DNA interference and beyond: structure and functions of prokaryotic Argonaute proteins

Lidiya Lisitskaya, Alexei A. Aravin () and Andrey Kulbachinskiy ()
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Lidiya Lisitskaya: Russian Academy of Sciences
Alexei A. Aravin: Russian Academy of Sciences
Andrey Kulbachinskiy: Russian Academy of Sciences

Nature Communications, 2018, vol. 9, issue 1, 1-12

Abstract: Abstract Recognition and repression of RNA targets by Argonaute proteins guided by small RNAs is the essence of RNA interference in eukaryotes. Argonaute proteins with diverse structures are also found in many bacterial and archaeal genomes. Recent studies revealed that, similarly to their eukaryotic counterparts, prokaryotic Argonautes (pAgos) may function in cell defense against foreign genetic elements but, in contrast, preferably act on DNA targets. Many crucial details of the pAgo action, and the roles of a plethora of pAgos with non-conventional architecture remain unknown. Here, we review available structural and biochemical data on pAgos and discuss their possible functions in host defense and other genetic processes in prokaryotic cells.

Date: 2018
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-07449-7

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