RNA helicase, DDX27 regulates proliferation and myogenic commitment of muscle stem cells

Developmental processes depend on the combined efforts of epigenetic, transcriptional and post-transcriptional processes that lead to the production of specific proteins that are important determinants of cellular identity and developmental processes. Ribosomes are a central component of the protein biosynthesis machinery in cells; however, their regulatory roles in the translational control of gene expression in an organ specific context during development remain to be defined. In a genetic screen to identify critical regulators of myogenesis, we identified a DEAD-Box RNA helicase, DDX27, that is required for the proliferation and myogenic commitment of skeletal muscle stem cells. DDX27 deficient skeletal muscle exhibits hypotrophy and impaired regeneration potential. We demonstrate that DDX27 regulates ribosomal RNA (rRNA) maturation, and thereby the ribosome biogenesis and the translation of specific transcripts that are required to maintain pluripotency and myogenic differentiation of satellite cells. These findings provide insight into the translational regulation of gene expression in myogenesis and suggest novel functions for ribosomes in regulating gene expression during skeletal muscle development.