Two-motif model illuminates DICER's cleavage preferences [DICER-mutants]

In humans, DICER is a key regulator of gene expression in animals through its production of miRNAs and siRNAs by processing miRNA precursors (pre-miRNAs), short-hairpin RNAs (shRNAs), and long double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs). To advance our understanding of this process, we employed high-throughput assays using various shRNA variants and both wild-type and mutant DICER (DICER?dsRBD). Our analysis revealed that DICER predominantly cleaves shRNAs at two positions, specifically at 21 (DC21) and 22 (DC22) nucleotides from the 5'-end. Our investigation identified two independent motifs, mWCU and YCR, that determine whether DICER cleaves at DC21 or DC22, depending on their locations in shRNA/pre-miRNAs. These motifs can work together or independently to determine the cleavage sites of DICER. Furthermore, our findings indicate that dsRBD enhances cleavage at DC21, and mWCU strengthens the interaction between dsRBD and RNA, leading to an even greater enhancement of DC21 cleavage. Conversely, YCR functions independently of dsRBD. Our study proposes a two-motif model that sheds light on the intricate regulatory mechanisms involved in gene expression by elucidating how DICER recognizes its substrate, providing valuable insights into this critical biological process. Overall design: RNA sequencing