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SMaRT lncRNA controls translation of a G‐quadruplex‐containing mRNA antagonizing the DHX36 helicase
Author(s) -
Martone Julie,
Mariani Davide,
Santini Tiziana,
Setti Adriano,
Shamloo Sama,
Colantoni Alessio,
Capparelli Francesca,
Paiardini Alessandro,
Dimartino Dacia,
Morlando Mariangela,
Bozzoni Irene
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
embo reports
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 4.584
H-Index - 184
eISSN - 1469-3178
pISSN - 1469-221X
DOI - 10.15252/embr.201949942
Subject(s) - library science , charles darwin , classics , biology , history , genetics , darwinism , computer science
Guanine‐quadruplexes (G4) included in RNA molecules exert several functions in controlling gene expression at post‐transcriptional level; however, the molecular mechanisms of G4‐mediated regulation are still poorly understood. Here, we describe a regulatory circuitry operating in the early phases of murine muscle differentiation in which a long non‐coding RNA (SMaRT) base pairs with a G4‐containing mRNA (Mlx‐γ) and represses its translation by counteracting the activity of the DHX36 RNA helicase. The time‐restricted, specific effect of lnc‐SMaRT on the translation of Mlx‐γ isoform modulates the general subcellular localization of total MLX proteins, impacting on their transcriptional output and promoting proper myogenesis and mature myotube formation. Therefore, the circuitry made of lnc‐SMaRT, Mlx‐γ, and DHX36 not only plays an important role in the control of myogenesis but also unravels a molecular mechanism where G4 structures and G4 unwinding activities are regulated in living cells.