The Z-RNA Nanoswitch (IMAGE)

InsideOutBio

The Z-RNA Nanoswitch

Caption

Double-stranded A-RNA (dsRNA) formed by "junk" RNA elements is twisted and shortened as immune proteins binds to it. If the right-handed dsRNA (helical length =2.46 nm) contains a Z-Box, then the tension generated is relieved by flipping the sequence to the longer left-handed Z-RNA conformation (helical length = 4.56 nm). The flip causes the immune proteins to fall off the RNA. The Z-RNA engages an enzyme called ADAR1. ADAR1 modifies dsRNA, producing single-stranded RNA that doesn't cause immune activation. The Z-Box sequences are called flipons. They are often found in RNAs made from "junk" DNA named "Alu Repeats".

Credit

Alan Herbert

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Credit: Alan Herbert

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