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RNA: Versatility in form and function

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Abstract

RNA performs a remarkable range of functions in all cells. In addition to its central role in information transfer from DNA to protein, it is essential for functions as diverse as RNA processing, chromosome end-maintenance and dosage compensation. The versatility of RNA derives from its unique ability to use direct readout via base-pairing for sequence specific targeting (or templating) in combination with its capacity to form elaborate three dimensional structures. Such structures can perform catalysis or serve as protein recognition surfaces. In this short review, we attempt to give a flavor for the diversity of functional RNAs in the cell and highlight, using selected examples, two quite distinct activities, catalysis and sequence specific targeting. Within each section, we discuss how the lessons we have learned from these systems may apply to other, less well understood, RNAs.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Center for RNA Molecular Biology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, 44106, Ohio, USA

    Mark G. Caprara & Timothy W. Nilsen

Authors
  1. Mark G. Caprara
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  2. Timothy W. Nilsen
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Correspondence to Mark G. Caprara or Timothy W. Nilsen.

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Caprara, M., Nilsen, T. RNA: Versatility in form and function. Nat Struct Mol Biol 7, 831–833 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1038/82816

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/82816

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