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Updated: May 1, 2026

Ex Vivo Preparations of the Intact Vomeronasal Organ and Accessory Olfactory Bulb
Published on: August 4, 2014
[Beyond usual functions of snoRNAs].
Yoann Abel1, Guillaume Clerget1, Valérie Bourguignon-Igel1
1Université de Lorraine, CNRS, UMR 7365 IMoPA, Biopôle, 9, avenue de la forêt de Haye, 54506 Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy, France.
Small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) are key regulators of RNA modification. Recent research reveals their diverse roles beyond modification, including cancer and RNA splicing, sparking renewed scientific interest.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- RNA Biology
- Genetics
Context:
- Small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) were initially recognized for their role in modifying ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and transfer RNA (tRNA).
- These non-coding RNAs are essential components of the cellular machinery for RNA processing.
- Emerging research highlights novel functions extending beyond their canonical roles.
Purpose:
- To review the expanding functional repertoire of snoRNAs.
- To discuss recent discoveries regarding snoRNA processing and novel regulatory mechanisms.
- To explore the implications of snoRNA dysregulation in human diseases, particularly cancers.
Summary:
- This review synthesizes current knowledge on small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs), detailing their established function in RNA modification.
- It highlights recent findings on snoRNA processing into smaller functional RNAs (sdRNAs) and microRNAs (sno-miRs).
- The review also covers snoRNA-mediated regulation of messenger RNA alternative splicing and their association with human pathologies like cancer.
Impact:
- Provides a comprehensive overview of the evolving field of snoRNA research.
- Underscores the potential of snoRNAs as therapeutic targets for diseases, including cancer.
- Stimulates further investigation into the multifaceted roles of snoRNAs in cellular processes and disease pathogenesis.
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