lncRNA-ZFAS1, an emerging gate-keeper in DNA damage-dependent transcriptional regulation

Abstract

Numerous long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are generated in response to external stimuli, but the scope and functions of such activity are not known. Here, we provide insight into how the transcription of lncRNAs are connected to DNA damage response by identifying a lncRNA ZFAS1, which is required for cell cycle arrest, transcription regulation and DNA repair. Mechanistically, ZFAS1 facilitates the changing hyper-phosphorylated RNAPII (hyper) isoforms around transcription initiation sites by directly targeting the regulated genes. We revealed extensive transcription shutdown and concomitant stimulated engagement of RNAPII-Ser2P are crucial for repair and cell survival upon genotoxic stress. Finally, ZFAS1knockout in mice dampened transcription-coupled nucleotide excision repair (TC-NER) and led to kidney dysplasia. Our study extends the understanding of lncRNAs in DNA damage repair (DDR) and implies a protective role of lncRNA against DDR-deficient developmental disorders.