Control of mRNA export and translation termination by inositol hexakisphosphate requires specific interaction with Gle1

Molecular Structure of the mRNA Export Factor Gle1 from Debaryomyces hansenii

Gle1 functions as a regulator of Dbp5, a DEAD-box-containing RNA helicase that is a component of the nuclear pore complex. In association with Gle1 and inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6), ADP-bound Dbp5 facilitates the release of RNA. The RNA-bound Dbp5 undergoes ATP hydrolysis and is activated by Gle1 in the presence of IP6. The formation of a ternary complex involving Dbp5, Gle1, and the nucleoporin Nup159 promotes ADP secretion and prevents RNA recombination. To date, several complex structures of Gle1 with its binding partners have been described; however, the structure of unbound Gle1 remains elusive. To investigate the structural features associated with complex formation, the crystal structure of N-terminally truncated Gle1 from Debaryomyces hansenii (DhGle1ΔN) was determined at a resolution of 1.5 Å. The DhGle1ΔN protein comprises 13 α-helices. Structural comparisons with homologs, all of which have been characterized in various complexes, revealed no significant conformational changes. However, several distinct secondary structural elements were identified in α1, α3, α4, and α8. This study may provide valuable insights into the architecture of yeast Gle1 proteins and their interactions with Dbp5, which is crucial for understanding the regulation of mRNA export.

Advances in the understanding of nuclear pore complexes in human diseases

BACKGROUND

Nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) are sophisticated and dynamic protein structures that straddle the nuclear envelope and act as gatekeepers for transporting molecules between the nucleus and the cytoplasm. NPCs comprise up to 30 different proteins known as nucleoporins (NUPs). However, a growing body of research has suggested that NPCs play important roles in gene regulation, viral infections, cancer, mitosis, genetic diseases, kidney diseases, immune system diseases, and degenerative neurological and muscular pathologies.

PURPOSE

In this review, we introduce the structure and function of NPCs. Then We described the physiological and pathological effects of each component of NPCs which provide a direction for future clinical applications.

METHODS

The literatures from PubMed have been reviewed for this article.

CONCLUSION

This review summarizes current studies on the implications of NPCs in human physiology and pathology, highlighting the mechanistic underpinnings of NPC-associated diseases.

Spelling out the roles of individual nucleoporins in nuclear export of mRNA

The Nuclear Pore Complex (NPC) represents a critical passage through the nuclear envelope for nuclear import and export that impacts nearly every cellular process at some level. Recent technological advances in the form of Auxin Inducible Degron (AID) strategies and Single-Point Edge-Excitation sub-Diffraction (SPEED) microscopy have enabled us to provide new insight into the distinct functions and roles of nuclear basket nucleoporins (Nups) upon nuclear docking and export for mRNAs. In this paper, we provide a review of our recent findings as well as an assessment of new techniques, updated models, and future perspectives in the studies of mRNA's nuclear export.

Features and factors that dictate if terminating ribosomes cause or counteract nonsense-mediated mRNA decay

Nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) is a quality control pathway in eukaryotes that continuously monitors mRNA transcripts to ensure truncated polypeptides are not produced. The expression of many normal mRNAs that encode full-length polypeptides is also regulated by this pathway. Such transcript surveillance by NMD is intimately linked to translation termination. When a ribosome terminates translation at a normal termination codon, NMD is not activated, and mRNA can undergo repeated rounds of translation. On the other hand, when translation termination is deemed abnormal, such as that on a premature termination codon, it leads to a series of poorly understood events involving the NMD pathway, which destabilizes the transcript. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of how the NMD machinery interfaces with the translation termination factors to initiate NMD. We also discuss a variety of cis-acting sequence contexts and trans-acting factors that can cause readthrough, ribosome reinitiation, or ribosome frameshifting at stop codons predicted to induce NMD. These alternative outcomes can lead to the ribosome translating downstream of such stop codons and hence the transcript escaping NMD. NMD escape via these mechanisms can have wide-ranging implications on human health, from being exploited by viruses to hijack host cell systems to being harnessed as potential therapeutic possibilities to treat genetic diseases.

Unraveling docking and initiation of mRNA export through the nuclear pore complex

The nuclear export of mRNA through the nuclear pore complex (NPC) is a process required for the healthy functioning of human cells, making it a critical area of research. However, the geometries of mRNA and the NPC are well below the diffraction limit of light microscopy, thereby presenting significant challenges in evaluating the discrete interactions and dynamics involved in mRNA nuclear export through the native NPC. Recent advances in biotechnology and single-molecule super-resolution light microscopy have enabled researchers to gain granular insight into the specific contributions made by discrete nucleoporins in the nuclear basket of the NPC to the export of mRNA. Specifically, by expanding upon the docking step facilitated by the protein TPR in the nuclear basket as well as identifying NUP153 as being the primary nuclear basket protein initiating export through the central channel of the NPC.

OUP accepted manuscript

The DEAD-box protein Dbp5 is essential for RNA export, which involves regulation by the nucleoporins Gle1 and Nup159 at the cytoplasmic face of the nuclear pore complex (NPC). Mechanistic understanding of how these nucleoporins regulate RNA export requires analyses of the intrinsic and activated Dbp5 ATPase cycle. Here, kinetic and equilibrium analyses of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Gle1-activated Dbp5 ATPase cycle are presented, indicating that Gle1 and ATP, but not ADP-P_i or ADP, binding to Dbp5 are thermodynamically coupled. As a result, Gle1 binds Dbp5-ATP > 100-fold more tightly than Dbp5 in other nucleotide states and Gle1 equilibrium binding of ATP to Dbp5 increases >150-fold via slowed ATP dissociation. Second, Gle1 accelerated Dbp5 ATPase activity by increasing the rate-limiting P_i release rate constant ∼20-fold, which remains rate limiting. These data show that Gle1 activates Dbp5 by modulating ATP binding and P_i release. These Gle1 activities are expected to facilitate ATPase cycling, ensuring a pool of ATP bound Dbp5 at NPCs to engage RNA during export. This work provides a mechanism of Gle1-activation of Dbp5 and a framework to understand the joint roles of Gle1, Nup159, and other nucleoporins in regulating Dbp5 to mediate RNA export and other Dbp5 functions in gene expression.

Distinct roles of nuclear basket proteins in directing the passage of mRNA through the nuclear pore

The in vivo characterization of the exact copy number and the specific function of each composite protein within the nuclear pore complex (NPC) remains both desirable and challenging. Through the implementation of live-cell high-speed super-resolution single-molecule microscopy, we first quantified the native copies of nuclear basket (BSK) proteins (Nup153, Nup50, and Tpr) prior to knocking them down in a highly specific manner via an auxin-inducible degron strategy. Second, we determined the specific roles that BSK proteins play in the nuclear export kinetics of model messenger RNA (mRNA) substrates. Finally, the three-dimensional (3D) nuclear export routes of these mRNA substrates through native NPCs in the absence of specific BSK proteins were obtained and further validated via postlocalization computational simulations. We found that these BSK proteins possess the stoichiometric ratio of 1:1:1 and play distinct roles in the nuclear export of mRNAs within live cells. The absence of Tpr from the NPC predominantly reduces the probability of nuclear mRNAs entering the NPC for export. Complete depletion of Nup153 and Nup50 results in an mRNA nuclear export efficiency decrease of approximately four folds. mRNAs can gain their maximum successful export efficiency as the copy number of Nup153 increased from zero to only half the full complement natively within the NPC. Lastly, the absence of Tpr or Nup153 seems to alter the 3D export routes of mRNAs as they pass through the NPC. However, the removal of Nup50 alone has almost no impact upon mRNA export route and kinetics.

Mutation Screening of the GLE1 Gene in a Large Chinese Cohort of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Patients

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal progressive neurodegenerative disease involving the upper and lower motor neurons of the spinal cord, brainstem, and cerebral cortex. At least 30 genes have been implicated in familial ALS (fALS) and sporadic ALS (sALS). Kaneb et al. (2015) first carried out a large-scale sequencing study in ALS patients and identified two loss-of-function (LOF) variants in the GLE1 gene. The LOF mutation-induced disruption of RNA metabolism through the haploinsufficiency mechanism is implicated in ALS pathogenesis. A total of 628 ALS patients and 522 individuals without neurodegenerative disorders were enrolled in this study to explore the GLE1 gene contribution to ALS in the Chinese population. All 16 exons and the flanking intron of GLE1 were screened by Sanger sequencing. In total, we identified seven rare GLE1 coding variants, including one novel nonsense mutation and six rare missense mutations in 628 ALS patients. The frequency of GLE1 LOF mutations was 0.16% (1/628) among Chinese sALS patients, implying that it is an uncommon genetic determinant of ALS in Chinese patients. Additionally, the rare missense variants in the hCG1-binding domain of GLE1 impairing the distribution of the hGle1B isoform at the nuclear pore complex (NPC) region may be involved in the pathogenesis of ALS.

Nuclear mRNA maturation and mRNA export control: from trypanosomes to opisthokonts

The passage of mRNAs through the nuclear pores into the cytoplasm is essential in all eukaryotes. For regulation, mRNA export is tightly connected to the full machinery of nuclear mRNA processing, starting at transcription. Export competence of pre-mRNAs gradually increases by both transient and permanent interactions with multiple RNA processing and export factors. mRNA export is best understood in opisthokonts, with limited knowledge in plants and protozoa. Here, I review and compare nuclear mRNA processing and export between opisthokonts and Trypanosoma brucei. The parasite has many unusual features in nuclear mRNA processing, such as polycistronic transcription and trans-splicing. It lacks several nuclear complexes and nuclear-pore-associated proteins that in opisthokonts play major roles in mRNA export. As a consequence, trypanosome mRNA export control is not tight and export can even start co-transcriptionally. Whether trypanosomes regulate mRNA export at all, or whether leakage of immature mRNA to the cytoplasm is kept to a low level by a fast kinetics of mRNA processing remains to be investigated. mRNA export had to be present in the last common ancestor of eukaryotes. Trypanosomes are evolutionary very distant from opisthokonts and a comparison helps understanding the evolution of mRNA export.

Medulloblastoma-associated mutations in the DEAD-box RNA helicase DDX3X/DED1 cause specific defects in translation

Medulloblastoma is the most common pediatric brain cancer, and sequencing studies identified frequent mutations in DDX3X, a DEAD-box RNA helicase primarily implicated in translation. Forty-two different sites were identified, suggesting that the functional effects of the mutations are complex. To investigate how these mutations are affecting DDX3X cellular function, we constructed a full set of equivalent mutant alleles in DED1, the Saccharomyces cerevisiae ortholog of DDX3X, and characterized their effects in vivo and in vitro. Most of the medulloblastoma-associated mutants in DDX3X/DED1 (ded1-mam) showed substantial growth defects, indicating that functional effects are conserved in yeast. Further, while translation was affected in some mutants, translation defects affecting bulk mRNA were neither consistent nor correlated with the growth phenotypes. Likewise, increased formation of stress granules in ded1-mam mutants was common but did not correspond to the severity of the mutants' growth defects. In contrast, defects in translating mRNAs containing secondary structure in their 5' untranslated regions (UTRs) were found in almost all ded1-mam mutants and correlated well with growth phenotypes. We thus conclude that these specific translation defects, rather than generalized effects on translation, are responsible for the observed cellular phenotypes and likely contribute to DDX3X-mutant medulloblastoma. Examination of ATPase activity and RNA binding of recombinant mutant proteins also did not reveal a consistent defect, indicating that the translation defects are derived from multiple enzymatic deficiencies. This work suggests that future studies into medulloblastoma pathology should focus on this specific translation defect, while taking into account the wide spectrum of DDX3X mutations.

Emerging molecular functions and novel roles for the DEAD-box protein Dbp5/DDX19 in gene expression

The DEAD-box protein (DBP) Dbp5, a member of the superfamily II (SFII) helicases, has multiple reported roles in gene expression. First identified as an essential regulator of mRNA export in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the enzyme now has reported functions in non-coding RNA export, translation, transcription, and DNA metabolism. Localization of the protein to various cellular compartments (nucleoplasm, nuclear envelope, and cytoplasm) highlights the ability of Dbp5 to modulate different stages of the RNA lifecycle. While Dbp5 has been well studied for > 20 years, several critical questions remain regarding the mechanistic principles that govern Dbp5 localization, substrate selection, and functions in gene expression. This review aims to take a holistic view of the proposed functions of Dbp5 and evaluate models that accommodate current published data.

Extension of the phenotypic spectrum of GLE1-related disorders to a mild congenital form resembling congenital myopathy

Background

GLE1 (GLE1, RNA Export Mediator, OMIM#603371) variants are associated with severe autosomal recessive motor neuron diseases, that are lethal congenital contracture syndrome 1 (LCCS1, OMIM#253310) and congenital arthrogryposis with anterior horn cell disease (CAAHD, OMIM#611890).

The clinical spectrum of GLE1‐related disorders has been expanding these past years, including with adult‐onset amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) GLE1‐related forms, especially through the new molecular diagnosis strategies associated with the emergence of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) technologies. However, despite this phenotypic variability, reported congenital or ALS adult‐onset forms remain severe, leading to premature death.

Methods

Through multidisciplinary interactions between our Neuropediatric and Medical Genetics departments, we were able to diagnose two siblings presenting with congenital disorder, using an NGS approach accordingly to the novel French national recommendations.

Results

Two siblings with very similar clinical features, meaning neuromuscular disorder of neonatal onset with progressive improvement, were examined in our Neuropediatrics department. The clinical presentation evoked initially congenital myopathy with autosomal recessive inheritance. However, additional symptoms such as mild dysmorphic features including high anterior hairline, downslanted palpebral fissures, anteverted nares, smooth philtrum with thin upper‐lip, narrow mouth and microretrognathia or delayed expressive language and postnatal growth retardation were suggestive of a more complex clinical presentation and molecular diagnosis. Our NGS approach revealed an unexpected molecular diagnosis for these two siblings, meaning the presence of the homozygous c.1808G>T GLE1 variant.

Conclusions

We here report the mildest phenotype ever described, in two siblings carrying the homozygous c.1808G>T GLE1 variant, further widening the clinical spectrum of GLE1‐related diseases. Moreover, by reflecting current medical practice, this case report confirms the importance of establishing regular multidisciplinary meetings, essential for discussing such difficult clinical presentations to finally enable molecular diagnosis, especially when NGS technologies are used.

Pharmacological approaches for targeting cystic fibrosis nonsense mutations

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a monogenic autosomal recessive disorder. The clinical manifestations of the disease are caused by ∼2,000 mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. It is unlikely that any one approach will be efficient in correcting all defects. The recent approvals of ivacaftor, lumacaftor/ivacaftor and elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor represent the genesis of a new era of precision combination medicine for the CF patient population. In this review, we discuss targeted translational readthrough approaches as mono and combination therapies for CFTR nonsense mutations. We examine the current status of efficacy of translational readthrough/nonsense suppression therapies and their limitations, including non-native amino acid incorporation at PTCs and nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD), along with approaches to tackle these limitations. We further elaborate on combining various therapies such as readthrough agents, NMD inhibitors, and corrector/potentiators to improve the efficacy and safety of suppression therapy. These mutation specific strategies that are directed towards the basic CF defects should positively impact CF patients bearing nonsense mutations.

Dbp5/DDX19 between Translational Readthrough and Nonsense Mediated Decay

The DEAD-box protein Dbp5 (human DDX19) remodels RNA-protein complexes. Dbp5 functions in ribonucleoprotein export and translation termination. Termination occurs, when the ribosome has reached a stop codon through the Dbp5 mediated delivery of the eukaryotic termination factor eRF1. eRF1 contacts eRF3 upon dissociation of Dbp5, resulting in polypeptide chain release and subsequent ribosomal subunit splitting. Mutations in DBP5 lead to stop codon readthrough, because the eRF1 and eRF3 interaction is not controlled and occurs prematurely. This identifies Dbp5/DDX19 as a possible potent drug target for nonsense suppression therapy. Neurodegenerative diseases and cancer are caused in many cases by the loss of a gene product, because its mRNA contained a premature termination codon (PTC) and is thus eliminated through the nonsense mediated decay (NMD) pathway, which is described in the second half of this review. We discuss translation termination and NMD in the light of Dbp5/DDX19 and subsequently speculate on reducing Dbp5/DDX19 activity to allow readthrough of the PTC and production of a full-length protein to detract the RNA from NMD as a possible treatment for diseases.

Translation termination depends on the sequential ribosomal entry of eRF1 and eRF3

Translation termination requires eRF1 and eRF3 for polypeptide- and tRNA-release on stop codons. Additionally, Dbp5/DDX19 and Rli1/ABCE1 are required; however, their function in this process is currently unknown. Using a combination of in vivo and in vitro experiments, we show that they regulate a stepwise assembly of the termination complex. Rli1 and eRF3-GDP associate with the ribosome first. Subsequently, Dbp5-ATP delivers eRF1 to the stop codon and in this way prevents a premature access of eRF3. Dbp5 dissociates upon placing eRF1 through ATP-hydrolysis. This in turn enables eRF1 to contact eRF3, as the binding of Dbp5 and eRF3 to eRF1 is mutually exclusive. Defects in the Dbp5-guided eRF1 delivery lead to premature contact and premature dissociation of eRF1 and eRF3 from the ribosome and to subsequent stop codon readthrough. Thus, the stepwise Dbp5-controlled termination complex assembly is essential for regular translation termination events. Our data furthermore suggest a possible role of Dbp5/DDX19 in alternative translation termination events, such as during stress response or in developmental processes, which classifies the helicase as a potential drug target for nonsense suppression therapy to treat cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

A nuclear role for the DEAD-box protein Dbp5 in tRNA export

Dbp5 is an essential DEAD-box protein that mediates nuclear mRNP export. Dbp5 also shuttles between nuclear and cytoplasmic compartments with reported roles in transcription, ribosomal subunit export, and translation; however, the mechanism(s) by which nucleocytoplasmic transport occurs and how Dbp5 specifically contributes to each of these processes remains unclear. Towards understanding the functions and transport of Dbp5 in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, alanine scanning mutagenesis was used to generate point mutants at all possible residues within a GFP-Dbp5 reporter. Characterization of the 456 viable mutants led to the identification of an N-terminal Xpo1-dependent nuclear export signal in Dbp5, in addition to other separation-of-function alleles, which together provide evidence that Dbp5 nuclear shuttling is not essential for mRNP export. Rather, disruptions in Dbp5 nucleocytoplasmic transport result in tRNA export defects, including changes in tRNA shuttling dynamics during recovery from nutrient stress.

Fungal Kinases With a Sweet Tooth: Pleiotropic Roles of Their Phosphorylated Inositol Sugar Products in the Pathogenicity of Cryptococcus neoformans Present Novel Drug Targeting Opportunities

Invasive fungal pathogens cause more than 300 million serious human infections and 1.6 million deaths per year. A clearer understanding of the mechanisms by which these fungi cause disease is needed to identify novel targets for urgently needed therapies. Kinases are key components of the signaling and metabolic circuitry of eukaryotic cells, which include fungi, and kinase inhibition is currently being exploited for the treatment of human diseases. Inhibiting evolutionarily divergent kinases in fungal pathogens is a promising avenue for antifungal drug development. One such group of kinases is the phospholipase C1-dependent inositol polyphosphate kinases (IPKs), which act sequentially to transfer a phosphoryl group to a pre-phosphorylated inositol sugar (IP). This review focuses on the roles of fungal IPKs and their IP products in fungal pathogenicity, as determined predominantly from studies performed in the model fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans, and compares them to what is known in non-pathogenic model fungi and mammalian cells to highlight potential drug targeting opportunities.

Gle1 mediates stress granule-dependent survival during chemotoxic stress

Stress granules (SGs) are non-membrane bound organelles that form in response to multiple different stress stimuli, including exposure to sodium arsenite. SGs are postulated to support cells during periods of stress and provide a protective effect, allowing survival. Gle1 is a highly conserved, essential modulator of RNA-dependent DEAD-box proteins that exists as at least two distinct isoforms in human cells. Gle1A is required for proper SG formation, whereas Gle1B functions in mRNA export at the nuclear pore complex. Since Gle1A is required for SG function, we hypothesized that SG-dependent survival responses would also be Gle1-dependent. We describe here an experimental system for quantifying and testing the SG-associated survival response to sodium arsenite stress in HeLa cells. Gle1A was required for the sodium arsenite survival response, and overexpression of Gle1A supported the survival response. Overexpression of the SG-component G3BP also enabled the response. Next, we analyzed whether cells undergoing multiple rounds of stress yield a subpopulation with a higher propensity for SG formation and an increased resistance to undergoing apoptosis. After ten doses of sodium arsenite treatment, cells became resistant to sodium arsenite and to diclofenac sodium (another SG-inducing drug). The sodium arsenite-resistant cells exhibited changes in SG biology and had an increased survival response that was conferred in a paracrine manner. Changes in secreted factors occurred including a significantly lower level of MCP-1, a known regulator of stress granules and stress-induced apoptosis. This study supports models wherein SGs play a role in cell evasion of apoptosis and further reveal Gle1A and SG functions as targets for clinical approaches directed at chemoresistant/refractory cells.

Structural and functional analysis of mRNA export regulation by the nuclear pore complex

The nuclear pore complex (NPC) controls the passage of macromolecules between the nucleus and cytoplasm, but how the NPC directly participates in macromolecular transport remains poorly understood. In the final step of mRNA export, the DEAD-box helicase DDX19 is activated by the nucleoporins Gle1, Nup214, and Nup42 to remove Nxf1•Nxt1 from mRNAs. Here, we report crystal structures of Gle1•Nup42 from three organisms that reveal an evolutionarily conserved binding mode. Biochemical reconstitution of the DDX19 ATPase cycle establishes that human DDX19 activation does not require IP₆, unlike its fungal homologs, and that Gle1 stability affects DDX19 activation. Mutations linked to motor neuron diseases cause decreased Gle1 thermostability, implicating nucleoporin misfolding as a disease determinant. Crystal structures of human Gle1•Nup42•DDX19 reveal the structural rearrangements in DDX19 from an auto-inhibited to an RNA-binding competent state. Together, our results provide the foundation for further mechanistic analyses of mRNA export in humans.

The export of mRNA to the cytosol depends on the nuclear pore complex (NPC) and the activation of the helicase DDX19, but their interplay in humans remains poorly understood. Here, the authors present a structural and functional analysis of DDX19 activation, revealing how the human NPC regulates mRNA export.

Nup159 Weakens Gle1 Binding to Dbp5 But Does Not Accelerate ADP Release

Dbp5, DDX19 in humans, is an essential DEAD-box protein involved in mRNA export, which has also been linked to other cellular processes, including rRNA export and translation. Dbp5 ATPase activity is regulated by several factors, including RNA, the nucleoporin proteins Nup159 and Gle1, and the endogenous small-molecule inositol hexakisphosphate (InsP₆). To better understand how these factors modulate Dbp5 activity and how this modulation relates to in vivo RNA metabolism, a detailed characterization of the Dbp5 mechanochemical cycle in the presence of those regulators individually or together is necessary. In this study, we test the hypothesis that Nup159 controls the ADP-bound state of Dbp5. In addition, the contributions of Mg²⁺ to the kinetics and thermodynamics of ADP binding to Dbp5 were assessed. Using a solution based in vitro approach, Mg²⁺ was found to slow ADP and ATP release from Dbp5 and increased the overall ADP and ATP affinities, as observed with other NTPases. Furthermore, Nup159 did not accelerate ADP release, while Gle1 actually slowed ADP release independent of Mg²⁺. These findings are not consistent with Nup159 acting as a nucleotide exchange factor to promote ADP release and Dbp5 ATPase cycling. Instead, in the presence of Nup159, the interaction between Gle1 and ADP-bound Dbp5 was found to be reduced by ~18-fold, suggesting that Nup159 alters the Dbp5-Gle1 interaction to aid Gle1 release from Dbp5.

Depletion of mRNA export regulator DBP5/DDX19, GLE1 or IPPK that is a key enzyme for the production of IP6, resulting in differentially altered cytoplasmic mRNA expression and specific cell defect

DBP5, also known as DDX19, GLE1 and inositol hexakisphosphate (IP₆) function in messenger RNA (mRNA) export at the cytoplasmic surface of the nuclear pore complex in eukaryotic cells. DBP5 is a DEAD-box RNA helicase, and its activity is stimulated by interactions with GLE1 and IP₆. In addition, these three factors also have unique role(s). To investigate how these factors influenced the cytoplasmic mRNA expression and cell phenotype change, we performed RNA microarray analysis to detect the effect and function of DBP5, GLE1 and IP₆ on the cytoplasmic mRNA expression. The expression of some cytoplasmic mRNA subsets (e.g. cell cycle, DNA replication) was commonly suppressed by the knock-down of DBP5, GLE1 and IPPK (IP₆ synthetic enzyme). The GLE1 knock-down selectively reduced the cytoplasmic mRNA expression required for mitotic progression, results in an abnormal spindle phenotype and caused the delay of mitotic process. Meanwhile, G1/S cell cycle arrest was observed in DBP5 and IPPK knock-down cells. Several factors that function in immune response were also down-regulated in DBP5 or IPPK knock-down cells. Thereby, IFNβ-1 mRNA transcription evoked by poly(I:C) treatment was suppressed. These results imply that DBP5, GLE1 and IP₆ have a conserved and individual function in the cytoplasmic mRNA expression. Variations in phenotype are due to the difference in each function of DBP5, GLE1 and IPPK in intracellular mRNA metabolism.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: recent genetic highlights

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), like other neurodegenerative diseases, remains incurable, but gene mutations linked to ALS are providing clues as to how to target therapies. It is important for researchers to keep abreast of the rapid influx of new data in ALS, and we aim to summarize the major genetic advances made in the field over the past 2 years.

RECENT FINDINGS

Significant variation in seven genes has recently been found in ALS: TBK1, CCNF, GLE1, MATR3, TUBA4A, CHCHD10 and NEK1. These have mostly been identified through large exome screening studies, though traditional linkage approaches and candidate gene screening remain important. We briefly update C9orf72 research, noting in particular the development of reagents to better understand the normal role of C9orf72 protein.

SUMMARY

Striking advances in our understanding of the genetic heterogeneity of ALS continue to be made, year on year. These implicate proteostasis, RNA export, nuclear transport, the cytoskeleton, mitochondrial function, the cell cycle and DNA repair. Functional studies to integrate these hits are needed. By building a web of knowledge with interlinked genes and mechanisms, it is hoped we can better understand ALS and work toward effective therapies.

The roles of intrinsic disorder-based liquid-liquid phase transitions in the "Dr. Jekyll-Mr. Hyde" behavior of proteins involved in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal lobar degeneration

Pathological developments leading to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) are associated with misbehavior of several key proteins, such as SOD1 (superoxide dismutase 1), TARDBP/TDP-43, FUS, C9orf72, and dipeptide repeat proteins generated as a result of the translation of the intronic hexanucleotide expansions in the C9orf72 gene, PFN1 (profilin 1), GLE1 (GLE1, RNA export mediator), PURA (purine rich element binding protein A), FLCN (folliculin), RBM45 (RNA binding motif protein 45), SS18L1/CREST, HNRNPA1 (heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1), HNRNPA2B1 (heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A2/B1), ATXN2 (ataxin 2), MAPT (microtubule associated protein tau), and TIA1 (TIA1 cytotoxic granule associated RNA binding protein). Although these proteins are structurally and functionally different and have rather different pathological functions, they all possess some levels of intrinsic disorder and are either directly engaged in or are at least related to the physiological liquid-liquid phase transitions (LLPTs) leading to the formation of various proteinaceous membrane-less organelles (PMLOs), both normal and pathological. This review describes the normal and pathological functions of these ALS- and FTLD-related proteins, describes their major structural properties, glances at their intrinsic disorder status, and analyzes the involvement of these proteins in the formation of normal and pathological PMLOs, with the ultimate goal of better understanding the roles of LLPTs and intrinsic disorder in the "Dr. Jekyll-Mr. Hyde" behavior of those proteins.

Gle1 Regulates RNA Binding of the DEAD-Box Helicase Ded1 in Its Complex Role in Translation Initiation

DEAD-box proteins (DBPs) are required in gene expression to facilitate changes to ribonucleoprotein complexes, but the cellular mechanisms and regulation of DBPs are not fully defined. Gle1 is a multifunctional regulator of DBPs with roles in mRNA export and translation. In translation, Gle1 modulates Ded1, a DBP required for initiation. However, DED1 overexpression causes defects, suggesting that Ded1 can promote or repress translation in different contexts. Here we show that GLE1 expression suppresses the repressive effects of DED1 in vivo and Gle1 counteracts Ded1 in translation assays in vitro Furthermore, both Ded1 and Gle1 affect the assembly of preinitiation complexes. Through mutation analysis and binding assays, we show that Gle1 inhibits Ded1 by reducing its affinity for RNA. Our results are consistent with a model wherein active Ded1 promotes translation but inactive or excess Ded1 leads to translation repression. Gle1 can inhibit either role of Ded1, positioning it as a gatekeeper to optimize Ded1 activity to the appropriate level for translation. This study suggests a paradigm for finely controlling the activity of DEAD-box proteins to optimize their function in RNA-based processes. It also positions the versatile regulator Gle1 as a potential node for the coordination of different steps of gene expression.

Nup42 and IP6 coordinate Gle1 stimulation of Dbp5/DDX19B for mRNA export in yeast and human cells

The mRNA lifecycle is driven through spatiotemporal changes in the protein composition of mRNA particles (mRNPs) that are triggered by RNA-dependent DEAD-box protein (Dbp) ATPases. As mRNPs exit the nuclear pore complex (NPC) in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, this remodeling occurs through activation of Dbp5 by inositol hexakisphosphate (IP₆ )-bound Gle1. At the NPC, Gle1 also binds Nup42, but Nup42's molecular function is unclear. Here we employ the power of structure-function analysis in S. cerevisiae and human (h) cells, and find that the high-affinity Nup42-Gle1 interaction is integral to Dbp5 (hDDX19B) activation and efficient mRNA export. The Nup42 carboxy-terminal domain (CTD) binds Gle1/hGle1B at an interface distinct from the Gle1-Dbp5/hDDX19B interaction site. A nup42-CTD/gle1-CTD/Dbp5 trimeric complex forms in the presence of IP₆ . Deletion of NUP42 abrogates Gle1-Dbp5 interaction, and disruption of the Nup42 or IP₆ binding interfaces on Gle1/hGle1B leads to defective mRNA export in S. cerevisiae and human cells. In vitro, Nup42-CTD and IP₆ stimulate Gle1/hGle1B activation of Dbp5 and DDX19B recombinant proteins in similar, nonadditive manners, demonstrating complete functional conservation between humans and S. cerevisiae. Together, a highly conserved mechanism governs spatial coordination of mRNP remodeling during export. This has implications for understanding human disease mutations that perturb the Nup42-hGle1B interaction.

RNA helicase DDX19 stabilizes ribosomal elongation and termination complexes

The human DEAD-box RNA-helicase DDX19 functions in mRNA export through the nuclear pore complex. The yeast homolog of this protein, Dbp5, has been reported to participate in translation termination. Using a reconstituted mammalian in vitro translation system, we show that the human protein DDX19 is also important for translation termination. It is associated with the fraction of translating ribosomes. We show that DDX19 interacts with pre-termination complexes (preTCs) in a nucleotide-dependent manner. Furthermore, DDX19 increases the efficiency of termination complex (TC) formation and the peptide release in the presence of eukaryotic release factors. Using the eRF1(AGQ) mutant protein or a non-hydrolysable analog of GTP to inhibit subsequent peptidyl-tRNA hydrolysis, we reveal that the activation of translation termination by DDX19 occurs during the stop codon recognition. This activation is a result of DDX19 binding to preTC and a concomitant stabilization of terminating ribosomes. Moreover, we show that DDX19 stabilizes ribosome complexes with translation elongation factors eEF1 and eEF2. Taken together, our findings reveal that the human RNA helicase DDX19 actively participates in protein biosynthesis.

[PSI+] prion propagation is controlled by inositol polyphosphates

The yeast prions [PSI+] and [URE3] are folded in-register parallel β-sheet amyloids of Sup35p and Ure2p, respectively. In a screen for antiprion systems curing [PSI+] without protein overproduction, we detected Siw14p as an antiprion element. An array of genetic tests confirmed that many variants of [PSI+] arising in the absence of Siw14p are cured by restoring normal levels of the protein. Siw14p is a pyrophosphatase specifically cleaving the β phosphate from 5-diphosphoinositol pentakisphosphate (5PP-IP5), suggesting that increased levels of this or some other inositol polyphosphate favors [PSI+] propagation. In support of this notion, we found that nearly all variants of [PSI+] isolated in a WT strain were lost upon loss of ARG82, which encodes inositol polyphosphate multikinase. Inactivation of the Arg82p kinase by D131A and K133A mutations (preserving Arg82p's nonkinase transcription regulation functions) resulted the loss of its ability to support [PSI+] propagation. The loss of [PSI+] in arg82Δ is independent of Hsp104's antiprion activity. [PSI+] variants requiring Arg82p could propagate in ipk1Δ (IP5 kinase), kcs1Δ (IP6 5-kinase), vip1Δ (IP6 1-kinase), ddp1Δ (inositol pyrophosphatase), or kcs1Δ vip1Δ mutants but not in ipk1Δ kcs1Δ or ddp1Δ kcs1Δ double mutants. Thus, nearly all [PSI+] prion variants require inositol poly-/pyrophosphates for their propagation, and at least IP6 or 5PP-IP4 can support [PSI+] propagation.

Comprehensive analysis of nucleocytoplasmic dynamics of mRNA in Drosophila cells

Eukaryotic mRNAs undergo a cycle of transcription, nuclear export, and degradation. A major challenge is to obtain a global, quantitative view of these processes. Here we measured the genome-wide nucleocytoplasmic dynamics of mRNA in Drosophila cells by metabolic labeling in combination with cellular fractionation. By mathematical modeling of these data we determined rates of transcription, export and cytoplasmic decay for 5420 genes. We characterized these kinetic rates and investigated links with mRNA features, RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and chromatin states. We found prominent correlations between mRNA decay rate and transcript size, while nuclear export rates are linked to the size of the 3'UTR. Transcription, export and decay rates are each associated with distinct spectra of RBPs. Specific classes of genes, such as those encoding cytoplasmic ribosomal proteins, exhibit characteristic combinations of rate constants, suggesting modular control. Binding of splicing factors is associated with faster rates of export, and our data suggest coordinated regulation of nuclear export of specific functional classes of genes. Finally, correlations between rate constants suggest global coordination between the three processes. Our approach provides insights into the genome-wide nucleocytoplasmic kinetics of mRNA and should be generally applicable to other cell systems.

All mRNAs start from production in the nucleus, undergo exportation through nuclear pores and finally are degraded in the cytoplasm. A comprehensive characterization of the kinetic rates of all mRNAs is an important prerequisite for a global understanding of the regulation of the transcriptome and the cell. By conducting a time-series experiment and building a mathematical model, we trace the dynamics of mRNAs from the nucleus to the cytoplasm and determine the rates at each kinetic step at transcriptome-wide level. This information allows us to associate mRNA kinetic rates with a wealth of biological features and made some intriguing discoveries. We show mRNA decay is positively linked to transcript length while mRNA export is negatively linked to the length of the 3' UTR. We show binding of splicing factors is associated with faster rates of mRNA export. We provide evidence for global coordination between nuclear export an decay of mRNA. We show genes sharing specific functions tend to have similar nucleoplasmic kinetics, in which ribosomal proteins possessing special kinetic features exclusively stand out. Altogether, our integrated approach to quantitatively determine the rates of kinetic steps on a gene-by-gene basis provides a blueprint to obtain the global understanding of RNA regulation.

Nonsense Suppression as an Approach to Treat Lysosomal Storage Diseases

In-frame premature termination codons (PTCs) (also referred to as nonsense mutations) comprise ~10% of all disease-associated gene lesions. PTCs reduce gene expression in two ways. First, PTCs prematurely terminate translation of an mRNA, leading to the production of a truncated polypeptide that often lacks normal function and/or is unstable. Second, PTCs trigger degradation of an mRNA by activating nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD), a cellular pathway that recognizes and degrades mRNAs containing a PTC. Thus, translation termination and NMD are putative therapeutic targets for the development of treatments for genetic diseases caused by PTCs. Over the past decade, significant progress has been made in the identification of compounds with the ability to suppress translation termination of PTCs (also referred to as readthrough). More recently, NMD inhibitors have also been explored as a way to enhance the efficiency of PTC suppression. Due to their relatively low threshold for correction, lysosomal storage diseases are a particularly relevant group of diseases to investigate the feasibility of nonsense suppression as a therapeutic approach. In this review, the current status of PTC suppression and NMD inhibition as potential treatments for lysosomal storage diseases will be discussed.

A role for Gle1, a regulator of DEAD-box RNA helicases, at centrosomes and basal bodies

Control of organellar assembly and function is critical to eukaryotic homeostasis and survival. Gle1 is a highly conserved regulator of RNA-dependent DEAD-box ATPase proteins, with critical roles in both mRNA export and translation. In addition to its well-defined interaction with nuclear pore complexes, here we find that Gle1 is enriched at the centrosome and basal body. Gle1 assembles into the toroid-shaped pericentriolar material around the mother centriole. Reduced Gle1 levels are correlated with decreased pericentrin localization at the centrosome and microtubule organization defects. Of importance, these alterations in centrosome integrity do not result from loss of mRNA export. Examination of the Kupffer's vesicle in Gle1-depleted zebrafish revealed compromised ciliary beating and developmental defects. We propose that Gle1 assembly into the pericentriolar material positions the DEAD-box protein regulator to function in localized mRNA metabolism required for proper centrosome function.

P(I) Release Limits the Intrinsic and RNA-Stimulated ATPase Cycles of DEAD-Box Protein 5 (Dbp5)

mRNA export from the nucleus depends on the ATPase activity of the DEAD-box protein Dbp5/DDX19. Although Dbp5 has measurable ATPase activity alone, several regulatory factors (e.g., RNA, nucleoporin proteins, and the endogenous small molecule InsP₆) modulate catalytic activity in vitro and in vivo to facilitate mRNA export. An analysis of the intrinsic and regulator-activated Dbp5 ATPase cycle is necessary to define how these factors control Dbp5 and mRNA export. Here, we report a kinetic and equilibrium analysis of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Dbp5 ATPase cycle, including the influence of RNA on Dbp5 activity. These data show that ATP binds Dbp5 weakly in rapid equilibrium with a binding affinity (K_T ~ 4 mM) comparable to the K_M for steady-state cycling, while ADP binds an order of magnitude more tightly (K_D ~ 0.4 mM). The overall intrinsic steady-state cycling rate constant (k_cat) is limited by slow, near-irreversible ATP hydrolysis and even slower subsequent phosphate release. RNA increases k_cat and rate-limiting P_i release 20-fold, although P_i release continues to limit steady-state cycling in the presence of RNA, in conjunction with RNA binding. Together, this work identifies RNA binding and P_i release as important biochemical transitions within the Dbp5 ATPase cycle and provides a framework for investigating the means by which Dbp5 and mRNA export is modulated by regulatory factors.

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mRNA export from the nucleus requires DEAD-box protein Dbp5/DDX19 ATPase activity.

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Kinetics and thermodynamics of intrinsic Dbp5 ATPase reveal RNA's effect on Dbp5.

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Intrinsic Dbp5 ATPase is limited by slow ATP hydrolysis and slower P_i release.

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RNA activates P_i release, but it and RNA binding still limit RNA-stimulated ATPase.

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RNA binding and P_i release define RNA-stimulated Dbp5 ATPase for further regulation.

In vivo single-particle imaging of nuclear mRNA export in budding yeast demonstrates an essential role for Mex67p

Many messenger RNA export proteins have been identified; yet the spatial and temporal activities of these proteins and how they determine directionality of messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) complex export from the nucleus remain largely undefined. Here, the bacteriophage PP7 RNA-labeling system was used in Saccharomyces cerevisiae to follow single-particle mRNP export events with high spatial precision and temporal resolution. These data reveal that mRNP export, consisting of nuclear docking, transport, and cytoplasmic release from a nuclear pore complex (NPC), is fast (∼ 200 ms) and that upon arrival in the cytoplasm, mRNPs are frequently confined near the nuclear envelope. Mex67p functions as the principal mRNP export receptor in budding yeast. In a mex67-5 mutant, delayed cytoplasmic release from NPCs and retrograde transport of mRNPs was observed. This proves an essential role for Mex67p in cytoplasmic mRNP release and directionality of transport.

An amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-linked mutation in GLE1 alters the cellular pool of human Gle1 functional isoforms

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a lethal late onset motor neuron disease with underlying cellular defects in RNA metabolism. In prior studies, two deleterious heterozygous mutations in the gene encoding human (h)Gle1 were identified in ALS patients. hGle1 is an mRNA processing modulator that requires inositol hexakisphosphate (IP₆) binding for function. Interestingly, one hGLE1 mutation (c.1965-2A>C) results in a novel 88 amino acid C-terminal insertion, generating an altered protein. Like hGle1A, at steady state, the altered protein termed hGle1-IVS14-2A>C is absent from the nuclear envelope rim and localizes to the cytoplasm. hGle1A performs essential cytoplasmic functions in translation and stress granule regulation. Therefore, we speculated that the ALS disease pathology results from altered cellular pools of hGle1 and increased cytoplasmic hGle1 activity. GFP-hGle1-IVS14-2A>C localized to stress granules comparably to GFP-hGle1A, and rescued stress granule defects following siRNA-mediated hGle1 depletion. As described for hGle1A, overexpression of the hGle1-IVS14-2A>C protein also induced formation of larger SGs. Interestingly, hGle1A and the disease associated hGle1-IVS14-2A>C overexpression induced the formation of distinct cytoplasmic protein aggregates that appear similar to those found in neurodegenerative diseases. Strikingly, the ALS-linked hGle1-IVS14-2A>C protein also rescued mRNA export defects upon depletion of endogenous hGle1, acting in a potentially novel bi-functional manner. We conclude that the ALS-linked hGle1-c.1965-2A>C mutation generates a protein isoform capable of both hGle1A- and hGle1B-ascribed functions, and thereby uncoupled from normal mechanisms of hGle1 regulation.

Synthesis of Biotinylated Inositol Hexakisphosphate To Study DNA Double-Strand Break Repair and Affinity Capture of IP6-Binding Proteins

Inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6) is a soluble inositol polyphosphate, which is abundant in mammalian cells. Despite the participation of IP6 in critical cellular functions, few IP6-binding proteins have been characterized. We report on the synthesis, characterization, and application of biotin-labeled IP6 (IP6-biotin), which has biotin attached at position 2 of the myo-inositol ring via an aminohexyl linker. Like natural IP6, IP6-biotin stimulated DNA ligation by nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ) in vitro. The Ku protein is a required NHEJ factor that has been shown to bind IP6. We found that IP6-biotin could affinity capture Ku and other required NHEJ factors from human cell extracts, including the DNA-dependent protein kinase catalytic subunit (DNA-PKcs), XRCC4, and XLF. Direct binding studies with recombinant proteins show that Ku is the only NHEJ factor with affinity for IP6-biotin. DNA-PKcs, XLF, and the XRCC4:ligase IV complex interact with Ku in cell extracts and likely interact indirectly with IP6-biotin. IP6-biotin was used to tether streptavidin to Ku, which inhibited NHEJ in vitro. These proof-of-concept experiments suggest that molecules like IP6-biotin might be used to molecularly target biologically important proteins that bind IP6. IP6-biotin affinity capture experiments show that numerous proteins specifically bind IP6-biotin, including casein kinase 2, which is known to bind IP6, and nucleolin. Protein binding to IP6-biotin is selective, as IP3, IP4, and IP5 did not compete for binding of proteins to IP6-biotin. Our results document IP6-biotin as a useful tool for investigating the role of IP6 in biological systems.

Multiple Export Mechanisms for mRNAs

Nuclear mRNA export plays an important role in gene expression. We describe the mechanisms of mRNA export including the importance of mRNP assembly, docking with the nuclear basket of the nuclear pore complex (NPC), transit through the central channel of the NPC and cytoplasmic release. We describe multiple mechanisms of mRNA export including NXF1 and CRM1 mediated pathways. Selective groups of mRNAs can be preferentially transported in order to respond to cellular stimuli. RNAs can be selected based on the presence of specific cis-acting RNA elements and binding of specific adaptor proteins. The role that dysregulation of this process plays in human disease is also discussed.

InsP6-sensitive variants of the Gle1 mRNA export factor rescue growth and fertility defects of the ipk1 low-phytic-acid mutation in Arabidopsis

Myo-inositol-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexakisphosphate (InsP(6)), also known as phytic acid, accumulates in large quantities in plant seeds, serving as a phosphorus reservoir, but is an animal antinutrient and an important source of water pollution. Here, we report that Gle1 (GLFG lethal 1) in conjunction with InsP(6) functions as an activator of the ATPase/RNA helicase LOS4 (low expression of osmotically responsive genes 4), which is involved in mRNA export in plants, supporting the Gle1-InsP(6)-Dbp5 (LOS4 homolog) paradigm proposed in yeast. Interestingly, plant Gle1 proteins have modifications in several key residues of the InsP(6) binding pocket, which reduce the basicity of the surface charge. Arabidopsis thaliana Gle1 variants containing mutations that increase the basic charge of the InsP(6) binding surface show increased sensitivity to InsP(6) concentrations for the stimulation of LOS4 ATPase activity in vitro. Expression of the Gle1 variants with enhanced InsP(6) sensitivity rescues the mRNA export defect of the ipk1 (inositol 1,3,4,5,6-pentakisphosphate 2-kinase) InsP(6)-deficient mutant and, furthermore, significantly improves vegetative growth, seed yield, and seed performance of the mutant. These results suggest that Gle1 is an important factor responsible for mediating InsP(6) functions in plant growth and reproduction and that Gle1 variants with increased InsP(6) sensitivity may be useful for engineering high-yielding low-phytate crops.

Deleterious mutations in the essential mRNA metabolism factor, hGle1, in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the selective death of motor neurons. Causative mutations in the global RNA-processing proteins TDP-43 and FUS among others, as well as their aggregation in ALS patients, have identified defects in RNA metabolism as an important feature in this disease. Lethal congenital contracture syndrome 1 and lethal arthrogryposis with anterior horn cell disease are autosomal recessive fetal motor neuron diseases that are caused by mutations in another global RNA-processing protein, hGle1. In this study, we carried out the first screening of GLE1 in ALS patients (173 familial and 760 sporadic) and identified 2 deleterious mutations (1 splice site and 1 nonsense mutation) and 1 missense mutation. Functional analysis of the deleterious mutants revealed them to be unable to rescue motor neuron pathology in zebrafish morphants lacking Gle1. Furthermore, in HeLa cells, both mutations caused a depletion of hGle1 at the nuclear pore where it carries out an essential role in nuclear export of mRNA. These results suggest a haploinsufficiency mechanism and point to a causative role for GLE1 mutations in ALS patients. This further supports the involvement of global defects in RNA metabolism in ALS.

Nucleoporin FG domains facilitate mRNP remodeling at the cytoplasmic face of the nuclear pore complex

Directional export of messenger RNA (mRNA) protein particles (mRNPs) through nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) requires multiple factors. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the NPC proteins Nup159 and Nup42 are asymmetrically localized to the cytoplasmic face and have distinct functional domains: a phenylalanine-glycine (FG) repeat domain that docks mRNP transport receptors and domains that bind the DEAD-box ATPase Dbp5 and its activating cofactor Gle1, respectively. We speculated that the Nup42 and Nup159 FG domains play a role in positioning mRNPs for the terminal mRNP-remodeling steps carried out by Dbp5. Here we find that deletion (Δ) of both the Nup42 and Nup159 FG domains results in a cold-sensitive poly(A)+ mRNA export defect. The nup42ΔFG nup159ΔFG mutant also has synthetic lethal genetic interactions with dbp5 and gle1 mutants. RNA cross-linking experiments further indicate that the nup42ΔFG nup159ΔFG mutant has a reduced capacity for mRNP remodeling during export. To further analyze the role of these FG domains, we replaced the Nup159 or Nup42 FG domains with FG domains from other Nups. These FG "swaps" demonstrate that only certain FG domains are functional at the NPC cytoplasmic face. Strikingly, fusing the Nup42 FG domain to the carboxy-terminus of Gle1 bypasses the need for the endogenous Nup42 FG domain, highlighting the importance of proximal positioning for these factors. We conclude that the Nup42 and Nup159 FG domains target the mRNP to Gle1 and Dbp5 for mRNP remodeling at the NPC. Moreover, these results provide key evidence that character and context play a direct role in FG domain function and mRNA export.

Insights into mRNA export-linked molecular mechanisms of human disease through a Gle1 structure-function analysis

A critical step during gene expression is the directional export of nuclear messenger (m)RNA through nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) to the cytoplasm. During export, Gle1 in conjunction with inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6) spatially regulates the activity of the DEAD-box protein Dbp5 at the NPC cytoplasmic face. GLE1 mutations are causally linked to the human diseases lethal congenital contracture syndrome 1 (LCCS-1) and lethal arthrogryposis with anterior horn cell disease (LAAHD). Here, structure prediction and functional analysis provide strong evidence to suggest that the LCCS-1 and LAAHD disease mutations disrupt the function of Gle1 in mRNA export. Strikingly, direct fluorescence microscopy in living cells reveals a dramatic loss of steady-state NPC localization for GFP-gle1 proteins expressed from human gle1 genes harboring LAAHD and LCCS-1 mutations. The potential significance of these residues is further clarified by analyses of sequence and predicted structural conservation. This work offers insights into the perturbed mechanisms underlying human LCCS-1 and LAAHD disease states and emphasizes the potential impact of altered mRNA transport and gene expression in human disease.

Conformational stability of inositol 1,3,4,5,6-pentakisphosphate 2-kinase (IPK1) dictates its substrate selectivity

Inositol 1,3,4,5,6-pentakisphosphate 2-kinase (IPK1) converts inositol 1,3,4,5,6-pentakisphosphate(IP5) to inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6). IPK1 shares structural similarity with protein kinases and is suspected to employ a similar mechanism of activation. Previous studies revealed roles for the 1- and 3-phosphates of IP5 in IPK1 activation and revealed that the N-lobe of IPK1 is unstable in the absence of inositol phosphate (IP). Here, we demonstrate the link between IPK1 substrate specificity and the stability of its N-lobe. Limited proteolysis of IPK1 revealed that N-lobe stability is dependent on the presence of the 1-phosphate of the substrate, whereas overall stability of IPK1 was increased in ternary complexes with nucleotide and IPs possessing 1- and 3-phosphates that engage the N-lobe of IPK1. Thus, the 1- and 3-phosphates possess dual roles in both IPK1 activation and IPK1 stability. To test whether kinase stability directly contributed to substrate selectivity of the kinase, we engineered IPK1 mutants with disulfide bonds that artificially stabilized the N-lobe in an IP-independent manner thereby mimicking its substrate-bound state in the absence of IP. IPK1 E82C/S142C exhibited a DTT-sensitive 5-fold increase in kcat for 3,4,5,6-inositol tetrakisphosphate (3,4,5,6-IP4) as compared with wild-type IPK1. The crystal structure of the IPK1 E82C/S142C mutant confirmed the presence of the disulfide bond and revealed a small shift in the N-lobe. Finally, we determined that IPK1 E82C/S142C is substantially more stable than wild-type IPK1 under nonreducing conditions, revealing that increased stability of IPK1 E82C/S142C correlates with changes in substrate specificity by allowing IPs lacking the stabilizing 1-phosphate to be used. Taken together, our results show that IPK1 substrate selection is linked to the ability of each potential substrate to stabilize IPK1.

Gle1 functions during mRNA export in an oligomeric complex that is altered in human disease

The conserved multifunctional protein Gle1 regulates gene expression at multiple steps: nuclear mRNA export, translation initiation, and translation termination. A GLE1 mutation (FinMajor) is causally linked to human lethal congenital contracture syndrome-1 (LCCS1); however, the resulting perturbations on Gle1 molecular function were unknown. FinMajor results in a proline-phenylalanine-glutamine peptide insertion within the uncharacterized Gle1 coiled-coil domain. Here, we find that Gle1 self-associates both in vitro and in living cells via the coiled-coil domain. Electron microscopy reveals that high-molecular-mass Gle1 oligomers form ?26 nm diameter disk-shaped particles. With the Gle1-FinMajor protein, these particles are malformed. Moreover, functional assays document a specific requirement for proper Gle1 oligomerization during mRNA export, but not for Gle1's roles in translation. These results identify a mechanistic step in Gle1's mRNA export function at nuclear pore complexes and directly implicate altered export in LCCS1 disease pathology.

Human inositol polyphosphate multikinase regulates transcript-selective nuclear mRNA export to preserve genome integrity

Messenger RNA (mRNA) export from the nucleus is essential for eukaryotic gene expression. Here we identify a transcript-selective nuclear export mechanism affecting certain human transcripts, enriched for functions in genome duplication and repair, controlled by inositol polyphosphate multikinase (IPMK), an enzyme catalyzing inositol polyphosphate and phosphoinositide turnover. We studied transcripts encoding RAD51, a protein essential for DNA repair by homologous recombination (HR), to characterize the mechanism underlying IPMK-regulated mRNA export. IPMK depletion or catalytic inactivation selectively decreases RAD51 protein abundance and the nuclear export of RAD51 mRNA, thereby impairing HR. Recognition of a sequence motif in the untranslated region of RAD51 transcripts by the mRNA export factor ALY requires IPMK. Phosphatidylinositol (3,4,5)-trisphosphate (PIP3), an IPMK product, restores ALY recognition in IPMK-depleted cell extracts, suggesting a mechanism underlying transcript selection. Our findings implicate IPMK in a transcript-selective mRNA export pathway controlled by phosphoinositide turnover that preserves genome integrity in humans.

Phosphoinositides: tiny lipids with giant impact on cell regulation

Phosphoinositides (PIs) make up only a small fraction of cellular phospholipids, yet they control almost all aspects of a cell's life and death. These lipids gained tremendous research interest as plasma membrane signaling molecules when discovered in the 1970s and 1980s. Research in the last 15 years has added a wide range of biological processes regulated by PIs, turning these lipids into one of the most universal signaling entities in eukaryotic cells. PIs control organelle biology by regulating vesicular trafficking, but they also modulate lipid distribution and metabolism via their close relationship with lipid transfer proteins. PIs regulate ion channels, pumps, and transporters and control both endocytic and exocytic processes. The nuclear phosphoinositides have grown from being an epiphenomenon to a research area of its own. As expected from such pleiotropic regulators, derangements of phosphoinositide metabolism are responsible for a number of human diseases ranging from rare genetic disorders to the most common ones such as cancer, obesity, and diabetes. Moreover, it is increasingly evident that a number of infectious agents hijack the PI regulatory systems of host cells for their intracellular movements, replication, and assembly. As a result, PI converting enzymes began to be noticed by pharmaceutical companies as potential therapeutic targets. This review is an attempt to give an overview of this enormous research field focusing on major developments in diverse areas of basic science linked to cellular physiology and disease.

New horizons in cellular regulation by inositol polyphosphates: insights from the pancreatic β-cell

Studies of inositol polyphosphates in the pancreatic β-cell have led to an exciting synergism between new discoveries regarding their cellular roles and new insights into β-cell function. Because the loss or malfunction of the β-cell is central to diabetes, these studies open the possibility of new pharmacological interventions in a disease that has reached epidemic proportions worldwide. Using the β-cell as our prime but not exclusive example, we examine the inositol polyphosphates in three main groups: 1) inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate and its influence on Ca(2+) signaling, specifically in a cell in which cytoplasmic-free Ca(2+) concentration is principally increased by plasma membrane standing voltage-gated Ca(2+) channels; 2) higher inositol polyphosphates including a novel second messenger inositol 3,4,5,6-tetrakisphosphate and a regulatory role for inositol hexakisphosphate in β-cell Ca(2+) homeostasis and exo- and endocytosis; and 3) inositol pyrophosphates and their role in β-cell exocytosis, together with the exciting possibility of being novel targets for therapy in diabetes. We conclude with some of the new perspectives that are likely to become apparent in the next few years.

Novel chelate-setting calcium-phosphate cements fabricated with wet-synthesized hydroxyapatite powder

The hydroxyapatite (HAp) powder preparation process was optimized to fabricate inositol phosphate-HAp (IP6-HAp) cement with enhanced mechanical properties. Starting HAp powders were synthesized via a wet chemical process. The effect of the powder preparation process on the morphology, crystallinity, median particle size, and specific surface area (SSA) of the cement powders was examined, together with the mechanical properties of the resulting cement specimens. The smallest crystallite and median particle sizes, and the highest SSA were obtained from ball-milling of as-synthesized HAp powder under wet conditions and then freeze-drying. IP6-HAp cement fabricated with this powder had a maximum compressive strength of 23.1 ± 2.1 MPa. In vivo histological studies using rabbit models revealed that the IP6-HAp cements were directly in contact with newly formed and host bones. Thus, the present chelate-setting HAp cement is promising for application as a novel paste-like artificial bone.

A non-catalytic role for inositol 1,3,4,5,6-pentakisphosphate 2-kinase in the synthesis of ribosomal RNA

Fundamental to the life and destiny of every cell is the regulation of protein synthesis through ribosome biogenesis, which begins in the nucleolus with the production of ribosomal RNA (rRNA). Nucleolar organization is a highly dynamic and tightly regulated process; the structural factors that direct nucleolar assembly and disassembly are just as important in controlling rRNA synthesis as are the catalytic activities that synthesize rRNA. Here, we report that a signaling enzyme, inositol 1,3,4,5,6-pentakisphosphate 2-kinase (IP5K) is also a structural component in the nucleolus. We demonstrate that IP5K has functionally significant interactions with three proteins that regulate rRNA synthesis: protein kinase CK2, TCOF1 and upstream-binding-factor (UBF). Through molecular modeling and mutagenic studies, we identified an Arg-Lys-Lys tripeptide located on the surface of IP5K that mediates its association with UBF. Nucleolar IP5K spatial dynamics were sensitive to experimental procedures (serum starvation or addition of actinomycin D) that inhibited rRNA production. We show that IP5K makes stoichiometrically sensitive contributions to the architecture of the nucleoli in intact cells, thereby influencing the degree of rRNA synthesis. Our study adds significantly to the biological significance of IP5K; previously, it was the kinase activity of this protein that had attracted attention. Our demonstration that IP5K 'moonlights' as a molecular scaffold offers an unexpected new example of how the biological sophistication of higher organisms can arise from gene products acquiring multiple functions, rather than by an increase in gene number.

Dbp5 - from nuclear export to translation

The DEAD-box RNA helicase Dbp5 is an essential and conserved mRNA export factor which functions in the ATP dependent remodeling of RNA/protein complexes. As such it displaces mRNA bound proteins at the cytoplasmic site of the nuclear pore complex. For the regulation of its RNA-dependent ATPase activity during late steps of nuclear transport, Dbp5 requires the nucleoporin Nup159 and its cofactors Gle1 and IP6. In addition to its role in mRNA export, a second important function of Dbp5 was identified in translation termination, where it acts together with eRF1 once the translation machinery has reached the stop codon. Similar to mRNA export, this function also requires Gle1-IP6, however, the counterpart of Nup159 is still missing. Potential other functions of the nucleo-cytoplasmic protein Dbp5 are discussed as well as its substrate specificity and details in its regulatory cycle that are based on recent biochemical and structural characterization. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The Biology of RNA helicases - Modulation for life.

The oncogene eIF4E reprograms the nuclear pore complex to promote mRNA export and oncogenic transformation

The eukaryotic translation initiation factor eIF4E is a potent oncogene that promotes the nuclear export and translation of specific transcripts. Here, we have discovered that eIF4E alters the cytoplasmic face of the nuclear pore complex (NPC), which leads to enhanced mRNA export of eIF4E target mRNAs. Specifically, eIF4E substantially reduces the major component of the cytoplasmic fibrils of the NPC, RanBP2, relocalizes an associated nucleoporin, Nup214, and elevates RanBP1 and the RNA export factors, Gle1 and DDX19. Genetic or pharmacological inhibition of eIF4E impedes these effects. RanBP2 overexpression specifically inhibits the eIF4E mRNA export pathway and impairs oncogenic transformation by eIF4E. The RanBP2 cytoplasmic fibrils most likely slow the release and/or recycling of critical export factors to the nucleus. eIF4E overcomes this inhibitory mechanism by indirectly reducing levels of RanBP2. More generally, these results suggest that reprogramming the NPC is a means by which oncogenes can harness the proliferative capacity of the cell.