Identification of long non-coding RNAs as substrates for cytoplasmic capping enzyme

Cytoplasmic capping returns a cap to specific mRNAs thus protecting uncapped RNAs from decay. Prior to the identification of cytoplasmic capping, uncapped mRNAs were thought to be degraded. Here, we test whether long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are cytoplasmic capping enzyme (cCE) substrates. The subcellular localization of fourteen lncRNAs associated with sarcomas were examined in U2OS osteosarcoma cells. We used 5’ rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) to assay uncapped forms of these lncRNAs. Inhibiting cytoplasmic capping elevated uncapped forms of selected lncRNAs indicating a plausible role of cCE in targeting them. Analysis of published cap analysis of gene expression (CAGE) data shows increased prevalence of certain 5’-RACE cloned sequences suggesting that these uncapped lncRNAs are cytoplasmic capping targets.