Transfer RNA modifications and cellular thermotolerance

Takayuki Ohira; Tsutomu Suzuki

doi:10.1016/j.molcel.2023.11.041

Transfer RNA modifications and cellular thermotolerance

Mol Cell. 2024 Jan 4;84(1):94-106. doi: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.11.041.

Authors

Takayuki Ohira¹, Tsutomu Suzuki²

Affiliations

¹ Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan.
² Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Graduate School of Engineering, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8656, Japan. Electronic address: ts@chembio.t.u-tokyo.ac.jp.

PMID: 38181765
DOI: 10.1016/j.molcel.2023.11.041

Abstract

RNA molecules are modified post-transcriptionally to acquire their diverse functions. Transfer RNA (tRNA) has the widest variety and largest numbers of RNA modifications. tRNA modifications are pivotal for decoding the genetic code and stabilizing the tertiary structure of tRNA molecules. Alternation of tRNA modifications directly modulates the structure and function of tRNAs and regulates gene expression. Notably, thermophilic organisms exhibit characteristic tRNA modifications that are dynamically regulated in response to varying growth temperatures, thereby bolstering fitness in extreme environments. Here, we review the history and latest findings regarding the functions and biogenesis of several tRNA modifications that contribute to the cellular thermotolerance of thermophiles.

Keywords: RNA modification; cellular thermotolerance; tRNA; thermophile.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Genetic Code
RNA / genetics
RNA Processing, Post-Transcriptional
RNA, Transfer / genetics
Thermotolerance* / genetics

Substances

RNA, Transfer
RNA