Distinctive features of lincRNA gene expression suggest widespread RNA-independent functions
Year: 2018
Type: article
Abstract: Eukaryotic genomes produce RNAs lacking protein-coding potential, with enigmatic roles. We integrated three approaches to study large intervening noncoding RNA (lincRNA) gene functions. First, we profiled mouse embryonic stem cells and neural precursor cells at single-cell resolution, revealing lincRNAs expressed in specific cell types, cell subpopulations, or cell cycle stages. Second, we assembled a transcriptome-wide atlas of nuclear lincRNA degradation by identifying targets of the exosome cofactor Mtr4. Third, we developed a reversible depletion system to separate the role of a lincRNA gene from that of its RNA. Our approach distinguished lincRNA loci functioning in trans from those modulating local gene expression. Some genes express stable and/or abundant lincRNAs in single cells, but many prematurely terminate transcription and produce lincRNAs rapidly degraded by the nuclear exosome. This suggests that besides RNA-dependent functions, lincRNA loci act as DNA elements or through transcription. Our integrative approach helps distinguish these mechanisms.
Source: Life Science Alliance
Language: English
Subfield: Cancer Research
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,500
Awards: Tracing early mammalian lineage decisions by single cell genomics., The role of long non-coding RNAs in pluripotency and neuronal differentiation., Tracing early mammalian lineage decisions by single cell genomics., G3067462333, The 'loutrophóros' in Wedding and Burial Ritual, G4642712072, NCCR RNA & disease: Understanding the role of RNA biology in disease mechanisms
OpenAlex ID: W2886969723