mail: (NB); (CM)
| | - Christine Mézard
- Institut Jean-Pierre Bourgin, UMR1318 INRA-AgroParisTech, Université Paris-Saclay, Versailles, France
- * E-mail: (NB); (CM)
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14
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Wang Z, Butel N, Santos-González J, Borges F, Yi J, Martienssen RA, Martinez G, Köhler C. Polymerase IV Plays a Crucial Role in Pollen Development in Capsella. THE PLANT CELL 2020; 32:950-966. [PMID: 31988265 PMCID: PMC7145478 DOI: 10.1105/tpc.19.00938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
In Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), DNA-dependent RNA polymerase IV (Pol IV) is required for the formation of transposable element (TE)-derived small RNA transcripts. These transcripts are processed by DICER-LIKE3 into 24-nucleotide small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) that guide RNA-directed DNA methylation. In the pollen grain, Pol IV is also required for the accumulation of 21/22-nucleotide epigenetically activated siRNAs, which likely silence TEs via post-transcriptional mechanisms. Despite this proposed role of Pol IV, its loss of function in Arabidopsis does not cause a discernible pollen defect. Here, we show that the knockout of NRPD1, encoding the largest subunit of Pol IV, in the Brassicaceae species Capsella (Capsella rubella), caused postmeiotic arrest of pollen development at the microspore stage. As in Arabidopsis, all TE-derived siRNAs were depleted in Capsella nrpd1 microspores. In the wild-type background, the same TEs produced 21/22-nucleotide and 24-nucleotide siRNAs; these processes required Pol IV activity. Arrest of Capsella nrpd1 microspores was accompanied by the deregulation of genes targeted by Pol IV-dependent siRNAs. TEs were much closer to genes in Capsella compared with Arabidopsis, perhaps explaining the essential role of Pol IV in pollen development in Capsella. Our discovery that Pol IV is functionally required in Capsella microspores emphasizes the relevance of investigating different plant models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenxing Wang
- Department of Plant Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnean Center for Plant Biology, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
| | - Nicolas Butel
- Department of Plant Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnean Center for Plant Biology, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
| | - Juan Santos-González
- Department of Plant Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnean Center for Plant Biology, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
| | - Filipe Borges
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York 11724
| | - Jun Yi
- Department of Plant Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnean Center for Plant Biology, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
| | - Robert A Martienssen
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York 11724
| | - German Martinez
- Department of Plant Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnean Center for Plant Biology, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
| | - Claudia Köhler
- Department of Plant Biology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnean Center for Plant Biology, Uppsala 75007, Sweden
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15
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Gutbrod MJ, Martienssen RA. Conserved chromosomal functions of RNA interference. Nat Rev Genet 2020; 21:311-331. [PMID: 32051563 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-019-0203-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi), a cellular process through which small RNAs target and regulate complementary RNA transcripts, has well-characterized roles in post-transcriptional gene regulation and transposon repression. Recent studies have revealed additional conserved roles for RNAi proteins, such as Argonaute and Dicer, in chromosome function. By guiding chromatin modification, RNAi components promote chromosome segregation during both mitosis and meiosis and regulate chromosomal and genomic dosage response. Small RNAs and the RNAi machinery also participate in the resolution of DNA damage. Interestingly, many of these lesser-studied functions seem to be more strongly conserved across eukaryotes than are well-characterized functions such as the processing of microRNAs. These findings have implications for the evolution of RNAi since the last eukaryotic common ancestor, and they provide a more complete view of the functions of RNAi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Gutbrod
- Watson School of Biological Sciences, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA
| | - Robert A Martienssen
- Watson School of Biological Sciences, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA. .,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, NY, USA.
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16
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Sala L, Chandrasekhar S, Vidigal JA. AGO unchained: Canonical and non-canonical roles of Argonaute proteins in mammals. Front Biosci (Landmark Ed) 2020; 25:1-42. [PMID: 31585876 DOI: 10.2741/4793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Argonaute (AGO) proteins play key roles in animal physiology by binding to small RNAs and regulating the expression of their targets. In mammals, they do so through two distinct pathways: the miRNA pathway represses genes through a multiprotein complex that promotes both decay and translational repression; the siRNA pathway represses transcripts through direct Ago2-mediated cleavage. Here, we review our current knowledge of mechanistic details and physiological requirements of both these pathways and briefly discuss their implications to human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Sala
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Srividya Chandrasekhar
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Joana A Vidigal
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA,
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17
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Han Q, Bartels A, Cheng X, Meyer A, An YQC, Hsieh TF, Xiao W. Epigenetics Regulates Reproductive Development in Plants. PLANTS 2019; 8:plants8120564. [PMID: 31810261 PMCID: PMC6963493 DOI: 10.3390/plants8120564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2019] [Revised: 11/23/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Seed, resulting from reproductive development, is the main nutrient source for human beings, and reproduction has been intensively studied through genetic, molecular, and epigenetic approaches. However, how different epigenetic pathways crosstalk and integrate to regulate seed development remains unknown. Here, we review the recent progress of epigenetic changes that affect chromatin structure, such as DNA methylation, polycomb group proteins, histone modifications, and small RNA pathways in regulating plant reproduction. In gametogenesis of flowering plants, epigenetics is dynamic between the companion cell and gametes. Cytosine DNA methylation occurs in CG, CHG, CHH contexts (H = A, C, or T) of genes and transposable elements, and undergoes dynamic changes during reproduction. Cytosine methylation in the CHH context increases significantly during embryogenesis, reaches the highest levels in mature embryos, and decreases as the seed germinates. Polycomb group proteins are important transcriptional regulators during seed development. Histone modifications and small RNA pathways add another layer of complexity in regulating seed development. In summary, multiple epigenetic pathways are pivotal in regulating seed development. It remains to be elucidated how these epigenetic pathways interplay to affect dynamic chromatin structure and control reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Han
- Department of Biology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA (A.B.); (X.C.)
| | - Arthur Bartels
- Department of Biology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA (A.B.); (X.C.)
| | - Xi Cheng
- Department of Biology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA (A.B.); (X.C.)
| | - Angela Meyer
- Department of Biology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA (A.B.); (X.C.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Yong-Qiang Charles An
- US Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Midwest Area, Plant Genetics Research Unit, Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, MO 63132, USA;
| | - Tzung-Fu Hsieh
- Department of Plant and Microbial Biology, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA;
- Plants for Human Health Institute, North Carolina State University, North Carolina Research Campus, Kannapolis, NC 28081, USA
| | - Wenyan Xiao
- Department of Biology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO 63103, USA (A.B.); (X.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-314-977-2547
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18
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Lee CH, Carroll BJ. Evolution and Diversification of Small RNA Pathways in Flowering Plants. PLANT & CELL PHYSIOLOGY 2018; 59:2169-2187. [PMID: 30169685 DOI: 10.1093/pcp/pcy167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Small regulatory RNAs guide gene silencing at the DNA or RNA level through repression of complementary sequences. The two main forms of small RNAs are microRNA (miRNA) and small interfering RNA (siRNAs), which are generated from the processing of different forms of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) precursors. These two forms of small regulatory RNAs function in distinct but overlapping gene silencing pathways in plants. Gene silencing pathways in eukaryotes evolved from an ancient prokaryotic mechanism involved in genome defense against invasive genetic elements, but has since diversified to also play a crucial role in regulation of endogenous gene expression. Here, we review the biogenesis of the different forms of small RNAs in plants, including miRNAs, phased, secondary siRNAs (phasiRNAs) and heterochromatic siRNAs (hetsiRNAs), with a focus on their functions in genome defense, transcriptional and post-transcriptional gene silencing, RNA-directed DNA methylation, trans-chromosomal methylation and paramutation. We also discuss the important role that gene duplication has played in the functional diversification of gene silencing pathways in plants, and we highlight recently discovered components of gene silencing pathways in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin Hong Lee
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Bernard J Carroll
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
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19
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Ono S, Liu H, Tsuda K, Fukai E, Tanaka K, Sasaki T, Nonomura KI. EAT1 transcription factor, a non-cell-autonomous regulator of pollen production, activates meiotic small RNA biogenesis in rice anther tapetum. PLoS Genet 2018; 14:e1007238. [PMID: 29432414 PMCID: PMC5825165 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1007238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Revised: 02/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The 24-nucleotides (nt) phased secondary small interfering RNA (phasiRNA) is a unique class of plant small RNAs abundantly expressed in monocot anthers at early meiosis. Previously, 44 intergenic regions were identified as the loci for longer precursor RNAs of 24-nt phasiRNAs (24-PHASs) in the rice genome. However, the regulatory mechanism that determines spatiotemporal expression of these RNAs has remained elusive. ETERNAL TAPETUM1 (EAT1) is a basic-helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor indispensable for induction of programmed cell death (PCD) in postmeiotic anther tapetum, the somatic nursery for pollen production. In this study, EAT1-dependent non-cell-autonomous regulation of male meiosis was evidenced from microscopic observation of the eat1 mutant, in which meiosis with aberrantly decondensed chromosomes was retarded but accomplished somehow, eventually resulting in abortive microspores due to an aberrant tapetal PCD. EAT1 protein accumulated in tapetal-cell nuclei at early meiosis and postmeiotic microspore stages. Meiotic EAT1 promoted transcription of 24-PHAS RNAs at 101 loci, and importantly, also activated DICER-LIKE5 (DCL5, previous DCL3b in rice) mRNA transcription that is required for processing of double-stranded 24-PHASs into 24-nt lengths. From the results of the chromatin-immunoprecipitation and transient expression analyses, another tapetum-expressing bHLH protein, TDR INTERACTING PROTEIN2 (TIP2), was suggested to be involved in meiotic small-RNA biogenesis. The transient assay also demonstrated that UNDEVELOPED TAPETUM1 (UDT1)/bHLH164 is a potential interacting partner of both EAT1 and TIP2 during early meiosis. This study indicates that EAT1 is one of key regulators triggering meiotic phasiRNA biogenesis in anther tapetum, and that other bHLH proteins, TIP2 and UDT1, also play some important roles in this process. Spatiotemporal expression control of these bHLH proteins is a clue to orchestrate precise meiosis progression and subsequent pollen production non-cell-autonomously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seijiro Ono
- Experimental Farm, National Institute of Genetics, Yata, Mishima, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Hua Liu
- Experimental Farm, National Institute of Genetics, Yata, Mishima, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Katsutoshi Tsuda
- Experimental Farm, National Institute of Genetics, Yata, Mishima, Shizuoka, Japan
- Department of Genetics, School of Life Science, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies (SOKENDAI), Yata, Mishima, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Eigo Fukai
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Niigata University, Ikarashi, Nishi-ku, Niigata, Japan
| | - Keisuke Tanaka
- NODAI Genome Research Center, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Sakuragaoka, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takuji Sasaki
- NODAI Research Institute, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Sakuragaoka, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichi Nonomura
- Experimental Farm, National Institute of Genetics, Yata, Mishima, Shizuoka, Japan
- Department of Genetics, School of Life Science, The Graduate University for Advanced Studies (SOKENDAI), Yata, Mishima, Shizuoka, Japan
- * E-mail:
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20
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Osman K, Yang J, Roitinger E, Lambing C, Heckmann S, Howell E, Cuacos M, Imre R, Dürnberger G, Mechtler K, Armstrong S, Franklin FCH. Affinity proteomics reveals extensive phosphorylation of the Brassica chromosome axis protein ASY1 and a network of associated proteins at prophase I of meiosis. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2018; 93:17-33. [PMID: 29078019 PMCID: PMC5767750 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.13752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2017] [Revised: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
During meiosis, the formation of crossovers (COs) generates genetic variation and provides physical links that are essential for accurate chromosome segregation. COs occur in the context of a proteinaceous chromosome axis. The transcriptomes and proteomes of anthers and meiocytes comprise several thousand genes and proteins, but because of the level of complexity relatively few have been functionally characterized. Our understanding of the physical and functional interactions between meiotic proteins is also limited. Here we use affinity proteomics to analyse the proteins that are associated with the meiotic chromosome axis protein, ASY1, in Brassica oleracea anthers and meiocytes. We show that during prophase I ASY1 and its interacting partner, ASY3, are extensively phosphorylated, and we precisely assign phosphorylation sites. We identify 589 proteins that co-immunoprecipitate with ASY1. These correspond to 492 Arabidopsis orthologues, over 90% of which form a coherent protein-protein interaction (PPI) network containing known and candidate meiotic proteins, including proteins more usually associated with other cellular processes such as DNA replication and proteolysis. Mutant analysis confirms that affinity proteomics is a viable strategy for revealing previously unknown meiotic proteins, and we show how the PPI network can be used to prioritise candidates for analysis. Finally, we identify another axis-associated protein with a role in meiotic recombination. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD006042.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Osman
- School of BiosciencesUniversity of BirminghamEdgbastonBirminghamB15 2TTUK
| | - Jianhua Yang
- School of BiosciencesUniversity of BirminghamEdgbastonBirminghamB15 2TTUK
- Present address:
Faculty of Engineering and ComputingCoventry UniversityCoventryCV1 5FBUK
| | | | - Christophe Lambing
- School of BiosciencesUniversity of BirminghamEdgbastonBirminghamB15 2TTUK
- Present address:
Department of Plant SciencesUniversity of CambridgeDowning StreetCambridgeCB2 3EAUK
| | - Stefan Heckmann
- School of BiosciencesUniversity of BirminghamEdgbastonBirminghamB15 2TTUK
- Present address:
Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK)OT Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse 3D‐06466Stadt SeelandGermany
| | - Elaine Howell
- School of BiosciencesUniversity of BirminghamEdgbastonBirminghamB15 2TTUK
| | - Maria Cuacos
- School of BiosciencesUniversity of BirminghamEdgbastonBirminghamB15 2TTUK
- Present address:
Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK)OT Gatersleben, Corrensstrasse 3D‐06466Stadt SeelandGermany
| | | | - Gerhard Dürnberger
- IMP‐IMBA1030ViennaAustria
- Gregor Mendel Institute of Molecular Plant BiologyDr. Bohr‐Gasse 31030ViennaAustria
| | | | - Susan Armstrong
- School of BiosciencesUniversity of BirminghamEdgbastonBirminghamB15 2TTUK
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21
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Sexual-lineage-specific DNA methylation regulates meiosis in Arabidopsis. Nat Genet 2017; 50:130-137. [PMID: 29255257 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-017-0008-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
DNA methylation regulates eukaryotic gene expression and is extensively reprogrammed during animal development. However, whether developmental methylation reprogramming during the sporophytic life cycle of flowering plants regulates genes is presently unknown. Here we report a distinctive gene-targeted RNA-directed DNA methylation (RdDM) activity in the Arabidopsis thaliana male sexual lineage that regulates gene expression in meiocytes. Loss of sexual-lineage-specific RdDM causes mis-splicing of the MPS1 gene (also known as PRD2), thereby disrupting meiosis. Our results establish a regulatory paradigm in which de novo methylation creates a cell-lineage-specific epigenetic signature that controls gene expression and contributes to cellular function in flowering plants.
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22
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Martinez G, Köhler C. Role of small RNAs in epigenetic reprogramming during plant sexual reproduction. CURRENT OPINION IN PLANT BIOLOGY 2017; 36:22-28. [PMID: 28088028 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbi.2016.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 12/29/2016] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Sexual reproduction, the formation of a new individual from specialized reproductive cells after fertilization, involves the precise orchestration of different developmental and genomic processes. These processes are to a large extent governed by small RNAs (sRNAs) that either belong to the class of micro RNAs (miRNAs) or small-interfering RNAs (siRNAs). The latter are derived from transposable elements (TEs) and involved in genome defense and transgenerational inheritance of heterochromatin identity, ensuring genome stability. Remarkably, male and female gametophytes employ sRNAs to ensure reproductive success, but the underlying processes of their formation and action differ. Here, we review current advances in the field concerning the roles of sRNAs during flowering plant (angiosperm) reproduction and pinpoint where further research is required to solve open questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- German Martinez
- Department of Plant Biology, Uppsala BioCenter, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnean Center for Plant Biology, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Claudia Köhler
- Department of Plant Biology, Uppsala BioCenter, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnean Center for Plant Biology, Uppsala, Sweden.
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23
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Wang G, Köhler C. Epigenetic processes in flowering plant reproduction. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2017; 68:797-807. [PMID: 28062591 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erw486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Seeds provide up to 70% of the energy intake of the human population, emphasizing the relevance of understanding the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms controlling seed formation. In flowering plants, seeds are the product of a double fertilization event, leading to the formation of the embryo and the endosperm surrounded by maternal tissues. Analogous to mammals, plants undergo extensive epigenetic reprogramming during both gamete formation and early seed development, a process that is supposed to be required to enforce silencing of transposable elements and thus to maintain genome stability. Global changes of DNA methylation, histone modifications, and small RNAs are closely associated with epigenome programming during plant reproduction. Here, we review current knowledge on chromatin changes occurring during sporogenesis and gametogenesis, as well as early seed development in major flowering plant models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guifeng Wang
- Department of Plant Biology, Uppsala BioCenter, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnean Center for Plant Biology, Uppsala, Sweden
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Bio-Energy Crops, School of Life Sciences, Shanghai University, Shanghai 200444, China
| | - Claudia Köhler
- Department of Plant Biology, Uppsala BioCenter, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnean Center for Plant Biology, Uppsala, Sweden
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24
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Martinez-Garcia M, Pradillo M. Functional Analysis of Arabidopsis ARGONAUTEs in Meiosis and DNA Repair. Methods Mol Biol 2017; 1640:145-158. [PMID: 28608340 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-7165-7_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Plant ARGONAUTE (AGO) proteins regulate a wide range of cellular and developmental functions. Recent findings highlight their role during homologous recombination, a basic mechanism to repair double-strand DNA lesions (in somatic cells) and programmed DNA breaks (in meiocytes). This chapter contains an exhaustive description of procedures applied to analyze meiotic chromosome behavior (cytogenetic techniques) and DNA repair capacity (genotoxicity assays) in AGO-deficient Arabidopsis thaliana mutants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mónica Pradillo
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Biología, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, C/Jose Antonio Novais 12, Madrid, 28040, Spain.
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