RNA versatility governs tRNA function: Why tRNA flexibility is essential beyond the translation cycle

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Structural Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) are essential molecules involved in protein synthesis, undergoing conformational changes during translation.
• Recent studies highlight tRNA flexibility beyond the canonical translation cycle, particularly in self-proofreading mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diverse roles of tRNA flexibility in cellular processes beyond translation.
• To emphasize that tRNA flexibility is a distributed property exploited by various interacting partners.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent structural and biochemical data on tRNA function.
• Analysis of tRNA structure and its modulation by modifications and interacting proteins/riboswitches.

Main Results:

• tRNA flexibility is not limited to translation-specific hinges but is distributed across the entire L-shape.
• This distributed flexibility is actively utilized by interacting partners for specific recognition and function.
• Processes like aminoacylation, riboswitch regulation, and translational control leverage tRNA flexibility.

Conclusions:

• Cells invest significant resources in sensing and regulating tRNA structure and flexibility.
• Modulation of tRNA flexibility by modifications is a key strategy for precise cellular control.
• Maintaining tRNA structural integrity is vital for ensuring accurate protein synthesis.