Targeted RNA editing: novel tools to study post-transcriptional regulation

RNA binding proteins (RBPs) regulate nearly all post-transcriptional processes within cells. To fully under-stand RBP function, it is essential to identify their in vivo targets. Standard techniques for profiling RBP targets, such as crosslinking immunoprecipitation (CLIP) and its variants, are limited or suboptimal in some situations, e.g. when compatible antibodies are not available and when dealing with small cell popula-tions such as neuronal subtypes and primary stem cells. This review summarizes and compares several ge-netic approaches recently designed to identify RBP targets in such circumstances. TRIBE (targets of RNA binding proteins identified by editing), RNA tagging, and STAMP (surveying targets by APOBEC-mediated profiling) are new genetic tools useful for the study of post-transcriptional regulation and RBP identification. We describe the underlying RNA base editing technology, recent applications, and therapeutic implications.

Automated summary

RNA binding proteins (RBPs) regulate post-transcriptional processes in cells, and it is crucial to identify their in vivo targets for understanding their function. Standard techniques for profiling RBP targets have limitations in certain situations, but new genetic approaches have been developed for such circumstances. These approaches, including TRIBE, RNA tagging, and STAMP, provide useful tools for studying post-transcriptional regulation and RBP identification, with potential therapeutic implications.