Spatial assembly and RNA binding stoichiometry of a LINE-1 protein essential for retrotransposition

Nuclear translocation of the LINE-1 encoded ORF1 protein alters nuclear envelope integrity in human neurons

LINE-1 retrotransposons are increasingly implicated in aging and neurodegenerative diseases, yet the precise pathogenic mechanisms remain elusive. While the endonuclease and reverse transcriptase activities of LINE-1-encoded ORF2p can induce DNA damage and inflammation, a role of LINE-1 ORF1p in cellular dysfunctions stays unassigned. Here we demonstrate, using a neuronal cellular model, that ORF1p translocates into the nucleus upon arsenite-induced stress, directly interacting with nuclear import (KPNB1), nuclear pore complex (NUP153), and nuclear lamina (Lamin B1) proteins. Nuclear translocation of ORF1p disrupts nuclear integrity, nucleocytoplasmic transport, and heterochromatin structure, features linked to neurodegeneration and aging. Elevated nuclear ORF1p levels induced either by arsenite-induced stress, ORF1p overexpression, or as observed in Parkinson's disease post-mortem brain tissues correlate with impaired nuclear envelope (NE) morphology. Stress-induced nuclear alterations are mitigated by blocking ORF1p nuclear import or with the anti-aging drug remodelin. This study thus reveals a pathogenic action of nuclear ORF1p in human neurons driving NE alterations and thereby contributing to LINE-1-mediated cell toxicity.

LINE-1 ribonucleoprotein condensates bind DNA to enable nuclear entry during mitosis

Long interspersed nuclear element-1 (LINE-1) is an autonomous retrotransposon that makes up a substantial portion of the human genome, contributing to genetic diversity and genome evolution. LINE-1 encodes two proteins, ORF1p and ORF2p, both essential for successful retrotransposition. ORF2p has endonuclease and reverse transcription activity, while ORF1p binds RNA. Many copies of ORF1p assemble onto the LINE-1 RNA to form a ribonucleoprotein (RNP) condensate. However, the function of these condensates in the LINE-1 life cycle remains unclear. Using reconstitution assays on DNA curtains, we show that L1 RNP condensates gain DNA binding activity only when RNA is super-saturated with ORF1p. In cells, L1 RNP condensates bind to chromosomes during mitosis. Mutational analysis reveals that DNA binding is crucial for nuclear entry and LINE-1 retrotransposition activity. Thus, a key function of ORF1p is to form an RNP condensate that gains access to the genome through DNA binding upon nuclear envelope breakdown.

L1-ORF1p nucleoprotein can rapidly assume distinct conformations and simultaneously bind more than one nucleic acid

LINE-1 (L1) is a parasitic retrotransposable DNA element, active in primates for the last 80-120 Myr. L1 has generated nearly one-third of the human genome by copying its transcripts, and those of other genetic elements (e.g. Alu and SVA), into genomic DNA by target site-primed reverse transcription (TPRT) and remains active in modern humans. L1 encodes two proteins that bind their encoding transcript (cis preference) to form an L1 ribonucleoprotein (RNP) that mediates retrotransposition. ORF2p provides reverse transcriptase and endonuclease activity. ORF1p, its major component, is a homo-trimeric phospho-protein that binds single-stranded nucleic acid (ssNA) with high affinity and exhibits nucleic acid (NA) chaperone activity. We used optical tweezers to examine ORF1p binding to individual single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) molecules and found that the arrangement of ORF1p on the ssDNA depends on their molar ratio. When the concentration of ORF1p is just sufficient to saturate the entire NA molecule, the nucleoprotein (NP) is compact and stable. However, additional ORF1p binds and destabilizes the compacted NP, allowing it to engage a second ssDNA. Our results suggest that ORF1p displaced from its RNA template during TPRT could bind and destabilize remaining downstream L1 RNP, making them susceptible to hijacking by non-L1 templates, and thereby enable retrotransposition of non-L1 transcripts.

Large Deletions, Cleavage of the Telomeric Repeat Sequence, and Reverse Transcriptase-Mediated DNA Damage Response Associated with Long Interspersed Element-1 ORF2p Enzymatic Activities

L1 elements can cause DNA damage and genomic variation via retrotransposition and the generation of endonuclease-dependent DNA breaks. These processes require L1 ORF2p protein that contains an endonuclease domain, which cuts genomic DNA, and a reverse transcriptase domain, which synthesizes cDNA. The complete impact of L1 enzymatic activities on genome stability and cellular function remains understudied, and the spectrum of L1-induced mutations, other than L1 insertions, is mostly unknown. Using an inducible system, we demonstrate that an ORF2p containing functional reverse transcriptase is sufficient to elicit DNA damage response even in the absence of the functional endonuclease. Using a TK/Neo reporter system that captures misrepaired DNA breaks, we demonstrate that L1 expression results in large genomic deletions that lack any signatures of L1 involvement. Using an in vitro cleavage assay, we demonstrate that L1 endonuclease efficiently cuts telomeric repeat sequences. These findings support that L1 could be an unrecognized source of disease-promoting genomic deletions, telomere dysfunction, and an underappreciated source of chronic RT-mediated DNA damage response in mammalian cells. Our findings expand the spectrum of biological processes that can be triggered by functional and nonfunctional L1s, which have impactful evolutionary- and health-relevant consequences.

Long Interspersed Nuclear Element-1 Analytes in Extracellular Vesicles as Tools for Molecular Diagnostics of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Aberrant expression of the oncogenic retrotransposon LINE-1 is a hallmark of various cancer types, including non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs). Here, we present proof-of-principle evidence that LINE-1 analytes in extracellular vesicles (EVs) serve as tools for molecular diagnostics of NSCLC, with LINE-1 status in tumor cells and tissues mirroring the LINE-1 mRNA and ORF1p cargos of EVs from lung cancer cell culture conditioned media or human plasma. The levels of LINE-1 analytes in plasma EVs from ostensibly healthy individuals were higher in females than males. While the profiles of LINE-1 mRNA and ORF1p in African Americans compared to Hispanics were not significantly different, African Americans showed slightly higher ORF1p content, and 2-3 times greater ranges of LINE-1 values compared to Hispanics. Whole plasma ORF1p levels correlated with EV ORF1p levels, indicating that most of the circulating LINE-1 protein is contained within EVs. EV LINE-1 mRNA levels were elevated in patients with advanced cancer stages and in select patients with squamous cell carcinoma and metastatic tumors compared to adenocarcinomas. The observed EV LINE-1 mRNA profiles paralleled the patterns of ORF1p expression in NSCLC tissue sections suggesting that LINE-1 analytes in plasma EVs may serve to monitor the activity of LINE-1 retroelements in lung cancer.

Co-expression of distinct L1 retrotransposon coiled coils can lead to their entanglement

L1 (LINE1) non-LTR retrotransposons are ubiquitous genomic parasites and the dominant transposable element in humans having generated about 40% of their genomic DNA during their ~ 100 million years (Myr) of activity in primates. L1 replicates in germ line cells and early embryos, causing genetic diversity and defects, but can be active in some somatic stem cells, tumors and during aging. L1 encodes two proteins essential for retrotransposition: ORF2p, a reverse transcriptase that contains an endonuclease domain, and ORF1p, a coiled coil mediated homo trimer, which functions as a nucleic acid chaperone. Both proteins contain highly conserved domains and preferentially bind their encoding transcript to form an L1 ribonucleoprotein (RNP), which mediates retrotransposition. However, the coiled coil has periodically undergone episodes of substantial amino acid replacement to the extent that a given L1 family can concurrently express multiple ORF1s that differ in the sequence of their coiled coils. Here we show that such distinct ORF1p sequences can become entangled forming heterotrimers when co-expressed from separate vectors and speculate on how coiled coil entanglement could affect coiled coil evolution.

An update on post-transcriptional regulation of retrotransposons

Retrotransposons, including LINE-1, Alu, SVA, and endogenous retroviruses, are one of the major constituents of human genomic repetitive sequences. Through the process of retrotransposition, some of them occasionally insert into new genomic locations by a copy-paste mechanism involving RNA intermediates. Irrespective of de novo genomic insertions, retrotransposon expression can lead to DNA double-strand breaks and stimulate cellular innate immunity through endogenous patterns. As a result, retrotransposons are tightly regulated by multi-layered regulatory processes to prevent the dangerous effects of their expression. In recent years, significant progress was made in revealing how retrotransposon biology intertwines with general post-transcriptional RNA metabolism. Here, I summarize current knowledge on the involvement of post-transcriptional factors in the biology of retrotransposons, focusing on LINE-1. I emphasize general RNA metabolisms such as methylation of adenine (m⁶ A), RNA 3'-end polyadenylation and uridylation, RNA decay and translation regulation. I discuss the effects of retrotransposon RNP sequestration in cytoplasmic bodies and autophagy. Finally, I summarize how innate immunity restricts retrotransposons and how retrotransposons make use of cellular enzymes, including the DNA repair machinery, to complete their replication cycles.

The L1-ORF1p coiled coil enables formation of a tightly compacted nucleic acid-bound complex that is associated with retrotransposition

Long interspersed nuclear element 1 (L1) parasitized most vertebrates and constitutes ∼20% of the human genome. It encodes ORF1p and ORF2p which form an L1-ribonucleoprotein (RNP) with their encoding transcript that is copied into genomic DNA (retrotransposition). ORF1p binds single-stranded nucleic acid (ssNA) and exhibits NA chaperone activity. All vertebrate ORF1ps contain a coiled coil (CC) domain and we previously showed that a CC-retrotransposition null mutant prevented formation of stably bound ORF1p complexes on ssNA. Here, we compared CC variants using our recently improved method that measures ORF1p binding to ssDNA at different forces. Bound proteins decrease ssDNA contour length and at low force, retrotransposition-competent ORF1ps (111p and m14p) exhibit two shortening phases: the first is rapid, coincident with ORF1p binding; the second is slower, consistent with formation of tightly compacted complexes by NA-bound ORF1p. In contrast, two retrotransposition-null CC variants (151p and m15p) did not attain the second tightly compacted state. The C-terminal half of the ORF1p trimer (not the CC) contains the residues that mediate NA-binding. Our demonstrating that the CC governs the ability of NA-bound retrotransposition-competent trimers to form tightly compacted complexes reveals the biochemical phenotype of these coiled coil mutants.

Effects of end-stage osteoarthritis on markers of skeletal muscle Long INterspersed Element-1 activity

Objective

Long INterspersed Element-1 (L1) is an autonomous transposable element in the genome. L1 transcripts that are not reverse transcribed back into the genome can accumulate in the cytoplasm and activate an inflammatory response via the cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAS)-STING pathway. We examined skeletal muscle L1 markers as well as STING protein levels in 10 older individuals (63 ± 11 y, BMI = 30.2 ± 6.8 kg/m²) with end-stage osteoarthritis (OA) undergoing total hip (THA, n = 4) or knee (TKA, n = 6) arthroplasty versus 10 young, healthy comparators (Y, 22 ± 2 y, BMI = 23.2 ± 2.5 kg/m²). For OA, muscle was collected from surgical (SX) and contralateral (CTL) sides whereas single vastus lateralis samples were collected from Y.

Results

L1 mRNA was higher in CTL and SX compared to Y (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively). Protein expression was higher in SX versus Y for ORF1p (p = 0.002) and STING (p = 0.022). While these data are preliminary due to limited n-sizes and the lack of a BMI-matched younger control group, higher L1 mRNA expression, ORF1p and STING protein are evident in older versus younger adults. More research is needed to determine whether cGAS-STING signaling contributes to heightened muscle inflammation during aging and/or OA.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13104-022-06113-0.

On the Base Composition of Transposable Elements

Transposable elements exhibit a base composition that is often different from the genomic average and from hosts’ genes. The most common compositional bias is towards Adenosine and Thymine, although this bias is not universal, and elements with drastically different base composition can coexist within the same genome. The AT-richness of transposable elements is apparently maladaptive because it results in poor transcription and sub-optimal translation of proteins encoded by the elements. The cause(s) of this unusual base composition remain unclear and have yet to be investigated. Here, I review what is known about the nucleotide content of transposable elements and how this content can affect the genome of their host as well as their own replication. The compositional bias of transposable elements could result from several non-exclusive processes including horizontal transfer, mutational bias, and selection. It appears that mutation alone cannot explain the high AT-content of transposons and that selection plays a major role in the evolution of the compositional bias. The reason why selection would favor a maladaptive nucleotide content remains however unexplained and is an area of investigation that clearly deserves attention.

LINE-1 Cargo and Reverse Transcriptase Activity Profiles in Extracellular Vesicles from Lung Cancer Cells and Human Plasma

Long Interspersed Element-1 (LINE-1) is an oncogenic human retrotransposon that ‘copies and pastes’ DNA into new locations via reverse transcription. Given that enzymatically active LINE-1 can be exported in extracellular vesicles (EVs), and that LINE-1 mRNA and its two encoded proteins, ORF1p and ORF2p, are required for retrotransposition, the present study examined LINE-1 EV loading patterns relative to reverse transcriptase (RT) activity in vivo and in vitro. Density gradient ultracentrifugation identified conserved patterns of LINE-1 mRNA and protein distribution in EVs, with RT activity readily detected in EV fractions containing both LINE-1 mRNA and protein. Unlike whole cell and tissue lysates, the ORF1p in EVs was detected as a dimer. EVs from ostensibly healthy plasma donors showed variable but consistent ORF1p profiles, with residual levels of LINE-1 mRNA measured in some but not all samples. EVs from cancer cell lines had elevated mean LINE-1 levels and 5–85 times greater RT activity than EVs from normal cells or healthy plasma. EV RT activity was associated with EV LINE-1 mRNA content and was highest in cell lines that also expressed an elevated expression of ORF1p and ORF2p. Given that LINE-1 activation is a hallmark of many cancer types, our findings suggest that an EV LINE-1 ‘liquid biopsy’ may be developed to monitor LINE-1 activity during the course of malignant progression.

Computational modeling of RNase, antisense ORF0 RNA, and intracellular compartmentation and their impact on the life cycle of the line retrotransposon

Nearly half of the human genome is occupied by repetitive sequences of ancient virus-like genetic elements. The largest class, comprising 17% of the genome, belong to the type 1 Long INterspersed Elements (LINE-1) and are the only class capable of autonomous propagation in the genome. When epigenetic silencing mechanisms of LINE-1 fail, the proteins encoded by LINE-1 engage in reverse transcription to make new copies of their own or other DNAs that are pasted back into the genome. To elucidate how LINE-1 is dysregulated as a result of carcinogen exposure, we developed a computational model of key elements in the LINE-1 lifecycle, namely, the role of cytosolic ribonuclease (RNase), RNA interference (RNAi) by the antisense ORF0 RNA, and sequestration of LINE-1 products into stress granules and multivesicular structures.

The model showed that when carcinogen exposure is represented as either a sudden increase in LINE-1 mRNA count, or as an increase in mRNA transcription rate, the retrotransposon copy number exhibits a distinct threshold behavior above which LINE-1 enters a positive feedback loop that allows the cDNA copy number to grow exponentially. We also found that most of the LINE-1 RNA was degraded via the RNAase pathway and that neither ORF0 RNAi, nor the sequestration of LINE-1 products into granules and multivesicular structures, played a significant role in regulating the retrotransposon’s life cycle. Several aspects of the prediction agree with experimental results and indicate that the model has significant potential to inform future experiments related to LINE-1 activation.

Role of long interspersed nuclear element-1 in the regulation of chromatin landscapes and genome dynamics

LINE-1 retrotransposon, the most active mobile element of the human genome, is subject to tight regulatory control. Stressful environments and disease modify the recruitment of regulatory proteins leading to unregulated activation of LINE-1. The activation of LINE-1 influences genome dynamics through altered chromatin landscapes, insertion mutations, deletions, and modulation of cellular plasticity. To date, LINE-1 retrotransposition has been linked to various cancer types and may in fact underwrite the genetic basis of various other forms of chronic human illness. The occurrence of LINE-1 polymorphisms in the human population may define inter-individual differences in susceptibility to disease. This review is written in honor of Dr Peter Stambrook, a friend and colleague who carried out highly impactful cancer research over many years of professional practice. Dr Stambrook devoted considerable energy to helping others live up to their full potential and to navigate the complexities of professional life. He was an inspirational leader, a strong advocate, a kind mentor, a vocal supporter and cheerleader, and yes, a hard critic and tough friend when needed. His passionate stand on issues, his witty sense of humor, and his love for humanity have left a huge mark in our lives. We hope that that the knowledge summarized here will advance our understanding of the role of LINE-1 in cancer biology and expedite the development of innovative cancer diagnostics and treatments in the ways that Dr Stambrook himself had so passionately envisioned.

Human TRIM5α senses and restricts LINE-1 elements

Mobile genetic elements have significantly shaped our genomic landscape. LINE-1 retroelements are the only autonomously active elements left in the human genome. Since new insertions can have detrimental consequences, cells need to efficiently control LINE-1 retrotransposition. Here, we demonstrate that the intrinsic immune factor TRIM5α senses and restricts LINE-1 retroelements. Previously, rhesus TRIM5α has been shown to efficiently block HIV-1 replication, while human TRIM5α was found to be less active. Surprisingly, we found that both human and rhesus TRIM5α efficiently repress human LINE-1 retrotransposition. TRIM5α interacts with LINE-1 ribonucleoprotein complexes in the cytoplasm, which is essential for restriction. In line with its postulated role as pattern recognition receptor, we show that TRIM5α also induces innate immune signaling upon interaction with LINE-1 ribonucleoprotein complexes. The signaling events activate the transcription factors AP-1 and NF-κB, leading to the down-regulation of LINE-1 promoter activity. Together, our findings identify LINE-1 as important target of human TRIM5α, which restricts and senses LINE-1 via two distinct mechanisms. Our results corroborate TRIM5α as pattern recognition receptor and shed light on its previously undescribed activity against mobile genetic elements, such as LINE-1, to protect the integrity of our genome.

Extracellular vesicles mediate the horizontal transfer of an active LINE-1 retrotransposon

Long interspersed element-1 (LINE-1 or L1) retrotransposons replicate through a copy-and-paste mechanism using an RNA intermediate. However, little is known about the physical transmission of retrotransposon RNA between cells. To examine the horizontal transfer of an active human L1 retrotransposon mediated by extracellular vesicles (EVs), human cancer cells were transfected with an expression construct containing a retrotransposition-competent human L1 tagged with a reporter gene. Using this model, active retrotransposition events were detected by screening for the expression of the reporter gene inserted into the host genome by retrotransposition. EVs including exosomes and microvesicles were isolated from cells by differential centrifugation. The enrichment of L1-derived reporter RNA transcripts were detected in EVs isolated from cells expressing active L1 retrotransposition. The delivery of reporter RNA was confirmed in recipient cells, and reporter genes were detected in the genome of recipient cells. Additionally, employing qRT-PCR, we found that host-encoded factors are activated in response to increased exposure to L1-derived RNA transcripts in recipient cells. Our results suggest that the horizontal transfer of retrotransposons can occur through the incorporation of RNA intermediates delivered via EVs and may have important implications for the intercellular regulation of gene expression and gene function.

Identification of charged amino acids required for nuclear localization of human L1 ORF1 protein

Background

Long Interspersed Element 1 (LINE-1) is a retrotransposon that is present in 500,000 copies in the human genome. Along with Alu and SVA elements, these three retrotransposons account for more than a third of the human genome sequence. These mobile elements are able to copy themselves within the genome via an RNA intermediate, a process that can promote genome instability. LINE-1 encodes two proteins, ORF1p and ORF2p. Association of ORF1p, ORF2p and a full-length L1 mRNA in a ribonucleoprotein (RNP) particle, L1 RNP, is required for L1 retrotransposition. Previous studies have suggested that fusion of a tag to L1 proteins can interfere with L1 retrotransposition.

Results

Using antibodies detecting untagged human ORF1p, western blot analysis and manipulation of ORF1 sequence and length, we have identified a set of charged amino acids in the C-terminal region of ORF1p that are important in determining its subcellular localization. Mutation of 7 non-identical lysine residues is sufficient to make the resulting ORF1p to be predominantly cytoplasmic, demonstrating intrinsic redundancy of this requirement. These residues are also necessary for ORF1p to retain its association with KPNA2 nuclear pore protein. We demonstrate that this interaction is significantly reduced by RNase treatment. Using co-IP, we have also determined that human ORF1p associates with all members of the KPNA subfamily.

Conclusions

The prediction of NLS sequences suggested that specific sequences within ORF1p could be responsible for its subcellular localization by interacting with nuclear binding proteins. We have found that multiple charged amino acids in the C-terminus of ORF1p are involved in ORF1 subcellular localization and interaction with KPNA2 nuclear pore protein. Our data demonstrate that different amino acids can be mutated to have the same phenotypic effect on ORF1p subcellular localization, demonstrating that the net number of charged residues or protein structure, rather than their specific location, is important for the ORF1p nuclear localization. We also identified that human ORF1p interacts with all members of the KPNA family of proteins and that multiple KPNA family genes are expressed in human cell lines.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13100-019-0159-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Direct visualization of the native structure of viroid RNAs at single-molecule resolution by atomic force microscopy

Viroids are small infectious, non-protein-coding circular RNAs that replicate independently and, in some cases, incite diseases in plants. They are classified into two families: Pospiviroidae, composed of species that have a central conserved region (CCR) and replicate in the cell nucleus, and Avsunviroidae, containing species that lack a CCR and whose multimeric replicative intermediates of either polarity generated in plastids self-cleave through hammerhead ribozymes. The compact, rod-like or branched, secondary structures of viroid RNAs have been predicted by RNA folding algorithms and further examined using different in vitro and in vivo experimental techniques. However, direct data about their native tertiary structure remain scarce. Here we have applied atomic force microscopy (AFM) to image at single-molecule resolution different variant RNAs of three representative viroids: potato spindle tuber viroid (PSTVd, family Pospiviroidae), peach latent mosaic viroid and eggplant latent viroid (PLMVd and ELVd, family Avsunviroidae). Our results provide a direct visualization of their native, three-dimensional conformations at 0 and 4 mM Mg2+ and highlight the role that some elements of tertiary structure play in their stabilization. The AFM images show that addition of 4 mM Mg2+ to the folding buffer results in a size contraction in PSTVd and ELVd, as well as in PLMVd when the kissing-loop interaction that stabilizes its 3D structure is preserved.

Protein-nucleic acid interactions of LINE-1 ORF1p

Long interspersed nuclear element 1 (LINE-1 or L1) is the dominant retrotransposon in mammalian genomes. L1 encodes two proteins ORF1p and ORF2p that are required for retrotransposition. ORF2p functions as the replicase. ORF1p is a coiled coil-mediated trimeric, high affinity RNA binding protein that packages its full- length coding transcript into an ORF2p-containing ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex, the retrotransposition intermediate. ORF1p also is a nucleic acid chaperone that presumably facilitates the proposed nucleic acid remodeling steps involved in retrotransposition. Although detailed mechanistic understanding of ORF1p function in this process is lacking, recent studies showed that the rate at which ORF1p can form stable nucleic acid-bound oligomers in vitro is positively correlated with formation of an active L1 RNP as assayed in vivo using a cell culture-based retrotransposition assay. This rate was sensitive to minor amino acid changes in the coiled coil domain, which had no effect on nucleic acid chaperone activity. Additional studies linking the complex nucleic acid binding properties to the conformational changes of the protein are needed to understand how ORF1p facilitates retrotransposition.

Human LINE-1 retrotransposition requires a metastable coiled coil and a positively charged N-terminus in L1ORF1p

LINE-1 (L1) is an autonomous retrotransposon, which acted throughout mammalian evolution and keeps contributing to human genotypic diversity, genetic disease and cancer. L1 encodes two essential proteins: L1ORF1p, a unique RNA-binding protein, and L1ORF2p, an endonuclease and reverse transcriptase. L1ORF1p contains an essential, but rapidly evolving N-terminal portion, homo-trimerizes via a coiled coil and packages L1RNA into large assemblies. Here, we determined crystal structures of the entire coiled coil domain of human L1ORF1p. We show that retrotransposition requires a non-ideal and metastable coiled coil structure, and a strongly basic L1ORF1p amino terminus. Human L1ORF1p therefore emerges as a highly calibrated molecular machine, sensitive to mutation but functional in different hosts. Our analysis rationalizes the locally rapid L1ORF1p sequence evolution and reveals striking mechanistic parallels to coiled coil-containing membrane fusion proteins. It also suggests how trimeric L1ORF1p could form larger meshworks and indicates critical novel steps in L1 retrotransposition.

Almost half of the human genome consists of DNA strings that have been copied and pasted from one part of the genome to another many thousands of times. These strings of DNA are called mobile genetic elements. Mobile elements can disrupt important genes, causing disease and cancer, but they can also drive evolution.

Presently, only one type of mobile element, called LINE-1, is active in the human genome and able to multiply without help from other mobile elements. LINE-1 DNA is ‘transcribed’ to form molecules of LINE-1 RNA, which can then be ‘translated’ into two distinct proteins. These bind to LINE-1 RNA, which then gets back-transcribed into DNA and inserted as a new LINE-1 element in a new region of the genome. One of the two proteins, called L1ORF1p, forms complexes where three copies of the protein come together. These ‘trimers’ cover and protect LINE-1 RNA and are required for LINE-1 mobility.

Different versions of L1ORF1p are found in different animals. Part of the protein is the same across all mammals, and this ‘conserved’ part controls the ability of L1ORF1p to bind to RNA. The non-conserved part of L1ORF1p differs even between humans and their closest animal relatives and little was known about its structure or role. However, this rapidly evolving part of L1ORF1p is essential for LINE-1 mobility.

Using X-ray crystallography, Khazina and Weichenrieder obtained a molecular snapshot of the part of L1ORF1p that interacts with other copies of the protein to form trimers. Combined with earlier snapshots of L1ORF1p’s conserved part, this generated a complete structural model of the L1ORF1p trimer. Additional biophysical characterizations suggest that L1ORF1p trimers form a semi-stable structure that can partially open up, indicating how trimers could form larger assemblies of L1ORF1p on LINE-1 RNA. Indeed, the need to maintain a semi-stable structure could explain why L1ORF1p is evolving so rapidly. A second important finding is that the beginning of L1ORF1p needs to be positively charged – a requirement that warrants further exploration.

The structural and mechanistic insight into L1ORF1p points to critical new steps in LINE-1 mobilization. It will help to design inhibitor molecules with the goal to halt the mobilization process at various points and to dissect such steps in great detail. Understanding how to control LINE-1 mobility could help to improve stem cell therapies and reproduction assistance techniques, due to the fact that LINE-1 mobility is a potential source of mutation in stem cells, egg and sperm cells, and newly formed embryos.

LINE-1 protein localization and functional dynamics during the cell cycle

LINE-1/L1 retrotransposon sequences comprise 17% of the human genome. Among the many classes of mobile genetic elements, L1 is the only autonomous retrotransposon that still drives human genomic plasticity today. Through its co-evolution with the human genome, L1 has intertwined itself with host cell biology. However, a clear understanding of L1’s lifecycle and the processes involved in restricting its insertion and intragenomic spread remains elusive. Here we identify modes of L1 proteins’ entrance into the nucleus, a necessary step for L1 proliferation. Using functional, biochemical, and imaging approaches, we also show a clear cell cycle bias for L1 retrotransposition that peaks during the S phase. Our observations provide a basis for novel interpretations about the nature of nuclear and cytoplasmic L1 ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) and the potential role of DNA replication in L1 retrotransposition.

Only two percent of our genetic material or genome are occupied by genes, while between 60-70 percent are made up of hundreds of thousands of copies of very similar DNA sequences. These repetitive sequences evolved from genetic elements called transposons.

Transposons are often referred to as ‘jumping genes’, as they can randomly move within the genome and thereby create dangerous mutations that may lead to cancer or other genetic diseases. LINE-1 is the only remaining active transposon in humans, and it expands by copying and pasting itself to new locations via a process called 'retrotransposition'. To do so, it is first transcribed into RNA – the molecules that help to make proteins – and then converted back into identical DNA sequences.

Previous research has shown that LINE-1 can form complexes with a series of proteins, including the two encoded by LINE-1 RNA itself: ORF1p and ORF2p. The LINE-1 complexes can enter the nucleus of the cell and insert a new copy of LINE-1 into the genome. However, until now it was not known how they do this. To investigate this further, Mita et al. used human cancer cells grown in the lab and tracked LINE-1 during the different stages of the cell cycle.

The results showed that LINE-1 enters the nucleus as the cell starts to divide and the membrane of the nucleus breaks down. The LINE-1 complexes are then retained in the nucleus while the membrane of the nucleus reforms. Later, as the cell duplicates its genetic material, LINE-1 starts to copy and paste itself. Mita et al., together with another group of researchers, also found that during this process, only LINE-1 RNA and ORF2p were found in the nucleus.

This shows that the cell cycle dictates both where the LINE-1 complexes gather and when LINE-1 is active. A next step will be to further investigate how the ‘copy and paste’ mechanisms of LINE-1 and the two LINE-1 proteins are regulated during the cell cycle. In future, this may help to identify LINE-1’s role in processes like aging or in diseases such as cancer.

Long interspersed nuclear element-1 expression and retrotransposition in prostate cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Long Interspersed Nuclear Element-1 (LINE-1) is an autonomous retrotransposon that generates new genomic insertions through the retrotransposition of a RNA intermediate. Expression of LINE-1 is tightly repressed in most somatic tissues to prevent DNA damage and ensure genomic integrity. However, the reactivation of LINE-1 has been documented in cancer and the role of LINE-1 protein expression and retrotransposition has become of interest in the development, progression, and adaptation of many epithelial neoplasms, including prostate cancer.

RESULTS

Here, we examined endogenous LINE-1 protein expression and localization in a panel of prostate cancer cells and observed a diverse range of LINE-1 expression patterns between cell lines. Subcellular localization of LINE-1 proteins, ORF1p and ORF2p, revealed distinct expression patterns. ORF1p, a nucleic acid chaperone that binds LINE-1 mRNA, was predominantly expressed in the cytoplasm, with minor localization in the nucleus. ORF2p, containing endonuclease and reverse transcriptase domains, exhibited punctate foci in the nucleus and also displayed co-localization with PCNA and γH2AX. Using a retrotransposition reporter assay, we found variations in LINE-1 retrotransposition between cell lines.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, our findings reveal new insight into the expression and retrotransposition of LINE-1 in prostate cancer. The prostate cancer cells we investigated provide a unique model for investigating endogenous LINE-1 activity and provide a functional model for studying LINE-1 mechanisms in prostate cancer.

Truncated ORF1 proteins can suppress LINE-1 retrotransposition in trans

Long interspersed element 1 (L1) is an autonomous non-LTR retroelement that is active in mammalian genomes. Although retrotranspositionally incompetent and functional L1 loci are present in the same genomes, it remains unknown whether non-functional L1s have any trans effect on mobilization of active elements. Using bioinformatic analysis, we identified over a thousand of human L1 loci containing at least one stop codon in their ORF1 sequence. RNAseq analysis confirmed that many of these loci are expressed. We demonstrate that introduction of equivalent stop codons in the full-length human L1 sequence leads to the expression of truncated ORF1 proteins. When supplied in trans some truncated human ORF1 proteins suppress human L1 retrotransposition. This effect requires the N-terminus and coiled-coil domain (C-C) as mutations within the ORF1p C-C domain abolish the suppressive effect of truncated proteins on L1 retrotransposition. We demonstrate that the expression levels and length of truncated ORF1 proteins influence their ability to suppress L1 retrotransposition. Taken together these findings suggest that L1 retrotransposition may be influenced by coexpression of defective L1 loci and that these L1 loci may reduce accumulation of de novo L1 integration events.

The Influence of LINE-1 and SINE Retrotransposons on Mammalian Genomes

Transposable elements have had a profound impact on the structure and function of mammalian genomes. The retrotransposon Long INterspersed Element-1 (LINE-1 or L1), by virtue of its replicative mobilization mechanism, comprises ∼17% of the human genome. Although the vast majority of human LINE-1 sequences are inactive molecular fossils, an estimated 80-100 copies per individual retain the ability to mobilize by a process termed retrotransposition. Indeed, LINE-1 is the only active, autonomous retrotransposon in humans and its retrotransposition continues to generate both intra-individual and inter-individual genetic diversity. Here, we briefly review the types of transposable elements that reside in mammalian genomes. We will focus our discussion on LINE-1 retrotransposons and the non-autonomous Short INterspersed Elements (SINEs) that rely on the proteins encoded by LINE-1 for their mobilization. We review cases where LINE-1-mediated retrotransposition events have resulted in genetic disease and discuss how the characterization of these mutagenic insertions led to the identification of retrotransposition-competent LINE-1s in the human and mouse genomes. We then discuss how the integration of molecular genetic, biochemical, and modern genomic technologies have yielded insight into the mechanism of LINE-1 retrotransposition, the impact of LINE-1-mediated retrotransposition events on mammalian genomes, and the host cellular mechanisms that protect the genome from unabated LINE-1-mediated retrotransposition events. Throughout this review, we highlight unanswered questions in LINE-1 biology that provide exciting opportunities for future research. Clearly, much has been learned about LINE-1 and SINE biology since the publication of Mobile DNA II thirteen years ago. Future studies should continue to yield exciting discoveries about how these retrotransposons contribute to genetic diversity in mammalian genomes.

Conformational analysis on the wild type and mutated forms of human ORF1p: a molecular dynamics study

The protein ORF1p, encoded by the LINE-1 retrotransposon, is responsible for the packaging and transposition of its RNA transcript and is reported to be involved in various genetic disorders. The three domains of ORF1p co-ordinate together to facilitate the transposition, and the mechanism of nucleic acid binding is not yet clear. The C-terminal domain of ORF1p adopts a lifted, twisted or rested state, which is regulated by several inter- and intra-domain interactions that are explored in this study. The residues, Glu147, Asp151, Lys154, Arg261 and Tyr282, are majorly involved in mediating the functional dynamics of ORF1p by forming H-bonds and π-interactions. The importance of these residues was elucidated by performing molecular dynamics simulations on both native as well as mutated ORF1p. The Q147A-D151A-K154A mutant expressed unique dynamics featuring the lifting motion of the CTD core alone, while the R261A mutant resulted in the oscillatory motion of CTD. In both cases, the CTDs were held in place by Tyr282 and in its absence, the structural stability of CTDs in the trimeric unit was significantly affected. Additional interactions responsible for stabilizing the trimeric ORF1p to express its native dynamics were extracted in this study. The central role of Tyr282 in maintaining the functional state of ORF1p to facilitate nucleic acid binding and formation of ribonucleoprotein complex is well highlighted. The knowledge gained from this study forms the basis for understanding the nucleic acid binding mechanism of ORF1p, which could further provide additional support in exploring various genetic disorders.

L1 retrotransposition requires rapid ORF1p oligomerization, a novel coiled coil-dependent property conserved despite extensive remodeling

Detailed mechanistic understanding of L1 retrotransposition is sparse, particularly with respect to ORF1p, a coiled coil-mediated homotrimeric nucleic acid chaperone that can form tightly packed oligomers on nucleic acids. Although the coiled coil motif is highly conserved, it is uniquely susceptible to evolutionary change. Here we studied three ORF1 proteins: a modern human one (111p), its resuscitated primate ancestor (555p) and a mosaic modern protein (151p) wherein 9 of the 30 coiled coil substitutions retain their ancestral state. While 111p and 555p equally supported retrotransposition, 151p was inactive. Nonetheless, they were fully active in bulk assays of nucleic acid interactions including chaperone activity. However, single molecule assays showed that 151p trimers form stably bound oligomers on ssDNA at <1/10th the rate of the active proteins, revealing that oligomerization rate is a novel critical parameter of ORF1p activity in retrotransposition conserved for at least the last 25 Myr of primate evolution.

The challenge of ORF1p phosphorylation: Effects on L1 activity and its host

L1 non-LTR retrotransposons are autonomously replicating genetic elements that profoundly affected their mammalian hosts having generated upwards of 40% or more of their genomes. Although deleterious, they remain active in most mammalian species, and thus the nature and consequences of the interaction between L1 and its host remain major issues for mammalian biology. We recently showed that L1 activity requires phosphorylation of one of its 2 encoded proteins, ORF1p, a nucleic acid chaperone and the major component of the L1RNP retrotransposition intermediate. Reversible protein phosphorylation, which is effected by interacting cascades of protein kinases, phosphatases, and ancillary proteins, is a mainstay in the regulation and coordination of many basic biological processes. Therefore, demonstrating phosphorylation-dependence of L1 activity substantially enlarged our knowledge of the scope of L1 / host interaction. However, developing a mechanistic understanding of what this means for L1 or its host is a formidable challenge, which we discuss here.

A magnesium-induced RNA conformational switch at the internal ribosome entry site of hepatitis C virus genome visualized by atomic force microscopy

The 5' untranslated region of hepatitis C virus (HCV) genomic RNA contains an internal ribosome entry site (IRES) element, composed of domains II-IV, which is required for cap-independent translation initiation. Little information on the 3D structure of the whole functional HCV IRES is still available. Here, we use atomic force microscopy to visualize the HCV IRES conformation in its natural sequence context, which includes the upstream domain I and the essential, downstream domains V and VI. The 574 nt-long molecule analyzed underwent an unexpected, Mg(2+)-induced switch between two alternative conformations: from 'open', elongated morphologies at 0-2 mM Mg(2+) concentration to a 'closed', comma-shaped conformation at 4-6 mM Mg(2+). This sharp transition, confirmed by gel-shift analysis and partial RNase T1 cleavage, was hindered by the microRNA miR-122. The comma-shaped IRES-574 molecules visualized at 4-6 mM Mg(2+) in the absence of miR-122 showed two arms. Our data support that the first arm would contain domain III, while the second one would be composed of domains (I-II)+(V-VI) thanks to a long-range RNA interaction between the I-II spacer and the basal region of domain VI. This reinforces the previously described structural continuity between the HCV IRES and its flanking domains I, V and VI.

Development of a monoclonal antibody specific to the endonuclease domain of the human LINE-1 ORF2 protein

Background

LINE-1 (L1) retrotransposons are common occupants of mammalian genomes representing about a fifth of the genetic content. Ongoing L1 retrotransposition in the germ line and somatic tissues has contributed to structural genomic variations and disease-causing mutations in the human genome. L1 mobilization relies on the function of two, self-encoded proteins, ORF1 and ORF2. The ORF2 protein contains two characterized domains: endonuclease and reverse transcriptase.

Results

Using a bacterially purified endonuclease domain of the human L1 ORF2 protein, we have generated a monoclonal antibody specific to the human ORF2 protein. We determined that the epitope recognized by this monoclonal antibody includes amino acid 205, which is required for the function of the L1 ORF2 protein endonuclease. Using an in vitro L1 cleavage assay, we demonstrate that the monoclonal anti-ORF2 protein antibody partially inhibits L1 endonuclease activity without having any effect on the in vitro activity of the human AP endonuclease.

Conclusions

Overall, our data demonstrate that this anti-ORF2 protein monoclonal antibody is a useful tool for human L1-related studies and that it provides a rationale for the development of antibody-based inhibitors of L1-induced damage.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13100-014-0029-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Expression and detection of LINE-1 ORF-encoded proteins

LINE-1 (L1) elements are endogenous retrotransposons active in mammalian genomes. The L1 RNA is bicistronic, encoding two non-overlapping open reading frames, ORF1 and ORF2, whose protein products (ORF1p and ORF2p) bind the L1 RNA to form a ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex that is presumed to be a critical retrotransposition intermediate. However, ORF2p is expressed at a significantly lower level than ORF1p; these differences are thought to be controlled at the level of translation, due to a low frequency ribosome reinitiation mechanism controlling ORF2 expression. As a result, while ORF1p is readily detectable, ORF2p has previously been very challenging to detect in vitro and in vivo. To address this, we recently tested several epitope tags fused to the N- or C-termini of the ORF proteins in an effort to enable robust detection and affinity purification from native (L1RP) and synthetic (ORFeus-Hs) L1 constructs. An analysis of tagged RNPs from both L1RP and ORFeus-Hs showed similar host-cell-derived protein interactors. Our observations also revealed that the tag sequences affected the retrotransposition competency of native and synthetic L1s differently although they encode identical ORF proteins. Unexpectedly, we observed apparently stochastic expression of ORF2p within seemingly homogenous L1-expressing cell populations.

LINE-1 retrotransposable element DNA accumulates in HIV-1-infected cells

Type 1 long-interspersed nuclear elements (L1s) are autonomous retrotransposable elements that retain the potential for activity in the human genome but are suppressed by host factors. Retrotransposition of L1s into chromosomal DNA can lead to genomic instability, whereas reverse transcription of L1 in the cytosol has the potential to activate innate immune sensors. We hypothesized that HIV-1 infection would compromise cellular control of L1 elements, resulting in the induction of retrotransposition events. Here, we show that HIV-1 infection enhances L1 retrotransposition in Jurkat cells in a Vif- and Vpr-dependent manner. In primary CD4(+) cells, HIV-1 infection results in the accumulation of L1 DNA, at least the majority of which is extrachromosomal. These data expose an unrecognized interaction between HIV-1 and endogenous retrotransposable elements, which may have implications for the innate immune response to HIV-1 infection, as well as for HIV-1-induced genomic instability and cytopathicity.

Expression of a LINE-1 endonuclease variant in gastric cancer: its association with clinicopathological parameters

Background

Long interspersed nuclear element-1 (LINE-1 or L1), the most abundant and only autonomously active family of non-LTR retrotransposons in the human genome, expressed not only in the germ lines but also in somatic tissues. It contributes to genetic instability, aging, and age-related diseases, such as cancer. Our previous study identified in human gastric adenocarcinoma an upregulated transcript GCRG213, which shared 88% homology with human L1 sequence and contained a putative conserved apurinic/apyrimidinic endonucleas1 domain.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was carried out by using a monoclonal mouse anti-human GCRG213 protein (GCRG213p) antibody produced in our laboratory, on tissue microarray constructed with specimens from 175 gastric adenocarcinoma patients. The correlation between GCRG213p expression and patient clinicopathological parameters was evaluated. GCRG213p expression in gastric cancer cell lines were studied using Western blotting analysis. L1 promoter methylation status of gastric cancer cells was tested using methylation-specific PCR. BLASTP was used at the NCBI Blast server to identify GCRG213p sequence to any alignments in the Protein Data Bank databases.

Results

Most primary gastric cancer, lymph node metastases and gastric intestinal metaplasia glands showed positive GCRG213p immunoreactivity. High GCRG213p immunostaining score in the primary gastric cancer was positively correlated with tumor differentiation (well differentiated, p = 0.001), Lauren’s classification (intestinal type, p < 0.05) and a late age onset of gastric adenocarcinoma (≥65 yrs; p < 0.05). GCRG213p expression has no association with other clinicopathological parameters, including survival. Western blotting analysis of GCRG213p expression in gastric cancer cells indicated that GCRG213p level was higher in gastric cancer cell lines than in human normal gastric epithelium immortalized cell line GES-1. Partial methylation of L1 in gastric cancer cells was confirmed by methylation-specific PCR. BLASTP program analysis revealed that GCRG213p peptide shared 83.0% alignment with the C-terminal region of L1 endonuclease (L1-EN). GCRG213p sequence possesses the important residues that compose the conserved features of L1-EN.

Conclusions

GCRG213p could be a variant of L1-EN, a functional member of L1-EN family. Overexpression of GCRG213p is common in both primary gastric cancer and lymph node metastasis. These findings provide evidence of somatic L1 expression in gastric cancer, and its potential consequences in the form of tumor.

The specificity and flexibility of l1 reverse transcription priming at imperfect T-tracts

L1 retrotransposons have a prominent role in reshaping mammalian genomes. To replicate, the L1 ribonucleoprotein particle (RNP) first uses its endonuclease (EN) to nick the genomic DNA. The newly generated DNA end is subsequently used as a primer to initiate reverse transcription within the L1 RNA poly(A) tail, a process known as target-primed reverse transcription (TPRT). Prior studies demonstrated that most L1 insertions occur into sequences related to the L1 EN consensus sequence (degenerate 5′-TTTT/A-3′ sites) and frequently preceded by imperfect T-tracts. However, it is currently unclear whether—and to which degree—the liberated 3′-hydroxyl extremity on the genomic DNA needs to be accessible and complementary to the poly(A) tail of the L1 RNA for efficient priming of reverse transcription. Here, we employed a direct assay for the initiation of L1 reverse transcription to define the molecular rules that guide this process. First, efficient priming is detected with as few as 4 matching nucleotides at the primer 3′ end. Second, L1 RNP can tolerate terminal mismatches if they are compensated within the 10 last bases of the primer by an increased number of matching nucleotides. All terminal mismatches are not equally detrimental to DNA extension, a C being extended at higher levels than an A or a G. Third, efficient priming in the context of duplex DNA requires a 3′ overhang. This suggests the possible existence of additional DNA processing steps, which generate a single-stranded 3′ end to allow L1 reverse transcription. Based on these data we propose that the specificity of L1 reverse transcription initiation contributes, together with the specificity of the initial EN cleavage, to the distribution of new L1 insertions within the human genome.

Jumping genes are DNA sequences present in the genome of most living organisms. They contribute to genome dynamics and occasionally result in hereditary genetic diseases or cancer. L1 elements are the only autonomously active jumping genes in the human genome. They replicate through an RNA–mediated copy-and-paste mechanism by cleaving the host genome and then using this new DNA end as a primer to reverse transcribe its own RNA, generating a new L1 DNA copy. The molecular determinants that influence L1 target site choice are not fully understood. Here we present a quantitative assay to measure the influence of DNA target site sequence and structure on the reverse transcription step. By testing more than 65 potential DNA primers, we observe that not all sites are equally extended by the L1 machinery, and we define the rules guiding this process. In particular, we highlight the importance of partial sequence complementarity between the target site and the L1 RNA extremity, but also the high level of flexibility of this process, since detrimental terminal mismatches can be compensated by an increasing number of interacting nucleotides. We propose that this mechanism contributes to the distribution of new L1 insertions within the human genome.

LINEs, SINEs and other retroelements: do birds of a feather flock together?

Mobile elements account for almost half of the mass of the human genome. Only the retroelements from the non-LTR (long terminal repeat) retrotransposon family, which include the LINE-1 (L1) and its non-autonomous partners, are currently active and contributing to new insertions. Although these elements seem to share the same basic amplification mechanism, the activity and success of the different types of retroelements varies. For example, Alu-induced mutagenesis is responsible for the majority of the documented instances of human disease induced by insertion of retroelements. Using copy number in mammals as an indicator, some SINEs have been vastly more successful than other retroelements, such as the retropseudogenes and even L1, likely due to differences in post-insertion selection and ability to overcome cellular controls. SINE and LINE integration can be differentially influenced by cellular factors, indicating some differences between in their amplification mechanisms. We focus on the known aspects of this group of retroelements and highlight their similarities and differences that may significantly influence their biological impact.

LINE-1 elements in structural variation and disease

The completion of the human genome reference sequence ushered in a new era for the study and discovery of human transposable elements. It now is undeniable that transposable elements, historically dismissed as junk DNA, have had an instrumental role in sculpting the structure and function of our genomes. In particular, long interspersed element-1 (LINE-1 or L1) and short interspersed elements (SINEs) continue to affect our genome, and their movement can lead to sporadic cases of disease. Here, we briefly review the types of transposable elements present in the human genome and their mechanisms of mobility. We next highlight how advances in DNA sequencing and genomic technologies have enabled the discovery of novel retrotransposons in individual genomes. Finally, we discuss how L1-mediated retrotransposition events impact human genomes.

Polymerization and nucleic acid-binding properties of human L1 ORF1 protein

The L1 (LINE 1) retrotransposable element encodes two proteins, ORF1p and ORF2p. ORF2p is the L1 replicase, but the role of ORF1p is unknown. Mouse ORF1p, a coiled-coil-mediated trimer of ∼42-kDa monomers, binds nucleic acids and has nucleic acid chaperone activity. We purified human L1 ORF1p expressed in insect cells and made two findings that significantly advance our knowledge of the protein. First, in the absence of nucleic acids, the protein polymerizes under the very conditions (0.05 M NaCl) that are optimal for high (∼1 nM)-affinity nucleic acid binding. The non-coiled-coil C-terminal half mediates formation of the polymer, an active conformer that is instantly resolved to trimers, or multimers thereof, by nucleic acid. Second, the protein has a biphasic effect on mismatched double-stranded DNA, a proxy chaperone substrate. It protects the duplex from dissociation at 37°C before eventually melting it when largely polymeric. Therefore, polymerization of ORF1p seemingly affects its interaction with nucleic acids. Additionally, polymerization of ORF1p at its translation site could explain the heretofore-inexplicable phenomenon of cis preference-the favored retrotransposition of the actively translated L1 transcript, which is essential for L1 survival.

Trimeric structure and flexibility of the L1ORF1 protein in human L1 retrotransposition

The LINE-1 (L1) retrotransposon emerges as a major source of human interindividual genetic variation, with important implications for evolution and disease. L1 retrotransposition is poorly understood at the molecular level, and the mechanistic details and evolutionary origin of the L1-encoded L1ORF1 protein (L1ORF1p) are particularly obscure. Here three crystal structures of trimeric L1ORF1p and NMR solution structures of individual domains reveal a sophisticated and highly structured, yet remarkably flexible, RNA-packaging protein. It trimerizes via an N-terminal, ion-containing coiled coil that serves as scaffold for the flexible attachment of the central RRM and the C-terminal CTD domains. The structures explain the specificity for single-stranded RNA substrates, and a mutational analysis indicates that the precise control of domain flexibility is critical for retrotransposition. Although the evolutionary origin of L1ORF1p remains unclear, our data reveal previously undetected structural and functional parallels to viral proteins.

Site-directed spin labeling electron paramagnetic resonance study of the ORF1 protein from a mouse L1 retrotransposon

Long interspersed nuclear element-1 is a highly abundant mammalian retrotransposon that comprises 17% of the human genome. L1 retrotransposition requires the protein encoded by open reading frame-1 (ORF1p), which binds single-stranded RNA with high affinity and functions as a nucleic acid chaperone. ORF1p has been shown to adopt a homo-trimeric, asymmetric dumbbell-shaped structure. However, its atomic-level structure and mechanism of RNA binding remains poorly understood. Here, we report the results of a site-directed spin labeling electron paramagnetic resonance (SDSL-EPR) study of 27 residues within the RNA binding region of the full-length protein. The EPR data are compatible with the large RNA binding lobe of ORF1p containing a RNA recognition motif (RRM) domain and a carboxyl-terminal domain (CTD) that are predicted from crystallographic and NMR studies of smaller fragments of the protein. Interestingly, the EPR data indicate that residues in strands β3 and β4 of the RRM are structurally unstable, compatible with the previously observed sensitivity of this region to proteolysis. Affinity measurements and RNA-dependent EPR spectral changes map the RNA binding site on ORF1p to residues located in strands β3 and β4 of the RRM domain and to helix α1 of the CTD. Complementary in vivo studies also identify residues within the RRM domain that are required for retrotransposition. We propose that in the context of the full-length trimeric protein these distinct surfaces are positioned adjacent to one another providing a continuous surface that may interact with nucleic acids.

Evolutionary conservation of the functional modularity of primate and murine LINE-1 elements

LINE-1 (L1) retroelements emerged in mammalian genomes over 80 million years ago with a few dominant subfamilies amplifying over discrete time periods that led to distinct human and mouse L1 lineages. We evaluated the functional conservation of L1 sequences by comparing retrotransposition rates of chimeric human-rodent L1 constructs to their parental L1 counterparts. Although amino acid conservation varies from ∼35% to 63% for the L1 ORF1p and ORF2p, most human and mouse L1 sequences can be functionally exchanged. Replacing either ORF1 or ORF2 to create chimeric human-mouse L1 elements did not adversely affect retrotransposition. The mouse ORF2p retains retrotransposition-competency to support both Alu and L1 mobilization when any of the domain sequences we evaluated were substituted with human counterparts. However, the substitution of portions of the mouse cys-domain into the human ORF2p reduces both L1 retrotransposition and Alu trans-mobilization by 200–1000 fold. The observed loss of ORF2p function is independent of the endonuclease or reverse transcriptase activities of ORF2p and RNA interaction required for reverse transcription. In addition, the loss of function is physically separate from the cysteine-rich motif sequence previously shown to be required for RNP formation. Our data suggest an additional role of the less characterized carboxy-terminus of the L1 ORF2 protein by demonstrating that this domain, in addition to mediating RNP interaction(s), provides an independent and required function for the retroelement amplification process. Our experiments show a functional modularity of most of the LINE sequences. However, divergent evolution of interactions within L1 has led to non-reciprocal incompatibilities between human and mouse ORF2 cys-domain sequences.

Paired mutations abolish and restore the balanced annealing and melting activities of ORF1p that are required for LINE-1 retrotransposition

Retrotransposition amplifies LINE-1 (L1) to high copy number in mammalian genomes. The L1 protein encoded by ORF1 (ORF1p) is required for retrotransposition. This dependence on ORF1p was investigated by mutating three highly conserved residues, R238, R284 and Y318 to alanine, thereby inactivating retrotransposition. R284A and Y318A were rescued by further substituting the alanine with the appropriate conservative amino acid, e.g. lysine or phenylalanine, respectively, whereas R238K remained inactive. Quantification of the steady-state levels of L1 RNA and ORF1p failed to discriminate active from inactive variants, indicating loss of L1 retrotransposition resulted from loss of function rather than reduced expression. The two biochemical properties known for ORF1p are high-affinity RNA binding and nucleic acid chaperone activity. Only R238A/K exhibited significantly reduced RNA affinities. The nucleic acid chaperone activities of the remaining paired mutants were assessed by single-molecule DNA stretching and found to mirror retrotransposition activity. To further examine ORF1p chaperone function, their energetic barriers to DNA annealing and melting were derived from kinetic work. When plotted against each other, the ratio of these two activities distinguished functional from non-functional ORF1p variants. These findings enhance our understanding of the requirements for ORF1p in LINE-1 retrotransposition and, more generally, nucleic acid chaperone function.

Nucleic acid chaperone properties of ORF1p from the non-LTR retrotransposon, LINE-1

Long interspersed element-1 (LINE-1, or L1) is a non-long terminal repeat (LTR) retrotransposon that has amplified to hundreds of thousands of copies in mammalian evolution. A small number of the individual copies of L1 are active retrotransposons which are presently replicating in most species, including humans and mice. L1 retrotransposition begins with transcription of an active element and ends with a newly inserted cDNA copy, a process which requires the two element-encoded proteins to act in cis on the L1 RNA. The ORF1 protein (ORF1p) is a high-affinity, non-sequence-specific RNA binding protein with nucleic acid chaperone activity, whereas the ORF2 protein (ORF2p) supplies the enzymatic activities for cDNA synthesis. This article reviews the nucleic acid chaperone properties of ORF1p in the context of L1 retrotransposition.

Characterization of LINE-1 ribonucleoprotein particles

The average human genome contains a small cohort of active L1 retrotransposons that encode two proteins (ORF1p and ORF2p) required for their mobility (i.e., retrotransposition). Prior studies demonstrated that human ORF1p, L1 RNA, and an ORF2p-encoded reverse transcriptase activity are present in ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes. However, the inability to physically detect ORF2p from engineered human L1 constructs has remained a technical challenge in the field. Here, we have employed an epitope/RNA tagging strategy with engineered human L1 retrotransposons to identify ORF1p, ORF2p, and L1 RNA in a RNP complex. We next used this system to assess how mutations in ORF1p and/or ORF2p impact RNP formation. Importantly, we demonstrate that mutations in the coiled-coil domain and RNA recognition motif of ORF1p, as well as the cysteine-rich domain of ORF2p, reduce the levels of ORF1p and/or ORF2p in L1 RNPs. Finally, we used this tagging strategy to localize the L1–encoded proteins and L1 RNA to cytoplasmic foci that often were associated with stress granules. Thus, we conclude that a precise interplay among ORF1p, ORF2p, and L1 RNA is critical for L1 RNP assembly, function, and L1 retrotransposition.

Long Interspersed Element-1 (LINE-1 or L1) sequences are the predominant class of autonomous retrotransposons in the human genome and comprise an astounding 17% of human DNA. Although the majority of L1s are considered to be “dead,” an average human genome contains ∼80–100 active L1s. Active L1s encode two proteins (ORF1p and ORF2p) that are required for mobility (retrotransposition) by a “copy and paste” mechanism termed target-site primed reverse transcription. Prior experiments suggested that ORF1p, ORF2p reverse transcriptase activity, and L1 mRNA associate in ribonucleoprotein (RNP) particles and that RNP formation is a necessary step in L1 retrotransposition. However, the difficulty in detecting ORF2p from engineered human L1s has prevented a thorough understanding of its role in L1 retrotransposition. Here, we have exploited epitope and/or RNA–tagging strategies to detect and characterize a “basal” RNP complex from engineered human L1s. We also expanded on previous studies and characterized how mutations in conserved functional domains of ORF1p and ORF2p can adversely affect L1 RNP formation/function. Finally, our strategy allowed us to detect the L1–encoded proteins and L1 RNA in cytoplasmic foci. Thus, we have developed and employed a system to gain greater understanding of LINE-1 retrotransposition at the molecular level.

Origin and evolution of LINE-1 derived "half-L1" retrotransposons (HAL1)

LINE-1 (L1) retrotransposons represent the most abundant family of non-LTR retrotransposons in virtually all mammals. The only currently known exception is Platypus, where it is found only in low copy numbers. Autonomous L1s encode two proteins, ORF1p and ORF2p, both of which are required for the transposition of L1s. L1 replicative machinery is also involved in the trans-mobilization of non-autonomous retrotransposons, such as diverse short interspersed repetitive elements (SINEs) and processed pseudogenes. Here, we focus on a unique category of "half -L1" elements (HAL1s), which encode ORF1p but not ORF2p. HAL1s are present both in placental mammals and marsupials. We demonstrate that HAL1s originated independently several times during the evolution of mammals. The youngest mammalian HAL1 elements analyzed in this paper were identified in the guinea pig genome. Our analysis strongly suggests that HAL1-encoded ORF1p is essential for the transposition of HAL1s and indicates that the evolution of ORF1p in HAL1s is faster than in L1s. The implications of HAL1 for the evolution of L1 elements and the host genomes are discussed.

The RNA polymerase dictates ORF1 requirement and timing of LINE and SINE retrotransposition

Mobile elements comprise close to one half of the mass of the human genome. Only LINE-1 (L1), an autonomous non-Long Terminal Repeat (LTR) retrotransposon, and its non-autonomous partners—such as the retropseudogenes, SVA, and the SINE, Alu—are currently active human retroelements. Experimental evidence shows that Alu retrotransposition depends on L1 ORF2 protein, which has led to the presumption that LINEs and SINEs share the same basic insertional mechanism. Our data demonstrate clear differences in the time required to generate insertions between marked Alu and L1 elements. In our tissue culture system, the process of L1 insertion requires close to 48 hours. In contrast to the RNA pol II-driven L1, we find that pol III transcribed elements (Alu, the rodent SINE B2, and the 7SL, U6 and hY sequences) can generate inserts within 24 hours or less. Our analyses demonstrate that the observed retrotransposition timing does not dictate insertion rate and is independent of the type of reporter cassette utilized. The additional time requirement by L1 cannot be directly attributed to differences in transcription, transcript length, splicing processes, ORF2 protein production, or the ability of functional ORF2p to reach the nucleus. However, the insertion rate of a marked Alu transcript drastically drops when driven by an RNA pol II promoter (CMV) and the retrotransposition timing parallels that of L1. Furthermore, the “pol II Alu transcript” behaves like the processed pseudogenes in our retrotransposition assay, requiring supplementation with L1 ORF1p in addition to ORF2p. We postulate that the observed differences in retrotransposition kinetics of these elements are dictated by the type of RNA polymerase generating the transcript. We present a model that highlights the critical differences of LINE and SINE transcripts that likely define their retrotransposition timing.

SINE retroelement amplification has been extremely successful in the human genome. Although these non-autonomous elements parasitize factors from LINEs, both the human Alu and the cumulative rodent SINEs have generated over one million copies in their respective hosts. Alu-induced mutagenesis is responsible for the majority of the documented instances of human retroelement insertion-induced disease. Our data indicate that SINEs require a shorter period of time to complete insertion than L1s, possibly contributing to the ability of Alu elements to effectively parasitize L1 components. We demonstrate that RNA polymerase changes the timing Alu requires to complete retrotransposition and creates the need for the L1 ORF1protein in addition to ORF2p. We postulate that the way cells manage pol III and pol II (mRNA) transcripts affects the timing of a transcript going through the retrotransposition pathway. We propose a model that highlights some of the critical differences of LINE and SINE transcripts that likely play a crucial role in their retrotransposition process.

Non-LTR retrotransposons encode noncanonical RRM domains in their first open reading frame

Non-LTR retrotransposons (NLRs) are a unique class of mobile genetic elements that have significant impact on the evolution of eukaryotic genomes. However, the molecular details and functions of their encoded proteins, in particular of the accessory ORF1p proteins, are poorly understood. Here, we identify noncanonical RNA-recognition-motifs (RRMs) in several phylogenetically unrelated NLR ORF1p proteins. This provides an explanation for their RNA-binding properties and clearly shows that they are not related to the retroviral nucleocapsid protein Gag, despite the frequent presence of CCHC zinc knuckles. In particular, we characterize the ORF1p protein of the human long interspersed nuclear element 1 (LINE-1 or L1). We show that L1ORF1p is a multidomain protein, consisting of a coiled coil (cc), RRM, and C-terminal domain (CTD). Most importantly, we solved the crystal structure of the RRM domain, which is characterized by extended loops stabilized by unique salt bridges. Furthermore, we demonstrate that L1ORF1p trimerizes via its N-terminal cc domain, and we suggest that this property is functionally important for all homologues. The formation of distinct complexes with single-stranded nucleic acids requires the presence of the RRM and CTD domains on the same polypeptide chain as well as their close cooperation. Finally, the phylogenetic analysis of mammalian L1ORF1p shows an ancient origin of the RRM domain and supports a modular evolution of NLRs.

A single amino acid substitution in ORF1 dramatically decreases L1 retrotransposition and provides insight into nucleic acid chaperone activity

L1 is a ubiquitous interspersed repeated sequence in mammals that achieved its high copy number by autonomous retrotransposition. Individual L1 elements within a genome differ in sequence and retrotransposition activity. Retrotransposition requires two L1-encoded proteins, ORF1p and ORF2p. Chimeric elements were used to map a 15-fold difference in retrotransposition efficiency between two L1 variants from the mouse genome, T_FC and T_Fspa, to a single amino acid substitution in ORF1p, D159H. The steady-state levels of L1 RNA and protein do not differ significantly between these two elements, yet new insertions are detected earlier and at higher frequency in T_FC, indicating that it converts expressed L1 intermediates more effectively into new insertions. The two ORF1 proteins were purified and their nucleic acid binding and chaperone activities were examined in vitro. Although the RNA and DNA oligonucleotide binding affinities of these two ORF1 proteins were largely indistinguishable, D159 was significantly more effective as a nucleic acid chaperone than H159. These findings support a requirement for ORF1p nucleic acid chaperone activity at a late step during L1 retrotransposition, extend the region of ORF1p that is known to be critical for its functional interactions with nucleic acids, and enhance understanding of nucleic acid chaperone activity.

Proteomic Biomarkers of Atherosclerosis

SUMMARY: Biomarkers provide a powerful approach to understanding the spectrum of cardiovascular diseases. They have application in screening, diagnostic, prognostication, prediction of recurrences and monitoring of therapy. The "omics" tool are becoming very useful in the development of new biomarkers in cardiovascular diseases. Among them, proteomics is especially fitted to look for new proteins in health and disease and is playing a significant role in the development of new diagnostic tools in cardiovascular diagnosis and prognosis. This review provides an overview of progress in applying proteomics to atherosclerosis. First, we describe novel proteins identified analysing atherosclerotic plaques directly. Careful analysis of proteins within the atherosclerotic vascular tissue can provide a repertoire of proteins involved in vascular remodelling and atherogenesis. Second, we discuss recent data concerning proteins secreted by atherosclerotic plaques. The definition of the atheroma plaque secretome resides in that proteins secreted by arteries can be very good candidates of novel biomarkers. Finally we describe proteins that have been differentially expressed (versus controls) by individual cells which constitute atheroma plaques (endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, macrophages and foam cells) as well as by circulating cells (monocytes, platelets) or novel biomarkers present in plasma.

Nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitors differentially inhibit human LINE-1 retrotransposition

BACKGROUND

Intact LINE-1 elements are the only retrotransposons encoded by the human genome known to be capable of autonomous replication. Numerous cases of genetic disease have been traced to gene disruptions caused by LINE-1 retrotransposition events in germ-line cells. In addition, genomic instability resulting from LINE-1 retrotransposition in somatic cells has been proposed as a contributing factor to oncogenesis and to cancer progression. LINE-1 element activity may also play a role in normal physiology.

METHODS AND PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Using an in vitro LINE-1 retrotransposition reporter assay, we evaluated the abilities of several antiretroviral compounds to inhibit LINE-1 retrotransposition. The nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitors (nRTIs): stavudine, zidovudine, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, and lamivudine all inhibited LINE-1 retrotransposition with varying degrees of potencies, while the non-nucleoside HIV-1 reverse transcriptase inhibitor nevirapine showed no effect.

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

Our data demonstrates the ability for nRTIs to suppress LINE-1 retrotransposition. This is immediately applicable to studies aimed at examining potential roles for LINE-1 retrotransposition in physiological processes. In addition, our data raises novel safety considerations for nRTIs based on their potential to disrupt physiological processes involving LINE-1 retrotransposition.

Mammalian non-LTR retrotransposons: for better or worse, in sickness and in health

Transposable elements (TEs) have shared an exceptionally long coexistence with their host organisms and have come to occupy a significant fraction of eukaryotic genomes. The bulk of the expansion occurring within mammalian genomes has arisen from the activity of type I retrotransposons, which amplify in a "copy-and-paste" fashion through an RNA intermediate. For better or worse, the sequences of these retrotransposons are now wedded to the genomes of their mammalian hosts. Although there are several reported instances of the positive contribution of mobile elements to their host genomes, these discoveries have occurred alongside growing evidence of the role of TEs in human disease and genetic instability. Here we examine, with a particular emphasis on human retrotransposon activity, several newly discovered aspects of mammalian retrotransposon biology. We consider their potential impact on host biology as well as their ultimate implications for the nature of the TE-host relationship.

Identification and solution structure of a highly conserved C-terminal domain within ORF1p required for retrotransposition of long interspersed nuclear element-1

Long interspersed nuclear element-1 (LINE-1 or L1) retrotransposons comprise a large fraction of the human and mouse genomes. The mobility of these successful elements requires the protein encoded by open reading frame-1 (ORF1p), which binds single-stranded RNA with high affinity and functions as a nucleic acid chaperone. In this report, we have used limited proteolysis, filter binding, and NMR spectroscopy to characterize the global structure of ORF1p and the three-dimensional structure of a highly conserved RNA binding domain. ORF1p contains three structured regions, a coiled-coil domain, a middle domain of unknown function, and a C-terminal domain (CTD). We show that high affinity RNA binding by ORF1p requires the CTD and residues within an amino acid protease-sensitive segment that joins the CTD to the middle domain. Insights in the mechanism of RNA binding were obtained by determining the solution structure of the CTD, which is shown to adopt a novel fold consisting of a three-stranded beta sheet that is packed against three alpha-helices. An RNA binding surface on the CTD has been localized using chemical shift perturbation experiments and is proximal to residues previously shown to be essential for retrotransposition, RNA binding, and chaperone activity. A similar structure and mechanism of RNA binding is expected for all vertebrate long interspersed nuclear element-1 elements, since residues encoding the middle, protease-sensitive segment, and CTD are highly conserved.

LINE-1 ORF1 protein localizes in stress granules with other RNA-binding proteins, including components of RNA interference RNA-induced silencing complex

LINE-1 retrotransposons constitute one-fifth of human DNA and have helped shape our genome. A full-length L1 encodes a 40-kDa RNA-binding protein (ORF1p) and a 150-kDa protein (ORF2p) with endonuclease and reverse transcriptase activities. ORF1p is distinctive in forming large cytoplasmic foci, which we identified as cytoplasmic stress granules. A phylogenetically conserved central region of the protein is critical for wild-type localization and retrotransposition. Yeast two-hybrid screens revealed several RNA-binding proteins that coimmunoprecipitate with ORF1p and colocalize with ORF1p in foci. Two of these proteins, YB-1 and hnRNPA1, were previously reported in stress granules. We identified additional proteins associated with stress granules, including DNA-binding protein A, 9G8, and plasminogen activator inhibitor RNA-binding protein 1 (PAI-RBP1). PAI-RBP1 is a homolog of VIG, a part of the Drosophila melanogaster RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). Other RISC components, including Ago2 and FMRP, also colocalize with PAI-RBP1 and ORF1p. We suggest that targeting ORF1p, and possibly the L1 RNP, to stress granules is a mechanism for controlling retrotransposition and its associated genetic and cellular damage.