Intercepting noncoding messages between germline and soma.
There is growing evidence to support the notion that small RNAs derived from noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are mobile carriers of epigenetic information in diverse eukaryotic systems. However, challenges remain in defining what messages are being sent and how. In the August 1, 2012, issue of Genes & Development, Schoeberl and colleagues (pp. 1729-1742) reported a detailed analysis of the turnover of small RNAs during the sexual reproduction of the ciliated protozoan Tetrahymena. The results revealed surprisingly complicated roles played by small RNAs in shaping the communication between the germline and the soma.
Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA.
Shan
S
Gao
Yifan
Y
Liu
D016054:DNA, Protozoan / Q000378:metabolism*; D020871:RNA Stability; D016053:RNA, Protozoan / Q000378:metabolism*; D034741:RNA, Small Interfering / Q000378:metabolism*; D013768:Tetrahymena / Q000378:metabolism*; D014158:Transcription, Genetic
D016054:DNA, Protozoan; D016053:RNA, Protozoan; D034741:RNA, Small Interfering