LIN28 Selectively Modulates a Subclass of Let-7 MicroRNAs

LIN28 is a bipartite RNA-binding protein that post-transcriptionally inhibits the biogenesis of let-7 microRNAs to regulate development and influence disease states. However, the mechanisms of let-7 suppression remain poorly understood because LIN28 recognition depends on coordinated targeting by both the zinc knuckle domain (ZKD), which binds a GGAG-like element in the precursor, and the cold shock domain (CSD), whose binding sites have not been systematically characterized. By leveraging single-nucleotide-resolution mapping of LIN28 binding sites in vivo, we determined that the CSD recognizes a (U)GAU motif. This motif partitions the let-7 microRNAs into two subclasses, precursors with both CSD and ZKD binding sites (CSD⁺) and precursors with ZKD but no CSD binding sites (CSD^-). LIN28 in vivo recognition-and subsequent 3' uridylation and degradation-of CSD⁺ precursors is more efficient, leading to their stronger suppression in LIN28-activated cells and cancers. Thus, CSD binding sites amplify the regulatory effects of LIN28.