Toxic RNA in DM1 Cells (IMAGE) Aarhus University Caption Left: The toxic RNA in DM1 cells consists of a number of CUG triplets that are often repeated thousands of times, forming a specific structure as shown. The MBNL1 protein binds to this structure, thus failing to carry out its normal function in the cell. The expression of a number of genes becomes deregulated in the cell and the disease occurs. Right: DDX6 can "unwind" the structure with its enzyme activity and MBNL1 leaves the complex to carry out its normal functions in the cell. Credit Christian Damgaard Usage Restrictions Credit to Christian Damgaard, Aarhus University License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.