Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 23, 2026

Identification of RNA Fragments Resulting from Enzymatic Degradation using MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry
Published on: April 11, 2022
A Review of Ribonuclease 7's Structure, Regulation, and Contributions to Host Defense
Brian Becknell1,2, John David Spencer3,4
1Center for Clinical and Translational Research, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's, Columbus, OH 43205, USA. brian.becknell2@nationwidechildrens.org.
Abstract:
The Ribonuclease A Superfamily is composed of a group of structurally similar peptides that are secreted by immune cells and epithelial tissues. Several members of the Ribonuclease A Superfamily demonstrate antimicrobial activity, and it has been suggested that some of these ribonucleases play an essential role in host defense. Ribonuclease 7 (RNase 7) is an epithelial-derived secreted peptide with potent broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. This review summarizes the published literature on RNase 7's antimicrobial properties, structure, regulation, and contributions to host defense. In doing so, we conclude by highlighting key knowledge gaps that must be investigated to completely understand the potential of developing RNase 7 as a novel therapeutic for human infectious diseases.
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...
Types of RNA
RNA Performs Diverse...
Ribozymes
Ribozymes can...
Ribozymes
Riboswitches
The aptamer has high specificity for a particular metabolite which allows riboswitches to specifically regulate...
Translational Regulation

