The adaptive potential of RNA editing-mediated miRNA-retargeting in cancer

Biochim Biophys Acta Gene Regul Mech. 2019 Mar;1862(3):291-300. doi: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2018.12.007. Epub 2018 Dec 31.

Abstract

A-to-I RNA editing is a post-transcriptional mechanism that converts the genomically coded Adenosine (A) into Inosine (I) at the RNA level. This type of RNA editing is the most frequent in humans and is mediated by the ADAR enzymes. RNA editing can alter the genetic code of mRNAs, but also affect the functions of noncoding RNAs such as miRNAs. Recent studies have identified thousands of microRNA editing events in different cancer types. However, the important role played by miRNA-editing in cancer has been reported for just a few microRNAs. Herein, we recapitulate the current studies on cancer-related microRNA editing and discuss their importance in tumor growth and progression. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: mRNA modifications in gene expression control edited by Dr. Soller Matthias and Dr. Fray Rupert.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenosine / metabolism
  • Adenosine Deaminase / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic*
  • Humans
  • Inosine / metabolism
  • MicroRNAs / genetics*
  • MicroRNAs / metabolism
  • RNA Editing*

Substances

  • MicroRNAs
  • Inosine
  • Adenosine Deaminase
  • Adenosine