Roquin binds microRNA-146a and Argonaute2 to regulate microRNA homeostasis

Nat Commun. 2015 Feb 20:6:6253. doi: 10.1038/ncomms7253.

Abstract

Roquin is an RNA-binding protein that prevents autoimmunity and inflammation via repression of bound target mRNAs such as inducible costimulator (Icos). When Roquin is absent or mutated (Roquin(san)), Icos is overexpressed in T cells. Here we show that Roquin enhances Dicer-mediated processing of pre-miR-146a. Roquin also directly binds Argonaute2, a central component of the RNA-induced silencing complex, and miR-146a, a microRNA that targets Icos mRNA. In the absence of functional Roquin, miR-146a accumulates in T cells. Its accumulation is not due to increased transcription or processing, rather due to enhanced stability of mature miR-146a. This is associated with decreased 3' end uridylation of the miRNA. Crystallographic studies reveal that Roquin contains a unique HEPN domain and identify the structural basis of the 'san' mutation and Roquin's ability to bind multiple RNAs. Roquin emerges as a protein that can bind Ago2, miRNAs and target mRNAs, to control homeostasis of both RNA species.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Argonaute Proteins / metabolism*
  • Crystallography, X-Ray
  • HEK293 Cells
  • Half-Life
  • Homeostasis*
  • Humans
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • MicroRNAs / genetics
  • MicroRNAs / metabolism*
  • Protein Binding / genetics
  • Protein Structure, Tertiary
  • RNA Processing, Post-Transcriptional
  • RNA Stability
  • Ribonuclease III / metabolism
  • T-Lymphocytes / metabolism
  • Ubiquitin-Protein Ligases / chemistry
  • Ubiquitin-Protein Ligases / metabolism*

Substances

  • Ago2 protein, mouse
  • Argonaute Proteins
  • MicroRNAs
  • Mirn146 microRNA, mouse
  • Rc3h1 protein, mouse
  • Ubiquitin-Protein Ligases
  • Ribonuclease III

Associated data

  • PDB/3X10
  • PDB/4TXA
  • SRA/SRR1724420
  • SRA/SRR1724421