Intensive studies during the last two decades had made it clear that small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) are involved in almost all biological events in diverse organisms. Most studies focused on the gene-regulatory function of sncRNAs and the implications of their dysregulation in numerous diseases. Compared with miRNAs, siRNAs, and piRNAs, tRNA derived RNA fragments (tRFs) are a relatively newly identified family of sncRNAs. Albeit a later starter, the roles of tRFs in diseases are being quickly recognized soon after the discovery. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the biogenesis and functions of tRFs are largely elusive. tRFs contain modified nucleotides, as their precursor tRNAs are highly modified molecules. The information on whether and how the modifications contribute to the functions of tRFs is also very limited.
Our goal is to collect innovative research outcomes to gain information on potential strategies to develop tRF-based prognosis, diagnosis, and therapies for associated diseases.
Herein, we would like to collect articles, including cutting-edge reviews, original research papers, and data reports, on all aspects of basic and translational research primarily on tRFs. Besides tRFs, we also welcome the submission on any overlooked sncRNAs, such as some tissue-specific miRNAs and viral-derived sncRNAs. Listed below are specific topics included but not limited to:
- tRFs and their biogenesis mechanisms in pathological conditions such as viral infections, neurodegenerative diseases, and other disorders.
- The molecular mechanisms used by tRFs to carry out their functions.
- The modification of tRFs and associated functions.
- Methodology development to characterize tRFs.
- The identification and characterization of other new sncRNAs.
Intensive studies during the last two decades had made it clear that small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) are involved in almost all biological events in diverse organisms. Most studies focused on the gene-regulatory function of sncRNAs and the implications of their dysregulation in numerous diseases. Compared with miRNAs, siRNAs, and piRNAs, tRNA derived RNA fragments (tRFs) are a relatively newly identified family of sncRNAs. Albeit a later starter, the roles of tRFs in diseases are being quickly recognized soon after the discovery. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the biogenesis and functions of tRFs are largely elusive. tRFs contain modified nucleotides, as their precursor tRNAs are highly modified molecules. The information on whether and how the modifications contribute to the functions of tRFs is also very limited.
Our goal is to collect innovative research outcomes to gain information on potential strategies to develop tRF-based prognosis, diagnosis, and therapies for associated diseases.
Herein, we would like to collect articles, including cutting-edge reviews, original research papers, and data reports, on all aspects of basic and translational research primarily on tRFs. Besides tRFs, we also welcome the submission on any overlooked sncRNAs, such as some tissue-specific miRNAs and viral-derived sncRNAs. Listed below are specific topics included but not limited to:
- tRFs and their biogenesis mechanisms in pathological conditions such as viral infections, neurodegenerative diseases, and other disorders.
- The molecular mechanisms used by tRFs to carry out their functions.
- The modification of tRFs and associated functions.
- Methodology development to characterize tRFs.
- The identification and characterization of other new sncRNAs.
