inStem (Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine)

Department of Biotechnology
Department of Biotechnology
inStem (Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine)

Altered transposon element-derived genes distort oxygen-free radical scavenger systems in FXD.

Publication Type

Journal Article

Date of Publication

January 1, 2026

Journal

NAR molecular medicine

Volume/Issue

3/1

ISSN

2976-856X

The altered expression of transposon element (TE)-derived genes that regulate immune responses implied the involvement of previous viral infections in the onset of Fragile X disorders (FXD), often bearing sustained inflammation. Here, we discovered that hypoxia greatly modifies the expression of TE-derived genes that act as oxygen-free radical scavengers, resulting in an alkylating environment under normoxia in FXD. Molybdenum cofactor synthesis 3 (MOCS3) and selenocysteine lyase (SCLY) stabilize the association of Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1) with PGAM family member 5 (PGAM5). This rewires connections between the oxidative stress response, cysteine-sulfur and selenium metabolism, and oxidoreductases. Desensitized tRNA thiolation against hypoxia in FXD suggests that the rewired radical scavenging system induces resistance to ROS in FXD.

Alternate Journal

NAR Mol Med

PubMed ID

41768973

PubMed Central ID

PMC12936792

Authors

Suganuma T
Hassan H
Swanson SK
Laxman S
Workman JL