Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 15, 2026

Sample Preparation for Mass Spectrometry-based Identification of RNA-binding Regions
Published on: September 28, 2017
Structural insights into RNA quality control: the Ro autoantigen binds misfolded RNAs via its central cavity
Adam J Stein1, Gabriele Fuchs1, Chunmei Fu1
1Department of Cell Biology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510.
Abstract:
The Ro 60 kDa autoantigen is a major target of the immune response in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. In vertebrate cells, Ro binds misfolded small RNAs and likely functions in RNA quality control. In eukaryotes and bacteria, Ro also associates with small RNAs called Y RNAs. We present structures of unliganded Ro and Ro complexed with two RNAs at 1.95 and 2.2 A resolution, respectively. Ro consists of a von Willebrand factor A domain and a doughnut-shaped domain composed of HEAT repeats. In the complex, a fragment of Y RNA binds on the outer surface of the HEAT-repeat ring, and single-stranded RNA binds in the toroid hole. Mutagenesis supports a binding site for misfolded RNAs that encompasses both sites, with a single-stranded end inserted into the toroid cavity. Our experiments suggest that one role of Y RNAs may be to regulate access of other RNAs to Ro.
Related Concept Videos
Types of RNA
Three main types of RNA are involved in protein synthesis: messenger RNA (mRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), and ribosomal RNA (rRNA). These RNAs perform diverse functions and can be broadly classified as protein-coding or non-coding RNA. Non-coding RNAs play important roles in the regulation of gene expression in response to developmental and environmental changes. Non-coding RNAs in prokaryotes can be manipulated to develop more effective antibacterial drugs for human or animal use.
RNA...
RNA Stability
Leaky Scanning
Protein Folding Quality Check in the RER
Types of RNA
RNA Performs Diverse...
Nucleic Acid Structure
DNA Structure
DNA...

