Repetitive elements in aging and neurodegeneration

Trends Genet. 2023 May;39(5):381-400. doi: 10.1016/j.tig.2023.02.008. Epub 2023 Mar 17.

Abstract

Repetitive elements (REs), such as transposable elements (TEs) and satellites, comprise much of the genome. Here, we review how TEs and (peri)centromeric satellite DNA may contribute to aging and neurodegenerative disorders, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Alterations in RE expression, retrotransposition, and chromatin microenvironment may shorten lifespan, elicit neurodegeneration, and impair memory and movement. REs may cause these phenotypes via DNA damage, protein sequestration, insertional mutagenesis, and inflammation. We discuss several TE families, including gypsy, HERV-K, and HERV-W, and how TEs interact with various factors, including transactive response (TAR) DNA-binding protein 43 kDa (TDP-43) and the siRNA and piwi-interacting (pi)RNA systems. Studies of TEs in neurodegeneration have focused on Drosophila and, thus, further examination in mammals is needed. We suggest that therapeutic silencing of REs could help mitigate neurodegenerative disorders.

Keywords: aging; neurodegeneration; satellites; transposable elements.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Aging / genetics
  • Animals
  • DNA Transposable Elements* / genetics
  • Mammals / genetics
  • Mutagenesis, Insertional
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases* / genetics
  • RNA, Small Interfering / genetics

Substances

  • DNA Transposable Elements
  • RNA, Small Interfering