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Non-Coding RNA, Volume 6, Issue 1 (March 2020) – 14 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): StrRNAs are specific RNAs containing short tandem repeat-enriched sequences that play an architectural role in the formation of membraneless nuclear bodies by association with multiple copies of specific RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) (left). Specific nuclear bodies are formed by the induced expression of strRNAs in response to cellular stress or disease-related repeat expansion. The functional models of strRNA-dependent nuclear bodies (right). Top: Molecular sponge of specific proteins and/or RNAs from the nucleoplasm to negatively regulate their functions. Middle: Reaction crucible where specific molecules, such as enzymes and their substrates, are concentrated to facilitate their catalytic reaction. Bottom: Disease-associated aggregation is formed on disease-causing or toxic strRNAs transcribed from the abnormally expanded repeat sequences. View this paper.
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10 pages, 2465 KiB  
Article
Single Mutation in Hammerhead Ribozyme Favors Cleavage Activity with Manganese over Magnesium
by Mohammad Reza Naghdi, Emilie Boutet, Clarisse Mucha, Jonathan Ouellet and Jonathan Perreault
Non-Coding RNA 2020, 6(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/ncrna6010014 - 20 Mar 2020
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 5238
Abstract
Hammerhead ribozymes are one of the most studied classes of ribozymes so far, from both the structural and biochemical point of views. The activity of most hammerhead ribozymes is cation-dependent. Mg2+ is one of the most abundant divalent cations in the cell [...] Read more.
Hammerhead ribozymes are one of the most studied classes of ribozymes so far, from both the structural and biochemical point of views. The activity of most hammerhead ribozymes is cation-dependent. Mg2+ is one of the most abundant divalent cations in the cell and therefore plays a major role in cleavage activity for most hammerhead ribozymes. Besides Mg2+, cleavage can also occur in the presence of other cations such as Mn2+. The catalytic core of hammerhead ribozymes is highly conserved, which could contribute to a preference of hammerhead ribozymes toward certain cations. Here, we show a naturally occurring variation in the catalytic core of hammerhead ribozymes, A6C, that can favor one metallic ion, Mn2+, over several other cations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Non-Coding RNA Methods)
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15 pages, 2757 KiB  
Review
The Emerging Role of ncRNAs and RNA-Binding Proteins in Mitotic Apparatus Formation
by Kei K. Ito, Koki Watanabe and Daiju Kitagawa
Non-Coding RNA 2020, 6(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/ncrna6010013 - 20 Mar 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 11169
Abstract
Mounting experimental evidence shows that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) serve a wide variety of biological functions. Recent studies suggest that a part of ncRNAs are critically important for supporting the structure of subcellular architectures. Here, we summarize the current literature demonstrating the role of [...] Read more.
Mounting experimental evidence shows that non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) serve a wide variety of biological functions. Recent studies suggest that a part of ncRNAs are critically important for supporting the structure of subcellular architectures. Here, we summarize the current literature demonstrating the role of ncRNAs and RNA-binding proteins in regulating the assembly of mitotic apparatus, especially focusing on centrosomes, kinetochores, and mitotic spindles. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-Coding RNA and Intracellular Structures)
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17 pages, 2202 KiB  
Review
Long Non-coding RNAs Mechanisms of Action in HIV-1 Modulation and the Identification of Novel Therapeutic Targets
by Roslyn M. Ray and Kevin V. Morris
Non-Coding RNA 2020, 6(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/ncrna6010012 - 13 Mar 2020
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 4888
Abstract
This review aims to highlight the role of long non-coding RNAs in mediating human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) viral replication, latency, disease susceptibility and progression. In particular, we focus on identifying possible lncRNA targets and their purported mechanisms of action for future drug design [...] Read more.
This review aims to highlight the role of long non-coding RNAs in mediating human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) viral replication, latency, disease susceptibility and progression. In particular, we focus on identifying possible lncRNA targets and their purported mechanisms of action for future drug design or gene therapeutics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-Coding RNAs as Therapeutic Targets)
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9 pages, 987 KiB  
Communication
NEAT1 Long Isoform Is Highly Expressed in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Irrespectively of Cytogenetic Groups or Clinical Outcome
by Domenica Ronchetti, Vanessa Favasuli, Paola Monti, Giovanna Cutrona, Sonia Fabris, Ilaria Silvestris, Luca Agnelli, Monica Colombo, Paola Menichini, Serena Matis, Massimo Gentile, Ramil Nurtdinov, Roderic Guigó, Luca Baldini, Gilberto Fronza, Manlio Ferrarini, Fortunato Morabito, Antonino Neri and Elisa Taiana
Non-Coding RNA 2020, 6(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/ncrna6010011 - 13 Mar 2020
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4474
Abstract
The biological role and therapeutic potential of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) are still open questions. Herein, we investigated the significance of the lncRNA NEAT1 in CLL. We examined NEAT1 expression in 310 newly diagnosed Binet A patients, in [...] Read more.
The biological role and therapeutic potential of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) are still open questions. Herein, we investigated the significance of the lncRNA NEAT1 in CLL. We examined NEAT1 expression in 310 newly diagnosed Binet A patients, in normal CD19+ B-cells, and other types of B-cell malignancies. Although global NEAT1 expression level was not statistically different in CLL cells compared to normal B cells, the median ratio of NEAT1_2 long isoform and global NEAT1 expression in CLL samples was significantly higher than in other groups. NEAT1_2 was more expressed in patients carrying mutated IGHV genes. Concerning cytogenetic aberrations, NEAT1_2 expression in CLL with trisomy 12 was lower with respect to patients without alterations. Although global NEAT1 expression appeared not to be associated with clinical outcome, patients with the lowest NEAT1_2 expression displayed the shortest time to first treatment; however, a multivariate regression analysis showed that the NEAT1_2 risk model was not independent from other known prognostic factors, particularly the IGHV mutational status. Overall, our data prompt future studies to investigate whether the increased amount of the long NEAT1_2 isoform detected in CLL cells may have a specific role in the pathology of the disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Long Non-Coding RNA)
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32 pages, 2962 KiB  
Review
ncRNAs in Type-2 Immunity
by Riccardo Guidi, Christopher J. Wedeles and Mark S. Wilson
Non-Coding RNA 2020, 6(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/ncrna6010010 - 6 Mar 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 6228
Abstract
Immunological diseases, including asthma, autoimmunity and immunodeficiencies, affect a growing percentage of the population with significant unmet medical needs. As we slowly untangle and better appreciate these complex genetic and environment-influenced diseases, new therapeutically targetable pathways are emerging. Non-coding RNA species, which regulate [...] Read more.
Immunological diseases, including asthma, autoimmunity and immunodeficiencies, affect a growing percentage of the population with significant unmet medical needs. As we slowly untangle and better appreciate these complex genetic and environment-influenced diseases, new therapeutically targetable pathways are emerging. Non-coding RNA species, which regulate epigenetic, transcriptional and translational responses are critical regulators of immune cell development, differentiation and effector function, and may represent one such new class of therapeutic targets. In this review we focus on type-2 immune responses, orchestrated by TH2 cell-derived cytokines, IL-4, IL-5 and IL-13, which stimulate a variety of immune and tissue responses- commonly referred to as type-2 immunity. Evolved to protect us from parasitic helminths, type-2 immune responses are observed in individuals with allergic diseases, including Asthma, atopic dermatitis and food allergy. A growing number of studies have identified the involvement of various RNA species, including microRNAs (miRNA) and long non-coding (lncRNA), in type-2 immune responses and in both clinical and pre-clinical disease settings. We highlight these recent findings, identify gaps in our understanding and provide a perspective on how our current understanding can be harnessed for novel treat opportunities to treat type-2 immune-mediated diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-Coding RNA and the Immune System)
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15 pages, 2218 KiB  
Article
Repositioning the Sm-Binding Site in Saccharomyces cerevisiae Telomerase RNA Reveals RNP Organizational Flexibility and Sm-Directed 3′-End Formation
by Evan P. Hass and David C. Zappulla
Non-Coding RNA 2020, 6(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/ncrna6010009 - 29 Feb 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5064
Abstract
Telomerase RNA contains a template for synthesizing telomeric DNA and has been proposed to act as a flexible scaffold for holoenzyme protein subunits in the RNP. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the telomerase RNA, TLC1, is bound by the Sm7 protein complex, which [...] Read more.
Telomerase RNA contains a template for synthesizing telomeric DNA and has been proposed to act as a flexible scaffold for holoenzyme protein subunits in the RNP. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the telomerase RNA, TLC1, is bound by the Sm7 protein complex, which is required for stabilization of the predominant, non-polyadenylated (poly(A)–) TLC1 isoform. However, it remains unclear (1) whether Sm7 retains this function when its binding site is repositioned within TLC1, as has been shown for other TLC1-binding telomerase subunits, and (2) how Sm7 stabilizes poly(A)– TLC1. Here, we first show that Sm7 can stabilize poly(A)– TLC1 even when its binding site is repositioned via circular permutation to several different positions within TLC1, further supporting the conclusion that the telomerase holoenzyme is organizationally flexible. Next, we show that when an Sm site is inserted 5′ of its native position and the native site is mutated, Sm7 stabilizes shorter forms of poly(A)– TLC1 in a manner corresponding to how far upstream the new site was inserted, providing strong evidence that Sm7 binding to TLC1 controls where the mature poly(A)– 3′ is formed by directing a 3′-to-5′ processing mechanism. In summary, our results show that Sm7 and the 3′ end of yeast telomerase RNA comprise an organizationally flexible module within the telomerase RNP and provide insights into the mechanistic role of Sm7 in telomerase RNA biogenesis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Computational Biology)
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21 pages, 3871 KiB  
Article
The Arabidopsis Hypoxia Inducible AtR8 Long Non-Coding RNA also Contributes to Plant Defense and Root Elongation Coordinating with WRKY Genes under Low Levels of Salicylic Acid
by Shuang Li, Saraswati Nayar, HuiYuan Jia, Sanjay Kapoor, Juan Wu and Yasushi Yukawa
Non-Coding RNA 2020, 6(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/ncrna6010008 - 26 Feb 2020
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 6322
Abstract
AtR8 lncRNA was previously identified in the flowering plant Arabidopsis thaliana as an abundant Pol III-transcribed long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) of approximately 260 nt. AtR8 lncRNA accumulation is responsive to hypoxic stress and salicylic acid (SA) treatment in roots, but its function has [...] Read more.
AtR8 lncRNA was previously identified in the flowering plant Arabidopsis thaliana as an abundant Pol III-transcribed long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) of approximately 260 nt. AtR8 lncRNA accumulation is responsive to hypoxic stress and salicylic acid (SA) treatment in roots, but its function has not yet been identified. In this study, microarray analysis of an atr8 mutant and wild-type Arabidopsis indicated a strong association of AtR8 lncRNA with the defense response. AtR8 accumulation exhibited an inverse correlation with an accumulation of two WRKY genes (WRKY53/WRKY70) when plants were exposed to exogenous low SA concentrations (20 µM), infected with Pseudomonas syringae, or in the early stage of development. The highest AtR8 accumulation was observed 5 days after germination, at which time no WRKY53 or WRKY70 mRNA was detectable. The presence of low levels of SA resulted in a significant reduction of root length in atr8 seedlings, whereas wrky53 and wrky70 mutants exhibited the opposite phenotype. Taken together, AtR8 lncRNA participates in Pathogenesis-Related Proteins 1 (PR-1)-independent defense and root elongation, which are related to the SA response. The mutual regulation of AtR8 lncRNA and WRKY53/WRKY70 is mediated by Nonexpressor of Pathogenesis-Related Gene 1 (NPR1). Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Long Non-Coding RNA)
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22 pages, 13313 KiB  
Article
vtRNA2-1/nc886 Produces a Small RNA That Contributes to Its Tumor Suppression Action through the microRNA Pathway in Prostate Cancer
by Rafael Sebastián Fort, Beatriz Garat, José Roberto Sotelo-Silveira and María Ana Duhagon
Non-Coding RNA 2020, 6(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/ncrna6010007 - 20 Feb 2020
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5885
Abstract
vtRNA2-1 is a vault RNA initially classified as microRNA precursor hsa-mir-886 and recently proposed as “nc886”, a new type of non-coding RNA involved in cancer progression acting as an oncogene and tumor suppressor gene in different tissues. We have shown that vtRNA2-1/nc886 is [...] Read more.
vtRNA2-1 is a vault RNA initially classified as microRNA precursor hsa-mir-886 and recently proposed as “nc886”, a new type of non-coding RNA involved in cancer progression acting as an oncogene and tumor suppressor gene in different tissues. We have shown that vtRNA2-1/nc886 is epigenetically repressed in neoplastic cells, increasing cell proliferation and invasion in prostate tissue. Here we investigate the ability of vtRNA2-1/nc886 to produce small-RNAs and their biological effect in prostate cells. The interrogation of public small-RNA transcriptomes of prostate and other tissues uncovered two small RNAs, snc886-3p and snc886-5p, derived from vtRNA2-1/nc886 (previously hsa-miR-886-3p and hsa-miR-886-5p). Re-analysis of PAR-CLIP and knockout of microRNA biogenesis enzymes data showed that these small RNAs are products of DICER, independent of DROSHA, and associate with Argonaute proteins, satisfying microRNA attributes. In addition, the overexpression of snc886-3p provokes the downregulation of mRNAs bearing sequences complementary to its “seed” in their 3′-UTRs. Microarray and in vitro functional assays in DU145, LNCaP and PC3 cell lines revealed that snc886-3p reduced cell cycle progression and increases apoptosis, like its precursor vtRNA2-1/nc886. Finally, we found a list of direct candidate targets genes of snc886-3p upregulated and associated with disease condition and progression in PRAD-TCGA data. Overall, our findings suggest that vtRNA2-1/nc886 and its processed product snc886-3p are synthesized in prostate cells, exerting a tumor suppressor action. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Applications of Non-Coding RNA)
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9 pages, 964 KiB  
Review
Short Tandem Repeat-Enriched Architectural RNAs in Nuclear Bodies: Functions and Associated Diseases
by Kensuke Ninomiya and Tetsuro Hirose
Non-Coding RNA 2020, 6(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/ncrna6010006 - 20 Feb 2020
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 6037
Abstract
Nuclear bodies are membraneless, phase-separated compartments that concentrate specific proteins and RNAs in the nucleus. They are believed to serve as sites for the modification, sequestration, and storage of specific factors, and to act as organizational hubs of chromatin structure to control gene [...] Read more.
Nuclear bodies are membraneless, phase-separated compartments that concentrate specific proteins and RNAs in the nucleus. They are believed to serve as sites for the modification, sequestration, and storage of specific factors, and to act as organizational hubs of chromatin structure to control gene expression and cellular function. Architectural (arc) RNA, a class of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), plays essential roles in the formation of nuclear bodies. Herein, we focus on specific arcRNAs containing short tandem repeat-enriched sequences and introduce their biological functions and recently elucidated underlying molecular mechanism. In various neurodegenerative diseases, abnormal nuclear and cytoplasmic bodies are built on disease-causing RNAs or toxic RNAs with aberrantly expanded short tandem repeat-enriched sequences. We discuss the possible analogous functions of natural arcRNAs and toxic RNAs with short tandem repeat-enriched sequences. Finally, we describe the technical utility of short tandem repeat-enriched arcRNAs as a model for exploring the structures and functions of nuclear bodies, as well as the pathogenic mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-Coding RNA and Intracellular Structures)
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29 pages, 425 KiB  
Review
MiRNAs as Novel Adipokines: Obesity-Related Circulating MiRNAs Influence Chemosensitivity in Cancer Patients
by Sarah B. Withers, Toni Dewhurst, Chloe Hammond and Caroline H. Topham
Non-Coding RNA 2020, 6(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/ncrna6010005 - 23 Jan 2020
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5529
Abstract
Adipose tissue is an endocrine organ, capable of regulating distant physiological processes in other tissues via the release of adipokines into the bloodstream. Recently, circulating adipose-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) have been proposed as a novel class of adipokine, due to their capacity to regulate [...] Read more.
Adipose tissue is an endocrine organ, capable of regulating distant physiological processes in other tissues via the release of adipokines into the bloodstream. Recently, circulating adipose-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) have been proposed as a novel class of adipokine, due to their capacity to regulate gene expression in tissues other than fat. Circulating levels of adipokines are known to be altered in obese individuals compared with typical weight individuals and are linked to poorer health outcomes. For example, obese individuals are known to be more prone to the development of some cancers, and less likely to achieve event-free survival following chemotherapy. The purpose of this review was twofold; first to identify circulating miRNAs which are reproducibly altered in obesity, and secondly to identify mechanisms by which these obesity-linked miRNAs might influence the sensitivity of tumors to treatment. We identified 8 candidate circulating miRNAs with altered levels in obese individuals (6 increased, 2 decreased). A second literature review was then performed to investigate if these candidates might have a role in mediating resistance to cancer treatment. All of the circulating miRNAs identified were capable of mediating responses to cancer treatment at the cellular level, and so this review provides novel insights which can be used by future studies which aim to improve obese patient outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-Coding RNAs: Variations and Disease)
12 pages, 1927 KiB  
Review
Centromeric Non-Coding RNAs: Conservation and Diversity in Function
by Takashi Ideue and Tokio Tani
Non-Coding RNA 2020, 6(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/ncrna6010004 - 17 Jan 2020
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5218
Abstract
Chromosome segregation is strictly regulated for the proper distribution of genetic material to daughter cells. During this process, mitotic chromosomes are pulled to both poles by bundles of microtubules attached to kinetochores that are assembled on the chromosomes. Centromeres are specific regions where [...] Read more.
Chromosome segregation is strictly regulated for the proper distribution of genetic material to daughter cells. During this process, mitotic chromosomes are pulled to both poles by bundles of microtubules attached to kinetochores that are assembled on the chromosomes. Centromeres are specific regions where kinetochores assemble. Although these regions were previously considered to be silent, some experimental studies have demonstrated that transcription occurs in these regions to generate non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). These centromeric ncRNAs (cenRNAs) are involved in centromere functions. Here, we describe the currently available information on the functions of cenRNAs in several species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-Coding RNA and Intracellular Structures)
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8 pages, 565 KiB  
Commentary
The Missing “lnc” between Genetics and Cardiac Disease
by Maral Azodi, Rick Kamps, Stephane Heymans and Emma Louise Robinson
Non-Coding RNA 2020, 6(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/ncrna6010003 - 14 Jan 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5740
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the biggest threats to public health worldwide. Identifying key genetic contributors to CVD enables clinicians to assess the most effective treatment course and prognosis, as well as potentially inform family members. This often involves either whole exome [...] Read more.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the biggest threats to public health worldwide. Identifying key genetic contributors to CVD enables clinicians to assess the most effective treatment course and prognosis, as well as potentially inform family members. This often involves either whole exome sequencing (WES) or targeted panel analysis of known pathogenic genes. In the future, tailored or personalized therapeutic strategies may be implemented, such as gene therapy. With the recent revolution in deep sequencing technologies, we know that up to 90% of the human genome is transcribed, despite only 2% of the 6 billion DNA bases coding for proteins. The long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) “genes” make up an important and significant fraction of this “dark matter” of the genome. We highlight how, despite lncRNA genes exceeding that of classical protein-coding genes by number, the “non-coding” human genome is neglected when looking for genetic components of disease. WES platforms and pathogenic gene panels still do not cover even characterized lncRNA genes that are functionally involved in the pathophysiology of CVD. We suggest that the importance of lncRNAs in disease causation and progression be taken as seriously as that of pathogenic protein variants and mutations, and that this is maybe a new area of attention for clinical geneticists. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Regulatory RNAs in Cardiovascular Development and Disease)
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7 pages, 743 KiB  
Case Report
MicroRNAs as Appropriate Discriminators in Non-Specific Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Elevation in Testicular Germ Cell Tumor Patients
by Anna L. Lembeck, Philip Puchas, Georg Hutterer, Dominik A. Barth, Angelika Terbuch, Thomas Bauernhofer and Martin Pichler
Non-Coding RNA 2020, 6(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/ncrna6010002 - 1 Jan 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4312
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are the most commonly diagnosed malignancies in younger men. The monitoring of disease course and recurrence is supported by traditional tumor markers, including α-fetoprotein (AFP). AFP is physiologically synthesized in the liver and can be detected at increased [...] Read more.
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are the most commonly diagnosed malignancies in younger men. The monitoring of disease course and recurrence is supported by traditional tumor markers, including α-fetoprotein (AFP). AFP is physiologically synthesized in the liver and can be detected at increased levels in testicular cancer patients as well as under other benign liver diseases, which have been reported as a misleading cause of interpretation of TGCTs clinical course. A cluster of stem cell-associated microRNAs has been reported to outperform traditional tumor markers in newly diagnosed TGCTs, but the value of these microRNAs to differentiate between specific and unspecific AFP elevations, has never been reported. We report here a patient with chronic hepatitis B and normal liver related blood values presenting with a surgically removed primary TGCT and elevated AFP levels. Clinical staging revealed a suspect retroperitoneal metastatic lymph node together with other risk factors and first line treatment with PEB chemotherapy was administered. During curative treatment significantly rising AFP levels led to the assumption of chemo-resistant disease, mandating the initiation of salvage chemotherapy and surgical removal of the putative lymph node metastases. The AFP levels continuously decreased with the interruption of chemotherapeutic agents, indicating a chemotherapy-induced liver toxicity on the basis of pre-existing liver disease. MiR-371a-3p serum levels were not detectable in serum samples with elevated AFP levels. In conclusion, miR-371a-3p may be a reliable biomarker to differentiate between non-specific AFP elevations in TGCTs patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Small Non-Coding RNA)
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8 pages, 1001 KiB  
Review
Identification of Genomic Loci Responsible for the Formation of Nuclear Domains Using Lampbrush Chromosomes
by Alla Krasikova and Tatiana Kulikova
Non-Coding RNA 2020, 6(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/ncrna6010001 - 25 Dec 2019
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4593
Abstract
In the cell nuclei, various types of nuclear domains assemble as a result of transcriptional activity at specific chromosomal loci. Giant transcriptionally active lampbrush chromosomes, which form in oocyte nuclei of amphibians and birds enable the mapping of genomic sequences with high resolution [...] Read more.
In the cell nuclei, various types of nuclear domains assemble as a result of transcriptional activity at specific chromosomal loci. Giant transcriptionally active lampbrush chromosomes, which form in oocyte nuclei of amphibians and birds enable the mapping of genomic sequences with high resolution and the visualization of individual transcription units. This makes avian and amphibian oocyte nuclei an advantageous model for studying locus-specific nuclear domains. We developed two strategies for identification and comprehensive analysis of the genomic loci involved in nuclear domain formation on lampbrush chromosomes. The first approach was based on the sequential FISH-mapping of BAC clones containing genomic DNA fragments with a known chromosomal position close to the locus of a nuclear domain. The second approach involved mechanical microdissection of the chromosomal region adjacent to the nuclear domain followed by the generation of FISH-probes and DNA sequencing. Furthermore, deciphering the DNA sequences from the dissected material by high throughput sequencing technologies and their mapping to the reference genome helps to identify the genomic region responsible for the formation of the nuclear domain. For those nuclear domains structured by nascent transcripts, identification of genomic loci of their formation is a crucial step in the identification of scaffold RNAs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-Coding RNA and Intracellular Structures)
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