Dicer-independent processing of small RNA duplexes: mechanistic insights and applications. Issue 18 (31st August 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Herrera-Carrillo, Elena; Berkhout, Ben
• Is Part Of: Nucleic acids research. Volume 45:Issue 18(2017)
• Page Start: 10369
• Page End: 10379
• Publication Date: 2017-08-31
• Subjects: Nucleic acids -- Periodicals; Molecular biology -- Periodicals; 572.805
• DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkx779
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0305-1048

Abstract

Abstract: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play a pivotal role in the regulation of cellular gene expression via the conserved RNA interference (RNAi) mechanism. Biogenesis of the unusual miR-451 does not require Dicer. This molecule is instead processed by the Argonaute 2 (Ago2) enzyme. Similarly, unconventional short hairpin RNA (shRNA) molecules have been designed as miR-451 mimics that rely exclusively on Ago2 for maturation. We will review recent progress made in the understanding of this alternative processing route. Next, we describe different Dicer-independent shRNA designs that have been developed and discuss their therapeutic advantages and disadvantages. As an example, we will present the route towards development of a durable gene therapy against HIV-1.