Transcriptomic effects of INTS1 knockout in zebrafish larvae
Precise regulation of RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) is fundamental to transcriptional fidelity in eukaryotes. The Integrator complex, a conserved multi-subunit assembly, safeguards transcriptional integrity through its interaction with RNAPII, mediating transcription initiation, nascent RNA cleavage, and 3' end processing. INTS1, the largest subunit of the Integrator complex, is critical for its function, and its mutations are linked to human neurodevelopmental disorders, yet, the underlying transcriptional effects remain poorly defined. Here, we characterize the global transcriptional effects of INTS1 deficiency in zebrafish. INTS1 loss leads to widespread gene expression changes, including of genes linked to hyperactivity and pathways associated with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. We observe mutant-specific first intron retentions and transcript extensions. These findings underscore a central role for INTS1 in coordinating transcriptional regulation, and highlight the essential function of the Integrator complex in maintaining transcriptome integrity. Together, they offer insights into how INTS1 disruption may contribute to behavioral and physiological abnormalities. Overall design: Global transcriptomic analysis of head pools from 120 hpf INTS1 knockout zebrafish larvae and their wild-type siblings