HnRNP C binding to inverted <i>Alu</i> elements protects the transcriptome from pre-mRNA circularization.

Abstract

Back-splicing is a noncanonical splicing event driving circular RNA (circRNA) biogenesis. While its molecular mechanisms are partly known, global regulation in tumors remains unclear. Here, we uncover an hnRNP C-dependent mechanism that represses a broad repertoire of circRNAs in group 3 medulloblastoma (MB). HnRNP C binds <i>Alu</i> elements, preventing pre-mRNA circularization. Expression of hnRNP C modulates the balance between linear and circular splicing, ensuring efficient expression of genes that sustain the oncogenic phenotype of group 3 MB cells. In the absence of hnRNP C, introns flanking the circularizing exons generate cytoplasmic double-stranded RNAs via inverted <i>Alu</i> base pairing, triggering an interferon-induced antiviral response. These findings unveil hnRNP C as a guardian of transcriptome integrity by repressing circRNA biogenesis. Last, targeting hnRNP C in group 3 MB may trigger an inflammatory immune response, thereby boosting cancer surveillance.