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Updated: May 7, 2026
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A Rapid High-throughput Method for Mapping Ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) on Human pre-mRNA
Published on: December 2, 2009
New and cryptic biological messages from RNases.
1Department of Organic and Biological Chemistry, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
Trends in Cell Biology
|April 1, 1993
Summary
Ribonuclease base (RISBASE) enzymes have unexpected roles beyond RNA degradation, influencing cell behavior in host defense, angiogenesis, and fertility. This review explores their diverse physiological functions and potential mechanisms of action.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Ribonucleases (RNases) are enzymes primarily known for RNA degradation.
- Certain RNases, termed RISBASEs, exhibit functions beyond canonical RNA metabolism.
- These RISBASEs act as external factors influencing cellular activities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the unusual biological actions and physiological roles of RISBASEs.
- To explore the involvement of RISBASEs in host defense, angiogenesis, and fertility control.
- To speculate on the underlying mechanisms responsible for these non-canonical RNase activities.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on RISBASEs.
- Analysis of studies detailing the biological functions of specific RNases.
- Theoretical discussion on potential molecular mechanisms.
Main Results:
- RISBASEs are implicated in diverse physiological processes, including immune responses and vascular development.
- Specific RISBASEs demonstrate roles in regulating pollen fertility and possess antitumour and antispermatogenic properties.
- These enzymes exert influence on cell behavior through external actions.
Conclusions:
- RISBASEs represent a class of enzymes with significant, yet often overlooked, physiological roles.
- Understanding the mechanisms of RISBASE action could reveal novel therapeutic targets.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the multifaceted functions of these unique RNases.
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