The Role of RNA Structure in Posttranscriptional Regulation of Gene Expression

Elina Jacobs; James D. Mills; Michael Janitz

doi:10.1016/j.jgg.2012.08.002

Volume 39 Issue 10

Oct. 2012

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The Role of RNA Structure in Posttranscriptional Regulation of Gene Expression

doi: 10.1016/j.jgg.2012.08.002

School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney NSW 2052, Australia

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Corresponding author: E-mail address: m.janitz@unsw.edu.au (Michael Janitz)
Received Date: 2012-06-27
Accepted Date: 2012-08-17
Rev Recd Date: 2012-08-16

Available Online: 2012-09-05

Publish Date: 2012-10-20

Abstract

Abstract

As more information is gathered on the mechanisms of transcription and translation, it is becoming apparent that these processes are highly regulated. The formation of mRNA secondary and tertiary structures is one such regulatory process that until recently it has not been analysed in depth. Formation of these mRNA structures has the potential to enhance and inhibit alternative splicing of transcripts, and regulate rates and amount of translation. As this regulatory mechanism potentially impacts at both the transcriptional and translational level, while also potentially utilising the vast array of non-coding RNAs, it warrants further investigation. Currently, a variety of high-throughput sequencing techniques including parallel analysis of RNA structure (PARS), fragmentation sequencing (FragSeq) and selective 2-hydroxyl acylation analysed by primer extension (SHAPE) lead the way in the genome-wide identification and analysis of mRNA structure formation. These new sequencing techniques highlight the diversity and complexity of the transcriptome, and demonstrate another regulatory mechanism that could become a target for new therapeutic approaches.
- Transcriptome,
- mRNA structure,
- Parallel analysis of RNA structure,
- Fragmentation sequencing,
- PARS,
- FragSeq,
- SHAPE-Seq

Present address: College of Science and Engineering, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3JR, United Kingdom.

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References(70)

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