Homeostatic mechanisms by alternative forms of tRNA synthetases

Abstract

Although aminoacyl tRNA synthetases (aaRSs) act in translation, numerous examples demonstrate ex-translational functions in fundamental networks of higher organisms. These functions involve modified versions of aaRSs and natural fragments. The interplay of aaRS-derived entities appears to be at the heart of homeostatic mechanisms controlling angiogenesis, inflammation, metabolism, and tumorigenesis.