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.
inStem (Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine)


