1
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Liskovykh M, Petrov NS, Noskov VN, Masumoto H, Earnshaw WC, Schlessinger D, Shabalina SA, Larionov V, Kouprina N. Actively transcribed rDNA and distal junction (DJ) sequence are involved in association of NORs with nucleoli. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:121. [PMID: 37043028 PMCID: PMC10097779 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04770-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Although they are organelles without a limiting membrane, nucleoli have an exclusive structure, built upon the rDNA-rich acrocentric short arms of five human chromosomes (nucleolar organizer regions or NORs). This has raised the question: what are the structural features of a chromosome required for its inclusion in a nucleolus? Previous work has suggested that sequences adjacent to the tandemly repeated rDNA repeat units (DJ, distal junction sequence) may be involved, and we have extended such studies by addressing several issues related to the requirements for the association of NORs with nucleoli. We exploited both a set of somatic cell hybrids containing individual human acrocentric chromosomes and a set of Human Artificial Chromosomes (HACs) carrying different parts of a NOR, including an rDNA unit or DJ or PJ (proximal junction) sequence. Association of NORs with nucleoli was increased when constituent rDNA was transcribed and may be also affected by the status of heterochromatin blocks formed next to the rDNA arrays. Furthermore, our data suggest that a relatively small size DJ region, highly conserved in evolution, is also involved, along with the rDNA repeats, in the localization of p-arms of acrocentric chromosomes in nucleoli. Thus, we infer a cooperative action of rDNA sequence-stimulated by its activity-and sequences distal to rDNA contributing to incorporation into nucleoli. Analysis of NOR sequences also identified LncRNA_038958 in the DJ, a candidate transcript with the region of the suggested promoter that is located close to the DJ/rDNA boundary and contains CTCF binding sites. This LncRNA may affect RNA Polymerase I and/or nucleolar activity. Our findings provide the basis for future studies to determine which RNAs and proteins interact critically with NOR sequences to organize the higher-order structure of nucleoli and their function in normal cells and pathological states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhail Liskovykh
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| | - Nikolai S Petrov
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Vladimir N Noskov
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Hiroshi Masumoto
- Laboratory of Chromosome Engineering, Department of Frontier Research and Development, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, Kisarazu, Chiba, 292-0818, Japan
| | - William C Earnshaw
- Wellcome Centre for Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH9 3JR, Scotland, UK
| | - David Schlessinger
- National Institute on Aging, Laboratory of Genetics and Genomics, NIH, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Svetlana A Shabalina
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, NIH, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Vladimir Larionov
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| | - Natalay Kouprina
- Developmental Therapeutics Branch, National Cancer Institute, NIH, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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2
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Denisenko O. Epigenetics of Ribosomal RNA Genes. BIOCHEMISTRY. BIOKHIMIIA 2022; 87:S103-S131. [PMID: 35501990 DOI: 10.1134/s0006297922140097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This review is focused on biology of genes encoding ribosomal RNA (rRNA) in mammals. rRNA is a structural component of the most abundant cellular molecule, the ribosome. There are many copies of rRNA genes per genome that are under tight transcriptional control by epigenetic mechanisms serving to meet cellular needs in protein synthesis. Curiously, only a fraction of rRNA genes is used even in the fast-growing cells, raising a question why unused copies of these genes have not been lost during evolution. Two plausible explanations are discussed. First, there is evidence that besides their direct function in production of rRNA, ribosomal RNA genes are involved in regulation of many other genes in the nucleus by forming either temporary or persistent complexes with these genes. Second, it seems that rRNA genes also play a role in the maintenance of genome stability, where lower copy number of rRNA genes destabilizes the genome. These "additional" functions of rRNA genes make them recurrent candidate drivers of chronic human diseases and aging. Experimental support for the involvement of these genes in human diseases and potential mechanisms are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oleg Denisenko
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
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3
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Kang J, Brajanovski N, Chan KT, Xuan J, Pearson RB, Sanij E. Ribosomal proteins and human diseases: molecular mechanisms and targeted therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2021; 6:323. [PMID: 34462428 PMCID: PMC8405630 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-021-00728-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ribosome biogenesis and protein synthesis are fundamental rate-limiting steps for cell growth and proliferation. The ribosomal proteins (RPs), comprising the structural parts of the ribosome, are essential for ribosome assembly and function. In addition to their canonical ribosomal functions, multiple RPs have extra-ribosomal functions including activation of p53-dependent or p53-independent pathways in response to stress, resulting in cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Defects in ribosome biogenesis, translation, and the functions of individual RPs, including mutations in RPs have been linked to a diverse range of human congenital disorders termed ribosomopathies. Ribosomopathies are characterized by tissue-specific phenotypic abnormalities and higher cancer risk later in life. Recent discoveries of somatic mutations in RPs in multiple tumor types reinforce the connections between ribosomal defects and cancer. In this article, we review the most recent advances in understanding the molecular consequences of RP mutations and ribosomal defects in ribosomopathies and cancer. We particularly discuss the molecular basis of the transition from hypo- to hyper-proliferation in ribosomopathies with elevated cancer risk, a paradox termed "Dameshek's riddle." Furthermore, we review the current treatments for ribosomopathies and prospective therapies targeting ribosomal defects. We also highlight recent advances in ribosome stress-based cancer therapeutics. Importantly, insights into the mechanisms of resistance to therapies targeting ribosome biogenesis bring new perspectives into the molecular basis of cancer susceptibility in ribosomopathies and new clinical implications for cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Kang
- grid.1055.10000000403978434Division of Cancer Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC Australia ,grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XSir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Natalie Brajanovski
- grid.1055.10000000403978434Division of Cancer Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Keefe T. Chan
- grid.1055.10000000403978434Division of Cancer Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC Australia ,grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XSir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Jiachen Xuan
- grid.1055.10000000403978434Division of Cancer Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC Australia ,grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XSir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Richard B. Pearson
- grid.1055.10000000403978434Division of Cancer Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC Australia ,grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XSir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC Australia ,grid.1002.30000 0004 1936 7857Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC Australia ,grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Elaine Sanij
- grid.1055.10000000403978434Division of Cancer Research, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC Australia ,grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XSir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC Australia ,grid.1008.90000 0001 2179 088XDepartment of Clinical Pathology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC Australia ,grid.1073.50000 0004 0626 201XSt. Vincent’s Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, VIC Australia
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4
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De Nicola I, Guerrieri AN, Penzo M, Ceccarelli C, De Leo A, Trerè D, Montanaro L. Combined expression levels of KDM2A and KDM2B correlate with nucleolar size and prognosis in primary breast carcinomas. Histol Histopathol 2020; 35:1181-1187. [PMID: 32901907 DOI: 10.14670/hh-18-248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Ribosome biogenesis is a fine-tuned cellular process and its deregulation is linked to cancer progression: tumors characterized by an intense ribosome biogenesis often display a more aggressive behavior. Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) synthesis is controlled at several levels, the higher one being the epigenetic regulation of the condensation of chromatin portions containing rRNA genes. KDM2A and KDM2B (Lysine (K)-specific demethylase 2A / B) are histone demethylases modulating the accessibility of ribosomal genes, thereby regulating their transcription. Both enzymes are able to demethylate lysins at relevant sites (e.g. K4, K36) on histone H3. We previously demonstrated that KDM2B is one of the factors regulating ribosome biogenesis in human breast cancer. In this study we aimed to define the combined contribution of KDM2A and KDM2B to breast cancer outcome. KDM2A and KDM2B mRNA levels, nucleolar area as a marker of ribosome biogenesis, and patients' prognosis were retrospectively assessed in a series of primary breast carcinomas. We observed that tumors characterized by reduced levels of both KDM2A and KDM2B displayed a particularly aggressive clinical behavior and increased nucleolar size. Our results suggest that KDM2A and KDM2B may cooperate in regulating ribosome biogenesis thus influencing the biological behavior and clinical outcome of human breast cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor De Nicola
- S.Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Ania Naila Guerrieri
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty medicine (DIMES), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Center for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marianna Penzo
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty medicine (DIMES), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Center for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudio Ceccarelli
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty medicine (DIMES), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Antonio De Leo
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty medicine (DIMES), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Pathology Unit, S.Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Davide Trerè
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty medicine (DIMES), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Montanaro
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty medicine (DIMES), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.,Center for Applied Biomedical Research (CRBA), Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
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5
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Diesch J, Bywater MJ, Sanij E, Cameron DP, Schierding W, Brajanovski N, Son J, Sornkom J, Hein N, Evers M, Pearson RB, McArthur GA, Ganley ARD, O’Sullivan JM, Hannan RD, Poortinga G. Changes in long-range rDNA-genomic interactions associate with altered RNA polymerase II gene programs during malignant transformation. Commun Biol 2019; 2:39. [PMID: 30701204 PMCID: PMC6349880 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-019-0284-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The three-dimensional organization of the genome contributes to its maintenance and regulation. While chromosomal regions associate with nucleolar ribosomal RNA genes (rDNA), the biological significance of rDNA-genome interactions and whether they are dynamically regulated during disease remain unclear. rDNA chromatin exists in multiple inactive and active states and their transition is regulated by the RNA polymerase I transcription factor UBTF. Here, using a MYC-driven lymphoma model, we demonstrate that during malignant progression the rDNA chromatin converts to the open state, which is required for tumor cell survival. Moreover, this rDNA transition co-occurs with a reorganization of rDNA-genome contacts which correlate with gene expression changes at associated loci, impacting gene ontologies including B-cell differentiation, cell growth and metabolism. We propose that UBTF-mediated conversion to open rDNA chromatin during malignant transformation contributes to the regulation of specific gene pathways that regulate growth and differentiation through reformed long-range physical interactions with the rDNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeannine Diesch
- Cancer Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia
- Present Address: Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, Barcelona, 08021 Spain
| | - Megan J. Bywater
- Cancer Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia
- Present Address: QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4029 Australia
| | - Elaine Sanij
- Cancer Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia
- Department of Pathology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Donald P. Cameron
- Cancer Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia
- ACRF Department of Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601 Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - William Schierding
- Liggins Institute, The University of Auckland, Auckland, 1023 New Zealand
| | - Natalie Brajanovski
- Cancer Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia
| | - Jinbae Son
- Cancer Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Jirawas Sornkom
- Cancer Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Nadine Hein
- ACRF Department of Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601 Australia
| | - Maurits Evers
- ACRF Department of Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601 Australia
| | - Richard B. Pearson
- Cancer Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, 3800 VIC Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Grant A. McArthur
- Cancer Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
- Department of Medicine, St Vincent’s Hospital, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC 3065 Australia
| | - Austen R. D. Ganley
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, 1010 New Zealand
| | | | - Ross D. Hannan
- Cancer Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia
- ACRF Department of Cancer Biology and Therapeutics, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601 Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash University, Clayton, 3800 VIC Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072 Australia
| | - Gretchen Poortinga
- Cancer Research Division, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
- Department of Medicine, St Vincent’s Hospital, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC 3065 Australia
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6
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Cheng Y, Li C, Mu R, Li Y, Xing T, Chen B, Huang C. Dynamically Long-Term Imaging of Cellular RNA by Fluorescent Carbon Dots with Surface Isoquinoline Moieties and Amines. Anal Chem 2018; 90:11358-11365. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.8b02301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yunying Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Luminescent and Real-Time Analytical Chemistry (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China
| | - Chunmei Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, P. R. China
| | - Ruizhu Mu
- Key Laboratory of Luminescent and Real-Time Analytical Chemistry (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China
| | - Yuanfang Li
- Key Laboratory of Luminescent and Real-Time Analytical Chemistry (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China
| | - Tiantian Xing
- Key Laboratory of Luminescent and Real-Time Analytical Chemistry (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China
| | - Binbin Chen
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, P. R. China
| | - Chengzhi Huang
- Key Laboratory of Luminescent and Real-Time Analytical Chemistry (Southwest University), Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, P. R. China
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, P. R. China
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7
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Abstract
The nucleolus is a distinct compartment of the nucleus responsible for ribosome biogenesis. Mis-regulation of nucleolar functions and of the cellular translation machinery has been associated with disease, in particular with many types of cancer. Indeed, many tumor suppressors (p53, Rb, PTEN, PICT1, BRCA1) and proto-oncogenes (MYC, NPM) play a direct role in the nucleolus, and interact with the RNA polymerase I transcription machinery and the nucleolar stress response. We have identified Dicer and the RNA interference pathway as having an essential role in the nucleolus of quiescent Schizosaccharomyces pombe cells, distinct from pericentromeric silencing, by controlling RNA polymerase I release. We propose that this novel function is evolutionarily conserved and may contribute to the tumorigenic pre-disposition of DICER1 mutations in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Roche
- a Martienssen Lab, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory , Cold Spring Harbor , NY , USA
| | - Benoît Arcangioli
- b Genome Dynamics Unit, UMR 3525 CNRS, Institut Pasteur , Paris , France
| | - Rob Martienssen
- a Martienssen Lab, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory , Cold Spring Harbor , NY , USA.,c Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory , Cold Spring Harbor , NY , USA
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8
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Tao T, Sondalle SB, Shi H, Zhu S, Perez-Atayde AR, Peng J, Baserga SJ, Look AT. The pre-rRNA processing factor DEF is rate limiting for the pathogenesis of MYCN-driven neuroblastoma. Oncogene 2017; 36:3852-3867. [PMID: 28263972 PMCID: PMC5501763 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2016.527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Revised: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 12/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The nucleolar factor, digestive organ expansion factor (DEF), has a key role in ribosome biogenesis, functioning in pre-ribosomal RNA (pre-rRNA) processing as a component of the small ribosomal subunit (SSU) processome. Here we show that the peripheral sympathetic nervous system (PSNS) is very underdeveloped in def-deficient zebrafish, and that def haploinsufficiency significantly decreases disease penetrance and tumor growth rate in a MYCN-driven transgenic zebrafish model of neuroblastoma that arises in the PSNS. Consistent with these findings, DEF is highly expressed in human neuroblastoma, and its depletion in human neuroblastoma cell lines induces apoptosis. Interestingly, overexpression of MYCN in zebrafish and in human neuroblastoma cells results in the appearance of intermediate pre-rRNAs species that reflect the processing of pre-rRNAs through Pathway 2, a pathway that processes pre-rRNAs in a different temporal order than the more often used Pathway 1. Our results indicate that DEF and possibly other components of the SSU processome provide a novel site of vulnerability in neuroblastoma cells that could be exploited for targeted therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Tao
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - S B Sondalle
- Department of Genetics, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - H Shi
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - S Zhu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic Cancer Center and Mayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA.,Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic Cancer Center and Mayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - A R Perez-Atayde
- Department of Pathology, Children's Hospital Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - J Peng
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - S J Baserga
- Departments of Molecular Biophysics &Biochemistry, Genetics and Therapeutic Radiology, Yale University and Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - A T Look
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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9
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Govoni M. In vitro Assessment of RNA Polymerase I Activity. Bio Protoc 2017; 7:e2120. [PMID: 34458444 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.2120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
In eukaryotic cells transcriptional processes are carried out by three different RNA polymerases: RNA polymerase I which specifically transcribes ribosomal RNA (rRNA), RNA polymerase II which transcribes protein-coding genes to yield messenger RNAs (mRNAs) and small RNAs, while RNA polymerase III transcribes the genes for transfer RNAs and for the smallest species of ribosomal RNA (5S rRNA). This protocol describes an in vitro assay to evaluate the rRNA transcriptional activity of RNA polymerase I. The method measures the quantity of radiolabelled uridine 5' triphosphate incorporated in ex novo synthesized rRNA molecules by RNA polymerase I, in optimal conditions for the enzyme activity and in the presence of a toxin, α-amanitin, which inhibits RNA polymerase II and III without affecting RNA polymerase I (Novello and Stirpe, 1970).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzia Govoni
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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10
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Han Y, Yan C, Nguyen THD, Jackobel AJ, Ivanov I, Knutson BA, He Y. Structural mechanism of ATP-independent transcription initiation by RNA polymerase I. eLife 2017; 6:e27414. [PMID: 28623663 PMCID: PMC5489313 DOI: 10.7554/elife.27414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2017] [Accepted: 06/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Transcription initiation by RNA Polymerase I (Pol I) depends on the Core Factor (CF) complex to recognize the upstream promoter and assemble into a Pre-Initiation Complex (PIC). Here, we solve a structure of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Pol I-CF-DNA to 3.8 Å resolution using single-particle cryo-electron microscopy. The structure reveals a bipartite architecture of Core Factor and its recognition of the promoter from -27 to -16. Core Factor's intrinsic mobility correlates well with different conformational states of the Pol I cleft, in addition to the stabilization of either Rrn7 N-terminal domain near Pol I wall or the tandem winged helix domain of A49 at a partially overlapping location. Comparison of the three states in this study with the Pol II system suggests that a ratchet motion of the Core Factor-DNA sub-complex at upstream facilitates promoter melting in an ATP-independent manner, distinct from a DNA translocase actively threading the downstream DNA in the Pol II PIC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Han
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, United States
| | - Chunli Yan
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, United States,Center for Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Georgia State University, Atlanta, United States
| | | | - Ashleigh J Jackobel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, United States
| | - Ivaylo Ivanov
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, United States,Center for Diagnostics and Therapeutics, Georgia State University, Atlanta, United States
| | - Bruce A Knutson
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, United States, (BAK)
| | - Yuan He
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, United States, (YHe)
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11
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Brighenti E, Treré D, Derenzini M. Targeted cancer therapy with ribosome biogenesis inhibitors: a real possibility? Oncotarget 2016; 6:38617-27. [PMID: 26415219 PMCID: PMC4770724 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.5775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Accepted: 09/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of many chemotherapeutic drugs on ribosome biogenesis have been underestimated for a long time. Indeed, many drugs currently used for cancer treatment--and which are known to either damage DNA or hinder DNA synthesis--have been shown to exert their toxic action mainly by inhibiting rRNA synthesis or maturation. Moreover, there are new drugs that have been proposed recently for cancer chemotherapy, which only hinder ribosome biogenesis without any genotoxic activity. Even though ribosome biogenesis occurs in both normal and cancer cells, whether resting or proliferating, there is evidence that the selective inhibition of ribosome biogenesis may, in some instances, result in a selective damage to neoplastic cells. The higher sensitivity of cancer cells to inhibitors of rRNA synthesis appears to be the consequence of either the loss of the mechanisms controlling the cell cycle progression or the acquisition of activating oncogene and inactivating tumor suppressor gene mutations that up-regulate the ribosome biogenesis rate. This article reviews those cancer cell characteristics on which the selective cancer cell cytotoxicity induced by the inhibitors of ribosome biogenesis is based.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Brighenti
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Bologna University, Bologna, Italy
| | - Davide Treré
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Bologna University, Bologna, Italy
| | - Massimo Derenzini
- Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Bologna University, Bologna, Italy
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12
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Goudarzi KM, Lindström MS. Role of ribosomal protein mutations in tumor development (Review). Int J Oncol 2016; 48:1313-24. [PMID: 26892688 PMCID: PMC4777597 DOI: 10.3892/ijo.2016.3387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Ribosomes are cellular machines essential for protein synthesis. The biogenesis of ribosomes is a highly complex and energy consuming process that initiates in the nucleolus. Recently, a series of studies applying whole-exome or whole-genome sequencing techniques have led to the discovery of ribosomal protein gene mutations in different cancer types. Mutations in ribosomal protein genes have for example been found in endometrial cancer (RPL22), T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (RPL10, RPL5 and RPL11), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (RPS15), colorectal cancer (RPS20), and glioma (RPL5). Moreover, patients suffering from Diamond-Blackfan anemia, a bone marrow failure syndrome caused by mutant ribosomal proteins are also at higher risk for developing leukemia, or solid tumors. Different experimental models indicate potential mechanisms whereby ribosomal proteins may initiate cancer development. In particular, deregulation of the p53 tumor suppressor network and altered mRNA translation are mechanisms likely to be involved. We envisage that changes in expression and the occurrence of ribosomal protein gene mutations play important roles in cancer development. Ribosome biology constitutes a re-emerging vital area of basic and translational cancer research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaveh M Goudarzi
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Cancer Center Karolinska, CCK R8:05, Karolinska University Hospital in Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mikael S Lindström
- Science for Life Laboratory, Division of Translational Medicine and Chemical Biology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Abstract
A veritable explosion of primary research papers within the past 10 years focuses on nucleolar and ribosomal stress, and for good reason: with ribosome biosynthesis consuming ~80% of a cell’s energy, nearly all metabolic and signaling pathways lead ultimately to or from the nucleolus. We begin by describing p53 activation upon nucleolar stress resulting in cell cycle arrest or apoptosis. The significance of this mechanism cannot be understated, as oncologists are now inducing nucleolar stress strategically in cancer cells as a potential anti-cancer therapy. We also summarize the human ribosomopathies, syndromes in which ribosome biogenesis or function are impaired leading to birth defects or bone narrow failures; the perplexing problem in the ribosomopathies is why only certain cells are affected despite the fact that the causative mutation is systemic. We then describe p53-independent nucleolar stress, first in yeast which lacks p53, and then in other model metazoans that lack MDM2, the critical E3 ubiquitin ligase that normally inactivates p53. Do these presumably ancient p53-independent nucleolar stress pathways remain latent in human cells? If they still exist, can we use them to target >50% of known human cancers that lack functional p53?
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison James
- a Department of Biological Sciences; Louisiana State University; Baton Rouge, LA USA
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14
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Hajjawi OS. Ribonucleic acid (RNA) biosynthesis in human cancer. Cancer Cell Int 2015; 15:22. [PMID: 25717284 PMCID: PMC4339644 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-015-0167-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2014] [Accepted: 01/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In many respects, the most remarkable chemical substances within the genome of eukaryotic cells are remarkable proteins which are the critical structural and functional units of living cells. The specifications for everything that goes in the cell are natural digital-to-digital decoding process in an archive sequence by deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and an articulate construction by ribonucleic acid (RNA). The products of DNA transcription are long polymers of ribonucleotides rather than deoxyribonucleotides and are termed ribonucleic acids. Certain deoxyribonucleotide sequences, or genes, give rise to transfer RNA (tRNA) and other ribosomal RNA (rRNA) when transcribed. The ribonucleotide sequences fold extensively and rRNA is associated with specific proteins to yield the essential cell components, ribosomes. Transcription of other special sequences yields messenger RNAs (mRNAs) that contain ribonucleotide sequences that will be ultimately translated into new types of amino acid sequences of functional cellular protein molecules. This switch to a different variety of cellular molecular sequences is complex, but each sequence of the three ribonucleotides specifies the insertion of one particular amino acid into the polypeptide chain under production. Whilst mRNA is considered the vehicle by which genetic information is transmitted from the genome and allocated in the appropriate cytoplasmic sites for translation into protein via cap-dependent mechanism, the actual translation depends also on the presence of other so-called household and luxury protein molecules. Recent evidence suggests RNA species are required at initiation, because treatment of cells with antibiotics or drugs that inhibit RNA synthesis cause a decrease in protein synthesis. The rRNA is necessary as a structural constituent of the ribosomes upon which translation takes place, whereas tRNA is necessary as an adaptor in amino acid activation and elongation protein chains to ribosomes. In this article, we review malignant tumor, with stem like properties, and recent technical advances into the phenomenon of micro-particles and micro-vesicles containing cell-free nucleic acids that circulate plasma. New areas of research have been opened into screening tumor telomerase progression, prognosis of aptamers targeting cell surface, monitoring the efficacy of anticancer therapies, oncogenic transformation of host cell, and RNA polymerases role in the cell cycle progression and differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar S Hajjawi
- Department of Biology, Arab American University, P. O. Box 240, Jenin, Israeli Occupied Territories of Palestine
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Rothblum K, Hu Q, Penrod Y, Rothblum LI. Selective inhibition of rDNA transcription by a small-molecule peptide that targets the interface between RNA polymerase I and Rrn3. Mol Cancer Res 2014; 12:1586-96. [PMID: 25033839 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-14-0229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The interface between the polymerase I-associated factor Rrn3 and the 43-kDa subunit of RNA polymerase I is essential to the recruitment of Pol I to the preinitiation complex on the rDNA promoter. In silico analysis identified an evolutionarily conserved 22 amino acid peptide within rpa43 that is both necessary and sufficient to mediate the interaction between rpa43 and Rrn3. This peptide inhibited rDNA transcription in vitro, while a control peptide did not. To determine the effect of the peptide in cultured cells, the peptide was coupled to the HIV TAT peptide to facilitate transduction into cells. The wild-type peptide, but not control peptides, inhibited Pol I transcription and cell division. In addition, the peptide induced cell death, consistent with other observations that "nucleolar stress" results in the death of tumor cells. The 22mer is a small-molecule inhibitor of rDNA transcription that is specific for the interaction between Rrn3 and rpa43, as such it represents an original way to interfere with cell growth. IMPLICATIONS These results demonstrate a potentially novel pharmaceutical target for the therapeutic treatment of cancer cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina Rothblum
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Qiyue Hu
- South Cove Community Health Care Center, Quincy, Massachusetts
| | - Yvonne Penrod
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
| | - Lawrence I Rothblum
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
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The nucleolar size is associated to the methylation status of ribosomal DNA in breast carcinomas. BMC Cancer 2014; 14:361. [PMID: 24884608 PMCID: PMC4062283 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-14-361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2013] [Accepted: 04/30/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There is a body of evidence that shows a link between tumorigenesis and ribosome biogenesis. The precursor of mature 18S, 28S and 5.8S ribosomal RNAs is transcribed from the ribosomal DNA gene (rDNA), which exists as 300–400 copies in the human diploid genome. Approximately one half of these copies are epigenetically silenced, but the exact role of epigenetic regulation on ribosome biogenesis is not completely understood. In this study we analyzed the methylation profiles of the rDNA promoter and of the 5’ regions of 18S and 28S in breast cancer. Methods We analyzed rDNA methylation in 68 breast cancer tissues of which the normal counterpart was partially available (45/68 samples) using the MassARRAY EpiTYPER assay, a sensitive and quantitative method with single base resolution. Results We found that rDNA locus tended to be hypermethylated in tumor compared to matched normal breast tissues and that the DNA methylation level of several CpG units within the rDNA locus was associated to nuclear grade and to nucleolar size of tumor tissues. In addition we identified a subgroup of samples in which large nucleoli were associated with very limited or absent rDNA hypermethylation in tumor respect to matched normal tissue. Conclusions In conclusion, we suggest that rDNA is an important target of epigenetic regulation in breast tumors and that rDNA methylation level is associated to nucleolar size.
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