The integrity and proper expression of genomes are safeguarded by DNA and RNA surveillance pathways. While many RNA surveillance factors have additional functions in the nucleus, little is known... Show moreThe integrity and proper expression of genomes are safeguarded by DNA and RNA surveillance pathways. While many RNA surveillance factors have additional functions in the nucleus, little is known about the incidence and physiological impact of converging RNA and DNA signals. Here, using genetic screens and genome-wide analyses, we identified unforeseen SMG-1-dependent crosstalk between RNA surveillance and DNA repair in living animals. Defects in RNA processing, due to viable THO complex or PNN-1 mutations, induce a shift in DNA repair in dividing and non-dividing tissues. Loss of SMG-1, an ATM/ATR-like kinase central to RNA surveillance by nonsense-mediated decay (NMD), restores DNA repair and radio-resistance in THO-deficient animals. Mechanistically, we find SMG-1 and its downstream target SMG-2/UPF1, but not NMD per se, to suppress DNA repair by non-homologous end-joining in favour of single strand annealing. We postulate that moonlighting proteins create short-circuits in vivo, allowing aberrant RNA to redirect DNA repair. Show less
The genetic code of life is stored in DNA molecules that consist of two parallel strands of coupled nucleotides that form a DNA double helix. One of the most deleterious forms of DNA damage is a... Show moreThe genetic code of life is stored in DNA molecules that consist of two parallel strands of coupled nucleotides that form a DNA double helix. One of the most deleterious forms of DNA damage is a DNA double-strand break (DSB) in which both strands of the helix are broken. When not repaired adequately DSBs can lead to extensive loss of genetic information and/or genomic rearrangements, ultimately fueling genome instability, cellular dysfunction and malignant transformation. This thesis describes several studies conducted to examine how living organisms preserve their genetic material and how different DNA repair pathways influence genome stability. To study these questions the nematode C. elegans was used as a model organism, as it allows efficient genetic manipulation as well as in-depth genetic analysis of mutagenic processes. We exploited these unique attributes to i) convert these animals into in vivo sensors of DNA damage ii) identify factors not implicated in genome stability before, iii) unveil mechanisms that dictate DNA repair pathway choice, and iv) determine the biological consequences of endogenous barriers that impede DNA replication. Show less
Waaijers, S.; Portegijs, V.; Kerver, J.; Lemmens, B.B.L.G.; Tijsterman, M.; Heuvel, S. van den; Boxem, M. 2013
