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Transfer RNA-derived small RNA: an emerging small non-coding RNA with key roles in cancer
Xinliang Gu1,2,3, Yu Zhang1,2,3, Xinyue Qin1,2,3
1Medical School of Nantong University, Nantong University, Nantong, China.
Abstract:
Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) promote protein translation by binding to the corresponding amino acids and transporting them to the ribosome, which is essential in protein translation. tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) are derived fragments of tRNAs that are cleaved explicitly under certain conditions. An increasing amount of research has demonstrated that tsRNAs have biological functions rather than just being degradation products. tsRNAs can exert functions such as regulating gene expression to influence cancer progression. Their dysregulation is closely associated with various cancers and can serve as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for cancer. This review summarizes the generation, classification, and biological functions of tsRNAs, and highlights the roles of tsRNAs in different cancers and their applications as tumor markers.
Insights
Transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) are fragments of transfer RNAs (tRNAs) with crucial biological functions. These tsRNAs regulate gene expression and are implicated in cancer progression, serving as potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) are essential molecules for protein translation.
- tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) are fragments of tRNAs generated under specific conditions.
- Emerging evidence indicates tsRNAs possess significant biological functions beyond mere degradation products.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the generation and classification of tsRNAs.
- To summarize the diverse biological functions of tsRNAs.
- To highlight the roles of tsRNAs in cancer and their potential as tumor biomarkers.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on tsRNA generation and function.
- Analysis of research linking tsRNA dysregulation to various cancers.
- Examination of tsRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic markers.
Main Results:
- tsRNAs are actively generated and possess regulatory roles in gene expression.
- Dysregulation of tsRNAs is associated with the progression of multiple cancer types.
- tsRNAs demonstrate potential as biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis.
Conclusions:
- tsRNAs are functional molecules involved in cellular processes, including cancer.
- Understanding tsRNA biology is crucial for developing novel cancer diagnostics and therapeutics.
- tsRNAs represent a promising class of biomarkers for oncology applications.
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