We Thought DNA Ran Our Lives Until We Discovered RNA Is in Charge
5 days ago
- #Noncoding RNA
- #Gene Regulation
- #Molecular Biology
- Francis Crick proposed the 'central dogma' of molecular biology, suggesting information flows from DNA to RNA to proteins.
- Recent discoveries reveal a vast array of noncoding RNA (ncRNA) molecules with diverse biochemical functions beyond protein coding.
- Noncoding RNAs play crucial roles in gene regulation, influencing whether and how protein-coding genes are transcribed and translated.
- RNA's versatility is highlighted by its involvement in various cellular processes, including gene silencing and regulation.
- The discovery of ribozymes by Thomas Cech and Sidney Altman showed RNA can catalyze biochemical reactions, expanding its known functions.
- The ENCODE project suggested up to 80% of human DNA may have biochemical functions, challenging the idea of 'junk DNA'.
- Noncoding RNAs are highly cell-type specific, making their study challenging but revealing more functions as research progresses.
- The rise of noncoding RNA has revolutionized molecular biology, shifting focus from DNA to RNA's dynamic roles in gene regulation.
- Potential biomedical applications of ncRNAs include new diagnostic tools and targeted therapies for diseases like cancer.
- The complexity of RNA's roles underscores the need for further research to understand its full impact on life processes.