The m6A reader HNRNPC is a key regulator in DSS-induced colitis by modulating macrophage phenotype

Xiaohui Fang1,2, Yu Zhang1,2, Ziliang Ke1,2

  • 1Department of Gastroenterology, Peking University Peoples Hospital, No.11, Xizhimen South Street, Xicheng District, Beijing 100044, China.

Iscience
|March 24, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C (HNRNPC) regulates macrophage function in ulcerative colitis. Inhibiting HNRNPC in macrophages alleviates colitis by modulating inflammation and cell migration, showing therapeutic potential.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • m6A regulators influence intestinal epithelial and immune cells in ulcerative colitis.
  • The role of the m6A reader heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C (HNRNPC) in macrophage function during colitis is unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate how HNRNPC regulates macrophage function in the context of colitis.
  • To explore the therapeutic potential of targeting HNRNPC in macrophages for ulcerative colitis treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis model in mice.
  • Performed in vitro studies involving LPS-induced macrophage activation.
  • Conducted RNA sequencing to identify HNRNPC-regulated pathways.
  • Assessed the effect of adoptive transfer of HNRNPC-knockdown macrophages in colitis models.

Main Results:

  • HNRNPC expression was elevated in inflammatory cells and macrophages during DSS-induced colitis.
  • HNRNPC knockdown reduced LPS-induced macrophage activation in vitro.
  • Adoptive transfer of HNRNPC-knockdown macrophages significantly ameliorated colitis.
  • RNA sequencing revealed HNRNPC inhibits alternative mRNA splicing, modulates inflammatory responses, and promotes cell chemotaxis and migration.
  • HNRNPC influences the stability of Itgb7, a potential therapeutic target.

Conclusions:

  • HNRNPC plays a critical role in regulating macrophage function during colitis.
  • Inhibiting HNRNPC in macrophages presents a promising therapeutic strategy for ulcerative colitis.