Small nucleolar RNA SNORD111

Small nucleolar RNA SNORD111 (SNORD111), also known as U111, is a member of the C/D box snoRNAs family, which are small nucleolar RNAs involved in the modification and processing of ribosomal RNA (rRNA). SNORD111, like other C/D box snoRNAs, is characterized by the presence of conserved C and D box motifs that are essential for its function in guiding 2'-O-methylation of rRNA. This particular snoRNA is located within the introns of host genes and is processed from pre-mRNA transcripts.

Function

SNORD111 plays a critical role in the biogenesis of the ribosome, the cellular machinery responsible for protein synthesis. By directing site-specific 2'-O-methylation of rRNA, SNORD111 contributes to the structural and functional maturation of the ribosome. This modification is crucial for the accurate and efficient translation of mRNA into protein. The precise methylation patterns introduced by SNORD111 and other snoRNAs are important for ribosome assembly and function, affecting the fidelity of protein synthesis.

Biogenesis and Structure

The biogenesis of SNORD111 involves its transcription as part of a host gene's pre-mRNA. Following transcription, SNORD111 is excised from the intronic region and undergoes further processing to form the mature snoRNA. The mature SNORD111 molecule is characterized by its C and D box motifs, which are short conserved sequences essential for its function. The C box (RUGAUGA) and D box (CUGA) motifs are involved in the snoRNA's interaction with specific proteins, forming a snoRNP (small nucleolar ribonucleoprotein) complex. This complex is responsible for the recognition and methylation of target rRNA sites.

Clinical Significance

While the specific clinical implications of SNORD111 are still under investigation, alterations in snoRNA expression and function have been associated with various diseases, including cancer and genetic disorders. Dysregulation of snoRNA-mediated rRNA modification can impact ribosome biogenesis and function, potentially leading to aberrant protein synthesis and disease pathogenesis. Further research into SNORD111 and other snoRNAs may reveal their potential as biomarkers or therapeutic targets in disease.

See Also

• Ribosomal RNA
• Nucleolar organizer region
• Small nucleolar RNA
• 2'-O-methylation