Current status and perspectives of non-coding RNA and phase separation interactions

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Genetics

Background:

• Phase separation is a cellular process forming droplets, vital for eukaryotic cell functions like genome assembly and gene regulation.
• Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are increasingly recognized for their roles in epigenetic regulation, transcriptional control, and post-transcriptional modifications.
• ncRNAs are implicated in forming membraneless organelles (MLOs), maintaining genomic stability, and responding to cellular stress through phase separation.

Approach:

• This review synthesizes recent research on the interplay between ncRNAs and phase separation.
• It examines how ncRNAs contribute to and are affected by phase separation processes.
• The review highlights the impact of phase separation on ncRNA biogenesis, processing, and maturation.

Key Points:

• ncRNAs play multifaceted roles in gene regulation at various levels.
• Phase separation is a key mechanism underlying the formation and function of MLOs.
• The interaction between ncRNAs and phase separation influences genomic stability and stress responses.
• Phase separation dynamically affects the lifecycle of ncRNAs, from creation to maturation.

Conclusions:

• The relationship between ncRNAs and phase separation is complex and bidirectional.
• Understanding this interplay offers new perspectives on cellular regulation and function.
• Further research into ncRNA-phase separation dynamics may reveal novel therapeutic targets.