PAPAS promotes differentiation of mammary epithelial cells and suppresses breast carcinogenesis

R-loop homeostasis in genome dynamics, gene expression and development

R-loops are double-edge swords with functional roles that in many cases constitute a threat to genome integrity and gene expression with relevant consequences in cell physiology and development. A number of factors have evolved to control R-loop homeostasis by acting at the levels of R-loop prevention, resolution, or the repair of the R-loop-induced DNA lesion. Deciphering the role of R-loops generated under different stresses and the plethora of processes controlling their homeostasis has become crucial to evaluate their impact in cell physiology and the biological significance of their association with development and disease. Here, we review publications of the last 2 years that help understand their biological role.

Advancements and challenges of R-loops in cancers: Biological insights and future directions

R-loops involve in various biological processes under human normal physiological conditions. Disruption of R-loops can lead to disease onset and affect the progression of illnesses, particularly in cancers. Herein, we summarized and discussed the regulative networks, phenotypes and future directions of R-loops in cancers. In this review, we highlighted the following insights: (1) R-loops significantly influence cancer development, progression and treatment efficiency by regulating key genes, such as PARPs, BRCA1/2, sex hormone receptors, DHX9, and TOP1. (2) Currently, the ATM, ATR, cGAS/STING, and noncanonical pathways are the main pathways that involve in the regulatory network of R-loops in cancer. (3) Cancer biology can be modulated by R-loops-regulated phenotypes, including RNA methylation, DNA and histone methylation, oxidative stress, immune and inflammation regulation, and senescence. (4) Regulation of R-loops induces kinds of drug resistance in various cancers, suggesting that targeting R-loops maybe a promising way to overcome treatment resistance. (5) The role of R-loops in tumorigenesis remains controversial, and senescence may be a crucial research direction to unravel the mechanism of R-loop-induced tumorigenesis. Looking forward, further studies are needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms of R-loops in cancer, laying the groundwork for preclinical and clinical research.

The landscape of lncRNAs in cell granules: Insights into their significance in cancer

Cellular compartmentalization, achieved through membrane-based compartments, is a fundamental aspect of cell biology that contributes to the evolutionary success of cells. While organelles have traditionally been the focus of research, membrane-less organelles (MLOs) are emerging as critical players, exhibiting distinct morphological features and unique molecular compositions. Recent research highlights the pivotal role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in MLOs and their involvement in various cellular processes across different organisms. In the context of cancer, dysregulation of MLO formation, influenced by altered lncRNA expression, impacts chromatin organization, oncogenic transcription, signaling pathways, and telomere lengthening. This review synthesizes the current understanding of lncRNA composition within MLOs, delineating their functions and exploring how their dysregulation contributes to human cancers. Environmental challenges in tumorigenesis, such as nutrient deprivation and hypoxia, induce stress granules, promoting cancer cell survival and progression. Advancements in biochemical techniques, particularly single RNA imaging methods, offer valuable tools for studying RNA functions within live cells. However, detecting low-abundance lncRNAs remains challenging due to their limited expression levels. The correlation between lncRNA expression and pathological conditions, particularly cancer, should be explored, emphasizing the importance of single-cell studies for precise biomarker identification and the development of personalized therapeutic strategies. This article is categorized under: RNA Export and Localization > RNA Localization RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA-Protein Complexes.

The impact of ribosome biogenesis in cancer: from proliferation to metastasis

The dysregulation of ribosome biogenesis is a hallmark of cancer, facilitating the adaptation to altered translational demands essential for various aspects of tumor progression. This review explores the intricate interplay between ribosome biogenesis and cancer development, highlighting dynamic regulation orchestrated by key oncogenic signaling pathways. Recent studies reveal the multifaceted roles of ribosomes, extending beyond protein factories to include regulatory functions in mRNA translation. Dysregulated ribosome biogenesis not only hampers precise control of global protein production and proliferation but also influences processes such as the maintenance of stem cell-like properties and epithelial-mesenchymal transition, contributing to cancer progression. Interference with ribosome biogenesis, notably through RNA Pol I inhibition, elicits a stress response marked by nucleolar integrity loss, and subsequent G1-cell cycle arrest or cell death. These findings suggest that cancer cells may rely on heightened RNA Pol I transcription, rendering ribosomal RNA synthesis a potential therapeutic vulnerability. The review further explores targeting ribosome biogenesis vulnerabilities as a promising strategy to disrupt global ribosome production, presenting therapeutic opportunities for cancer treatment.