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RNA editing and drug discovery for cancer therapy

Wei-Hsuan Huang1, Chao-Neng Tseng, Jen-Yang Tang

  • 1Department of Pharmacy, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan.

Thescientificworldjournal
|June 6, 2013
PubMed

Insights

RNA editing regulates gene expression for cell function. Targeting RNA editing with natural products offers a promising therapeutic strategy for diseases and cancers.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • RNA editing is crucial for generating RNA and protein diversity, essential for regulating gene expression.
  • Proper RNA editing maintains cellular function and organism development; its dysregulation is linked to diseases and cancers.
  • Natural products targeting RNA editing are underexplored but hold therapeutic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive literature overview of RNA editing's biological functions.
  • To explore the role of RNA editing in gene expression, diseases, and cancers.
  • To summarize bioinformatics resources for RNA editing research and discuss natural product-based therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of existing research on RNA editing.
  • Analysis of the biological implications of RNA editing in various contexts.
  • Compilation of available bioinformatics tools and databases relevant to RNA editing.

Main Results:

  • RNA editing significantly contributes to transcriptome and proteome complexity.
  • Imbalances in RNA editing are associated with various pathological conditions, including cancer.
  • Natural products represent an emerging area for targeting RNA editing in therapeutic interventions.

Conclusions:

  • RNA editing is a fundamental biological process with significant implications for health and disease.
  • The potential of natural products in modulating RNA editing for therapeutic purposes warrants further investigation.
  • Understanding RNA editing mechanisms and resources is key for developing novel disease treatments.

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