Effect of nonsense-mediated mRNA decay factor SMG9 deficiency on premature aging in zebrafish

SMG9 is an essential component of the nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) machinery, a quality control mechanism that selectively degrades aberrant transcripts. Mutations in SMG9 are associated with heart and brain malformation syndrome (HBMS). However, the molecular mechanism underlying HBMS remains unclear. We generated smg9 mutant zebrafish (smg9 oi7/oi7) that have a lifespan of approximately 6 months or longer, allowing for analysis of the in vivo function of Smg9 in adults in more detail. smg9 oi7/oi7 zebrafish display congenital brain abnormalities and reduced cardiac contraction. Additionally, smg9 oi7/oi7 zebrafish exhibit a premature aging phenotype. Analysis of NMD target mRNAs shows a trend toward increased mRNA levels in smg9 oi7/oi7 zebrafish. Spermidine oxidase (Smox) is increased in smg9 oi7/oi7 zebrafish, resulting in the accumulation of byproducts, reactive oxygen species, and acrolein. The accumulation of smox mRNA due to NMD dysregulation caused by Smg9 deficiency leads to increased oxidative stress, resulting in premature aging. SMG9 deficiency in zebrafish leads to brain abnormalities, cardiac dysfunction, and premature aging due to disrupted nonsense-mediated mRNA decay and increased oxidative stress caused by elevated spermidine oxidase (Smox) levels.