Date of Award

5-2024

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

School

Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences

Committee Chair

Dr. Alex Flynt

Committee Chair School

Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences

Committee Member 2

Dr. Shahid Karim

Committee Member 2 School

Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences

Committee Member 3

Dr. Hao Xu

Committee Member 3 School

Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences

Committee Member 4

Dr, YanLin Guo

Committee Member 4 School

Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences

Committee Member 5

Dr. Fengwei Bai

Committee Member 5 School

Biological, Environmental, and Earth Sciences

Abstract

Small RNAs play pivotal roles in post-transcriptional gene regulation across diverse phylum of protostomes. In this study, we investigate the functional significance of atypical miRNAs, mirtron miR-1017 in Drosophila. Through ectopic expression in neuronal cells, we demonstrate that miR-1017 extends lifespan by targeting its host transcript, acetylcholine receptor Dα2, and influencing its splicing. This novel trans-regulatory function suggests a mechanism for mirtron evolution, highlighting the interplay between splicing and post-transcriptional regulation. Additionally, we profile small RNA populations in the polychaete developmental model Capitella teleta, shedding light on the small RNA landscape in annelid worms. Our analysis reveals a rich diversity of miRNAs, particularly during later developmental stages, implicating their involvement in tissue differentiation. Notably, the absence of an endogenous siRNA pathway challenges RNAi technology development in annelids, while the abundance of piRNAs, especially during early development, suggests a potential role in metamorphosis regulation. Furthermore, the conservation of RNAi factors across annelids and mollusks suggests shared biology within the wider clade. Collectively, our findings provide insights into the evolutionary plasticity and functional versatility of small RNA pathways, enriching our understanding of gene regulatory mechanisms across animal genomes.

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