Year: 2023
Type: article
Abstract: Metazoan adenosine-to-inosine (A-to-I) RNA editing is a highly conserved mechanism that diversifies the transcriptome by post-transcriptionally converting adenosine to inosine. Millions of editing sites have been identified in different species and, based on abnormal editing observed in various disorders, it is intuitive to conclude that RNA editing is both functional and adaptive. In this review, we propose the following major points: (1) "Function/functional" only represents a molecular/phenotypic consequence and is not necessarily connected to "adaptation/adaptive"; (2) Adaptive editing should be judged in the light of evolution and emphasize advantages of temporal-spatial flexibility; (3) Adaptive editing could, in theory, be extended from nonsynonymous sites to all potentially functional sites. This review seeks to conceptually bridge the gap between molecular biology and evolutionary biology and provide a more objective understanding on the biological functions and evolutionary significance of RNA editing.
Source: Frontiers in Bioscience-Landmark
Institution: China Agricultural University
Language: English
Topic: RNA regulation and disease
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,500
Award: G2559008166
OpenAlex ID: W4387821159