RNA helicases are hubs that orchestrate exosome-dependent 3′-5′ decay

The RNA exosome is a conserved complex of proteins that mediates 3'-5' RNA processing and decay. Its functions range from processing of non-coding RNAs such as ribosomal RNAs and decay of aberrant transcripts in the nucleus to cytoplasmic mRNA turnover and quality control. Ski2-like RNA helicases translocate substrates to exosome-associated ribonucleases and interact with the RNA exosome either directly or as part of multi-subunit helicase-containing complexes that identify and target RNA substrates for decay. Recent structures of these helicases with their RNA-binding partners or the RNA exosome have advanced our understanding of a system of modular and mutually exclusive contacts between the exosome and exosome-associated helicase complexes that shape the transcriptome by orchestrating exosome-dependent 3'-5' decay.

Automated summary

The RNA exosome is a complex protein that mediates RNA processing and decay, working with Ski2-like RNA helicases to regulate the transcriptome through 3'-5' decay. Recent insights into the structures and interactions of these components have advanced our understanding of RNA degradation mechanisms.