Chung-Ang University Researchers Unveil the Biogenesis and Role of Transfer RNA Fragments in Cancer Progression

Study reveals that 5'-tRNA^Gly(GCC) is a key regulator of gene expression and a potential therapeutic target in cancer

SEOUL, Dec. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Transfer RNA-derived fragments (tRFs) are small molecules present in most organisms. tRHs or tRNA halves are generated when certain tRFs are split at specific sites by enzymes. Although tRFs carry out various biological functions, not much is known about their synthesis.

To fill this knowledge gap, a group of researchers led by Professor Kangseok Lee, from the Department of Life Science, Chung-Ang University set out to explore the biogenesis and function of specific tRFs like tRHs. Their study published in Volume 15 of Nature Communications on 28 October 2024, opens exciting avenues for the future of cancer therapies and introduces potential biomarkers for improved clinical outcomes. 

This study was inspired by a serendipitous discovery in 2010, when the researchers found high levels of small RNA fragments derived from specific tRNAs, rather than the anticipated microRNAs in ovarian cancer samples. "At that time, the physiological roles of tRNA fragments were unknown. We felt compelled to investigate further to understand the role of these fragments in cancer," shares Prof. Kangseok Lee.

To investigate the role of a specific underexplored fragment, 5′-tRH-Gly^GCC in cancer, the researchers employed a combination of cutting-edge molecular and biochemical techniques. Nanopore sequencing was used to analyze the transcriptome, while alternative splicing assays were performed to assess how the RNA fragment affected gene expression. Additionally, the interaction between 5′-tRH-Gly^GCC and heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (HNRNP) proteins, involved in splicing, was closely examined. Furthermore, the researchers conducted in vitro experiments to analyze cancer cell proliferation, and used in vivo xenograft mouse models to evaluate the therapeutic potential of targeting 5′-tRH-Gly^GCC. 

The researchers found that under endoplasmic reticulum stress, inositol-requiring enzyme 1α (IRE1α) splits tRNA^Gly(GCC) to produce 5′-tRH-Gly^GCC. Furthermore, the results revealed that 5′-tRH-Gly^GCC plays a critical role in alternative splicing and messenger RNA isoform regulation, influencing the expression of genes involved in cancer progression. The study also found that this RNA fragment interacts with HNRNP proteins, which regulate splicing. In vitro experiments showed that modulating the levels of 5′-tRH-Gly^GCC can significantly affect cancer cell proliferation. "Our study addresses a long-standing question in RNA and cancer biology. We have uncovered how specific tRNA fragments are produced and their critical roles in cellular stress and cancer, which opens novel opportunities for diagnostic and therapeutic applications," explains Prof. Lee 

In xenograft mouse models, suppressing this RNA fragment using antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) led to tumor regression. These findings suggest that 5′-tRH-Gly^GCC could serve as a biomarker for early-stage cancer detection, as its level can be easily detected in blood samples using RT-PCR, similar to coronavirus detection. Moreover, its role in tumor growth makes it a promising target for therapeutic interventions. Prof. Lee explains, "Blocking these tRNA fragments led to tumor regression in mouse models. We are now exploring how to deliver ASOs into human cells, bringing us closer to clinical applications."

We hope this study paves the way for innovative approaches in precision medicine, leading to more effective diagnostics and personalized cancer therapies.

Reference

Title of original paper: 5′-tRNA^{Gly (GCC)} halves generated by IRE1α are linked to the ER stress response

Journal: Nature Communications

DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-53624-4

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