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Role of small cellular RNAs generated by RNase L in innate immunity
Previous studies showed that activity of RNase L on cellular RNA generates small self-RNAs that activate Rig-I and MDA5, producing IFN-b through activation of the IRF3 transcription factor. Cloning and characterization of various host small RNAs will allow us to establish the features of RNAs that are needed to activate Rig-I or MDA5 and the basis of discrimination of “self” and “nonself”. The identification of small RNAs with ability to induce IFN-ß and or modulate inflammatory responses would be a critical early step in the development of antiviral and antitumor therapies with improved outcomes.
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