Site-specific R-loop formation induces CGG repeat contraction and Fragile X gene reactivation
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ABSTRACT: Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder and a leading cause of intellectual disability. In FXS, the neuronal regulator, FMR1, is epigenetically silenced by a CGG repeat expansion. Here, we investigate conditions under which repeat expansion and gene silencing could be reversed. Surprisingly, inducing formation of R-loops (3-stranded RNA-DNA structures) within FMR1 is sufficient to initiate CGG contraction, promoter demethylation, and FMR1 reactivation. Recruiting RNaseH degrades the R-loop and abolishes the response. Targeting the nascent mRNA for degradation also eliminates the response. Thus, we have identified an exogenous nuclease-free method of contracting CGG repeats and reversing FMR1 silencing. We propose that DNA demethylation, new transcription, and R-loop formation engage in a feed-forward cycle to contract CGG repeats and reactivate FMR1.
ORGANISM(S): Homo sapiens
PROVIDER: GSE184580 | GEO | 2023/05/19
REPOSITORIES: GEO
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