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Updated: Jul 8, 2025

DNAzyme-dependent Analysis of rRNA 2’-O-Methylation
Published on: September 16, 2019
Why U matters: detection and functions of pseudouridine modifications in mRNAs
Rebecca Rodell1, Nicolas Robalin2, Nicole M Martinez3
1Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
Abstract:
The uridine modifications pseudouridine (Ψ), dihydrouridine, and 5-methyluridine are present in eukaryotic mRNAs. Many uridine-modifying enzymes are associated with human disease, underscoring the importance of uncovering the functions of uridine modifications in mRNAs. These modified uridines have chemical properties distinct from those of canonical uridines, which impact RNA structure and RNA-protein interactions. Ψ, the most abundant of these uridine modifications, is present across (pre-)mRNAs. Recent work has shown that many Ψs are present at intermediate to high stoichiometries that are likely conducive to function and at locations that are poised to influence pre-/mRNA processing. Technological innovations and mechanistic investigations are unveiling the functions of uridine modifications in pre-mRNA splicing, translation, and mRNA stability, which are discussed in this review.
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