Viral RNA Pseudoknots: Versatile Motifs in Gene Expression and Replication

Overview

Journal Nat Rev Microbiol

Specialties Infectious Diseases
Microbiology

Date 2007 Jul 17

PMID 17632571

Citations 112

Authors

Ian Brierley

Simon Pennell

Robert J C Gilbert

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

RNA pseudoknots are structural elements found in almost all classes of RNA. First recognized in the genomes of plant viruses, they are now established as a widespread motif with diverse functions in various biological processes. This Review focuses on viral pseudoknots and their role in virus gene expression and genome replication. Although emphasis is placed on those well defined pseudoknots that are involved in unusual mechanisms of viral translational initiation and elongation, the broader roles of pseudoknots are also discussed, including comparisons with relevant cellular counterparts. The relationship between RNA pseudoknot structure and function is also addressed.

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