Oligoribonuclease

Oligoribonuclease is a type of enzyme that plays a crucial role in the RNA degradation pathway. It is the smallest known exoribonuclease and is responsible for the hydrolysis of small fragments of RNA into mononucleotides.

Function

Oligoribonuclease is involved in the final step of the RNA degradation pathway. It hydrolyzes short oligonucleotides, typically those with fewer than five nucleotides, into their constituent mononucleotides. This process is essential for the recycling of nucleotides in the cell.

In addition to its role in RNA degradation, oligoribonuclease has been implicated in other cellular processes. For example, it has been shown to play a role in the regulation of gene expression and in the response to cellular stress.

Structure

Oligoribonuclease is a small protein, typically consisting of around 150 amino acids. It has a compact, globular structure, with a central beta-sheet surrounded by alpha-helices. The active site of the enzyme, where the hydrolysis reaction takes place, is located in a deep groove on the surface of the protein.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the gene encoding oligoribonuclease have been associated with a number of diseases. For example, a mutation in this gene has been linked to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.

See also

• Exoribonuclease
• RNA degradation
• Nucleotide