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Researchers reveal spatiotemporal coordination between pre-rRNA processing and nucleolar architecture

The study reveals a spatiotemporal separation in the processing of distinct pre-rRNAs within the nucleolus, contradicting traditional models. The findings suggest that small subunit (SSU) pre-rRNA is predominantly processed within the inner FC–PDFC regions, while large subunit (LSU) pre-rRNA matures gradually in the outer PDFC–GC regions.

A new technique to use generative AI to design RNA

A new generative AI technique allows for the design of RNA molecules with improved functions, opening up potential for novel therapeutics and diagnostics. The SANDSTORM and GARDN systems enable the prediction and generation of RNA sequences tailored for specific tasks in cells or diagnostic assays.

SourceBoston University·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 14, 2025

Uncovering the structural and regulatory mechanisms underlying translation arrest

Two previously unknown ribosome-arresting peptides (RAPs), PepNL and NanCL, were identified in E. coli, inducing translation arrest through a unique mini-hairpin conformation in the exit tunnel of the ribosome. This discovery provides valuable insights into deciphering the hidden genetic codes within polypeptide sequences.

SourceOkayama University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2025

RNA pseudouridine emerges as a novel diagnostic target for colorectal cancer: High-resolution pseudouridine sequencing reveals correlation with clinical markers, offering new avenues for early detection and treatment.

Researchers have discovered RNA pseudouridine as a novel diagnostic target for colorectal cancer. The study found correlations between pseudouridine modifications and clinical markers, enabling potential non-invasive diagnosis. The findings provide a molecular framework for RNA epigenetics-based stratification and targeted interventions.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Life Sciences·DateApr 17, 2025

Bacteria ditch tags to dodge antibiotics

Researchers found that bacteria like E. coli assemble new ribosomes with altered tags, making them more resistant to antibiotics streptomycin and kasugamycin. This novel mechanism of antibiotic resistance could have significant implications for the fight against global antimicrobial resistance.

SourceCenter for Genomic Regulation·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2024

UAB researchers uncover protein SRSF1’s uncommon ability to bind and unfold RNA G-quadruplexes

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham have discovered that the protein SRSF1 can bind and unfold complex RNA Guanine-quadruplexes. This finding could provide new avenues for treating illnesses such as cancer, which is often linked to misfunctioning splicing processes.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalNucleic Acids Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 30, 2024

IU researchers fill the final gaps in the Arabidopsis genome sequence and gain insights into gene regulatory mechanisms relevant to humans

Researchers at Indiana University have completed the final gaps in the Arabidopsis genome sequence, revealing how ribosomal RNA genes are organized and regulated. The study found that one NOR is nearly completely silenced in growing plants, while the other accounts for almost all ribosomal RNA gene activity in its central region.

SourceIndiana University·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 15, 2023

New insights into bacterial antibiotic resistance

A team from the University of Tsukuba has discovered characteristics of proteins in bacteria that convey antibiotic resistance, providing insights into their function and role. These proteins, known as ARE-ABCFs, work in synergy with other resistance mechanisms to convey extremely high levels of antibiotic resistance.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateMay 24, 2023

Unveiling the hidden cellular logistics of memory storage in neurons

University of Michigan scientists found that RNAs associated with an understudied cell compartment in hippocampal neurons vary greatly between sleeping and sleep-deprived mice after learning. These changes are present almost exclusively on ribosomes associated with neuronal cell membranes, suggesting a novel mechanism for memory storage.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 24, 2021

How to produce proteins at the right speed

Researchers at UNIGE deciphered the genetic mechanisms controlling protein synthesis speed, revealing a dynamic observation technique called ribosome profiling. This method showed that regulatory factors modulate translation rate, affecting protein structure and aggregation.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalCell Reports·TypeNews article·DateAug 31, 2021

Hypoxia, a feature inside solid cancer tumors, reprograms methylation of ribosomal RNAs

Researchers found that hypoxia upregulates RNA polymerase I activity and alters ribosomal RNA methylation patterns, leading to the creation of specialized ribosomes that can differentially regulate translation of specific messenger RNAs. The study supports a long-debated postulate that ribosomal protein factories can be reprogrammed in...

Regulating the ribosomal RNA production line

Cryo-electron microscopy study reveals how an enzyme synthesizes ribosomal RNA at different speeds depending on the bacteria's growth rate, providing insights into the regulation of this process and its importance in E. coli cells.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 22, 2021

Miniaturized version of ribosome found in microsporidia

A research team led by Jonas Barandun has discovered a near-atomic model of the smallest known eukaryotic cytoplasmic ribosome found in microsporidia. The study reveals that microsporidian ribosomes have lost essential genes and expansion segments, allowing them to survive with a highly compacted genome.

SourceUmea University·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJul 22, 2019

Some long non-coding RNAs are conventional after all

Researchers have identified hundreds of open reading frames in long non-coding RNAs that may give rise to functional proteins using ribosome profiling. The method allowed direct quantification of messenger RNA fragments protected by the ribosome, revealing translated small open reading frames.

SourceEMBO·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateApr 4, 2014

Strictly yeast

Researchers have made a computer app to spot and decode the unique footprints in yeast DNA, revealing an intricately choreographed dance of ribosomal RNA genes. This discovery enables biologists to track evolutionary relationships between different species using these tiny changes.

SourceNorwich BioScience Institutes·JournalSystematic Biology·DateMar 27, 2014

Friendly bacteria love the humble apple

Research published in BMC Microbiology found that eating apples regularly can increase beneficial bacteria in the gut, producing short-chain fatty acids and butyrate. These findings suggest a link between apple consumption and improved digestive health.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Microbiology·DateJan 19, 2010