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Updated: Jul 15, 2025

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Single Molecule Fluorescence Energy Transfer Study of Ribosome Protein Synthesis
Published on: July 6, 2021
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Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase - a molecular multitasker
Swadha Gupta1, Jaykumar Jani1, Vijayasurya1
1School of Life Sciences, Central University of Gujarat, Gandhinagar, India.
Summary
Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (AaRSs) are essential enzymes with dual roles. Beyond protein synthesis, they regulate crucial cellular processes and are linked to various human diseases, offering therapeutic potential.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (AaRSs) are vital enzymes responsible for protein biosynthesis.
- Beyond their canonical role, AaRSs exhibit noncanonical/moonlighting functions.
- These functions are mediated by distinct protein domains and influence diverse cellular processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the noncanonical functions of AaRSs.
- To highlight the association of AaRSs with various human diseases.
- To explore the therapeutic potential of AaRSs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research.
- Analysis of reports on AaRSs' roles in gene transcription, apoptosis, and RNA splicing.
- Examination of AaRSs' involvement in angiogenesis, inflammation, and cancer.
Main Results:
- AaRSs play significant roles in gene transcription, apoptosis, translation, and RNA splicing regulation.
- Noncanonical functions include regulation of angiogenesis, inflammation, and cancer.
- Several AaRSs are implicated in diverse physiological and pathological processes, with some acting as cytokines.
Conclusions:
- The multifunctional nature of AaRSs extends beyond their canonical role in protein synthesis.
- AaRSs are involved in a wide spectrum of cellular functions and disease pathologies.
- Targeting AaRSs presents a promising therapeutic strategy for various human diseases.
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