Centromeric Non-Coding RNAs: Conservation and Diversity in Function

Abstract

Chromosome segregation is strictly regulated for the proper distribution of genetic material to daughter cells. During this process, mitotic chromosomes are pulled to both poles by bundles of microtubules attached to kinetochores that are assembled on the chromosomes. Centromeres are specific regions where kinetochores assemble. Although these regions were previously considered to be silent, some experimental studies have demonstrated that transcription occurs in these regions to generate non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). These centromeric ncRNAs (cenRNAs) are involved in centromere functions. Here, we describe the currently available information on the functions of cenRNAs in several species.

Keywords: RNP; centromere; chromosome segregation.

Figure 1

Knockdown of centromeric RNA (cenRNA) induces an abnormal nuclear morphology due to defects in chromosome segregation in human and mouse cells [13]. (A) Knockdown of satellite I RNA generates cells with abnormal nuclei exhibiting a grape-shape phenotype. Cells were stained with DAPI. Scale bar: 20 µm [13]. (B) Knockdown of major and minor satellite RNAs induces the grape-shape phenotype in mouse C2C12 cells. Scale bar: 20 µm [13].

Figure 2

The common binding partners and functions of cenRNAs among species.

Figure 3

RNA interference (RNAi)-dependent heterochromatin formation at the pericentromeric region in Schizosaccharomyces pombe.

Figure 4

Unsolved questions about cenRNAs.