1
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Wang Q, Ying X, Huang Q, Wang Z, Duan S. Exploring the role of tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) in disease: implications for HIF-1 pathway modulation. J Mol Med (Berl) 2024:10.1007/s00109-024-02458-0. [PMID: 38850298 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-024-02458-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
The tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) can be categorized into two main groups: tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) and tRNA-derived stress-induced RNAs (tiRNAs). Each group possesses specific molecular sizes, nucleotide compositions, and distinct physiological functions. Notably, hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1), a transcriptional activator dependent on oxygen, comprises one HIF-1β subunit and one HIF-α subunit (HIF-1α/HIF-2α/HIF-3α). The activation of HIF-1 plays a crucial role in gene transcription, influencing key aspects of cancer biology such as angiogenesis, cell survival, glucose metabolism, and invasion. The involvement of HIF-1α activation has been demonstrated in numerous human diseases, particularly cancer, making HIF-1 an attractive target for potential disease treatments. Through a series of experiments, researchers have identified two tiRNAs that interact with the HIF-1 pathway, impacting disease development: 5'tiRNA-His-GTG in colorectal cancer (CRC) and tiRNA-Val in diabetic retinopathy (DR). Specifically, 5'tiRNA-His-GTG promotes CRC development by targeting LATS2, while tiRNA-Val inhibits Sirt1, leading to HIF-1α accumulation and promoting DR development. Clinical data have further indicated that certain tsRNAs' expression levels are associated with the prognosis and pathological features of CRC patients. In CRC tumor tissues, the expression level of 5'tiRNA-His-GTG is significantly higher compared to normal tissues, and it shows a positive correlation with tumor size. Additionally, KEGG analysis has revealed multiple tRFs involved in regulating the HIF-1 pathway, including tRF-Val-AAC-016 in diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) and tRF-1001 in pathological ocular angiogenesis. This comprehensive article reviews the biological functions and mechanisms of tsRNAs related to the HIF-1 pathway in diseases, providing a promising direction for subsequent translational medicine research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qurui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310015, China
| | - Xiaowei Ying
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310015, China
| | - Qinyuan Huang
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310015, China
| | - Zehua Wang
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310015, China
| | - Shiwei Duan
- Key Laboratory of Novel Targets and Drug Study for Neural Repair of Zhejiang Province, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310015, China.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine, Hangzhou City University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310015, China.
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2
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Zhou M, He X, Zhang J, Mei C, Zhong B, Ou C. tRNA-derived small RNAs in human cancers: roles, mechanisms, and clinical application. Mol Cancer 2024; 23:76. [PMID: 38622694 PMCID: PMC11020452 DOI: 10.1186/s12943-024-01992-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) are a new type of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) produced by the specific cleavage of precursor or mature tRNAs. tsRNAs are involved in various basic biological processes such as epigenetic, transcriptional, post-transcriptional, and translation regulation, thereby affecting the occurrence and development of various human diseases, including cancers. Recent studies have shown that tsRNAs play an important role in tumorigenesis by regulating biological behaviors such as malignant proliferation, invasion and metastasis, angiogenesis, immune response, tumor resistance, and tumor metabolism reprogramming. These may be new potential targets for tumor treatment. Furthermore, tsRNAs can exist abundantly and stably in various bodily fluids (e.g., blood, serum, and urine) in the form of free or encapsulated extracellular vesicles, thereby affecting intercellular communication in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Meanwhile, their abnormal expression is closely related to the clinicopathological features of tumor patients, such as tumor staging, lymph node metastasis, and poor prognosis of tumor patients; thus, tsRNAs can be served as a novel type of liquid biopsy biomarker. This review summarizes the discovery, production, and expression of tsRNAs and analyzes their molecular mechanisms in tumor development and potential applications in tumor therapy, which may provide new strategies for early diagnosis and targeted therapy of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manli Zhou
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Xiaoyun He
- Departments of Ultrasound Imaging, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Cheng Mei
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Xiangya Hospital, Clinical Transfusion Research Center, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
| | - Baiyun Zhong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
| | - Chunlin Ou
- Department of Pathology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
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3
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Cabrelle C, Giorgi FM, Mercatelli D. Quantitative and qualitative detection of tRNAs, tRNA halves and tRFs in human cancer samples: Molecular grounds for biomarker development and clinical perspectives. Gene 2024; 898:148097. [PMID: 38128792 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.148097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs playing a central role during protein synthesis. Besides translation, growing evidence suggests that in many contexts, precursor or mature tRNAs can also be processed into smaller fragments playing many non-canonical regulatory roles in different biological pathways with oncogenic relevance. Depending on the source, these molecules can be classified as tRNA halves (also known as tiRNAs) or tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs), and furtherly divided into 5'-tRNA and 3'-tRNA halves, or tRF-1, tRF-2, tRF-3, tRF-5, and i-tRF, respectively. Unlike DNA and mRNA, high-throughput sequencing of tRNAs is challenging, because of technical limitations of currently developed sequencing methods. In recent years, different sequencing approaches have been proposed allowing the quantification and identification of an increasing number of tRNA fragments with critical functions in distinct physiological and pathophysiological processes. In the present review, we discussed pros and cons of recent advances in different sequencing methods, also introducing the expanding repertoire of bioinformatics tool and resources specifically focused on tRNA research and discussing current issues in the study of these small RNA molecules. Furthermore, we discussed the potential value of tRNA fragments as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for different types of cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Cabrelle
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | | | - Daniele Mercatelli
- Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
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4
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Giulietti M, Piva F, Cecati M, Maggio S, Guescini M, Saladino T, Scortichini L, Crocetti S, Caramanti M, Battelli N, Romagnoli E. Effects of Eribulin on the RNA Content of Extracellular Vesicles Released by Metastatic Breast Cancer Cells. Cells 2024; 13:479. [PMID: 38534323 DOI: 10.3390/cells13060479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small lipid particles secreted by almost all human cells into the extracellular space. They perform the essential function of cell-to-cell communication, and their role in promoting breast cancer progression has been well demonstrated. It is known that EVs released by triple-negative and highly aggressive MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells treated with paclitaxel, a microtubule-targeting agent (MTA), promoted chemoresistance in EV-recipient cells. Here, we studied the RNA content of EVs produced by the same MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells treated with another MTA, eribulin mesylate. In particular, we analyzed the expression of different RNA species, including mRNAs, lncRNAs, miRNAs, snoRNAs, piRNAs and tRNA fragments by RNA-seq. Then, we performed differential expression analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), functional enrichment analysis, and miRNA-target identification. Our findings demonstrate the possible involvement of EVs from eribulin-treated cells in the spread of chemoresistance, prompting the design of strategies that selectively target tumor EVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Giulietti
- Department of Specialistic Clinical and Odontostomatological Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Francesco Piva
- Department of Specialistic Clinical and Odontostomatological Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Monia Cecati
- Department of Specialistic Clinical and Odontostomatological Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy
| | - Serena Maggio
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Michele Guescini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Tiziana Saladino
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
| | - Laura Scortichini
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
| | - Sonia Crocetti
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
| | - Miriam Caramanti
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
| | - Nicola Battelli
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
| | - Emanuela Romagnoli
- Oncology Unit AST3, Macerata Hospital, Via Santa Lucia 2, 62100 Macerata, Italy
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5
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Tan L, Wu X, Tang Z, Chen H, Cao W, Wen C, Zou G, Zou H. The tsRNAs (tRFdb-3013a/b) serve as novel biomarkers for colon adenocarcinomas. Aging (Albany NY) 2024; 16:4299-4326. [PMID: 38451187 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
The tsRNAs (tRNA-derived small RNAs) are a novel class of small non-coding RNAs derived from transfer-RNAs. Colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) is the most malignant intestinal tumor. This study focused on the identification and characterization of tsRNA biomarkers in colon adenocarcinomas. Data processing and bioinformatic analyses were performed with the packages of R and Python software. The cell proliferation, migration and invasion abilities were determined by CCK-8 and transwell assays. Luciferase reporter assay was used to test the binding of tsRNA with its target genes. With computational methods, we identified the tRNA fragments profiles within COAD datasets, and discriminated forty-two differentially expressed tsRNAs between paired colon adenocarcinomas and non-tumor controls. Among the fragments derived from the 3' end of tRNA-His-GUG (a histidyl-transfer-RNA), tRFdb-3013a and tRFdb-3013b (tRFdb-3013a/b) were notably decreased in colon and rectum adenocarcinomas, especially, tRFdb-3013a/b might tend to be down-regulated in patients with lymphatic or vascular invasion present. The clinical survival of colorectal adenocarcinoma patients with low tRFdb-3013a/b expression was significantly worse than that of high expression patients. In colon adenocarcinoma cells, tRFdb-3013a could have inhibited cell proliferations, and reduced cell migration and invasion abilities. The enrichment analyses showed that most of tRFdb-3013a correlated-genes were enriched in the extracellular matrix associated GO terms, phagosome pathway, and a GSEA molecular signature pathway. Additionally, the 3'UTR of ST3GAL1 mRNA was predicted to contain the binding site of tRFdb-3013a/b, tRFdb-3013a/b might directly target and regulate ST3GAL1 expression in colon adenocarcinomas. These results suggested that tRFdb-3013a/b might serve as novel biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis of colon adenocarcinomas, and act a key player in the progression of colon adenocarcinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihong Tan
- Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Xiaoling Wu
- Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Zhurong Tang
- Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Huan Chen
- Yueyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yueyang 414000, China
- Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Weiguo Cao
- Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Chunjie Wen
- Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Guojun Zou
- Yueyang Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yueyang 414000, China
| | - Hecun Zou
- Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
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6
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Salehi M, Kamali MJ, Rajabzadeh A, Minoo S, Mosharafi H, Saeedi F, Daraei A. tRNA-derived fragments: Key determinants of cancer metastasis with emerging therapeutic and diagnostic potentials. Arch Biochem Biophys 2024; 753:109930. [PMID: 38369227 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2024.109930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Metastasis is a significant clinical challenge responsible for cancer mortality and non-response to treatment. However, the molecular mechanisms driving metastasis remain unclear, limiting the development of efficient diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Recent breakthroughs in cancer biology have discovered a group of small non-coding RNAs called tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs), which play a critical role in the metastatic behavior of various tumors. tRFs are produced from cleavage modifications of tRNAs and have different functional classes based on the pattern of these modifications. They perform post-transcriptional regulation through microRNA-like functions, displacing RNA-binding proteins, and play a role in translational regulation by inducing ribosome synthesis, translation initiation, and epigenetic regulation. Tumor cells manipulate tRFs to develop and survive the tumor mass, primarily by inducing metastasis. Multiple studies have demonstrated the potential of tRFs as therapeutic, diagnostic, and prognostic targets for tumor metastasis. This review discusses the production and function of tRFs in cells, their aberrant molecular contributions to the metastatic environment, and their potential as promising targets for anti-metastasis treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Salehi
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran; Student Research Committee, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Javad Kamali
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Aliakbar Rajabzadeh
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Shima Minoo
- Department of Dentistry, Khorasgan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Fatemeh Saeedi
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Abdolreza Daraei
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
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7
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La Ferlita A, Alaimo S, Nigita G, Distefano R, Beane JD, Tsichlis PN, Ferro A, Croce CM, Pulvirenti A. tRFUniverse: A comprehensive resource for the interactive analyses of tRNA-derived ncRNAs in human cancer. iScience 2024; 27:108810. [PMID: 38303722 PMCID: PMC10831894 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.108810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
tRNA-derived ncRNAs are a heterogeneous class of non-coding RNAs recently proposed to be active regulators of gene expression and be involved in many diseases, including cancer. Consequently, several online resources on tRNA-derived ncRNAs have been released. Although interesting, such resources present only basic features and do not adequately exploit the wealth of knowledge available about tRNA-derived ncRNAs. Therefore, we introduce tRFUniverse, a novel online resource for the analysis of tRNA-derived ncRNAs in human cancer. tRFUniverse presents an extensive collection of classes of tRNA-derived ncRNAs analyzed across all the TCGA and TARGET tumor cohorts, NCI-60 cell lines, and biological fluids. Moreover, public AGO CLASH/CLIP-Seq data were analyzed to identify the molecular interactions between tRNA-derived ncRNAs and other transcripts. Importantly, tRFUniverse combines in a single resource a comprehensive set of features that we believe may be helpful to investigate the involvement of tRNA-derived ncRNAs in cancer biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro La Ferlita
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Salvatore Alaimo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Knowmics Lab, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giovanni Nigita
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Rosario Distefano
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Joal D. Beane
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Philip N. Tsichlis
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Alfredo Ferro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Knowmics Lab, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Carlo M. Croce
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Alfredo Pulvirenti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Knowmics Lab, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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8
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Yang N, Li R, Liu R, Yang S, Zhao Y, Xiong W, Qiu L. The Emerging Function and Promise of tRNA-Derived Small RNAs in Cancer. J Cancer 2024; 15:1642-1656. [PMID: 38370372 PMCID: PMC10869971 DOI: 10.7150/jca.89219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Fragments derived from tRNA, called tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), have attracted widespread attention in the past decade. tsRNAs are widespread in prokaryotic and eukaryotic transcriptome, which contains two main types, tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) and tRNA-derived stress-inducing RNA (tiRNAs), derived from the precursor tRNAs or mature tRNAs. According to differences in the cleavage position, tRFs can be divided into tRF-1, tRF-2, tRF-3, tRF-5, and i-tRF, whereas tiRNAs can be divided into 5'-tiRNA and 3'-tiRNA. Studies have found that tRFs and tiRNAs are abnormally expressed in a variety of human malignant tumors, promote or inhibit the proliferation and apoptosis of cancer cells by regulating the expression of oncogene, and play an important role in the aggressive metastasis and progression of tumors. This article reviews the biological origins of various tsRNAs, introduces their functions and new concepts of related mechanisms, and focuses on the molecular mechanisms of tsRNAs in cancer, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer, b-cell lymphoma, and chronic lymphoma cell leukemia. Lastly, this article puts forward some unresolved problems and future research prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Yang
- College of Resources, Environment and Chemistry, Chuxiong Normal University, Chuxiong 675000, China
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dali University, Dali 671000, China
| | - Ruijun Li
- College of Foreign Languages, Chuxiong Normal University, Chuxiong 675000, China
| | - Ruai Liu
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dali University, Dali 671000, China
| | - Shengjie Yang
- The People's Hospital of ChuXiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Chuxiong 675000, China
| | - Yi Zhao
- The People's Hospital of ChuXiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Chuxiong 675000, China
| | - Wei Xiong
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, Dali University, Dali 671000, China
| | - Lu Qiu
- College of Resources, Environment and Chemistry, Chuxiong Normal University, Chuxiong 675000, China
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9
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Li N, Yao S, Yu G, Lu L, Wang Z. tRFtarget 2.0: expanding the targetome landscape of transfer RNA-derived fragments. Nucleic Acids Res 2024; 52:D345-D350. [PMID: 37811890 PMCID: PMC10767876 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
tRFtarget 1.0 (http://trftarget.net/) is a platform consolidating both computationally predicted and experimentally validated binding sites between transfer RNA-derived fragments (tRFs) and target genes (or transcripts) across multiple organisms. Here, we introduce a newly released version of tRFtarget 2.0, in which we integrated 6 additional tRF sources, resulting in a comprehensive collection of 2614 high-quality tRF sequences spanning across 9 species, including 1944 Homo sapiens tRFs and one newly incorporated species Rattus norvegicus. We also expanded target genes by including ribosomal RNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and coding genes >50 kb in length. The predicted binding sites have surged up to approximately 6 billion, a 20.5-fold increase than that in tRFtarget 1.0. The manually curated publications relevant to tRF targets have increased to 400 and the gene-level experimental evidence has risen to 232. tRFtarget 2.0 introduces several new features, including a web-based tool that identifies potential binding sites of tRFs in user's own datasets, integration of standardized tRF IDs, and inclusion of external links to contents within the database. Additionally, we enhanced website framework and user interface. With these improvements, tRFtarget 2.0 is more user-friendly, providing researchers a streamlined and comprehensive platform to accelerate their research progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningshan Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen & Longgang District People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518172, China
- School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230027, China
| | - Siqiong Yao
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic & Developmental Sciences, Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- SJTU-Yale Joint Center of Biostatistics and Data Science, National Center for Translational Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Guangjun Yu
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen & Longgang District People's Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518172, China
| | - Lingeng Lu
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Zuoheng Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
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10
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Gan L, Song H, Ding X. Transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) in gastric cancer. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1184615. [PMID: 37503324 PMCID: PMC10369188 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1184615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) are newly discovered noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). According to the specific cleavage of nucleases at different sites of tRNAs, the produced tsRNAs are divided into tRNA-derived stress-inducible RNAs (tiRNAs) and tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs). tRFs and tiRNAs have essential biological functions, such as mRNA stability regulation, translation regulation and epigenetic regulation, and play significant roles in the occurrence and development of various tumors. Although the roles of tsRNAs in some tumors have been intensively studied, their roles in gastric cancer are still rarely reported. In this review, we focus on recent advances in the generation and classification of tsRNAs, their biological functions, and their roles in gastric cancer. Sixteen articles investigating dysregulated tsRNAs in gastric cancer are summarized. The roles of 17 tsRNAs are summarized, of which 9 were upregulated and 8 were downregulated compared with controls. Aberrant regulation of tsRNAs was closely related to the main clinicopathological factors of gastric cancer, such as lymph node metastasis, Tumor-Node-Metastasis (TNM) stage, tumor size, and vascular invasion. tsRNAs participate in the progression of gastric cancer by regulating the PTEN/PI3K/AKT, MAPK, Wnt, and p53 signaling pathways. The available literature suggests the potential of using tsRNAs as clinical biomarkers for gastric cancer diagnosis and prognosis and as therapeutic targets for gastric cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Gan
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Haojun Song
- The Gastroenterology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
- The Biobank of The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Xiaoyun Ding
- The Gastroenterology Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
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11
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La Ferlita A, Sp N, Goryunova M, Nigita G, Pollock RE, Croce CM, Beane JD. Small Non-Coding RNAs in Soft-Tissue Sarcomas: State of the Art and Future Directions. Mol Cancer Res 2023; 21:511-524. [PMID: 37052491 PMCID: PMC10238653 DOI: 10.1158/1541-7786.mcr-22-1008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Soft-tissue sarcomas (STS) are a rare and heterogeneous group of tumors that arise from connective tissue and can occur anywhere in the body. Among the plethora of over 50 different STS types, liposarcoma (LPS) is one of the most common. The subtypes of STS are characterized by distinct differences in tumor biology that drive responses to pharmacologic therapy and disparate oncologic outcomes. Small non-coding RNAs (sncRNA) are a heterogeneous class of regulatory RNAs involved in the regulation of gene expression by targeting mRNAs. Among the several types of sncRNAs, miRNAs and tRNA-derived ncRNAs are the most studied in the context of tumor biology, and we are learning more about the role of these molecules as important regulators of STS tumorigenesis and differentiation. However, challenges remain in translating these findings and no biomarkers or therapeutic approaches targeting sncRNAs have been developed for clinical use. In this review, we summarize the current landscape of sncRNAs in the context of STS with an emphasis on LPS, including the role of sncRNAs in the tumorigenesis and differentiation of these rare malignancies and their potential as novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Finally, we provide an appraisal of published studies and outline future directions to study sncRNAs in STS, including tRNA-derived ncRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro La Ferlita
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Nipin Sp
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Marina Goryunova
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Giovanni Nigita
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Raphael E. Pollock
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Carlo M. Croce
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Joal D. Beane
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, The James Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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12
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Di Fazio A, Gullerova M. An old friend with a new face: tRNA-derived small RNAs with big regulatory potential in cancer biology. Br J Cancer 2023; 128:1625-1635. [PMID: 36759729 PMCID: PMC10133234 DOI: 10.1038/s41416-023-02191-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) essential for protein translation. Emerging evidence suggests that tRNAs can also be processed into smaller fragments, tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), a novel class of sncRNAs with powerful applications and high biological relevance to cancer. tsRNAs biogenesis is heterogeneous and involves different ribonucleases, such as Angiogenin and Dicer. For many years, tsRNAs were thought to be just degradation products. However, accumulating evidence shows their roles in gene expression: either directly via destabilising the mRNA or the ribosomal machinery, or indirectly via regulating the expression of ribosomal components. Furthermore, tsRNAs participate in various biological processes linked to cancer, including apoptosis, cell cycle, immune response, and retroviral insertion into the human genome. It is emerging that tsRNAs have significant therapeutic potential. Endogenous tsRNAs can be used as cancer biomarkers, while synthetic tsRNAs and antisense oligonucleotides can be employed to regulate gene expression. In this review, we are recapitulating the regulatory roles of tsRNAs, with a focus on cancer biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Di Fazio
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3RE, UK
| | - Monika Gullerova
- Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3RE, UK.
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13
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Gong M, Deng Y, Xiang Y, Ye D. The role and mechanism of action of tRNA-derived fragments in the diagnosis and treatment of malignant tumors. Cell Commun Signal 2023; 21:62. [PMID: 36964534 PMCID: PMC10036988 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01079-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and death worldwide. While various factors are established as causing malignant tumors, the mechanisms underlying cancer development remain poorly understood. Early diagnosis and the development of effective treatments for cancer are important research topics. Transfer RNA (tRNA), the most abundant class of RNA molecules in the human transcriptome, participates in both protein synthesis and cellular metabolic processes. tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) are produced by specific cleavage of pre-tRNA and mature tRNA molecules, which are highly conserved and occur widely in various organisms. tRFs were initially thought to be random products with no physiological function, but have been redefined as novel functional small non-coding RNA molecules that help to regulate RNA stability, modulate translation, and influence target gene expression, as well as other biological processes. There is increasing evidence supporting roles for tRFs in tumorigenesis and cancer development, including the regulation of tumor cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and drug resistance. Understanding the regulatory mechanisms by which tRFs impact these processes has potential to inform malignant tumor diagnosis and treatment. Further, tRFs are expected to become new biological markers for early diagnosis and prognosis prediction in patients with tumors, as well as a targets for precision cancer therapies. Video abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengdan Gong
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yongqin Deng
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yizhen Xiang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China
| | - Dong Ye
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Affiliated Lihuili Hospital, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315040, Zhejiang, China.
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14
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U A, Viswam P, Kattupalli D, Eppurathu Vasudevan S. Elucidation of transfer RNAs as stress regulating agents and the experimental strategies to conceive the functional role of tRNA-derived fragments in plants. Crit Rev Biotechnol 2023; 43:275-292. [PMID: 35382663 DOI: 10.1080/07388551.2022.2026288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
In plants, the transfer RNAs (tRNAs) exhibit their profound influence in orchestrating diverse physiological activities like cell growth, development, and response to several surrounding stimuli. The tRNAs, which were known to restrict their function solely in deciphering the codons, are now emerging as frontline defenders in stress biology. The plants that are constantly confronted with a huge panoply of stresses rely on tRNA-mediated stress regulation by altering the tRNA abundance, curbing the transport of tRNAs, fragmenting the mature tRNAs during stress. Among them, the studies on the generation of transfer RNA-derived fragments (tRFs) and their biological implication in stress response have attained huge interest. In plants, the tRFs hold stable expression patterns and regulate biological functions under diverse environmental conditions. In this review, we discuss the fate of plant tRNAs upon stress and thereafter how the tRFs are metamorphosed into sharp ammunition to wrestle with stress. We also address the various methods developed to date for uncovering the role of tRFs and their function in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aswathi U
- Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Transdisciplinary Biology Laboratory, Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Pooja Viswam
- Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Transdisciplinary Biology Laboratory, Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Divya Kattupalli
- Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Transdisciplinary Biology Laboratory, Thiruvananthapuram, India
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15
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Ren J, Wu X, Shang FF, Qi Y, Tang Z, Wen C, Cao W, Cheng Q, Tan L, Chen H, Zhou HH, Zou H. The tRNA-Cys-GCA Derived tsRNAs Suppress Tumor Progression of Gliomas via Regulating VAV2. DISEASE MARKERS 2022; 2022:8708312. [PMID: 36426134 PMCID: PMC9681550 DOI: 10.1155/2022/8708312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
The tsRNAs (tRNA-derived small RNAs) are new types of small noncoding RNAs derived from tRNAs. Gliomas are well-known malignant brain tumors. The study focused on tsRNA characterizations within gliomas. Datasets processing, bioinformatics analyses, and visualizations were performed with the packages of Python and R. Cell proliferations were demonstrated via CCK8 assays and colony formation assays, and in vivo xenograft experiments. Dual-luciferase reporter assay was performed to confirm the binding of tsRNA with its targets. Via using bioinformatics approaches, the hundreds of tsRNAs with available expression abundance were identified in gliomas dataset, most of them derived from D-loop or T-loop fragments of tRNAs. Among tsRNAs derived from tRNA-Cys-GCA, tRFdb-3003a and tRFdb-3003b (tRFdb-3003a/b) were remarkably down-regulated in gliomas. The survival outcome of gliomas patients with low tRFdb-3003a/b expressions was notably worse than that of high-expression patients. In glioma cells, tRFdb-3003a could suppress cells proliferation and colony formation ability. In vivo, tRFdb-3003a suppressed the tumor growth of xenograft gliomas. Enrichment analyses displayed the tRFdb-3003a-related mRNAs were enriched in the specific GO terms, spliceosome and autophagy pathways, and three GSEA molecular signatures. Mechanically, 3'-UTR regions of VAV2 mRNA were predicted to contain the binding positions of tRFdb-3003a/b, tRFdb-3003a and tRFdb-3003b was effective to reduce the relative luciferase activity of cells with VAV2 wild-type reporter. Overexpression of tRFdb-3003a/b could down-regulated the expression levels of VAV2 protein and mRNA in glioma cells. The tRNA-Cys-GCA derived tRFdb-3003a and tRFdb-3003b might act as key player in tumor progressions of gliomas; tRFdb-3003a/b might directly bind to VAV2 and regulate VAV2 expressions in gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Ren
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Xiaoling Wu
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing 400030, China
| | - Fei-Fei Shang
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yingqiang Qi
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Zhurong Tang
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Chunjie Wen
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Weiguo Cao
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Quan Cheng
- Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008 Hunan, China
| | - Lihong Tan
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical and Pharmaceutical College, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Huan Chen
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Hong-Hao Zhou
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
- Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008 Hunan, China
| | - Hecun Zou
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
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16
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George S, Rafi M, Aldarmaki M, ElSiddig M, Al Nuaimi M, Amiri KMA. tRNA derived small RNAs—Small players with big roles. Front Genet 2022; 13:997780. [PMID: 36199575 PMCID: PMC9527309 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.997780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In the past 2 decades, small non-coding RNAs derived from tRNA (tsRNAs or tRNA derived fragments; tRFs) have emerged as new powerful players in the field of small RNA mediated regulation of gene expression, translation, and epigenetic control. tRFs have been identified from evolutionarily divergent organisms from Archaea, the higher plants, to humans. Recent studies have confirmed their roles in cancers and other metabolic disorders in humans and experimental models. They have been implicated in biotic and abiotic stress responses in plants as well. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on tRFs including types of tRFs, their biogenesis, and mechanisms of action. The review also highlights recent studies involving differential expression profiling of tRFs and elucidation of specific functions of individual tRFs from various species. We also discuss potential considerations while designing experiments involving tRFs identification and characterization and list the available bioinformatics tools for this purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suja George
- Khalifa Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammed Rafi
- Khalifa Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Maitha Aldarmaki
- Khalifa Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohamed ElSiddig
- Khalifa Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mariam Al Nuaimi
- Khalifa Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Khaled M. A. Amiri
- Khalifa Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Biology, College of Science, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- *Correspondence: Khaled M. A. Amiri,
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A miR-34a-guided, tRNA iMet-derived, piR_019752-like fragment (tRiMetF31) suppresses migration and angiogenesis of breast cancer cells via targeting PFKFB3. Cell Death Dis 2022; 8:355. [PMID: 35961977 PMCID: PMC9374763 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-022-01054-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Although we recently demonstrated that miR-34a directly targets tRNAiMet precursors via Argonaute 2 (AGO2)-mediated cleavage, consequently attenuating the proliferation of breast cancer cells, whether tRNAiMet fragments derived from this cleavage influence breast tumor angiogenesis remains unknown. Here, using small-RNA-Seq, we identified a tRNAiMet-derived, piR_019752-like 31-nt fragment tRiMetF31 in breast cancer cells expressing miR-34a. Bioinformatic analysis predicted 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3) as a potential target of tRiMrtF31, which was validated by luciferase assay. tRiMetF31 was downregulated, whereas PFKFB3 was overexpressed in cancer cell lines. Overexpression of tRiMetF31 profoundly inhibited the migration and angiogenesis of two breast cancer cell lines while slightly inducing apoptosis. Conversely, knockdown of tRiMetF31 restored PFKFB3-driven angiogenesis. miR-34a was downregulated, whereas tRNAiMet and PFKFB3 were upregulated in breast cancer, and elevated PFKFB3 significantly correlated with metastasis. Our findings demonstrate that tRiMetF31 profoundly suppresses angiogenesis by silencing PFKFB3, presenting a novel target for therapeutic intervention in breast cancer.
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Xu B, Liang J, Zou H, Wang J, Xiong Y, Pei J. Identification of Novel tRNA-Leu-CAA-Derived tsRNAs for the Diagnosis and Prognosis of Diffuse Gliomas. Cancer Manag Res 2022; 14:2609-2623. [PMID: 36072386 PMCID: PMC9441585 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s367020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose tsRNA is a type of small non-coding RNA derived from tRNA. Diffuse gliomas are the most common brain tumors. This investigation focused on tsRNA identification and characterization within gliomas. Methods The sequences of human tRNA and tsRNAs were taken from GtRNAdb, tRFdb and tRFexplorer databases. Data processing and bioinformatic analysis were performed with R or Python software. The expression of tsRNAs in glioma tissues was analyzed by qRT-PCR assay. Results With computational approaches, we identified hundreds of tsRNAs with available expression abundance in the glioma datasets, most of them derived from the 3′ end or 5′ end of mature tRNA. Among the tsRNAs derived from tRNA-Leu-CAA, ts-26, tRFdb-3012a, and tRFdb-3012b (tRFdb-3012a/b) were significantly decreased in diffuse gliomas. The clinical survivals of glioma patients with low tsRNA (ts-26, tRFdb-3012a, and tRFdb-3012b) expression were remarkably worse than that of those with high expression. Expression of tRFdb-3012a/b was correlated with IDH mutant status and MGMT promoter mutation in gliomas, and tRFdb-3012a/b and ts-23 tended to be highly expressed in patients with the IDH mutant. The enrichment analysis showed that some tRFdb-3012a/b-related genes were enriched in RNA splicing and processing, the spliceosome pathway and astrocyte molecular signatures. Moreover, the 3′ untranslated region of the RBM43 gene was predicted to contain putative binding sites of tRFdb-3012a/b, ts-26 may directly bind to the 3′ untranslated region of the HOXA13 gene, and the expressions of both RBM43 and HOXA13 were up-regulated in diffuse gliomas. High RBM43 and HOXA13 expressions were significantly associated with poor survival outcome of glioma patients. Conclusion These results suggest that tRNA-Leu-CAA-derived tsRNAs (ts-26, tRFdb-3012a, and tRFdb-3012b) could be explored as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for diffuse gliomas, and tRFdb-3012a/b and ts-26 may play an important role in the progression of gliomas, through binding RBM43 and HOXA13, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Xu
- Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, 441021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jian Liang
- Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, 441021, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hecun Zou
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jingwen Wang
- Institute of Life Sciences, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yubo Xiong
- Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, 441021, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Neurosurgery, General Hospital of the Yangtze River Shipping, Wuhan Brain Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei, 430010, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiao Pei
- Xiangyang Central Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, Hubei, 441021, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Jiao Pei; Yubo Xiong, Email ;
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19
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Dysregulation of microRNAs and tRNA-derived ncRNAs in mesothelial and mesothelioma cell lines after asbestiform fiber exposure. Sci Rep 2022; 12:9181. [PMID: 35654808 PMCID: PMC9163335 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13044-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Experimental evidence demonstrated that fluoro-edenite (FE) can develop chronic respiratory diseases and elicit carcinogenic effects. Environmental exposure to FE fibers is correlated with malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM). An early diagnosis of MPM, and a comprehensive health monitoring of the patients exposed to FE fibers are two clinical issues that may be solved by the identification of specific biomarkers. We reported the microRNA (miRNA) and transfer RNA-derived non coding RNA (tRNA-derived ncRNA) transcriptome in human normal mesothelial and malignant mesothelioma cell lines exposed or not exposed to several concentration FE fibers. Furthermore, an interactive mesothelioma-based network was derived by using NetME tool. In untreated condition, the expression of miRNAs and tRNA-derived ncRNAs in tumor cells was significantly different with respect to non-tumor samples. Moreover, interesting and significant changes were found after the exposure of both cells lines to FE fibers. The network-based pathway analysis showed several signaling and metabolic pathways potentially involved in the pathogenesis of MPM. From papers analyzed by NetME, it is clear that many miRNAs can positively or negatively influence various pathways involved in MPM. For the first time, the analysis of tRNA-derived ncRNAs molecules in the context of mesothelioma has been made by using in vitro systems. Further studies will be designed to test and validate their diagnostic potential in high-risk individuals' liquid biopsies.
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tiRNAs: Insights into Their Biogenesis, Functions, and Future Applications in Livestock Research. Noncoding RNA 2022; 8:ncrna8030037. [PMID: 35736634 PMCID: PMC9231384 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna8030037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) belong to a group of transfer ribonucleic acid (tRNA)-derived fragments that have recently gained interest as molecules with specific biological functions. Their involvement in the regulation of physiological processes and pathological phenotypes suggests molecular roles similar to those of miRNAs. tsRNA biogenesis under specific physiological conditions will offer new perspectives in understanding diseases, and may provide new sources for biological marker design to determine and monitor the health status of farm animals. In this review, we focus on the latest discoveries about tsRNAs and give special attention to molecules initially thought to be mainly associated with tRNA-derived stress-induced RNAs (tiRNAs). We present an outline of their biological functions, offer a collection of useful databases, and discuss future research perspectives and applications in livestock basic and applied research.
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Weng Q, Wang Y, Xie Y, Yu X, Zhang S, Ge J, Li Z, Ye G, Guo J. Extracellular vesicles-associated tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs): biogenesis, biological functions, and their role as potential biomarkers in human diseases. J Mol Med (Berl) 2022; 100:679-695. [PMID: 35322869 PMCID: PMC9110440 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-022-02189-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Traditionally, transfer RNAs (tRNAs) specifically decoded messenger RNA (mRNA) and participated in protein translation. tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs), also known as tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), are generated by the specific cleavage of pre- and mature tRNAs and are a class of newly defined functional small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs). Following the different cleavage positions of precursor or mature tRNA, tRFs are classified into seven types, 5′-tRNA half, 3′-tRNA half, tRF-1, 5′U-tRF, 3′-tRF, 5′-tRF, and i-tRF. It has been demonstrated that tRFs have a diverse range of biological functions in cellular processes, which include inhibiting protein translation, modulating stress response, regulating gene expression, and involvement in cell cycles and epigenetic inheritance. Emerging evidences have indicated that tRFs in extracellular vesicles (EVs) seem to act as regulatory molecules in various cellular processes and play essential roles in cell-to-cell communication. Furthermore, the dysregulation of EV-associated tRFs has been associated with the occurrence and progression of a variety of cancers and they can serve as novel potential biomarkers for cancer diagnosis. In this review, the biogenesis and classification of tRFs are summarized, and the biological functions of EV-associated tRFs and their roles as potential biomarkers in human diseases are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuyan Weng
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315020, China
| | - Yao Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Ningbo University School of Medicine, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Yaoyao Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Ningbo University School of Medicine, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Xiuchong Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Ningbo University School of Medicine, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Shuangshuang Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Ningbo University School of Medicine, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Jiaxin Ge
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315020, China
| | - Zhe Li
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315020, China
| | - Guoliang Ye
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315020, China. .,Institute of Digestive Diseases of Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315020, China.
| | - Junming Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315020, China. .,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Ningbo University School of Medicine, Ningbo, 315211, China. .,Institute of Digestive Diseases of Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315020, China.
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22
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La Ferlita A, Alaimo S, Ferro A, Pulvirenti A. Pathway Analysis for Cancer Research and Precision Oncology Applications. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1361:143-161. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-91836-1_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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23
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Liu B, Cao J, Wang X, Guo C, Liu Y, Wang T. Deciphering the tRNA-derived small RNAs: origin, development, and future. Cell Death Dis 2021; 13:24. [PMID: 34934044 PMCID: PMC8692627 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-04472-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), a novel category of small noncoding RNAs, are enzymatically cleaved from tRNAs. Previous reports have shed some light on the roles of tsRNAs in the development of human diseases. However, our knowledge about tsRNAs is still relatively lacking. In this paper, we review the biogenesis, classification, subcellular localization as well as action mechanism of tsRNAs, and discuss the association between chemical modifications of tRNAs and the production and functions of tsRNAs. Furthermore, using immunity, metabolism, and malignancy as examples, we summarize the molecular mechanisms of tsRNAs in diseases and evaluate the potential of tsRNAs as new biomarkers and therapeutic targets. At the same time, we compile and introduce several resource databases that are currently publicly available for analyzing tsRNAs. Finally, we discuss the challenges associated with research in this field and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bowen Liu
- Research Center for Molecular Oncology and Functional Nucleic Acids, School of Laboratory Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, 453003, Xinxiang, Henan, PR China.
| | - Jinling Cao
- Research Center for Molecular Oncology and Functional Nucleic Acids, School of Laboratory Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, 453003, Xinxiang, Henan, PR China
| | - Xiangyun Wang
- Research Center for Molecular Oncology and Functional Nucleic Acids, School of Laboratory Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, 453003, Xinxiang, Henan, PR China
| | - Chunlei Guo
- Research Center for Molecular Oncology and Functional Nucleic Acids, School of Laboratory Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, 453003, Xinxiang, Henan, PR China
| | - Yunxia Liu
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53705, USA
| | - Tianjiao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Department of Biochemistry, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, 300071, Tianjin, PR China
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24
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Wang JH, Chen WX, Mei SQ, Yang YD, Yang JH, Qu LH, Zheng LL. tsRFun: a comprehensive platform for decoding human tsRNA expression, functions and prognostic value by high-throughput small RNA-Seq and CLIP-Seq data. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 50:D421-D431. [PMID: 34755848 PMCID: PMC8728237 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkab1023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
tRNA-derived small RNA (tsRNA), a novel type of regulatory small noncoding RNA, plays an important role in physiological and pathological processes. However, the understanding of the functional mechanism of tsRNAs in cells and their role in the occurrence and development of diseases is limited. Here, we integrated multiomics data such as transcriptome, epitranscriptome, and targetome data, and developed novel computer tools to establish tsRFun, a comprehensive platform to facilitate tsRNA research (http://rna.sysu.edu.cn/tsRFun/ or http://biomed.nscc-gz.cn/DB/tsRFun/). tsRFun evaluated tsRNA expression profiles and the prognostic value of tsRNAs across 32 types of cancers, identified tsRNA target molecules utilizing high-throughput CLASH/CLEAR or CLIP sequencing data, and constructed the interaction networks among tsRNAs, microRNAs, and mRNAs. In addition to its data presentation capabilities, tsRFun offers multiple real-time online tools for tsRNA identification, target prediction, and functional enrichment analysis. In summary, tsRFun provides a valuable data resource and multiple analysis tools for tsRNA investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun-Hao Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China.,School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Xin Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China
| | - Shi-Qiang Mei
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China
| | - Yue-Dong Yang
- National Supercomputer Center in Guangzhou, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Jian-Hua Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China
| | - Liang-Hu Qu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China
| | - Ling-Ling Zheng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory for Biocontrol, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, P.R. China
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25
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Li X, Liu X, Zhao D, Cui W, Wu Y, Zhang C, Duan C. tRNA-derived small RNAs: novel regulators of cancer hallmarks and targets of clinical application. Cell Death Discov 2021; 7:249. [PMID: 34537813 PMCID: PMC8449783 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-021-00647-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
tRNAs are a group of conventional noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) with critical roles in the biological synthesis of proteins. Recently, tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) were found to have important biological functions in the development of human diseases including carcinomas, rather than just being considered pure degradation material. tsRNAs not only are abnormally expressed in the cancer tissues and serum of cancer patients, but also have been suggested to regulate various vital cancer hallmarks. On the other hand, the application of tsRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic targets is promising. In this review, we focused on the basic characteristics of tsRNAs, and their biological functions known thus far, and explored the regulatory roles of tsRNAs in cancer hallmarks including proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, tumor microenvironment, drug resistance, cancer stem cell phenotype, and cancer cell metabolism. In addition, we also discussed the research progress on the application of tsRNAs as tumor biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xizhe Li
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87th, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, P. R. China.,Hunan Engineering Research Center for Pulmonary Nodules Precise Diagnosis & Treatment, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Xianyu Liu
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87th, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, P. R. China.,Hunan Engineering Research Center for Pulmonary Nodules Precise Diagnosis & Treatment, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Deze Zhao
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87th, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, P. R. China.,Hunan Engineering Research Center for Pulmonary Nodules Precise Diagnosis & Treatment, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Weifang Cui
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87th, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, P. R. China.,Hunan Engineering Research Center for Pulmonary Nodules Precise Diagnosis & Treatment, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Yingfang Wu
- Centre of Stomatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87th, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, P. R. China
| | - Chunfang Zhang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87th, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, P. R. China. .,Hunan Engineering Research Center for Pulmonary Nodules Precise Diagnosis & Treatment, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, P. R. China. .,National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, P. R. China.
| | - Chaojun Duan
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Xiangya Road 87th, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, P. R. China. .,Hunan Engineering Research Center for Pulmonary Nodules Precise Diagnosis & Treatment, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, P. R. China. .,Institute of Medical Sciences, Xiangya Lung Cancer Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, P. R. China.
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26
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Yuan Y, Li J, He Z, Fan X, Mao X, Yang M, Yang D. tRNA-derived fragments as New Hallmarks of Aging and Age-related Diseases. Aging Dis 2021; 12:1304-1322. [PMID: 34341710 PMCID: PMC8279533 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2021.0115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs), which are non-coding RNAs produced via tRNA cleavage with lengths of 14 to 50 nucleotides, originate from precursor tRNAs or mature tRNAs and exist in a wide range of organisms. tRFs are produced not by random fracture of tRNAs but by specific mechanisms. Considerable evidence shows that tRFs are detectable in model organisms of different ages and are associated with age-related diseases in humans, such as cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. In this literature review, the origin and classification of tRFs and the regulatory mechanisms of tRFs in aging and age-related diseases are summarized. We also describe the available tRF databases and research techniques and lay a foundation for the exploration of tRFs as biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of aging and age-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Yuan
- 1Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiamei Li
- 1Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China
| | - Zhi He
- 1Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaolan Fan
- 1Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China.,2Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China
| | - Xueping Mao
- 1Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China.,2Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China
| | - Mingyao Yang
- 1Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China.,2Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China
| | - Deying Yang
- 1Institute of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China.,2Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, Sichuan, China
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27
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La Ferlita A, Alaimo S, Di Bella S, Martorana E, Laliotis GI, Bertoni F, Cascione L, Tsichlis PN, Ferro A, Bosotti R, Pulvirenti A. RNAdetector: a free user-friendly stand-alone and cloud-based system for RNA-Seq data analysis. BMC Bioinformatics 2021; 22:298. [PMID: 34082707 PMCID: PMC8173825 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-021-04211-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background RNA-Seq is a well-established technology extensively used for transcriptome profiling, allowing the analysis of coding and non-coding RNA molecules. However, this technology produces a vast amount of data requiring sophisticated computational approaches for their analysis than other traditional technologies such as Real-Time PCR or microarrays, strongly discouraging non-expert users. For this reason, dozens of pipelines have been deployed for the analysis of RNA-Seq data. Although interesting, these present several limitations and their usage require a technical background, which may be uncommon in small research laboratories. Therefore, the application of these technologies in such contexts is still limited and causes a clear bottleneck in knowledge advancement. Results Motivated by these considerations, we have developed RNAdetector, a new free cross-platform and user-friendly RNA-Seq data analysis software that can be used locally or in cloud environments through an easy-to-use Graphical User Interface allowing the analysis of coding and non-coding RNAs from RNA-Seq datasets of any sequenced biological species. Conclusions RNAdetector is a new software that fills an essential gap between the needs of biomedical and research labs to process RNA-Seq data and their common lack of technical background in performing such analysis, which usually relies on outsourcing such steps to third party bioinformatics facilities or using expensive commercial software. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12859-021-04211-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro La Ferlita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Bioinformatics Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.,Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.,Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Alaimo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Bioinformatics Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Emanuele Martorana
- Regional Referral Centre for Rare Lung Diseases, A. O. U. "Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele", Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Georgios I Laliotis
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | | | - Philip N Tsichlis
- Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Alfredo Ferro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Bioinformatics Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Alfredo Pulvirenti
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Bioinformatics Unit, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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28
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Li J, Zhu L, Cheng J, Peng Y. Transfer RNA-derived small RNA: A rising star in oncology. Semin Cancer Biol 2021; 75:29-37. [PMID: 34029740 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2021.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) participate in protein synthesis through delivering amino acids to the ribosome. Nevertheless, recent studies revealed that tRNAs can undergo cleavage by endoribonucleases to generate a heterogeneous class of small RNAs, designated as tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs). Accumulating evidence demonstrates that tsRNAs play an important role in many biological processes, and their dysregulation is associated with the progression of diseases including cancer. Abnormally expressed tsRNAs contribute to tumor initiation and development through distinct mechanisms, such as transcriptional regulation and RNA interference. In this review, we briefly summarize the current knowledge regarding classification, biogenesis and biological function of tsRNAs. Moreover, we highlight the dysregulation and critical roles of tsRNAs in cancer and discuss their potentials as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers or therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Li
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China
| | - Lei Zhu
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China
| | - Jian Cheng
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China
| | - Yong Peng
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China.
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29
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Zuo Y, Zhu L, Guo Z, Liu W, Zhang J, Zeng Z, Wu Q, Cheng J, Fu X, Jin Y, Zhao Y, Peng Y. tsRBase: a comprehensive database for expression and function of tsRNAs in multiple species. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:D1038-D1045. [PMID: 33068436 PMCID: PMC7778983 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) are a class of novel small RNAs, ubiquitously present in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. It has been reported that tsRNAs exhibit spatiotemporal expression patterns and can function as regulatory molecules in many biological processes. Current tsRNA databases only cover limited organisms and ignore tsRNA functional characteristics. Thus, integrating more relevant tsRNA information is helpful for further exploration. Here, we present a tsRNA database, named tsRBase, which integrates the expression pattern and functional information of tsRNAs in multiple species. In tsRBase, we identified 121 942 tsRNAs by analyzing more than 14 000 publicly available small RNA-seq data covering 20 species. This database collects samples from different tissues/cell-lines, or under different treatments and genetic backgrounds, thus helps depict specific expression patterns of tsRNAs under different conditions. Importantly, to enrich our understanding of biological significance, we collected tsRNAs experimentally validated from published literatures, obtained protein-binding tsRNAs from CLIP/RIP-seq data, and identified targets of tsRNAs from CLASH and CLEAR-CLIP data. Taken together, tsRBase is the most comprehensive and systematic tsRNA repository, exhibiting all-inclusive information of tsRNAs from diverse data sources of multiple species. tsRBase is freely available at http://www.tsrbase.org.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanli Zuo
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China.,Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lei Zhu
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Zhixin Guo
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Wenrong Liu
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Jiting Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Zhen Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Qingbin Wu
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Jian Cheng
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Xin Fu
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Yang Jin
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Yun Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yong Peng
- Laboratory of Molecular Oncology, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
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30
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Li N, Shan N, Lu L, Wang Z. tRFtarget: a database for transfer RNA-derived fragment targets. Nucleic Acids Res 2021; 49:D254-D260. [PMID: 33035346 PMCID: PMC7779015 DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkaa831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2020] [Revised: 09/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Transfer RNA-derived fragments (tRFs) are a new class of small non-coding RNAs and play important roles in biological and physiological processes. Prediction of tRF target genes and binding sites is crucial in understanding the biological functions of tRFs in the molecular mechanisms of human diseases. We developed a publicly accessible web-based database, tRFtarget (http://trftarget.net), for tRF target prediction. It contains the computationally predicted interactions between tRFs and mRNA transcripts using the two state-of-the-art prediction tools RNAhybrid and IntaRNA, including location of the binding sites on the target, the binding region, and free energy of the binding stability with graphic illustration. tRFtarget covers 936 tRFs and 135 thousand predicted targets in eight species. It allows researchers to search either target genes by tRF IDs or tRFs by gene symbols/transcript names. We also integrated the manually curated experimental evidence of the predicted interactions into the database. Furthermore, we provided a convenient link to the DAVID® web server to perform downstream functional pathway analysis and gene ontology annotation on the predicted target genes. This database provides useful information for the scientific community to experimentally validate tRF target genes and facilitate the investigation of the molecular functions and mechanisms of tRFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningshan Li
- SJTU-Yale Joint Center for Biostatistics and Data Science, Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.,Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Nayang Shan
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.,Center for Statistical Science, Department of Industrial Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Lingeng Lu
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Zuoheng Wang
- SJTU-Yale Joint Center for Biostatistics and Data Science, Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
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31
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Analysis of tRNA-derived RNA fragments (tRFs) in Cryptococcus spp.: RNAi-independent generation and possible compensatory effects in a RNAi-deficient genotype. Fungal Biol 2021; 125:389-399. [PMID: 33910680 DOI: 10.1016/j.funbio.2020.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Small RNAs (sRNAs) are key factors in the regulation of gene expression. Recently, a new class of regulatory sRNAs derived from tRNAs was described, the tRNA-derived RNA fragments (tRFs). Such RNAs range in length from 14 to 30 nucleotides and are produced from both mature and primary tRNA transcripts, with very specific cleavage sites along the tRNA sequence. Although several mechanisms have been proposed for how tRFs mediate regulation of gene expression, the exact mechanism of tRF biogenesis and its dependency upon the RNAi pathway remain unclear. Cryptococcus gattii and Cryptococcus neoformans are basidiomycetous yeasts and important human pathogens. While C. neoformans is RNAi proficient, C. gattii VGII has lost essential RNAi genes. Here, we sought to identify the tRF production profile in C. gattii VGII and C. neoformans in order to assess the RNAi-dependency of tRF production in these fungal species. We developed a RNA-sequencing-based tRF prediction workflow designed to improve the currently available prediction tools. Using this methodology, we were able to identify tRFs in both organisms. Despite the loss of the RNAi pathway, C. gattii VGII displayed a number of identified tRFs that did not differ significantly from those observed in C. neoformans. The analysis of predicted tRF targets revealed that a higher number of targets was found for C. gattii VGII tRFs compared to C. neoformans tRFs. These results support the idea that tRFs are at least partially independent of the canonical RNAi machinery, raising questions about possible compensatory roles of alternative regulatory RNAs in the absence of a functional RNAi pathway.
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32
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Mechanisms of tRNA-derived fragments and tRNA halves in cancer treatment resistance. Biomark Res 2020; 8:52. [PMID: 33072328 PMCID: PMC7559774 DOI: 10.1186/s40364-020-00233-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) and tRNA halves (tiRNAs) are newly discovered noncoding RNAs in recent years. They are derived from specific cleavage of mature and pre-tRNAs and expressed in various cancers. They enhance cell proliferation and metastasis or inhibit cancer progression. Many studies have investigated their roles in the diagnosis, progression, metastasis, and prognosis of various cancers, but the mechanisms through which they are involved in resistance to cancer treatment are unclear. This review outlines the classification of tRFs and tiRNAs and their mechanisms in cancer drug resistance, thus providing new ideas for cancer treatment.
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33
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Park J, Ahn SH, Shin MG, Kim HK, Chang S. tRNA-Derived Small RNAs: Novel Epigenetic Regulators. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102773. [PMID: 32992597 PMCID: PMC7599909 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cells must synthesize new proteins to maintain its life and tRNA (transfer RNA) is an essential component of the translation process. tRNA-derived small RNA (tsRNA) is a relatively uncharacterized small RNA, derived from enzymatic cleavage of the tRNAs. Accumulating evidences suggest that tsRNA is an abundant, highly modified, dynamically regulated small-RNA and interacts with other types of RNAs or proteins. Moreover, it is abnormally expressed in multiple human diseases including systemic lupus, neurological disorder, metabolic disorder and cancer, implying its diverse function in the initiation or progression of such diseases. In this review, we summarize the classification of tsRNA and its role focused on the epigenetic regulation. Further, we discuss the limitation of current knowledge about the tsRNA and its potential applications. Abstract An epigenetic change is a heritable genetic alteration that does not involve any nucleotide changes. While the methylation of specific DNA regions such as CpG islands or histone modifications, including acetylation or methylation, have been investigated in detail, the role of small RNAs in epigenetic regulation is largely unknown. Among the many types of small RNAs, tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) represent a class of noncoding small RNAs with multiple roles in diverse physiological processes, including neovascularization, sperm maturation, immune modulation, and stress response. Regarding these roles, several pioneering studies have revealed that dysregulated tsRNAs are associated with human diseases, such as systemic lupus, neurological disorder, metabolic disorder, and cancer. Moreover, recent findings suggest that tsRNAs regulate the expression of critical genes linked with these diseases by a variety of mechanisms, including epigenetic regulation. In this review, we will describe different classes of tsRNAs based on their biogenesis and will focus on their role in epigenetic regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joonhyeong Park
- Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea; (J.P.); (M.G.S.)
| | - Se Hee Ahn
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Korea;
| | - Myung Geun Shin
- Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea; (J.P.); (M.G.S.)
| | - Hak Kyun Kim
- Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea; (J.P.); (M.G.S.)
- Correspondence: (H.K.K.); (S.C.); Tel.: +82-2-820-5197 (H.K.K.); +82-2-3010-2095 (S.C.)
| | - Suhwan Chang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Korea;
- Department of Physiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Korea
- Correspondence: (H.K.K.); (S.C.); Tel.: +82-2-820-5197 (H.K.K.); +82-2-3010-2095 (S.C.)
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34
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Fiannaca A, Paglia LL, Rosa ML, Rizzo R, Urso A. miRTissue ce: extending miRTissue web service with the analysis of ceRNA-ceRNA interactions. BMC Bioinformatics 2020; 21:199. [PMID: 32938402 PMCID: PMC7493844 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-020-3520-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-coding RNAs include different classes of molecules with regulatory functions. The most studied are microRNAs (miRNAs) that act directly inhibiting mRNA expression or protein translation through the interaction with a miRNAs-response element. Other RNA molecules participate in the complex network of gene regulation. They behave as competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA), acting as natural miRNA sponges to inhibit miRNA functions and modulate the expression of RNA messenger (mRNA). It became evident that understanding the ceRNA-miRNA-mRNA crosstalk would increase the functional information across the transcriptome, contributing to identify new potential biomarkers for translational medicine. RESULTS We present miRTissue ce, an improvement of our original miRTissue web service. By introducing a novel computational pipeline, miRTissue ce provides an easy way to search for ceRNA interactions in several cancer tissue types. Moreover it extends the functionalities of previous miRTissue release about miRNA-target interaction in order to provide a complete insight about miRNA mediated regulation processes. miRTissue ce is freely available at http://tblab.pa.icar.cnr.it/mirtissue.html . CONCLUSIONS The study of ceRNA networks and its dynamics in cancer tissue could be applied in many fields of translational biology, as the investigation of new cancer biomarker, both diagnostic and prognostic, and also in the investigation of new therapeutic strategies of intervention. In this scenario, miRTissue ce can offer a powerful instrument for the analysis and characterization of ceRNA-ceRNA interactions in different tissue types, representing a fundamental step in order to understand more complex regulation mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonino Fiannaca
- CNR-ICAR, National Research Council of Italy, via Ugo La Malfa 153, Palermo, 90146 Italy
| | - Laura La Paglia
- CNR-ICAR, National Research Council of Italy, via Ugo La Malfa 153, Palermo, 90146 Italy
| | - Massimo La Rosa
- CNR-ICAR, National Research Council of Italy, via Ugo La Malfa 153, Palermo, 90146 Italy
| | - Riccardo Rizzo
- CNR-ICAR, National Research Council of Italy, via Ugo La Malfa 153, Palermo, 90146 Italy
| | - Alfonso Urso
- CNR-ICAR, National Research Council of Italy, via Ugo La Malfa 153, Palermo, 90146 Italy
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Kim HK, Yeom JH, Kay MA. Transfer RNA-Derived Small RNAs: Another Layer of Gene Regulation and Novel Targets for Disease Therapeutics. Mol Ther 2020; 28:2340-2357. [PMID: 32956625 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2020.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Decades after identification as essential for protein synthesis, transfer RNAs (tRNAs) have been implicated in various cellular processes beyond translation. tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), referred to as tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) or tRNA-derived, stress-induced RNAs (tiRNAs), are produced by cleavage at different sites from mature or pre-tRNAs. They are classified into six major types representing potentially thousands of unique sequences and have been implicated to play a wide variety of regulatory roles in maintaining normal homeostasis, cancer cell viability, tumorigenesis, ribosome biogenesis, chromatin remodeling, translational regulation, intergenerational inheritance, retrotransposon regulation, and viral replication. However, the detailed mechanisms governing these processes remain unknown. Aberrant expression of tsRNAs is found in various human disease conditions, suggesting that a further understanding of the regulatory role of tsRNAs will assist in identifying novel biomarkers, potential therapeutic targets, and gene-regulatory tools. Here, we highlight the classification, biogenesis, and biological role of tsRNAs in regulatory mechanisms of normal and disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hak Kyun Kim
- Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea.
| | - Ji-Hyun Yeom
- Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Republic of Korea
| | - Mark A Kay
- Departments of Pediatrics and Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
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Yu M, Lu B, Zhang J, Ding J, Liu P, Lu Y. tRNA-derived RNA fragments in cancer: current status and future perspectives. J Hematol Oncol 2020; 13:121. [PMID: 32887641 PMCID: PMC7487644 DOI: 10.1186/s13045-020-00955-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have been the focus of many studies over the last few decades, and their fundamental roles in human diseases have been well established. Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) are housekeeping ncRNAs that deliver amino acids to ribosomes during protein biosynthesis. tRNA fragments (tRFs) are a novel class of small ncRNAs produced through enzymatic cleavage of tRNAs and have been shown to play key regulatory roles similar to microRNAs. Development and application of high-throughput sequencing technologies has provided accumulating evidence of dysregulated tRFs in cancer. Aberrant expression of tRFs has been found to participate in cell proliferation, invasive metastasis, and progression in several human malignancies. These newly identified functional tRFs also have great potential as new biomarkers and therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. In this review, we focus on the major biological functions of tRFs including RNA silencing, translation regulation, and epigenetic regulation; summarize recent research on the roles of tRFs in different types of cancer; and discuss the potential of using tRFs as clinical biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis and as therapeutic targets for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengqian Yu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, 310029, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bingjian Lu
- Center for Uterine Cancer Diagnosis & Therapy Research of Zhejiang Province, Women's Reproductive Health Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Women's Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jisong Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, 310029, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jinwang Ding
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, Cancer Hospital of the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Key Laboratory of Head & Neck Cancer Translational Research of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Pengyuan Liu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang, 310029, Hangzhou, China.,Center of Systems Molecular Medicine, Department of Physiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA
| | - Yan Lu
- Center for Uterine Cancer Diagnosis & Therapy Research of Zhejiang Province, Women's Reproductive Health Key Laboratory of Zhejiang Province, Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Women's Hospital and Institute of Translational Medicine, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
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Shan N, Li N, Dai Q, Hou L, Yan X, Amei A, Lu L, Wang Z. Interplay of tRNA-Derived Fragments and T Cell Activation in Breast Cancer Patient Survival. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2230. [PMID: 32785169 PMCID: PMC7466003 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Effector CD8+ T cell activation and its cytotoxic function are positively correlated with improved survival in breast cancer. tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) have recently been found to be involved in gene regulation in cancer progression. However, it is unclear how interactions between expression of tRFs and T cell activation affect breast cancer patient survival. We used Kaplan-Meier survival and multivariate Cox regression models to evaluate the effect of interactions between expression of tRFs and T cell activation on survival in 1081 breast cancer patients. Spearman correlation analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis were conducted to identify genes and pathways that were associated with tRFs. tRFdb-5024a, 5P_tRNA-Leu-CAA-4-1, and ts-49 were positively associated with overall survival, while ts-34 and ts-58 were negatively associated with overall survival. Significant interactions were detected between T cell activation and ts-34 and ts-49. In the T cell exhaustion group, patients with a low level of ts-34 or a high level of ts-49 showed improved survival. In contrast, there was no significant difference in the activation group. Breast cancer related pathways were identified for the five tRFs. In conclusion, the identified five tRFs associated with overall survival may serve as therapeutic targets and improve immunotherapy in breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayang Shan
- Center for Statistical Science, Department of Industrial Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (N.S.); (L.H.)
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; (N.L.); (Q.D.); (X.Y.)
| | - Ningshan Li
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; (N.L.); (Q.D.); (X.Y.)
- SJTU-Yale Joint Center for Biostatistics and Data Science, Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Qile Dai
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; (N.L.); (Q.D.); (X.Y.)
| | - Lin Hou
- Center for Statistical Science, Department of Industrial Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China; (N.S.); (L.H.)
- MOE Key Laboratory of Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Xiting Yan
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; (N.L.); (Q.D.); (X.Y.)
- Section of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Amei Amei
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV 89154, USA;
| | - Lingeng Lu
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Zuoheng Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; (N.L.); (Q.D.); (X.Y.)
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Xie Y, Yao L, Yu X, Ruan Y, Li Z, Guo J. Action mechanisms and research methods of tRNA-derived small RNAs. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2020; 5:109. [PMID: 32606362 PMCID: PMC7326991 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-020-00217-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), including tRNA-derived fragments (tRFs) and tRNA halves (tiRNAs), are small regulatory RNAs processed from mature tRNAs or precursor tRNAs. tRFs and tiRNAs play biological roles through a variety of mechanisms by interacting with proteins or mRNA, inhibiting translation, and regulating gene expression, the cell cycle, and chromatin and epigenetic modifications. The establishment and application of research technologies are important in understanding the biological roles of tRFs and tiRNAs. To study the molecular mechanisms of tRFs and tiRNAs, researchers have used a variety of bioinformatics and molecular biology methods, such as microarray analysis, real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR); Northern blotting; RNA sequencing (RNA-seq); cross-linking, ligation and sequencing of hybrids (CLASH); and photoactivatable-ribonucleoside-enhanced cross-linking and immunoprecipitation (PAR-CLIP). This paper summarizes the classification, action mechanisms, and roles of tRFs and tiRNAs in human diseases and the related signal transduction pathways, targeted therapies, databases, and research methods associated with them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoyao Xie
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Medical School of Ningbo University, 315211, Ningbo, China
| | - Lipeng Yao
- Ningbo College of Health Sciences, Ningbo, 315000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiuchong Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Medical School of Ningbo University, 315211, Ningbo, China
| | - Yao Ruan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Medical School of Ningbo University, 315211, Ningbo, China
| | - Zhe Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Medical School of Ningbo University, 315211, Ningbo, China
| | - Junming Guo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, Medical School of Ningbo University, 315211, Ningbo, China.
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