The Short Non-Coding Transcriptome of the Protozoan Parasite Trypanosoma cruzi
Author Information
Author(s): Franzén Oscar, Arner Erik, Ferella Marcela, Nilsson Daniel, Respuela Patricia, Carninci Piero, Hayashizaki Yoshihide, Åslund Lena, Andersson Björn, Daub Carsten O.
Primary Institution: Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
Hypothesis
What small RNA pathways operate in Trypanosoma cruzi despite its lack of canonical RNA interference?
Conclusion
The study identified a variety of small RNAs in Trypanosoma cruzi, primarily derived from tRNAs and rRNAs, and confirmed that canonical small RNAs like microRNAs do not exist in this organism.
Supporting Evidence
- T. cruzi lacks the canonical RNAi pathway and is unable to induce RNAi-related processes.
- Deep sequencing generated 582,243 short sequences of which 91% could be aligned with the genome sequence.
- About 95–98% of the aligned data corresponded to small RNAs derived from tRNAs, rRNAs, snRNAs, and snoRNAs.
- The largest class consisted of tRNA-derived small RNAs primarily originating from the 3′ end of tRNAs.
- 79 novel transcribed loci were identified, which did not show homology to known RNA classes.
Takeaway
Scientists studied tiny RNA pieces in a parasite that causes Chagas' disease and found many come from tRNA, which helps cells make proteins.
Methodology
Deep sequencing and genome-wide analyses of a size-fractioned cDNA library from the epimastigote life stage of Trypanosoma cruzi.
Limitations
The study may not reflect the complete repertoire of small RNAs as certain small RNAs may have life stage-specific expression.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website