New progresses of circular RNA biology: from nuclear export to degradation

Circular RNA, typically generated from backsplicing reaction, is a class of single-stranded and covalently linked RNA. Although most circular RNAs are lowly expressed, some of them are able to accumulate to high levels and even exceed their cognate mRNAs due to their longer half-lives. Once produced in the nucleus, the majority of circular RNAs are exported to the cytoplasm for their proper functions or degradation. In this review, we will summarize the biogenesis and classification of circular RNAs and highlight the recent advances in our understanding of circular RNA nuclear export and degradation.

Automated summary

Circular RNA, primarily generated through backsplicing, is a class of single-stranded and covalently linked RNA. While most are exported to the cytoplasm for function or degradation, some circular RNAs can accumulate to high levels due to their longer half-lives.