RNA synthesis and degradation of the Naked Mole-Rat fibroblast

Gene expression is co-regulated by the rates of RNA synthesis and degradation. Naked mole-rat (NMR; Heterocephalus glaber) is a small rodent with an exceptionally long lifespan, and the regulation mechanism of its characteristic transcriptome is of great interest. Evidences in other organisms have pointed a causal link of RNA degradation to ageing, yet little is known about RNA synthesis and degradation in NMR or how they contribute to the gene expression control. To estimate RNA synthesis and degradation (RNA kinetics) and compare with the short-lifespan control, we labeled NMR and mouse skin fibroblasts with a uridine analog 4-Thiouridine, and estimated RNA kinetics.