The development of high-throughput RNA structure profiling methods in the past decade has greatly facilitated our ability to map and characterize different aspects of RNA structures transcriptome-wide in cell populations, single cells and single molecules. The resulting high-resolution data have provided insights into the static and dynamic nature of RNA structures, revealing their complexity as they perform their respective functions in the cell. In this Review, we discuss recent technical adva
The development of high-throughput RNA structure profiling methods has significantly advanced our understanding of RNA structures and their roles in cellular processes. These methods have enabled the mapping and characterization of RNA structures across various scales, from cell populations to single cells and even single molecules. The high-resolution data obtained from these methods have shed light on the intricate static and dynamic properties of RNA structures, highlighting their complexity and functional significance within the cell.
Technical Advancements
The progress in high-throughput RNA structure profiling has been driven by the development of innovative techniques. For instance, the Computational Recognition of Secondary Structure (CROSS) method has been introduced to calculate the structural profile of RNA sequences, utilizing data from high-throughput experiments such as Selective 2'-Hydroxyl Acylation analyzed by Primer Extension (SHAPE)46. These techniques have allowed for a more detailed examination of RNA structures, contributing to the understanding of their regulatory roles in gene expression.
Insights into RNA Structure and Function
The high-resolution data provided by these profiling methods have revealed the complexity of RNA structures. They have shown that RNA structures are not only critical for multiple steps in gene regulation but also exhibit variability both within and between individual cells3. This understanding has refined the central dogma of molecular biology, emphasizing the multifaceted biological roles of RNA, including their catalytic and regulatory functions7.
Applications in Transcriptome-wide Studies
The ability to map and characterize RNA structures transcriptome-wide has opened new avenues for research. It has facilitated the study of RNA structures in various cellular contexts, providing insights into how these structures contribute to cellular processes and functions. The resulting data have been instrumental in understanding the interplay between RNA structure and function, and how this relationship influences the overall behavior of the cell.
Future Perspectives
As the field continues to evolve, it is expected that further advancements in high-throughput RNA structure profiling methods will provide even deeper insights into the role of RNA in cellular processes. These methods will likely continue to improve, offering higher resolution and more detailed information about RNA structures. This will enable researchers to explore the intricate relationships between RNA structure and function with greater precision, potentially leading to new discoveries in the field of molecular biology and genetics.
In summary, the development of high-throughput RNA structure profiling methods has been a significant milestone in the study of RNA biology. These methods have not only expanded our knowledge of RNA structures but have also provided a deeper understanding of their functional roles within the cell. As these techniques continue to advance, they promise to further our comprehension of the complex world of RNA and its impact on cellular processes.