A microRNA cluster in the Fragile-X region expressed during spermatogenesis targets FMR1.
EMBO Rep
; 20(2)2019 02.
Article
in En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-30573526
ABSTRACT
Testis-expressed X-linked genes typically evolve rapidly. Here, we report on a testis-expressed X-linked microRNA (miRNA) cluster that despite rapid alterations in sequence has retained its position in the Fragile-X region of the X chromosome in placental mammals. Surprisingly, the miRNAs encoded by this cluster (Fx-mir) have a predilection for targeting the immediately adjacent gene, Fmr1, an unexpected finding given that miRNAs usually act in trans, not in cis Robust repression of Fmr1 is conferred by combinations of Fx-mir miRNAs induced in Sertoli cells (SCs) during postnatal development when they terminate proliferation. Physiological significance is suggested by the finding that FMRP, the protein product of Fmr1, is downregulated when Fx-mir miRNAs are induced, and that FMRP loss causes SC hyperproliferation and spermatogenic defects. Fx-mir miRNAs not only regulate the expression of FMRP, but also regulate the expression of eIF4E and CYFIP1, which together with FMRP form a translational regulatory complex. Our results support a model in which Fx-mir family members act cooperatively to regulate the translation of batteries of mRNAs in a developmentally regulated manner in SCs.
Key words
Full text:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Spermatogenesis
/
RNA, Messenger
/
Multigene Family
/
MicroRNAs
/
RNA Interference
/
Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein
Type of study:
Prognostic_studies
Limits:
Animals
/
Humans
/
Male
Language:
En
Journal:
EMBO Rep
Journal subject:
BIOLOGIA MOLECULAR
Year:
2019
Type:
Article
Affiliation country:
United States