To be or not to be a piRNA: genomic origin and processing of piRNAs

Genome Biol. 2014 Jan 27;15(1):204. doi: 10.1186/gb4154.

Abstract

Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) originate from genomic regions dubbed piRNA clusters. How cluster transcripts are selected for processing into piRNAs is not understood. We discuss evidence for the involvement of chromatin structure and maternally inherited piRNAs in determining their fate.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Chromatin / chemistry
  • Chromatin / genetics
  • Drosophila / genetics
  • Drosophila Proteins / genetics
  • Drosophila Proteins / metabolism
  • Genetic Loci
  • Genomics / methods*
  • Mice
  • Multigene Family
  • RNA, Small Interfering / genetics*
  • RNA, Small Interfering / metabolism

Substances

  • Chromatin
  • Drosophila Proteins
  • RNA, Small Interfering