Recent Advances in RNA Editing and Modification

Dear Colleagues,

RNA editing is the only physiological mechanism that alters the genetic code of DNA post-transcriptionally and is observed in a variety of species, from trypanosomes to mammals. RNA editing in mammals is A-to-I or C-to-U via the deamination of nucleobases, while U-to-C RNA editing via transamination is also present in plants.

Since genetic code conversion by RNA editing is sequence-specific and does not involve nucleotide strand breaks, it is expected to have fewer off-target effects than CRISPR-Cas systems. In addition, research on treating genetic diseases by artificial RNA editing has been active.

In 2011, Karijolich and Yu reported that pseudouridylation of the terminal codon U induces translational read-throughs. As mentioned previously, the I generated by the deamination of A is recognized as a G during translation because it forms a Watson–Crick base pair with C. These facts indicate that it is possible to transform genetic codes via base modification.

Furthermore, the m6A modification of mRNA, which is one of the most common modifications observed in mammals, has been shown to regulate various stages of mRNA, including maturation, nuclear export, translation, and degradation, and its regulation has been proposed for disease treatment. Thus, it is expected that new disease therapies will be developed through various RNA modifications in the future.

This Special Issue focuses on the latest developments in RNA editing and RNA modifications in plants and animals and welcomes advanced original research and review articles on the mechanisms, physiological roles, and applications, including disease treatments.

Prof. Dr. Toshifumi Tsukahara
Guest Editor

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