Researcher(s)
- Margaret Sumerau, Applied Molecular Biology & Biotechnology, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Mona Batish, Medical and Molecular Sciences, University of Delaware
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are regulatory molecules that modulate cellular functions. Some roles of circRNA include miRNA sponging, protein scaffolding, transcription regulators, and they serve as biomarkers. While circRNAs are primarily known to originate from the nuclear genome, recent discoveries have revealed that mitochondria also encode circRNAs. These mitochondrial-encoded circular RNAs (mecciRNAs) represent an emerging field of study, with potential implications for mitochondrial function. The study of mecciRNAs and nuclear-derived circRNA may suggest intracellular communication between the mitochondria and nucleus.
This study focuses on nuclear-derived circRNA localization within the mitochondria, to understand the relationship between the nucleus and mitochondria in Ewing’s Sarcoma (EwS), a pediatric bone cancer. Previous studies have shown that mecciRNAs can regulate mitochondrial functions, potentially affecting energy production, organelle dysfunction, and cell death. However, the localization and function of mecciRNAs in EwS remain unexplored.
We employed cellular imaging techniques to analyze the co-localization of a nuclear-derived circRNA, circZNF609, with mitochondria in EwS cells. Additionally, we used gene amplification methods to determine the expression and regulation of specific mecciRNAs within the EwS cells.
Future directions for this project will include understanding the localization and expression patterns of mecciRNAs in nucleus and other cellular organelles which is crucial for uncovering their function. This research may provide insights into the role of mitochondrial circRNAs in cancer biology and potentially identify novel therapeutic targets.