Small nucleolar RNA SNORD99

Small nucleolar RNA SNORD99 (SNORD99), also known as U99, is a non-coding RNA molecule that belongs to the C/D box snoRNAs family. These molecules are primarily involved in the chemical modification of other RNA molecules, specifically through the methylation of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) which is a critical step in the maturation of the ribosome, the cellular machinery for protein synthesis. SNORD99, like other members of its family, is characterized by the presence of conserved C (RUGAUGA) and D (CUGA) box motifs, which are essential for its function and interaction with the rRNA.

Function

The primary function of SNORD99 is the 2'-O-ribose methylation of rRNA. This modification is crucial for the proper assembly and function of the ribosome. By modifying the rRNA, SNORD99 plays a significant role in the process of translation, ensuring that proteins are synthesized accurately and efficiently. The specific methylation targets of SNORD99 within the rRNA are not fully understood, and research is ongoing to elucidate the full range of its targets and the implications of these modifications.

Biogenesis

SNORD99 is synthesized in the nucleolus, a subnuclear structure where the assembly of ribosomes begins. It is generated from a longer precursor RNA molecule through the action of the RNAse III enzyme, Dicer, and other proteins associated with the processing of small nucleolar RNAs. Once processed, SNORD99 is assembled into a ribonucleoprotein complex, which includes specific proteins that are essential for its function and stability.

Clinical Significance

While the specific clinical implications of SNORD99 are still under investigation, alterations in the expression or function of snoRNAs, in general, have been linked to various human diseases, including cancer. For example, dysregulation of snoRNA expression has been observed in several types of cancer, suggesting that SNORD99 and similar molecules could play a role in tumorigenesis or tumor progression. Further research into SNORD99 may reveal its potential as a biomarker for disease or as a target for therapeutic intervention.

Related Pages

• Ribosomal RNA
• Nucleolus
• C/D box snoRNAs
• Methylation
• Translation (biology)

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