[RNA functions in bacterial infections and its application to antimicrobial therapy]

Nihon Saikingaku Zasshi. 2022;77(3):139-144. doi: 10.3412/jsb.77.139.
[Article in Japanese]

Abstract

In the concept of central dogma (RNA is transcribed from DNA to produce proteins), RNA was thought to be merely an intermediary for genetic information to synthesize proteins from DNA. Since the discovery of RNA interference in 2000, research on RNA has progressed remarkably, especially in mammals. On the other hand, the role of RNA in bacterial infections was largely unknown. At that time, we started research on RNA and bacterial infection and revealed that miR-210, a small RNA in the gastric epithelial cells, is involved in gastric diseases caused by Helicobacter pylori in-fection. Furthermore, we have successfully developed sequence-specific antimicrobials by loading CRISPR-Cas13, an RNA-targeting CRISPR-Cas, on bacteriophage. The constructed antimicrobials were effective against at least Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. In this paper, we would like to introduce the importance of RNA in bacteriology.

Publication types

  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Anti-Infective Agents*
  • CRISPR-Cas Systems
  • Escherichia coli / genetics
  • Humans
  • RNA / genetics
  • Staphylococcal Infections* / genetics

Substances

  • RNA
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Anti-Infective Agents