RNA editing: Sometimes an editor makes sense

Article Abstract:

Sequences of deoxyribose nucleic acid (DNA) code for molecules of pre-messenger ribose nucleic acid (pre-mRNA), which are altered to form mature mRNAs, which are then translated into proteins. Some pre-mRNAs lack features essential for translating the molecules into proteins. These pre-mRNAs require extensive changes or 'editing'. It is now proposed that the editorial information is not a part of the RNA molecules, but that the editing is accomplished by a nucleoprotein that is present at many sites in the genome. The nucleoprotein can degrade nucleic acid, add or replace the various bases (constituents of nucleic acids) or join RNA molecules together. Evidence for this nucleoprotein comes from research with the protozoan organism, Trypanosoma. Studies of how molecules are processed provide an understanding of the normal mechanisms of the translation of genes into proteins, which are involved in the processes of life. An understanding of what can go wrong, resulting in disease states, may be derived from this knowledge. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Nucleic acids

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CpG motifs in bacterial DNA trigger direct B-cell activation

Article Abstract:

A T-cell independent pathway of murine B-cell activation has been discovered through unmethylated CpG dinucleotides linked to two 3' pyrimidines and two 5' purines in microbial DNA but not in vertebrate DNA. The microbial DNA function of introducing specific antimicrobial immune responses is generated through a costimulatory signal to B cells with antigen bound to surface immunoglobulin. The levels of hypomethylated CpG sequences in patients with autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus may have a pathogenic role while immune-stimulating CpG oligonucleotides may be effective as biological response modifiers and adjuvants.

Physiological aspects, DNA, B cells, Molecular biology, Immune response

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Growth-dependent translation of IGF-II mRNA by a rapamycin-sensitive pathway

Article Abstract:

The translation of mRNA in the major insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-II is dependent on cell growth and modulated by the S6 kinase signalling pathway while the translation of the minor IGF-II mRNA is constitutional. Translational activity is inhibited by rapamycin. The minor mRNA is involved in the preparation of preproIGF-II. IGF-II is required for the growth and development of the fetus.

Genetic translation, Translation (Genetics), Insulin-like growth factors, Somatomedins

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