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Epitranscriptome: Review of Top 25 Most-Studied RNA Modifications
Viktoriia A Arzumanian1, Georgii V Dolgalev1, Ilya Y Kurbatov1
1Institute of Biomedical Chemistry, 119121 Moscow, Russia.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|November 26, 2022
Summary
The epitranscriptome, encompassing over 300 RNA modifications, plays a crucial role in cellular biochemistry. This review details 25 key modifications, offering a comprehensive overview of current research and future directions in the field of RNA biology.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- RNA molecules exhibit greater diversity than the standard four nucleotides.
- This diversity arises from post-transcriptional biochemical modifications, creating distinct chemical entities.
- These modifications form the epitranscriptome, a critical layer of cellular biochemistry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of research on the epitranscriptome.
- To analyze the extent of available information for all known RNA modifications.
- To detail 25 selected RNA modifications and identify future research directions.
Main Methods:
- Systematic analysis of available scientific literature on RNA modifications.
- Selection and detailed description of 25 key RNA modifications.
- Comparative assessment of research status across various RNA modifications.
Main Results:
- Over 300 distinct RNA modifications have been identified across all three domains of life.
- Only a few well-established modifications are commonly featured in existing reviews.
- The study provides a detailed overview of 25 selected modifications, highlighting research status and gaps.
Conclusions:
- The epitranscriptome is a vast and essential component of cellular regulation.
- A comprehensive understanding of the majority of RNA modifications remains limited.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the roles and mechanisms of diverse RNA modifications.
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