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Title: Z-RNA biology: a central role in the innate immune response?
Z-RNA is a higher-energy, left-handed conformation of RNA, whose function has remained elusive. A growing body of work alludes to regulatory roles for Z-RNA in the immune response. Here, we review how Z-RNA features present in cellular RNAs—especially containing retroelements—could be recognized by a family of winged helix proteins, with an impact on host defense. We also discuss how mutations to specific Z-contacting amino acids disrupt their ability to stabilize Z-RNA, resulting in functional losses. We end by highlighting knowledge gaps in the field, which, if addressed, would significantly advance this active area of research.  more » « less
Award ID(s):
2153787
PAR ID:
10407283
Author(s) / Creator(s):
; ; ; ;
Date Published:
Journal Name:
RNA
Volume:
29
Issue:
3
ISSN:
1355-8382
Page Range / eLocation ID:
273 to 281
Format(s):
Medium: X
Sponsoring Org:
National Science Foundation
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