Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 5, 2026
08:25
Identification of Circular RNAs using RNA Sequencing
Published on: November 14, 2019
Lysosomes join the circular RNA decay machinery
Min Zhou1, Hui Shen2, Chuan Huang3
1Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University (Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children), Chongqing 401147, China; Chongqing Municipal Health Commission Key Laboratory of Perinatal Medicine, Chongqing 401147, China; School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, Chongqing 401331, China.
Trends in Cell Biology
|July 30, 2026
Summary
Cellular homeostasis relies on regulating circular RNAs (circRNAs). A new study reveals that RNAseK and lysosomes work together to degrade these stable RNA molecules in animals.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are stable, covalently closed RNA molecules with diverse physiological roles.
- Proper regulation of circRNA levels is crucial for maintaining cellular balance (homeostasis).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the degradation mechanism of circular RNAs (circRNAs).
- To identify key factors involved in the turnover of circRNAs.
Main Methods:
- The study likely involved molecular biology techniques to study RNA degradation pathways.
- Investigated the roles of specific enzymes and cellular compartments, such as RNAseK and lysosomes.
Main Results:
- A conserved mechanism for circRNA degradation involving RNAseK and lysosomes was uncovered.
- RNAseK and the lysosome act synergistically to break down circRNAs across metazoans.
Conclusions:
- The findings reveal an evolutionarily conserved pathway for circRNA turnover.
- This mechanism highlights the importance of RNAseK and lysosomal function in controlling circRNA levels and cellular homeostasis.
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