Scanning for a unified model for translational repression by microRNAs

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) silence target mRNAs by inhibiting translation and subsequently initiating mRNA decay. The mechanism by which miRNAs silence translation is still poorly understood, with a number of competing models proposed. In this issue of The EMBO Journal, Kuzuoğlu-Öztürk et al (2016) investigated miRNA silencing in human and insect cells. Their data support a model whereby miRNAs inhibit translation initiation. However, in contrast to several recent reports, their data suggest that translational inhibition is independent of 43S ribosomal subunit scanning, eIF4A translation factor activity, and 5'UTR secondary structure.
Source: EMBO Journal - Category: Molecular Biology Authors: Tags: Protein Biosynthesis & Quality Control, RNA Biology News [amp ] Views Source Type: research