G-quadruplexes in RNA biology

Abstract

G-quadruplexes are noncanonical structures formed by G-rich DNA and RNA sequences that fold into a four-stranded conformation. Experimental studies and computational predictions show that RNA G-quadruplexes are present in transcripts associated with telomeres, in noncoding sequences of primary transcripts and within mature transcripts. RNA G-quadruplexes at these specific locations play important roles in key cellular functions, including telomere homeostasis and gene expression. Indeed, RNA G-quadruplexes appear as important regulators of pre-mRNA processing (splicing and polyadenylation), RNA turnover, mRNA targeting and translation. The regulatory mechanisms controlled by RNA G-quadruplexes involve the binding of protein factors that modulate G-quadruplex conformation and/or serve as a bridge to recruit additional protein regulators. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the role of G-quadruplexes in RNA biology with particular emphasis on the molecular mechanisms underlying their specific function in RNA metabolism occurring in physiological or pathological conditions.