51
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Yao Y, Li Y, Zhu X, Zhao C, Yang L, Huang X, Wang L. The emerging role of the piRNA/PIWI complex in respiratory tract diseases. Respir Res 2023; 24:76. [PMID: 36915129 PMCID: PMC10010017 DOI: 10.1186/s12931-023-02367-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) is a class of recently discovered small non-coding RNA molecules with a length of 18-33 nt that interacts with the PIWI protein to form the piRNA/PIWI complex. The PIWI family is a subfamily of Argonaute (AGO) proteins that also contain the AGO family which bind to microRNA (miRNA). Recently studies indicate that piRNAs are not specific to in the mammalian germline, they are also expressed in a tissue-specific manner in a variety of human tissues and participated in various of diseases, such as cardiovascular, neurological, and urinary tract diseases, and are especially prevalent in malignant tumors in these systems. However, the functions and abnormal expression of piRNAs in respiratory tract diseases and their underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. In this review, we discuss current studies summarizing the biogenetic processes, functions, and emerging roles of piRNAs in respiratory tract diseases, providing a reference value for future piRNA research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yizhu Yao
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yaozhe Li
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiayan Zhu
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chengguang Zhao
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lehe Yang
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Xiaoying Huang
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Liangxing Wang
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China.
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52
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Dowling M, Homolka D, Raad N, Gos P, Pandey RR, Pillai RS. In vivo PIWI slicing in mouse testes deviates from rules established in vitro. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 29:308-316. [PMID: 36617658 PMCID: PMC9945443 DOI: 10.1261/rna.079349.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Argonautes are small RNA-binding proteins, with some having small RNA-guided endonuclease (slicer) activity that cleaves target nucleic acids. One cardinal rule that is structurally defined is the inability of slicers to cleave target RNAs when nucleotide mismatches exist between the paired small RNA and the target at the cleavage site. Animal-specific PIWI clade Argonautes associate with PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) to silence transposable elements in the gonads, and this is essential for fertility. We previously demonstrated that purified endogenous mouse MIWI fails to cleave mismatched targets in vitro. Surprisingly, here we find using knock-in mouse models that target sites with cleavage-site mismatches at the 10th and 11th piRNA nucleotides are precisely sliced in vivo. This is identical to the slicing outcome in knock-in mice where targets are base-paired perfectly with the piRNA. Additionally, we find that pachytene piRNA-guided slicing in both these situations failed to initiate phased piRNA production from the specific target mRNA we studied. Instead, the two slicer cleavage fragments were retained in PIWI proteins as pre-piRNA and 17-19 nt by-product fragments. Our results indicate that PIWI slicing rules established in vitro are not respected in vivo, and that all targets of PIWI slicing are not substrates for piRNA biogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Dowling
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
| | - David Homolka
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
| | - Nicole Raad
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Gos
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
| | - Radha Raman Pandey
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
| | - Ramesh S Pillai
- Department of Molecular Biology, University of Geneva, CH-1211 Geneva 4, Switzerland
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53
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Wang X, Ramat A, Simonelig M, Liu MF. Emerging roles and functional mechanisms of PIWI-interacting RNAs. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2023; 24:123-141. [PMID: 36104626 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-022-00528-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 63.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs that associate with proteins of the PIWI clade of the Argonaute family. First identified in animal germ line cells, piRNAs have essential roles in germ line development. The first function of PIWI-piRNA complexes to be described was the silencing of transposable elements, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the germ line genome. Later studies provided new insights into the functions of PIWI-piRNA complexes by demonstrating that they regulate protein-coding genes. Recent studies of piRNA biology, including in new model organisms such as golden hamsters, have deepened our understanding of both piRNA biogenesis and piRNA function. In this Review, we discuss the most recent advances in our understanding of piRNA biogenesis, the molecular mechanisms of piRNA function and the emerging roles of piRNAs in germ line development mainly in flies and mice, and in infertility, cancer and neurological diseases in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Anne Ramat
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | - Martine Simonelig
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Montpellier, France.
| | - Mo-Fang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China. .,Key Laboratory of Systems Health Science of Zhejiang Province, School of Life Science, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, China. .,School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, China.
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54
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Miller DE, Dorador AP, Van Vaerenberghe K, Li A, Grantham EK, Cerbin S, Cummings C, Barragan M, Egidy RR, Scott AR, Hall KE, Perera A, Gilliland WD, Hawley RS, Blumenstiel JP. Off-target piRNA gene silencing in Drosophila melanogaster rescued by a transposable element insertion. PLoS Genet 2023; 19:e1010598. [PMID: 36809339 PMCID: PMC9983838 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Transposable elements (TE) are selfish genetic elements that can cause harmful mutations. In Drosophila, it has been estimated that half of all spontaneous visible marker phenotypes are mutations caused by TE insertions. Several factors likely limit the accumulation of exponentially amplifying TEs within genomes. First, synergistic interactions between TEs that amplify their harm with increasing copy number are proposed to limit TE copy number. However, the nature of this synergy is poorly understood. Second, because of the harm posed by TEs, eukaryotes have evolved systems of small RNA-based genome defense to limit transposition. However, as in all immune systems, there is a cost of autoimmunity and small RNA-based systems that silence TEs can inadvertently silence genes flanking TE insertions. In a screen for essential meiotic genes in Drosophila melanogaster, a truncated Doc retrotransposon within a neighboring gene was found to trigger the germline silencing of ald, the Drosophila Mps1 homolog, a gene essential for proper chromosome segregation in meiosis. A subsequent screen for suppressors of this silencing identified a new insertion of a Hobo DNA transposon in the same neighboring gene. Here we describe how the original Doc insertion triggers flanking piRNA biogenesis and local gene silencing. We show that this local gene silencing occurs in cis and is dependent on deadlock, a component of the Rhino-Deadlock-Cutoff (RDC) complex, to trigger dual-strand piRNA biogenesis at TE insertions. We further show how the additional Hobo insertion leads to de-silencing by reducing flanking piRNA biogenesis triggered by the original Doc insertion. These results support a model of TE-mediated gene silencing by piRNA biogenesis in cis that depends on local determinants of transcription. This may explain complex patterns of off-target gene silencing triggered by TEs within populations and in the laboratory. It also provides a mechanism of sign epistasis among TE insertions, illuminates the complex nature of their interactions and supports a model in which off-target gene silencing shapes the evolution of the RDC complex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danny E. Miller
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, United States of America
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington and Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Ana P. Dorador
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Kelley Van Vaerenberghe
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, United States of America
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, Montana, United States of America
| | - Angela Li
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Emily K. Grantham
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Stefan Cerbin
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Celeste Cummings
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Marilyn Barragan
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Rhonda R. Egidy
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Allison R. Scott
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Kate E. Hall
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Anoja Perera
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri, United States of America
| | - William D. Gilliland
- Department of Biological Sciences, DePaul University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - R. Scott Hawley
- Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Justin P. Blumenstiel
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, United States of America
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55
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Ray SK, Mukherjee S. Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) and Colorectal Carcinoma: Emerging Non-invasive diagnostic Biomarkers with Potential Therapeutic Target Based Clinical Implications. Curr Mol Med 2023; 23:300-311. [PMID: 35068393 DOI: 10.2174/1566524022666220124102616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) constitute new small non-coding RNA molecules of around 24-31 nucleotides in length, mostly performing regulatory roles for the piwi protein family members. In recent times, developing evidence proposes that piRNAs are expressed in a tissue-specific way in various human tissues and act as moderate vital signalling pathways at the transcriptional or post-transcriptional level in addition to mammalian germline. Recent findings, however, show that the unusual expression of piRNAs is an exclusive and discrete feature in several diseases, including many human cancers. Recently, considerable evidence indicates that piRNAs could be dysregulated thus playing critical roles in tumorigenesis. The function and underlying mechanisms of piRNAs in cancer, particularly in colorectal carcinoma, are not fully understood to date. Abnormal expression of piRNAs is emerging as a critical player in cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and migration in vitro and in vivo. Functionally, piRNAs preserve genomic integrity and regulate the expression of downstream target genes through transcriptional or post-transcriptional mechanisms by repressing transposable elements' mobilization. However, little research has been done to check Piwi and piRNAs' potential role in cancer and preserve genome integrity by epigenetically silencing transposons via DNA methylation, especially in germline cancer stem cells. This review reveals emerging insights into piRNA functions in colorectal carcinoma, revealing novel findings behind various piRNA-mediated gene regulation mechanisms, biogenetic piRNA processes, and possible applications of piRNAs and piwi proteins in cancer diagnosis and their potential clinical significance in the treatment of colorectal carcinoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sukhes Mukherjee
- Associate Professor, Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh-462020, India
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56
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Teefy BB, Adler A, Xu A, Hsu K, Singh PP, Benayoun BA. Dynamic regulation of gonadal transposon control across the lifespan of the naturally short-lived African turquoise killifish. Genome Res 2023; 33:141-153. [PMID: 36577520 PMCID: PMC9977155 DOI: 10.1101/gr.277301.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Although germline cells are considered to be functionally "immortal," both the germline and supporting somatic cells in the gonad within an organism experience aging. With increased age at parenthood, the age-related decline in reproductive success has become an important biological issue for an aging population. However, molecular mechanisms underlying reproductive aging across sexes in vertebrates remain poorly understood. To decipher molecular drivers of vertebrate gonadal aging across sexes, we perform longitudinal characterization of the gonadal transcriptome throughout the lifespan in the naturally short-lived African turquoise killifish (Nothobranchius furzeri). By combining mRNA-seq and small RNA-seq from 26 individuals, we characterize the aging gonads of young-adult, middle-aged, and old female and male fish. We analyze changes in transcriptional patterns of genes, transposable elements (TEs), and piRNAs. We find that testes seem to undergo only marginal changes during aging. In contrast, in middle-aged ovaries, the time point associated with peak female fertility in this strain, PIWI pathway components are transiently down-regulated, TE transcription is elevated, and piRNA levels generally decrease, suggesting that egg quality may already be declining at middle-age. Furthermore, we show that piRNA ping-pong biogenesis declines steadily with age in ovaries, whereas it is maintained in aging testes. To our knowledge, this data set represents the most comprehensive transcriptomic data set for vertebrate gonadal aging. This resource also highlights important pathways that are regulated during reproductive aging in either ovaries or testes, which could ultimately be leveraged to help restore aspects of youthful reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan B Teefy
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | - Ari Adler
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | - Alan Xu
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA.,Molecular and Computational Biology Department, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | - Katelyn Hsu
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA.,Molecular and Computational Biology Department, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
| | - Param Priya Singh
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USA
| | - Bérénice A Benayoun
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA.,Molecular and Computational Biology Department, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA.,Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine Department, USC Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA.,USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA.,USC Stem Cell Initiative, Los Angeles, California 90089, USA
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57
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Zhang R, Tu Y, Ye D, Gu Z, Chen Z, Sun Y. A Germline-Specific Regulator of Mitochondrial Fusion is Required for Maintenance and Differentiation of Germline Stem and Progenitor Cells. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 9:e2203631. [PMID: 36257818 PMCID: PMC9798980 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202203631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Maintenance and differentiation of germline stem and progenitor cells (GSPCs) is important for sexual reproduction. Here, the authors identify zebrafish pld6 as a novel germline-specific gene by cross-analyzing different RNA sequencing results, and find that pld6 knockout mutants develop exclusively into infertile males. In pld6 mutants, GSPCs fail to differentiate and undergo apoptosis, leading to masculinization and infertility. Mitochondrial fusion in pld6-depleted GSPCs is severely impaired, and the mutants exhibit defects in piRNA biogenesis and transposon suppression. Overall, this work uncovers zebrafish Pld6 as a novel germline-specific regulator of mitochondrial fusion, and highlights its essential role in the maintenance and differentiation of GSPCs as well as gonadal development and gametogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ru Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and BiotechnologyInstitute of HydrobiologyInnovation Academy for Seed DesignChinese Academy of SciencesWuhan430072China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Agricultural BioinformaticsCollege of Life Science and TechnologyCollege of Biomedicine and HealthInterdisciplinary Sciences InstituteHuazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhan430070China
- Hubei Hongshan LaboratoryWuhan430070China
| | - Yi‐Xuan Tu
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Agricultural BioinformaticsCollege of Life Science and TechnologyCollege of Biomedicine and HealthInterdisciplinary Sciences InstituteHuazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhan430070China
- Hubei Hongshan LaboratoryWuhan430070China
| | - Ding Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and BiotechnologyInstitute of HydrobiologyInnovation Academy for Seed DesignChinese Academy of SciencesWuhan430072China
| | - Zhenglong Gu
- Division of Nutritional SciencesCornell UniversityIthacaNY14853USA
- Center for Mitochondrial Genetics and HealthGreater Bay Area Institute of Precision Medicine (Guangzhou)Fudan UniversityNansha DistrictGuangzhou511400China
| | - Zhen‐Xia Chen
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Agricultural BioinformaticsCollege of Life Science and TechnologyCollege of Biomedicine and HealthInterdisciplinary Sciences InstituteHuazhong Agricultural UniversityWuhan430070China
- Hubei Hongshan LaboratoryWuhan430070China
- Shenzhen Institute of Nutrition and HealthHuazhong Agricultural UniversityShenzhen518000China
- Shenzhen BranchGuangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern AgricultureGenome Analysis Laboratory of the Ministry of AgricultureAgricultural Genomics Institute at ShenzhenChinese Academy of Agricultural SciencesShenzhen518000China
| | - Yonghua Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and BiotechnologyInstitute of HydrobiologyInnovation Academy for Seed DesignChinese Academy of SciencesWuhan430072China
- Hubei Hongshan LaboratoryWuhan430070China
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58
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Das PK, Panda G, Patra K, Jena N, Dash M. The role of polyplexes in developing a green sustainable approach in agriculture. RSC Adv 2022; 12:34463-34481. [PMID: 36545618 PMCID: PMC9709925 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra06541j] [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: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Rise in global population has increased the food demands and thus the competition among farmers to produce more and more. In the race to obtain higher productivity, farmers have resorted to injudicious farming practices that include the reckless use of nitrogenous fertilizers and intensive cropping on farmlands. Such practices have paved the path for large scale infestations of crops and plants by pests thus affecting the plant productivity and crop vigour. There are several traditional techniques to control pest infestations in plants such as the use of chemical or bio-pesticides, and integrated pest management practices which face several drawbacks. Delivery of gene/nucleic acid in plants through genetic engineering approaches is a more sustainable and effective method of protection against pests. The technology of RNA interference (RNAi) provides a sustainable solution to counter pest control problems faced by other traditional techniques. The RNAi technique involves delivery of dsDNA/dsRNA or other forms of nucleic acids into target organisms thereby bringing about gene silencing. However, RNAi is also limited to its use because of their susceptibility to degradation wherein the use of cationic polymers can provide a tangible solution. Cationic polymers form stable complexes with the nucleic acids known as "polyplexes", which may be attributed to their high positive charge densities thus protecting the exogenous nucleic acids from extracellular degradation. The current paper focuses on the utility of nucleic acids as a sustainable tool for pest control in crops and the use of cationic polymers for the efficient delivery of nucleic acids in pests thus protecting the plant from infestations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Nivedita Jena
- Institute of Life Sciences, DBT-ILSBhubaneswarOdishaIndia
| | - Mamoni Dash
- Institute of Life Sciences, DBT-ILSBhubaneswarOdishaIndia
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59
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Harvey-Samuel T, Xu X, Anderson MAE, Carabajal Paladino LZ, Purusothaman D, Norman VC, Reitmayer CM, You M, Alphey L. Silencing RNAs expressed from W-linked PxyMasc "retrocopies" target that gene during female sex determination in Plutella xylostella. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2206025119. [PMID: 36343250 PMCID: PMC9674220 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2206025119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The Lepidoptera are an insect order of cultural, economic, and environmental importance, representing ∼10% of all described living species. Yet, for all but one of these species (silkmoth, Bombyx mori), the molecular genetics of how sexual fate is determined remains unknown. We investigated this in the diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella), a globally important, highly invasive, and economically damaging pest of cruciferous crops. Our previous work uncovered a regulator of male sex determination in P. xylostella-PxyMasc, a homolog of B. mori Masculinizer-which, although initially expressed in embryos of both sexes, is then reduced in female embryos, leading to female-specific splicing of doublesex. Here, through sequencing small RNA libraries generated from early embryos and sexed larval pools, we identified a variety of small silencing RNAs (predominantly Piwi-interacting RNAs [piRNAs]) complementary to PxyMasc, whose temporal expression correlated with the reduction in PxyMasc transcript observed previously in females. Analysis of these small RNAs showed that they are expressed from tandemly arranged, multicopy arrays found exclusively on the W (female-specific) chromosome, which we term "Pxyfem". Analysis of the Pxyfem sequences showed that they are partial complementary DNAs (cDNAs) of PxyMasc messenger RNA (mRNA) transcripts, likely integrated into transposable element graveyards by the noncanonical action of retrotransposons (retrocopies), and that their apparent similarity to B. mori feminizer more probably represents convergent evolution. Our study helps elucidate the sex determination cascade in this globally important pest and highlights the "shortcuts" that retrotransposition events can facilitate in the evolution of complex molecular cascades, including sex determination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Harvey-Samuel
- Arthropod Genetics Group, The Pirbright Institute, Woking, Pirbright GU24 0NF, United Kingdom
| | - Xuejiao Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | | | | | - Deepak Purusothaman
- Arthropod Genetics Group, The Pirbright Institute, Woking, Pirbright GU24 0NF, United Kingdom
| | - Victoria. C. Norman
- Arthropod Genetics Group, The Pirbright Institute, Woking, Pirbright GU24 0NF, United Kingdom
| | - Christine. M. Reitmayer
- Arthropod Genetics Group, The Pirbright Institute, Woking, Pirbright GU24 0NF, United Kingdom
| | - Minsheng You
- State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Institute of Applied Ecology, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Luke Alphey
- Arthropod Genetics Group, The Pirbright Institute, Woking, Pirbright GU24 0NF, United Kingdom
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60
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Xiong Q, Zhang Y, Li J, Zhu Q. Small Non-Coding RNAs in Human Cancer. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13112072. [PMID: 36360311 PMCID: PMC9690286 DOI: 10.3390/genes13112072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Small non-coding RNAs are widespread in the biological world and have been extensively explored over the past decades. Their fundamental roles in human health and disease are increasingly appreciated. Furthermore, a growing number of studies have investigated the functions of small non-coding RNAs in cancer initiation and progression. In this review, we provide an overview of the biogenesis of small non-coding RNAs with a focus on microRNAs, PIWI-interacting RNAs, and a new class of tRNA-derived small RNAs. We discuss their biological functions in human cancer and highlight their clinical application as molecular biomarkers or therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qunli Xiong
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yaguang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Junjun Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Qing Zhu
- Department of Abdominal Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Correspondence:
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61
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Izumi N, Shoji K, Kiuchi T, Katsuma S, Tomari Y. The two Gtsf paralogs in silkworms orthogonally activate their partner PIWI proteins for target cleavage. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2022; 29:rna.079380.122. [PMID: 36319089 PMCID: PMC9808576 DOI: 10.1261/rna.079380.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) pathway is a protection mechanism against transposons in animal germ cells. Most PIWI proteins possess piRNA-guided endonuclease activity, which is critical for silencing transposons and producing new piRNAs. Gametocyte-specific factor 1 (Gtsf1), an evolutionarily conserved zinc finger protein, promotes catalysis by PIWI proteins. Many animals have multiple Gtsf1 paralogs; however, their respective roles in the piRNA pathway are not fully understood. Here, we dissected the roles of Gtsf1 and its paralog Gtsf1-like (Gtsf1L) in the silkworm piRNA pathway. We found that Gtsf1 and Gtsf1L preferentially bind the two silkworm PIWI paralogs, Siwi and BmAgo3, respectively, and facilitate the endonuclease activity of each PIWI protein. This orthogonal activation effect was further supported by specific reduction of BmAgo3-bound Masculinizer piRNA and Siwi-bound Feminizer piRNA, the unique piRNA pair required for silkworm feminization, upon depletion of Gtsf1 and Gtsf1L, respectively. Our results indicate that the two Gtsf paralogs in silkworms activate their respective PIWI partners, thereby facilitating the amplification of piRNAs.
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62
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Yu T, Biasini A, Cecchini K, Saflund M, Mou H, Arif A, Eghbali A, de Rooij D, Weng Z, Zamore PD, Ozata DM. A-MYB/TCFL5 regulatory architecture ensures the production of pachytene piRNAs in placental mammals. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2022; 29:rna.079472.122. [PMID: 36241367 PMCID: PMC9808571 DOI: 10.1261/rna.079472.122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In male mice, the transcription factor A MYB initiates the transcription of pachytene piRNA genes during meiosis. Here, we report that A MYB activates the transcription factor Tcfl5 produced in pachytene spermatocytes. Subsequently, A MYB and TCFL5 reciprocally reinforce their own transcription to establish a positive feedback circuit that triggers pachytene piRNA production. TCFL5 regulates the expression of genes required for piRNA maturation and promotes transcription of evolutionarily young pachytene piRNA genes, whereas A-MYB activates the transcription of older pachytene piRNA genes. Intriguingly, pachytene piRNAs from TCFL5-dependent young loci initiates the production of piRNAs from A-MYB-dependent older loci ensuring the self-propagation of pachytene piRNAs. A MYB and TCFL5 act via a set of incoherent feedforward loops that drive regulation of gene expression by pachytene piRNAs during spermatogenesis. This regulatory architecture is conserved in rhesus macaque, suggesting that it was present in the last common ancestor of placental mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Amena Arif
- University of Massachusetts Medical School
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63
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Baumgartner L, Handler D, Platzer SW, Yu C, Duchek P, Brennecke J. The Drosophila ZAD zinc finger protein Kipferl guides Rhino to piRNA clusters. eLife 2022; 11:e80067. [PMID: 36193674 PMCID: PMC9531945 DOI: 10.7554/elife.80067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA interference systems depend on the synthesis of small RNA precursors whose sequences define the target spectrum of these silencing pathways. The Drosophila Heterochromatin Protein 1 (HP1) variant Rhino permits transcription of PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) precursors within transposon-rich heterochromatic loci in germline cells. Current models propose that Rhino's specific chromatin occupancy at piRNA source loci is determined by histone marks and maternally inherited piRNAs, but also imply the existence of other, undiscovered specificity cues. Here, we identify a member of the diverse family of zinc finger associated domain (ZAD)-C2H2 zinc finger proteins, Kipferl, as critical Rhino cofactor in ovaries. By binding to guanosine-rich DNA motifs and interacting with the Rhino chromodomain, Kipferl recruits Rhino to specific loci and stabilizes it on chromatin. In kipferl mutant flies, Rhino is lost from most of its target chromatin loci and instead accumulates on pericentromeric Satellite arrays, resulting in decreased levels of transposon targeting piRNAs and impaired fertility. Our findings reveal that DNA sequence, in addition to the H3K9me3 mark, determines the identity of piRNA source loci and provide insight into how Rhino might be caught in the crossfire of genetic conflicts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Baumgartner
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna BioCenterViennaAustria
- Vienna BioCenter PhD Program, Doctoral School of the University of Vienna and Medical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Dominik Handler
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna BioCenterViennaAustria
| | | | - Changwei Yu
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna BioCenterViennaAustria
| | - Peter Duchek
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna BioCenterViennaAustria
| | - Julius Brennecke
- Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna BioCenterViennaAustria
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64
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Oliveira JIN, Cardoso AL, Wolf IR, de Oliveira RA, Martins C. First characterization of PIWI-interacting RNA clusters in a cichlid fish with a B chromosome. BMC Biol 2022; 20:204. [PMID: 36127679 PMCID: PMC9490952 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-022-01403-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND B chromosomes are extra elements found in several eukaryote species. Usually, they do not express a phenotype in the host. However, advances in bioinformatics over the last decades have allowed us to describe several genes and molecular functions related to B chromosomes. These advances enable investigations of the relationship between the B chromosome and the host to understand how this element has been preserved in genomes. However, considering that transposable elements (TEs) are highly abundant in this supernumerary chromosome, there is a lack of knowledge concerning the dynamics of TE control in B-carrying cells. Thus, the present study characterized PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) clusters and pathways responsible for silencing the mobilization of TEs in gonads of the cichlid fish Astatotilapia latifasciata carrying the B chromosome. RESULTS Through small RNA-seq and genome assembly, we predicted and annotated piRNA clusters in the A. latifasciata genome for the first time. We observed that these clusters had biased expression related to sex and the presence of the B chromosome. Furthermore, three piRNA clusters, named curupira, were identified in the B chromosome. Two of them were expressed exclusively in gonads of samples with the B chromosome. The composition of these curupira sequences was derived from LTR, LINE, and DNA elements, representing old and recent transposition events in the A. latifasciata genome and the B chromosome. The presence of the B chromosome also affected the expression of piRNA pathway genes. The mitochondrial cardiolipin hydrolase-like (pld6) gene is present in the B chromosome, as previously reported, and an increase in its expression was detected in gonads with the B chromosome. CONCLUSIONS Due to the high abundance of TEs in the B chromosome, it was possible to investigate the origin of piRNA from these jumping genes. We hypothesize that the B chromosome has evolved its own genomic guardians to prevent uncontrolled TE mobilization. Furthermore, we also detected an expression bias in the presence of the B chromosome over A. latifasciata piRNA clusters and pathway genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordana Inácio Nascimento Oliveira
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Bioscience at Botucatu, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, 18618-689, Brazil
| | - Adauto Lima Cardoso
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Bioscience at Botucatu, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, 18618-689, Brazil
| | - Ivan Rodrigo Wolf
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Bioscience at Botucatu, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, 18618-689, Brazil
| | - Rogério Antônio de Oliveira
- Department of Biostatistics, Plant Biology, Parasitology and Zoology, Institute of Bioscience at Botucatu, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Cesar Martins
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Institute of Bioscience at Botucatu, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, 18618-689, Brazil.
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65
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Kebede M, Fite T. RNA interference (RNAi) applications to the management of fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae): Its current trends and future prospects. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:944774. [PMID: 36158573 PMCID: PMC9490220 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.944774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is among the invasive insect pests that damages maize and sorghum, the high-priority crops in newly colonized agro-ecologies, including African contexts. Owing to the increasing infestation of the pest and the limitations of current conventional methods for its management, there is a call for discovering advanced pest management approaches. RNA interference (RNAi) is an emerging molecular tool showing flexible potential for the management of S. frugiperda. We conducted a search of the recent application of RNAi literature using Google Scholar and Mendeley to find advanced papers on S. frugiperda management using RNAi molecular tools that led to growth inhibition, developmental aberrations, reduced fecundity, and mortality, mainly by disruption of normal biological processes of the pest. Although efforts have been made to accelerate the utility of RNAi, many factors limit the efficiency of RNAi to achieve successful control over S. frugiperda. Owing to RNAi’s potential bioactivity and economic and ecological acceptability, continued research efforts should focus on improving its broad applicability, including field conditions. Screening and identification of key target genes should be a priority task to achieve effective and sustainable management of this insect via RNAi. In addition, a clear understanding of the present status of RNAi utilization in S. frugiperda management is of paramount importance to improve its efficiency. Therefore, in this review, we highlight the biology of S. frugiperda and the RNAi mechanism as a foundation for the molecular management of the pest. Then, we discuss the current knowledge of the RNAi approach in S. frugiperda management and the factors affecting the efficiency of RNAi application. Finally, the prospects for RNAi-based insect pest management are highlighted for future research to achieve effective management of S. frugiperda.
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66
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Unraveling mitochondrial piRNAs in mouse embryonic gonadal cells. Sci Rep 2022; 12:10730. [PMID: 35750721 PMCID: PMC9232517 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-14414-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Although mitochondria are widely studied organelles, the recent interest in the role of mitochondrial small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs), miRNAs, and more recently, piRNAs, is providing new functional perspectives in germ cell development and differentiation. piRNAs (PIWI-interacting RNAs) are single-stranded sncRNAs of mostly about 20-35 nucleotides, generated from the processing of pre-piRNAs. We leverage next-generation sequencing data obtained from mouse primordial germ cells and somatic cells purified from early-differentiating embryonic ovaries and testis from 11.5 to 13.5 days postcoitum. Using bioinformatic tools, we elucidate (i) the origins of piRNAs as transcribed from mitochondrial DNA fragments inserted in the nucleus or from the mitochondrial genome; (ii) their levels of expression; and (iii) their potential roles, as well as their association with genomic regions encoding other sncRNAs (such as tRNAs and rRNAs) and the mitochondrial regulatory region (D-loop). Finally, our results suggest how nucleo-mitochondrial communication, both anterograde and retrograde signaling, may be mediated by mitochondria-associated piRNAs.
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67
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Stoyko D, Genzor P, Haase AD. Hierarchical length and sequence preferences establish a single major piRNA 3'-end. iScience 2022; 25:104427. [PMID: 35669519 PMCID: PMC9162947 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) guard germline genomes against the deleterious action of mobile genetic elements. PiRNAs use extensive base-pairing to recognize their targets and variable 3'ends could change the specificity and efficacy of piRNA silencing. Here, we identify conserved rules that ensure the generation of a single major piRNA 3'end in flies and mice. Our data suggest that the PIWI proteins initially define a short interval on pre-piRNAs that grants access to the ZUC-processor complex. Within this Goldilocks zone, the preference to cut in front of Uridine determines the ultimate processing site. We observe a mouse-specific roadblock that relocates the Goldilocks zone and generates an opportunity for consecutive trimming. Our data reveal a conserved hierarchy between length and sequence preferences that controls the piRNA sequence space. The unanticipated precision of 3'end formation bolsters the emerging understanding that the functional piRNA sequence space is tightly controlled to ensure effective defense.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Stoyko
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Pavol Genzor
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Astrid D Haase
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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68
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Balaratnam S, Hoque ME, West N, Basu S. Decay of Piwi-Interacting RNAs in Human Cells Is Primarily Mediated by 5' to 3' Exoribonucleases. ACS Chem Biol 2022; 17:1723-1732. [PMID: 35687865 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.2c00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are a group of small noncoding RNA molecules that regulate the activity of transposons and control gene expression. The cellular concentration of RNAs is generally maintained by their rates of biogenesis and degradation. Although the biogenesis pathways of piRNAs have been well defined, their degradation mechanism is still unknown. Here, we show that degradation of human piRNAs is mostly dependent on the 5'-3' exoribonuclease pathway. The presence of 3'-end 2'-O-methylation in piRNAs significantly reduced their degradation through the exosome-mediated decay pathway. The accumulation of piRNAs in XRN1 and XRN2 exoribonuclease-depleted cells further supports the 5'-3' exoribonuclease-mediated decay of piRNAs. Moreover, formation of stable secondary structures in piRNAs slows the rate of XRN1-mediated degradation. Our findings establish a framework for the piRNA degradation mechanism in cells and thus provide crucial information about how the basal level concentration of piRNAs is maintained in cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumirtha Balaratnam
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States.,Chemical Biology Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
| | - Mohammed Enamul Hoque
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
| | - Nicole West
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
| | - Soumitra Basu
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
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69
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Jia DD, Jiang H, Zhang YF, Zhang Y, Qian LL, Zhang YF. The regulatory function of piRNA/PIWI complex in cancer and other human diseases: The role of DNA methylation. Int J Biol Sci 2022; 18:3358-3373. [PMID: 35637965 PMCID: PMC9134905 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.68221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are a class of short chain noncoding RNAs that are constituted by 26-30 nucleotides (nt) and can couple with PIWI protein family. piRNAs were initially described in germline cells and are believed to be critical regulators of the maintenance of reproductive line. Increasing evidence has extended our perspectives on the biological significance of piRNAs and indicated that they could still affect somatic gene expression through DNA methylation, chromatin modification and transposon silencing, etc. Many studies have revealed that the dysregulation of piRNAs might contribute to diverse diseases through epigenetic changes represented by DNA methylation and chromatin modification. In this review, we summarized piRNA/PIWI protein-mediated DNA methylation regulation mechanisms and methylation changes caused by piRNA/PIWI proteins in different diseases, especially cancers. Since DNA methylation and inhibitory chromatin marks represented by histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9) methylation frequently cooperate to silence genomic regions, we also included methylation in chromatin modification within this discussion. Furthermore, we discussed the potential clinical applications of piRNAs as a new type promising biomarkers for cancer diagnosis, as well as the significance of piRNA/PIWI protein-associated methylation changes in treatment, providing disparate insights into the potential applications of them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Dong Jia
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266021, China
- Department of Vascular Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Jiang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sun Yat - Sen University Cancer Center, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in Southern China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Fei Zhang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266021, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266021, China
| | - Li-Li Qian
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266021, China
| | - Yin-Feng Zhang
- Institute for Translational Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, College of Medicine, Qingdao University, Qingdao, 266021, China
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70
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Bornelöv S, Czech B, Hannon GJ. An evolutionarily conserved stop codon enrichment at the 5' ends of mammalian piRNAs. Nat Commun 2022; 13:2118. [PMID: 35440552 PMCID: PMC9018710 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29787-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are small RNAs required to recognize and silence transposable elements. The 5' ends of mature piRNAs are defined through cleavage of long precursor transcripts, primarily by Zucchini (Zuc). Zuc-dependent cleavage typically occurs immediately upstream of a uridine. However, Zuc lacks sequence preference in vitro, pointing towards additional unknown specificity factors. Here, we examine murine piRNAs and reveal a strong and specific enrichment of three sequences (UAA, UAG, UGA)-corresponding to stop codons-at piRNA 5' ends. Stop codon sequences are also enriched immediately after piRNA processing intermediates, reflecting their Zuc-dependent tail-to-head arrangement. Further analyses reveal that a Zuc in vivo cleavage preference at four sequences (UAA, UAG, UGA, UAC) promotes 5' end stop codons. This observation is conserved across mammals and possibly further. Our work provides new insights into Zuc-dependent cleavage and may point to a previously unrecognized connection between piRNA biogenesis and the translational machinery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Bornelöv
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK.
| | - Benjamin Czech
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK
| | - Gregory J Hannon
- Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, University of Cambridge, Li Ka Shing Centre, Cambridge, CB2 0RE, UK.
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71
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Vandewege MW, Patt RN, Merriman DK, Ray DA, Hoffmann FG. The PIWI/piRNA response is relaxed in a rodent that lacks mobilizing transposable elements. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2022; 28:609-621. [PMID: 35064043 PMCID: PMC8925971 DOI: 10.1261/rna.078862.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Transposable elements (TEs) are genomic parasites that can propagate throughout host genomes. Mammalian genomes are typically dominated by LINE retrotransposons and their associated SINEs, and germline mobilization is a challenge to genome integrity. There are defenses against TE proliferation and the PIWI/piRNA defense is among the most well understood. However, the PIWI/piRNA system has been investigated largely in animals with actively mobilizing TEs and it is unclear how the PIWI/piRNA system functions in the absence of mobilizing TEs. The 13-lined ground squirrel provides the opportunity to examine PIWI/piRNA and TE dynamics within the context of minimal, and possibly nonexistent, TE accumulation. To do so, we compared the PIWI/piRNA dynamics in squirrels to observations from the rabbit and mouse. Despite a lack of young insertions in squirrels, TEs were still actively transcribed at higher levels compared to mouse and rabbit. All three Piwi genes were not expressed, prior to P8 in squirrel testis, and there was little TE expression change with the onset of Piwi expression. We also demonstrated there was not a major expression change in the young squirrel LINE families in the transition from juvenile to adult testis in contrast to young mouse and rabbit LINE families. These observations lead us to conclude that PIWI suppression, was weaker for squirrel LINEs and SINEs and did not strongly reduce their transcription. We speculate that, although the PIWI/piRNA system is adaptable to novel TE threats, transcripts from TEs that are no longer threatening receive less attention from PIWI proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael W Vandewege
- Department of Biology, Eastern New Mexico University, Portales, New Mexico 88130, USA
| | - Roy N Patt
- Disease Intervention and Prevention Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas 78245-0549, USA
| | - Dana K Merriman
- Department of Biology, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Oshkosh, Wisconsin 54901, USA
| | - David A Ray
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas 79409, USA
| | - Federico G Hoffmann
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology and Plant Pathology, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi 39762, USA
- Institute of Genomics, Biocomputing and Biotechnology, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi 39762, USA
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72
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Yamada H, Nishida KM, Iwasaki YW, Isota Y, Negishi L, Siomi MC. Siwi cooperates with Par-1 kinase to resolve the autoinhibitory effect of Papi for Siwi-piRISC biogenesis. Nat Commun 2022; 13:1518. [PMID: 35314687 PMCID: PMC8938449 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-29193-9] [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: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Bombyx Papi acts as a scaffold for Siwi-piRISC biogenesis on the mitochondrial surface. Papi binds first to Siwi via the Tudor domain and subsequently to piRNA precursors loaded onto Siwi via the K-homology (KH) domains. This second action depends on phosphorylation of Papi. However, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Here, we show that Siwi targets Par-1 kinase to Papi to phosphorylate Ser547 in the auxiliary domain. This modification enhances the ability of Papi to bind Siwi-bound piRNA precursors via the KH domains. The Papi S547A mutant bound to Siwi, but evaded phosphorylation by Par-1, abrogating Siwi-piRISC biogenesis. A Papi mutant that lacked the Tudor and auxiliary domains escaped coordinated regulation by Siwi and Par-1 and bound RNAs autonomously. Another Papi mutant that lacked the auxiliary domain bound Siwi but did not bind piRNA precursors. A sophisticated mechanism by which Siwi cooperates with Par-1 kinase to promote Siwi-piRISC biogenesis was uncovered. Siwi-piRISC protects the germline genome from DNA damage caused by selfish movement of transposons by suppressing their expression. Here, the authors show how molecularly Papi, which plays an important role in the production of Siwi-piRISC, cooperates with Par-1 kinase to ensure the accumulation of Siwi-piRISC in germ cells.
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73
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Zhou S, Sakashita A, Yuan S, Namekawa SH. Retrotransposons in the Mammalian Male Germline. Sex Dev 2022; 16:404-422. [PMID: 35231923 PMCID: PMC11974347 DOI: 10.1159/000520683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Retrotransposons are a subset of DNA sequences that constitute a large part of the mammalian genome. They can translocate autonomously or non-autonomously, potentially jeopardizing the heritable germline genome. Retrotransposons coevolved with the host genome, and the germline is the prominent battlefield between retrotransposons and the host genome to maximize their mutual fitness. Host genomes have developed various mechanisms to suppress and control retrotransposons, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and Piwi-interacting RNA (piRNA), for their own benefit. Thus, rapidly evolved retrotransposons often acquire positive functions, including gene regulation within the germline, conferring reproductive fitness in a species over the course of evolution. The male germline serves as an ideal model to examine the regulation and evolution of retrotransposons, resulting in genomic co-evolution with the host genome. In this review, we summarize and discuss the regulatory mechanisms of retrotransposons, stage-by-stage, during male germ cell development, with a particular focus on mice as an extensively studied mammalian model, highlighting suppression mechanisms and emerging functions of retrotransposons in the male germline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shumin Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Akihiko Sakashita
- Department of Molecular Biology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Shenzhen Huazhong University of Science and Technology Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Satoshi H. Namekawa
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
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74
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Zhao JH, Guo HS. RNA silencing: From discovery and elucidation to application and perspectives. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE PLANT BIOLOGY 2022; 64:476-498. [PMID: 34964265 DOI: 10.1111/jipb.13213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
RNA silencing (or RNA interference, RNAi) is a conserved mechanism for regulating gene expression in eukaryotes. The discovery of natural trans-kingdom RNAi indicated that small RNAs act as signaling molecules and enable communication between organisms in different kingdoms. The phenomenon and potential mechanisms of trans-kingdom RNAi are among the most exciting research topics. To better understand trans-kingdom RNAi, we review the history of the discovery and elucidation of RNAi mechanisms. Based on canonical RNAi mechanisms, we summarize the major points of divergence around RNAi pathways in the main eukaryotes' kingdoms, including plants, animals, and fungi. We review the representative incidents associated with the mechanisms and applications of trans-kingdom RNAi in crop protection, and discuss the critical factors that should be considered to develop successful trans-kingdom RNAi-based crop protection strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Hua Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics, Institute of Microbiology, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Hui-Shan Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics, Institute of Microbiology, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
- CAS Center for Excellence in Biotic Interactions, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
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75
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Abstract
Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are 25- to 32-nucleotide-long small RNAs that silence transposable elements (transposons) in animal gonads. piRNAs have a large sequence diversity (over one million different sequences per organism) to target a variety of transposon sequences. This is achieved by flexible and distinct biogenesis pathways that are evolutionarily conserved. In this chapter, I describe a detailed method of purifying and cloning piRNAs from freshly dissected tissue samples, such as fruit fly ovaries, for the high-throughput sequencing. I also describe how to computationally process the sequencing data and interrogate the characteristic pattern of piRNA biogenesis, including ping-pong amplification and head-to-tail phasing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rippei Hayashi
- The John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Acton, ACT, Australia.
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76
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Haase AD. An introduction to PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) in the context of metazoan small RNA silencing pathways. RNA Biol 2022; 19:1094-1102. [PMID: 36217279 PMCID: PMC9559041 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2022.2132359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
PIWI proteins and their associated PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) constitute a small RNA-based adaptive immune system that restricts the deleterious activity of mobile genetic elements to protect genome integrity. Self/nonself discrimination is at the very core of successful defence and relies on complementary base-pairing in RNA-guided immunity. How the millions of piRNA sequences faithfully discriminate between self and nonself and how they adapt to novel genomic invaders remain key outstanding questions in genome biology. This review aims to introduce principles of piRNA silencing in the context of metazoan small RNA pathways. A distinct feature of piRNAs is their origin from single-stranded instead of double-stranded RNA precursors, and piRNAs require a unique set of processing factors. Novel nucleases, helicases and RNA binding proteins have been identified in piRNA biology, and while we are starting to understand some mechanisms of piRNA biogenesis and function, this diverse and prolific class of small RNAs remains full of surprises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid D. Haase
- National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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77
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Riquelme I, Pérez-Moreno P, Letelier P, Brebi P, Roa JC. The Emerging Role of PIWI-Interacting RNAs (piRNAs) in Gastrointestinal Cancers: An Updated Perspective. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:202. [PMID: 35008366 PMCID: PMC8750603 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers produce ~3.4 million related deaths worldwide, comprising 35% of all cancer-related deaths. The high mortality among GI cancers is due to late diagnosis, the presence of metastasis and drug resistance development. Additionally, current clinical markers do not adequately guide patient management, thereby new and more reliable biomarkers and therapeutic targets are still needed for these diseases. RNA-seq technology has allowed the discovery of new types of RNA transcripts including PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), which have particular characteristics that enable these molecules to act via diverse molecular mechanisms for regulating gene expression. Cumulative evidence has described the potential role of piRNAs in the development of several tumor types as a likely explanation for certain genomic abnormalities and signaling pathways' deregulations observed in cancer. In addition, these piRNAs might be also proposed as promising diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers or as potential therapeutic targets in malignancies. This review describes important topics about piRNAs including their molecular characteristics, biosynthesis processes, gene expression silencing mechanisms, and the manner in which these transcripts have been studied in samples and cell lines of GI cancers to elucidate their implications in these diseases. Moreover, this article discusses the potential clinical usefulness of piRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in GI cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismael Riquelme
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Temuco 4810101, Chile;
| | - Pablo Pérez-Moreno
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8380000, Chile;
| | - Pablo Letelier
- Precision Health Research Laboratory, Departamento de Procesos Diagnósticos y Evaluación, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Católica de Temuco, Manuel Montt 56, Temuco 4813302, Chile;
| | - Priscilla Brebi
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Laboratory of Integrative Biology (LIBi), Center for Excellence in Translational Medicine—Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEMT-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4810296, Chile;
| | - Juan Carlos Roa
- Millennium Institute on Immunology and Immunotherapy, Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago 8380000, Chile;
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78
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Banho CA, Oliveira DS, Haudry A, Fablet M, Vieira C, Carareto CMA. Transposable Element Expression and Regulation Profile in Gonads of Interspecific Hybrids of Drosophila arizonae and Drosophila mojavensis wrigleyi. Cells 2021; 10:cells10123574. [PMID: 34944084 PMCID: PMC8700503 DOI: 10.3390/cells10123574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Interspecific hybridization may lead to sterility and/or inviability through differential expression of genes and transposable elements (TEs). In Drosophila, studies have reported massive TE mobilization in hybrids from interspecific crosses of species presenting high divergence times. However, few studies have examined the consequences of TE mobilization upon hybridization in recently diverged species, such as Drosophila arizonae and D. mojavensis. We have sequenced transcriptomes of D. arizonae and the subspecies D. m. wrigleyi and their reciprocal hybrids, as well as piRNAs, to analyze the impact of genomic stress on TE regulation. Our results revealed that the differential expression in both gonadal tissues of parental species was similar. Globally, ovaries and testes showed few deregulated TEs compared with both parental lines. Analyses of small RNA data showed that in ovaries, the TE upregulation is likely due to divergence of copies inherited from parental genomes and lack of piRNAs mapping to them. Nevertheless, in testes, the divergent expression of genes associated with chromatin state and piRNA pathway potentially indicates that TE differential expression is related to the divergence of regulatory genes that play a role in modulating transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecília Artico Banho
- Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), São José do Rio Preto 15054-000, SP, Brazil; (C.A.B.); (D.S.O.)
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Université de Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR 5558, F-69622 Villeurbanne, France; (A.H.); (M.F.)
| | - Daniel Siqueira Oliveira
- Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), São José do Rio Preto 15054-000, SP, Brazil; (C.A.B.); (D.S.O.)
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Université de Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR 5558, F-69622 Villeurbanne, France; (A.H.); (M.F.)
| | - Annabelle Haudry
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Université de Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR 5558, F-69622 Villeurbanne, France; (A.H.); (M.F.)
| | - Marie Fablet
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Université de Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR 5558, F-69622 Villeurbanne, France; (A.H.); (M.F.)
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), F-75231 Paris, France
| | - Cristina Vieira
- Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Université de Lyon, Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR 5558, F-69622 Villeurbanne, France; (A.H.); (M.F.)
- Correspondence: (C.V.); (C.M.A.C.)
| | - Claudia Marcia Aparecida Carareto
- Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), São José do Rio Preto 15054-000, SP, Brazil; (C.A.B.); (D.S.O.)
- Correspondence: (C.V.); (C.M.A.C.)
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79
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Small Noncoding RNAs in Reproduction and Infertility. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121884. [PMID: 34944700 PMCID: PMC8698561 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility has been reported as one of the most common reproductive impairments, affecting nearly one in six couples worldwide. A large proportion of infertility cases are diagnosed as idiopathic, signifying a deficit in information surrounding the pathology of infertility and necessity of medical intervention such as assisted reproductive therapy. Small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) are well-established regulators of mammalian reproduction. Advanced technologies have revealed the dynamic expression and diverse functions of sncRNAs during mammalian germ cell development. Mounting evidence indicates sncRNAs in sperm, especially microRNAs (miRNAs) and transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), are sensitive to environmental changes and mediate the inheritance of paternally acquired metabolic and mental traits. Here, we review the critical roles of sncRNAs in mammalian germ cell development. Furthermore, we highlight the functions of sperm-borne sncRNAs in epigenetic inheritance. We also discuss evidence supporting sncRNAs as promising biomarkers for fertility and embryo quality in addition to the present limitations of using sncRNAs for infertility diagnosis and treatment.
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80
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Wang J, Shi Y, Zhou H, Zhang P, Song T, Ying Z, Yu H, Li Y, Zhao Y, Zeng X, He S, Chen R. piRBase: integrating piRNA annotation in all aspects. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 50:D265-D272. [PMID: 34871445 PMCID: PMC8728152 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab1012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Piwi-interacting RNAs are a type of small noncoding RNA that have various functions. piRBase is a manually curated resource focused on assisting piRNA functional analysis. piRBase release v3.0 is committed to providing more comprehensive piRNA related information. The latest release covers >181 million unique piRNA sequences, including 440 datasets from 44 species. More disease-related piRNAs and piRNA targets have been collected and displayed. The regulatory relationships between piRNAs and targets have been visualized. In addition to the reuse and expansion of the content in the previous version, the latest version has additional new content, including gold standard piRNA sets, piRNA clusters, piRNA variants, splicing-junction piRNAs, and piRNA expression data. In addition, the entire web interface has been redesigned to provide a better experience for users. piRBase release v3.0 is free to access, browse, search, and download at http://bigdata.ibp.ac.cn/piRBase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Wang
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yirong Shi
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Honghong Zhou
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,National Genomics Data Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Tingrui Song
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Zhiye Ying
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Haopeng Yu
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yanyan Li
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yi Zhao
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Key Laboratory of Intelligent Information Processing, Advanced Computer Research Center, Institute of Computing Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Xiaoxi Zeng
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Shunmin He
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.,National Genomics Data Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Runsheng Chen
- West China Biomedical Big Data Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Med-X Center for Informatics, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Center for Big Data Research in Health, Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,National Genomics Data Center, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.,Guangdong Geneway Decoding Bio-Tech Co. Ltd, Foshan 528316, China
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81
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Gainetdinov I, Colpan C, Cecchini K, Arif A, Jouravleva K, Albosta P, Vega-Badillo J, Lee Y, Özata DM, Zamore PD. Terminal modification, sequence, length, and PIWI-protein identity determine piRNA stability. Mol Cell 2021; 81:4826-4842.e8. [PMID: 34626567 DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2021.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
In animals, PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) silence transposons, fight viral infections, and regulate gene expression. piRNA biogenesis concludes with 3' terminal trimming and 2'-O-methylation. Both trimming and methylation influence piRNA stability. Our biochemical data show that multiple mechanisms destabilize unmethylated mouse piRNAs, depending on whether the piRNA 5' or 3' sequence is complementary to a trigger RNA. Unlike target-directed degradation of microRNAs, complementarity-dependent destabilization of piRNAs in mice and flies is blocked by 3' terminal 2'-O-methylation and does not require base pairing to both the piRNA seed and the 3' sequence. In flies, 2'-O-methylation also protects small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) from complementarity-dependent destruction. By contrast, pre-piRNA trimming protects mouse piRNAs from a degradation pathway unaffected by trigger complementarity. In testis lysate and in vivo, internal or 3' terminal uridine- or guanine-rich tracts accelerate pre-piRNA decay. Loss of both trimming and 2'-O-methylation causes the mouse piRNA pathway to collapse, demonstrating that these modifications collaborate to stabilize piRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ildar Gainetdinov
- RNA Therapeutics Institute and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
| | - Cansu Colpan
- RNA Therapeutics Institute and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Katharine Cecchini
- RNA Therapeutics Institute and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Amena Arif
- RNA Therapeutics Institute and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Karina Jouravleva
- RNA Therapeutics Institute and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Paul Albosta
- RNA Therapeutics Institute and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Joel Vega-Badillo
- RNA Therapeutics Institute and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Yongjin Lee
- RNA Therapeutics Institute and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Deniz M Özata
- RNA Therapeutics Institute and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Phillip D Zamore
- RNA Therapeutics Institute and Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 368 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
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82
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Choudhary C, Meghwanshi KK, Shukla N, Shukla JN. Innate and adaptive resistance to RNAi: a major challenge and hurdle to the development of double stranded RNA-based pesticides. 3 Biotech 2021; 11:498. [PMID: 34881161 PMCID: PMC8595431 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-021-03049-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a post-transcriptional gene silencing process where short interfering RNAs degrade targeted mRNA. Exploration of gene function through reverse genetics is the major achievement of RNAi discovery. Besides, RNAi can be used as a potential strategy for the control of insect pests. This has led to the idea of developing RNAi-based pesticides. Differential RNAi efficiency in the different insect orders is the biggest biological obstacle in developing RNAi-based pesticides. dsRNA stability, the sensitivity of core RNAi machinery, uptake of dsRNA and amplification and spreading of the RNAi signal are the key factors responsible for RNAi efficiency in insects. This review discusses the physiological and adaptive factors responsible for reduced RNAi in insects that pose a major challenge in developing dsRNA- based pesticides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chhavi Choudhary
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Rajasthan, NH-8, Bandarsindri, Distt. Ajmer, Kishangarh, Rajasthan 305817 India
| | - Keshav Kumar Meghwanshi
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Rajasthan, NH-8, Bandarsindri, Distt. Ajmer, Kishangarh, Rajasthan 305817 India
| | - Nidhi Shukla
- Birla Institute of Scientific Research, Statue Circle, Prithviraj Rd, C-Scheme, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302001 India
| | - Jayendra Nath Shukla
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Rajasthan, NH-8, Bandarsindri, Distt. Ajmer, Kishangarh, Rajasthan 305817 India
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83
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Mokarram P, Niknam M, Sadeghdoust M, Aligolighasemabadi F, Siri M, Dastghaib S, Brim H, Ashktorab H. PIWI interacting RNAs perspectives: a new avenues in future cancer investigations. Bioengineered 2021; 12:10401-10419. [PMID: 34723746 PMCID: PMC8809986 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2021.1997078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
As a currently identified small non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) category, the PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are crucial mediators of cell biology. The human genome comprises over 30.000 piRNA genes. Although considered a new field in cancer research, the piRNA pathway is shown by the existing evidence as an active pathway in a variety of different types of cancers with critical impacts on main aspects of cancer progression. Among the regulatory molecules that contribute to maintaining the dynamics of cancer cells, the P-element Induced WImpy testis (PIWI) proteins and piRNAs, as new players, have not been broadly studied so far. Therefore, the identification of cancer-related piRNAs and the assessment of target genes of piRNAs may lead to better cancer prevention and therapy strategies. This review articleaimed to highlight the role and function of piRNAs based on existing data. Understanding the role of piRNA in cancer may provide perspectives on their applications as particular biomarker signature in diagnosis in early stage, prognosis and therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooneh Mokarram
- Autophagy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran,Department of Biochemistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran,CONTACT Pooneh Mokarram Department of Biochemistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maryam Niknam
- Department of Biochemistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammadamin Sadeghdoust
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mashhad Medical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Farnaz Aligolighasemabadi
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mashhad Medical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Morvarid Siri
- Autophagy Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sanaz Dastghaib
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hassan Brim
- Pathology and Cancer Center, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Hassan Ashktorab
- Department of Medicine, Gastroenterology Division and Cancer Center, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, Dc, USA
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84
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Gutierrez J, Platt R, Opazo JC, Ray DA, Hoffmann F, Vandewege M. Evolutionary history of the vertebrate Piwi gene family. PeerJ 2021; 9:e12451. [PMID: 34760405 PMCID: PMC8574217 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PIWIs are regulatory proteins that belong to the Argonaute family. Piwis are primarily expressed in gonads and protect the germline against the mobilization and propagation of transposable elements (TEs) through transcriptional gene silencing. Vertebrate genomes encode up to four Piwi genes: Piwil1, Piwil2, Piwil3 and Piwil4, but their duplication history is unresolved. We leveraged phylogenetics, synteny and expression analyses to address this void. Our phylogenetic analysis suggests Piwil1 and Piwil2 were retained in all vertebrate members. Piwil4 was the result of Piwil1 duplication in the ancestor of gnathostomes, but was independently lost in ray-finned fishes and birds. Further, Piwil3 was derived from a tandem Piwil1 duplication in the common ancestor of marsupial and placental mammals, but was secondarily lost in Atlantogenata (Xenarthra and Afrotheria) and some rodents. The evolutionary rate of Piwil3 is considerably faster than any Piwi among all lineages, but an explanation is lacking. Our expression analyses suggest Piwi expression has mostly been constrained to gonads throughout vertebrate evolution. Vertebrate evolution is marked by two early rounds of whole genome duplication and many multigene families are linked to these events. However, our analyses suggest Piwi expansion was independent of whole genome duplications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Gutierrez
- Department of Biology, Eastern New Mexico University, Portales, NM, United States of America
| | - Roy Platt
- Host Pathogen Interaction Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, United States of America
| | - Juan C. Opazo
- Instituto de Ciencias Ambientales y Evolutivas, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
- Millennium Nucleus of Ion Channel-Associated Diseases (MiNICAD), Valdivia, Chile
- Integrative Biology Group, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - David A. Ray
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, United States of America
| | - Federico Hoffmann
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology, and Plant Pathology, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, United States of America
- Institute for Genomics, Biocomputing and Biotechnology, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, United States of America
| | - Michael Vandewege
- Department of Biology, Eastern New Mexico University, Portales, NM, United States of America
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85
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Genzor P, Konstantinidou P, Stoyko D, Manzourolajdad A, Marlin Andrews C, Elchert AR, Stathopoulos C, Haase AD. Cellular abundance shapes function in piRNA-guided genome defense. Genome Res 2021; 31:2058-2068. [PMID: 34667116 PMCID: PMC8559710 DOI: 10.1101/gr.275478.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Defense against genome invaders universally relies on RNA-guided immunity. Prokaryotic CRISPR-Cas and eukaryotic RNA interference pathways recognize targets by complementary base-pairing, which places the sequences of their guide RNAs at the center of self/nonself discrimination. Here, we explore the sequence space of PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), the genome defense of animals, and establish functional priority among individual sequences. Our results reveal that only the topmost abundant piRNAs are commonly present in every cell, whereas rare sequences generate cell-to-cell diversity in flies and mice. We identify a skewed distribution of sequence abundance as a hallmark of piRNA populations and show that quantitative differences of more than a 1000-fold are established by conserved mechanisms of biogenesis. Finally, our genomics analyses and direct reporter assays reveal that abundance determines function in piRNA-guided genome defense. Taken together, we identify an effective sequence space and untangle two classes of piRNAs that differ in complexity and function. The first class represents the topmost abundant sequences and drives silencing of genomic parasites. The second class sparsely covers an enormous sequence space. These rare piRNAs cannot function in every cell, every individual, or every generation but create diversity with potential for adaptation in the ongoing arms race with genome invaders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavol Genzor
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Parthena Konstantinidou
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Patras, 26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Daniel Stoyko
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Amirhossein Manzourolajdad
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Celine Marlin Andrews
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Alexandra R Elchert
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
| | | | - Astrid D Haase
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
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86
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The birth of piRNAs: how mammalian piRNAs are produced, originated, and evolved. Mamm Genome 2021; 33:293-311. [PMID: 34724117 PMCID: PMC9114089 DOI: 10.1007/s00335-021-09927-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), small noncoding RNAs 24–35 nucleotides long, are essential for animal fertility. They play critical roles in a range of functions, including transposable element suppression, gene expression regulation, imprinting, and viral defense. In mammals, piRNAs are the most abundant small RNAs in adult testes and the only small RNAs that direct epigenetic modification of chromatin in the nucleus. The production of piRNAs is a complex process from transcription to post-transcription, requiring unique machinery often distinct from the biogenesis of other RNAs. In mice, piRNA biogenesis occurs in specialized subcellular locations, involves dynamic developmental regulation, and displays sexual dimorphism. Furthermore, the genomic loci and sequences of piRNAs evolve much more rapidly than most of the genomic regions. Understanding piRNA biogenesis should reveal novel RNA regulations recognizing and processing piRNA precursors and the forces driving the gain and loss of piRNAs during animal evolution. Such findings may provide the basis for the development of engineered piRNAs capable of modulating epigenetic regulation, thereby offering possible single-dose RNA therapy without changing the genomic DNA. In this review, we focus on the biogenesis of piRNAs in mammalian adult testes that are derived from long non-coding RNAs. Although piRNA biogenesis is believed to be evolutionarily conserved from fruit flies to humans, recent studies argue for the existence of diverse, mammalian-specific RNA-processing pathways that convert precursor RNAs into piRNAs, perhaps associated with the unique features of mammalian piRNAs or germ cell development. We end with the discussion of major questions in the field, including substrate recognition and the birth of new piRNAs.
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87
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Kojima-Kita K, Kuramochi-Miyagawa S, Nakayama M, Miyata H, Jacobsen SE, Ikawa M, Koseki H, Nakano T. MORC3, a novel MIWI2 association partner, as an epigenetic regulator of piRNA dependent transposon silencing in male germ cells. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20472. [PMID: 34650118 PMCID: PMC8516955 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98940-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The PIWI (P-element-induced wimpy testis)-interacting-RNA (piRNA) pathway plays a crucial role in the repression of TE (transposable element) expression via de novo DNA methylation in mouse embryonic male germ cells. Various proteins, including MIWI2 are involved in the process. TE silencing is ensured by piRNA-guided MIWI2 that recruits some effector proteins of the DNA methylation machinery to TE regions. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the methylation is complex and has not been fully elucidated. Here, we identified MORC3 as a novel associating partner of MIWI2 and also a nuclear effector of retrotransposon silencing via piRNA-dependent de novo DNA methylation in embryonic testis. Moreover, we show that MORC3 is important for transcription of piRNA precursors and subsequently affects piRNA production. Thus, we provide the first mechanistic insights into the role of this effector protein in the first stage of piRNA biogenesis in embryonic TE silencing mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanako Kojima-Kita
- Department of Pathology, Medical School, Osaka University, Yamada-oka 2-2 Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Satomi Kuramochi-Miyagawa
- Department of Pathology, Medical School, Osaka University, Yamada-oka 2-2 Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Yamada-oka 2-2 Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Manabu Nakayama
- Laboratory of Medical Omics Research, Department of Frontier Research and Development, Kazusa DNA Research Institute, Kisarazu, Chiba, 292-0818, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Miyata
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Yamada-oka 3-1 Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Steven E Jacobsen
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Department of Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Masahito Ikawa
- Department of Experimental Genome Research, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Yamada-oka 3-1 Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Koseki
- RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, 1-7-22 Suehiro-cho, Tsurumi-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
| | - Toru Nakano
- Department of Pathology, Medical School, Osaka University, Yamada-oka 2-2 Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
- Graduate School of Frontier Biosciences, Osaka University, Yamada-oka 2-2 Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
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88
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Coupled protein synthesis and ribosome-guided piRNA processing on mRNAs. Nat Commun 2021; 12:5970. [PMID: 34645830 PMCID: PMC8514520 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26233-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PIWI-interacting small RNAs (piRNAs) protect the germline genome and are essential for fertility. piRNAs originate from transposable element (TE) RNAs, long non-coding RNAs, or 3´ untranslated regions (3´UTRs) of protein-coding messenger genes, with the last being the least characterized of the three piRNA classes. Here, we demonstrate that the precursors of 3´UTR piRNAs are full-length mRNAs and that post-termination 80S ribosomes guide piRNA production on 3´UTRs in mice and chickens. At the pachytene stage, when other co-translational RNA surveillance pathways are sequestered, piRNA biogenesis degrades mRNAs right after pioneer rounds of translation and fine-tunes protein production from mRNAs. Although 3´UTR piRNA precursor mRNAs code for distinct proteins in mice and chickens, they all harbor embedded TEs and produce piRNAs that cleave TEs. Altogether, we discover a function of the piRNA pathway in fine-tuning protein production and reveal a conserved piRNA biogenesis mechanism that recognizes translating RNAs in amniotes.
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89
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Betting V, Joosten J, Halbach R, Thaler M, Miesen P, Van Rij RP. A piRNA-lncRNA regulatory network initiates responder and trailer piRNA formation during mosquito embryonic development. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2021; 27:1155-1172. [PMID: 34210890 PMCID: PMC8456997 DOI: 10.1261/rna.078876.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
PIWI-interacting (pi)RNAs are small silencing RNAs that are crucial for the defense against transposable elements in germline tissues of animals. In Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, the piRNA pathway also contributes to gene regulation in somatic tissues, illustrating additional roles for piRNAs and PIWI proteins besides transposon repression. Here, we identify a highly abundant endogenous piRNA (propiR1) that associates with both Piwi4 and Piwi5. PropiR1-mediated target silencing requires base-pairing in the seed region with supplemental base-pairing at the piRNA 3' end. Yet, propiR1 represses a limited set of targets, among which is the lncRNA AAEL027353 (lnc027353). Slicing of lnc027353 initiates production of responder and trailer piRNAs from the cleavage fragment. Expression of propiR1 commences early during embryonic development and mediates degradation of maternally provided lnc027353 Both propiR1 and its lncRNA target are conserved in the closely related Aedes albopictus mosquito, underscoring the importance of this regulatory network for mosquito development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Betting
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Joep Joosten
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Rebecca Halbach
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Melissa Thaler
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Pascal Miesen
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ronald P Van Rij
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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90
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Zhang G, Yu T, Parhad SS, Ho S, Weng Z, Theurkauf WE. piRNA-independent transposon silencing by the Drosophila THO complex. Dev Cell 2021; 56:2623-2635.e5. [PMID: 34547226 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2021.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
piRNAs guide Piwi/Panoramix-dependent H3K9me3 chromatin modification and transposon silencing during Drosophila germline development. The THO RNA export complex is composed of Hpr1, Tho2, and Thoc5-7. Null thoc7 mutations, which displace Thoc5 and Thoc6 from a Tho2-Hpr1 subcomplex, reduce expression of a subset of germline piRNAs and increase transposon expression, suggesting that THO silences transposons by promoting piRNA biogenesis. Here, we show that the thoc7-null mutant combination increases transposon transcription but does not reduce anti-sense piRNAs targeting half of the transcriptionally activated transposon families. These mutations also fail to reduce piRNA-guided H3K9me3 chromatin modification or block Panoramix-dependent silencing of a reporter transgene, and unspliced transposon transcripts co-precipitate with THO through a Piwi- and Panoramix-independent mechanism. Mutations in piwi also dominantly enhance germline defects associated with thoc7-null alleles. THO thus functions in a piRNA-independent transposon-silencing pathway, which acts cooperatively with Piwi to support germline development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gen Zhang
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 373 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Tianxiong Yu
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 373 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA; Department of Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Tongji University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Swapnil S Parhad
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 373 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Samantha Ho
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 373 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Zhiping Weng
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 373 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
| | - William E Theurkauf
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 373 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605, USA.
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91
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Zhou Y, Fang Y, Dai C, Wang Y. PiRNA pathway in the cardiovascular system: a novel regulator of cardiac differentiation, repair and regeneration. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 99:1681-1690. [PMID: 34533602 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-021-02132-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are a novel group of small non-coding RNA molecules with lengths of 21-35 nucleotides, first identified from the germline. PiRNAs and their associated PIWI clade Argonaute proteins constitute a key part of the piRNA pathway, with the best-known biological function to silence transposable elements in germ cells. The piRNA pathway, in fact, is not exclusive to the germline. Somatic functions of piRNAs have been recorded since their first discovery. To date, involvement of the piRNA pathway has been identified within the biological functions of genome rearrangement, epigenetic regulation, protein regulation in the germline and/or the soma transcriptionally or post-transcriptionally. Emerging evidence has shown that the piRNA pathway is essential for the normal function of the cardiovascular system and that its abnormal expression is correlated with cardiovascular dysfunction, although comprehensive roles of the piRNA pathway in the cardiovascular system and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this review, we discuss current findings of piRNA pathway expression in cardiac cell types and their potential functions in cardiac differentiation, repair and regeneration, thus providing new insights into cardiovascular disease development associated with the piRNA pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuling Zhou
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Xiamen Cardiovascular Hospital Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- The School of Economics, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Ya Fang
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Health Technology Assessment of Fujian Province University, Xiamen University, Xiang'an South Road, Xiang'an District, Xiamen, 361102, Fujian, China
| | - Cuilian Dai
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Xiamen Cardiovascular Hospital Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Xiamen Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Xiamen Cardiovascular Hospital Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.
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92
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Su JF, Concilla A, Zhang DZ, Zhao F, Shen FF, Zhang H, Zhou FY. PIWI-interacting RNAs: Mitochondria-based biogenesis and functions in cancer. Genes Dis 2021; 8:603-622. [PMID: 34291132 PMCID: PMC8278532 DOI: 10.1016/j.gendis.2020.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNAs), once thought to be mainly functioning in germlines, are now known to play an essential role in somatic and cancerous tissues. Ping-pong cycle initiation and mitochondria-based phased production constitute the core of the piRNA biogenesis and these two processes are well conserved in mammals, including humans. By being involved in DNA methylation, histone marker deposition, mRNA degradation, and protein modification, piRNAs also contribute to carcinogenesis partly due to oncogenic stress-induced piRNA dysregulation. Also, piRNAs play important roles in cancer stemness, drug resistance, and tumor immunology. Results from liquid biopsy analysis of piRNA can be used in both cancer diagnoses and cancer prognoses. A combination of targeting piRNA with other therapeutic strategies could be groundbreaking cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Fen Su
- Anyang Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research, Anyang Cancer Hospital, The Forth Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Anyang, Henan Province, 455000, PR China
| | - Anthony Concilla
- Department of Bio-Medical Sciences, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19131, USA
| | - Dian-zheng Zhang
- Department of Bio-Medical Sciences, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19131, USA
| | - Fang Zhao
- Anyang Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research, Anyang Cancer Hospital, The Forth Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Anyang, Henan Province, 455000, PR China
| | - Fang-Fang Shen
- Key Laboratory for Tumor Translational Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province, 453000, PR China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Institute of Precision Cancer Medicine and Pathology, Jinan University Medical College, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, 510630, PR China
| | - Fu-You Zhou
- Anyang Key Laboratory for Esophageal Cancer Research, Anyang Cancer Hospital, The Forth Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Science and Technology, Anyang, Henan Province, 455000, PR China
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93
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Lite C, Sridhar VV, Sriram S, Juliet M, Arshad A, Arockiaraj J. Functional role of piRNAs in animal models and its prospects in aquaculture. REVIEWS IN AQUACULTURE 2021; 13:2038-2052. [DOI: 10.1111/raq.12557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
AbstractThe recent advances in the field of aquaculture over the last decade has helped the cultured‐fish industry production sector to identify problems and choose the best approaches to achieve high‐volume production. Understanding the emerging roles of non‐coding RNA (ncRNA) in the regulation of fish physiology and health will assist in gaining knowledge on the possible applications of ncRNAs for the advancement of aquaculture. There is information available on the practical considerations of epigenetic mechanisms like DNA methylation, histone modification and ncRNAs, such as microRNA in aquaculture, for both fish and shellfish. Among the non‐coding RNAs, PIWI‐interacting RNA (piRNA) is 24–31 bp long transcripts, which is primarily involved in silencing the germline transposons. Besides, the burgeoning reports and studies establish piRNAs' role in various aspects of biology. Till date, there are no reviews that summarize the recent findings available on piRNAs in animal models, especially on piRNAs biogenesis and biological action. To gain a better understanding and get an overview on the process of piRNA genesis among the different animals, this work reviews the literature available on the processes of piRNA biogenesis in animal models with special reference to aquatic animal model zebrafish. This review also presents a short discussion and prospects of piRNA’s application in relevance to the aquaculture industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christy Lite
- Endocrine and Exposome (E2) Laboratory Department of Zoology Madras Christian College Chennai India
| | - Vasisht Varsh Sridhar
- Department of Biotechnology School of Bioengineering SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chennai India
| | - Swati Sriram
- Department of Biotechnology School of Bioengineering SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chennai India
| | - Melita Juliet
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery SRM Dental College and Hospital, SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chennai India
| | - Aziz Arshad
- International Institute of Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences (I‐AQUAS) Universiti Putra Malaysia Port Dickson Malaysia
- Department of Aquaculture Faculty of Agriculture Universiti Putra Malaysia Serdang Malaysia
| | - Jesu Arockiaraj
- SRM Research Institute SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chennai India
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Humanities SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chennai India
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94
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Zhao S, Kong X, Wu X. RNAi-based immunity in insects against baculoviruses and the strategies of baculoviruses involved in siRNA and miRNA pathways to weaken the defense. DEVELOPMENTAL AND COMPARATIVE IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 122:104116. [PMID: 33991532 DOI: 10.1016/j.dci.2021.104116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Protection against viral infection in hosts concerns diverse cellular and molecular mechanisms, among which RNA interference (RNAi) response is a vital one. Small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs) and PIWI interacting RNAs (piRNAs) are primary categories of small RNAs involved in RNAi response, playing significant roles in restraining viral invasion. However, during a long-term coevolution, viruses have gained the ability to evade, avoid, or suppress antiviral immunity to ensure efficient replication and transmission. Baculoviruses are enveloped, insect-pathogenic viruses with double-stranded circular DNA genomes, which encode suppressors of siRNA pathway and miRNAs targeting immune-related genes to mask the antiviral activity of their hosts. This review summarized recent findings for the RNAi-based antiviral immunity in insects as well as the strategies that baculoviruses exploit to break the shield of host siRNA pathway, and hijack cellular miRNAs or encode their own miRNAs that regulate both viral and cellular gene expression to create a favorable environment for viral infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shudi Zhao
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiangshuo Kong
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaofeng Wu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Silkworm and Bee Resource Utilization and Innovation of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China.
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95
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Pastore B, Hertz HL, Price IF, Tang W. pre-piRNA trimming and 2'-O-methylation protect piRNAs from 3' tailing and degradation in C. elegans. Cell Rep 2021; 36:109640. [PMID: 34469728 PMCID: PMC8459939 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The Piwi-interacting RNA (piRNA) pathway suppresses transposable elements and promotes fertility in diverse organisms. Maturation of piRNAs involves pre-piRNA trimming followed by 2'-O-methylation at their 3' termini. Here, we report that the 3' termini of Caenorhabditis elegans piRNAs are subject to nontemplated nucleotide addition, and piRNAs with 3' addition exhibit extensive base-pairing interaction with their target RNAs. Animals deficient for PARN-1 (pre-piRNA trimmer) and HENN-1 (2'-O-methyltransferase) accumulate piRNAs with 3' nontemplated nucleotides. In henn-1 mutants, piRNAs are shortened prior to 3' addition, whereas long isoforms of untrimmed piRNAs are preferentially modified in parn-1 mutant animals. Loss of either PARN-1 or HENN-1 results in modest reduction in steady-state levels of piRNAs. Deletion of both enzymes leads to depletion of piRNAs, desilenced piRNA targets, and impaired fecundity. Together, our findings suggest that pre-piRNA trimming and 2'-O-methylation act collaboratively to protect piRNAs from tailing and degradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Pastore
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Ohio State Biochemistry Program, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Hannah L Hertz
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Ian F Price
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Ohio State Biochemistry Program, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Wen Tang
- Department of Biological Chemistry and Pharmacology, Columbus, OH 43210, USA; Center for RNA Biology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
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96
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Onishi R, Yamanaka S, Siomi MC. piRNA- and siRNA-mediated transcriptional repression in Drosophila, mice, and yeast: new insights and biodiversity. EMBO Rep 2021; 22:e53062. [PMID: 34347367 PMCID: PMC8490990 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202153062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The PIWI‐interacting RNA (piRNA) pathway acts as a self‐defense mechanism against transposons to maintain germline genome integrity. Failures in the piRNA pathway cause DNA damage in the germline genome, disturbing inheritance of “correct” genetic information by the next generations and leading to infertility. piRNAs execute transposon repression in two ways: degrading their RNA transcripts and compacting the genomic loci via heterochromatinization. The former event is mechanistically similar to siRNA‐mediated RNA cleavage that occurs in the cytoplasm and has been investigated in many species including nematodes, fruit flies, and mammals. The latter event seems to be mechanistically parallel to siRNA‐centered kinetochore assembly and subsequent chromosome segregation, which has so far been studied particularly in fission yeast. Despite the interspecies conservations, the overall schemes of the nuclear events show clear biodiversity across species. In this review, we summarize the recent progress regarding piRNA‐mediated transcriptional silencing in Drosophila and discuss the biodiversity by comparing it with the equivalent piRNA‐mediated system in mice and the siRNA‐mediated system in fission yeast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Onishi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Soichiro Yamanaka
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mikiko C Siomi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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97
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Joosten J, Overheul GJ, Van Rij RP, Miesen P. Endogenous piRNA-guided slicing triggers responder and trailer piRNA production from viral RNA in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:8886-8899. [PMID: 34331446 PMCID: PMC8421150 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In the germline of animals, PIWI interacting (pi)RNAs protect the genome against the detrimental effects of transposon mobilization. In Drosophila, piRNA-mediated cleavage of transposon RNA triggers the production of responder piRNAs via ping-pong amplification. Responder piRNA 3' end formation by the nuclease Zucchini is coupled to the production of downstream trailer piRNAs, expanding the repertoire of transposon piRNA sequences. In Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, piRNAs are generated from viral RNA, yet, it is unknown how viral piRNA 3' ends are formed and whether viral RNA cleavage gives rise to trailer piRNA production. Here we report that in Ae. aegypti, virus- and transposon-derived piRNAs have sharp 3' ends, and are biased for downstream uridine residues, features reminiscent of Zucchini cleavage of precursor piRNAs in Drosophila. We designed a reporter system to study viral piRNA 3' end formation and found that targeting viral RNA by abundant endogenous piRNAs triggers the production of responder and trailer piRNAs. Using this reporter, we identified the Ae. aegypti orthologs of Zucchini and Nibbler, two nucleases involved in piRNA 3' end formation. Our results furthermore suggest that autonomous piRNA production from viral RNA can be triggered and expanded by an initial cleavage event guided by genome-encoded piRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joep Joosten
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, The Netherlands
| | - Gijs J Overheul
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, The Netherlands
| | - Ronald P Van Rij
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, The Netherlands
| | - Pascal Miesen
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB, The Netherlands
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98
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Shigematsu M, Kawamura T, Morichika K, Izumi N, Kiuchi T, Honda S, Pliatsika V, Matsubara R, Rigoutsos I, Katsuma S, Tomari Y, Kirino Y. RNase κ promotes robust piRNA production by generating 2',3'-cyclic phosphate-containing precursors. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4498. [PMID: 34301931 PMCID: PMC8302750 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24681-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In animal germlines, PIWI proteins and the associated PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) protect genome integrity by silencing transposons. Here we report the extensive sequence and quantitative correlations between 2',3'-cyclic phosphate-containing RNAs (cP-RNAs), identified using cP-RNA-seq, and piRNAs in the Bombyx germ cell line and mouse testes. The cP-RNAs containing 5'-phosphate (P-cP-RNAs) identified by P-cP-RNA-seq harbor highly consistent 5'-end positions as the piRNAs and are loaded onto PIWI protein, suggesting their direct utilization as piRNA precursors. We identified Bombyx RNase Kappa (BmRNase κ) as a mitochondria-associated endoribonuclease which produces cP-RNAs during piRNA biogenesis. BmRNase κ-depletion elevated transposon levels and disrupted a piRNA-mediated sex determination in Bombyx embryos, indicating the crucial roles of BmRNase κ in piRNA biogenesis and embryonic development. Our results reveal a BmRNase κ-engaged piRNA biogenesis pathway, in which the generation of cP-RNAs promotes robust piRNA production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megumi Shigematsu
- Computational Medicine Center, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Takuya Kawamura
- Computational Medicine Center, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Keisuke Morichika
- Computational Medicine Center, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Natsuko Izumi
- Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Kiuchi
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shozo Honda
- Computational Medicine Center, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Venetia Pliatsika
- Computational Medicine Center, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ryuma Matsubara
- Computational Medicine Center, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Isidore Rigoutsos
- Computational Medicine Center, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Susumu Katsuma
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Biology, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yukihide Tomari
- Institute for Quantitative Biosciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yohei Kirino
- Computational Medicine Center, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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99
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Li Y, Zhang Y, Liu M. Knockout Gene-Based Evidence for PIWI-Interacting RNA Pathway in Mammals. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:681188. [PMID: 34336834 PMCID: PMC8317503 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.681188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) pathway mainly consists of evolutionarily conserved protein factors. Intriguingly, many mutations of piRNA pathway factors lead to meiotic arrest during spermatogenesis. The majority of piRNA factor-knockout animals show arrested meiosis in spermatogenesis, and only a few show post-meiosis male germ cell arrest. It is still unclear whether the majority of piRNA factors expressed in spermatids are involved in long interspersed nuclear element-1 repression after meiosis, but future conditional knockout research is expected to resolve this. In addition, recent hamster knockout studies showed that a piRNA factor is necessary for oocytes-in complete contrast to the findings in mice. This species discrepancy allows researchers to reexamine the function of piRNA in female germ cells. This mini-review focuses on the current knowledge of protein factors derived from mammalian knockout studies and summarizes their roles in the biogenesis and function of piRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinuo Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Clinical Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mingxi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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100
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Binding of guide piRNA triggers methylation of the unstructured N-terminal region of Aub leading to assembly of the piRNA amplification complex. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4061. [PMID: 34210982 PMCID: PMC8249470 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24351-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
PIWI proteins use guide piRNAs to repress selfish genomic elements, protecting the genomic integrity of gametes and ensuring the fertility of animal species. Efficient transposon repression depends on amplification of piRNA guides in the ping-pong cycle, which in Drosophila entails tight cooperation between two PIWI proteins, Aub and Ago3. Here we show that post-translational modification, symmetric dimethylarginine (sDMA), of Aub is essential for piRNA biogenesis, transposon silencing and fertility. Methylation is triggered by loading of a piRNA guide into Aub, which exposes its unstructured N-terminal region to the PRMT5 methylosome complex. Thus, sDMA modification is a signal that Aub is loaded with piRNA guide. Amplification of piRNA in the ping-pong cycle requires assembly of a tertiary complex scaffolded by Krimper, which simultaneously binds the N-terminal regions of Aub and Ago3. To promote generation of new piRNA, Krimper uses its two Tudor domains to bind Aub and Ago3 in opposite modification and piRNA-loading states. Our results reveal that post-translational modifications in unstructured regions of PIWI proteins and their binding by Tudor domains that are capable of discriminating between modification states is essential for piRNA biogenesis and silencing.
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