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Title: Extracurricular Functions of tRNA Modifications in Microorganisms
Transfer RNAs (tRNAs) are essential adaptors that mediate translation of the genetic code. These molecules undergo a variety of post-transcriptional modifications, which expand their chemical reactivity while influencing their structure, stability, and functionality. Chemical modifications to tRNA ensure translational competency and promote cellular viability. Hence, the placement and prevalence of tRNA modifications affects the efficiency of aminoacyl tRNA synthetase (aaRS) reactions, interactions with the ribosome, and transient pairing with messenger RNA (mRNA). The synthesis and abundance of tRNA modifications respond directly and indirectly to a range of environmental and nutritional factors involved in the maintenance of metabolic homeostasis. The dynamic landscape of the tRNA epitranscriptome suggests a role for tRNA modifications as markers of cellular status and regulators of translational capacity. This review discusses the non-canonical roles that tRNA modifications play in central metabolic processes and how their levels are modulated in response to a range of cellular demands.  more » « less
Award ID(s):
1716535
PAR ID:
10287883
Author(s) / Creator(s):
; ;
Date Published:
Journal Name:
Genes
Volume:
11
Issue:
8
ISSN:
2073-4425
Page Range / eLocation ID:
907
Format(s):
Medium: X
Sponsoring Org:
National Science Foundation
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