| Abstract | Topoisomerases are crucial for solving DNA topological problems, but they have not been linked to RNA metabolism. Here we show that human topoisomerase 3? (Top3?) is an RNA topoisomerase that biochemically and genetically interacts with FMRP, a protein that is deficient in fragile X syndrome and is known to regulate the translation of mRNAs that are important for neuronal function, abnormalities of which are linked to autism. Notably, the FMRP-Top3? interaction is abolished by a disease-associated mutation of FMRP, suggesting that Top3? may contribute to the pathogenesis of mental disorders. Top3? binds multiple mRNAs encoded by genes with neuronal functions linked to schizophrenia and autism. Expression of one such gene, that encoding protein tyrosine kinase 2 (PTK2, also known as focal adhesion kinase or FAK), is reduced in the neuromuscular junctions of Top3? mutant flies. Synapse formation is defective in Top3? mutant flies and mice, as well as in FMRP mutant flies and mice. Our findings suggest that Top3? acts as an RNA topoisomerase and works with FMRP to promote the expression of mRNAs that are crucial for neurodevelopment and mental health. |