Circular RNAs often form as the pre-mRNA molecule is processed into its final transcript via splicing, in which introns are removed and exons are linked together. Most circular RNAs are thought to be formed by a process called backsplicing, which joins one end of an exon to the other, or to an upstream exon, forming a circle. Researchers have recently published several models—not all of them necessarily mutually exclusive—to explain how different parts of the RNA molecule are brought into close proximity, encouraging backsplicing and turning a linear sequence into circular RNA.

THE SCIENTIST STAFFTHE SCIENTIST STAFFIn a general backsplicing model, proteins assemble to form the spliceosome that processes transcribed RNA. But instead of splicing exons together in a linear sequence, they join the end of one exon to the beginning of the same exon or to an upstream exon. Below are three mechanisms that can drive...

INTRON-PAIRING-DRIVEN CIRCULARIZATION

Complementary base pairs formed between long intronic sequences on different parts of the transcript bring together different splice sites on an RNA molecule, promoting backsplicing.

LARIAT-DRIVEN CIRCULARIZATION

Splicing proteins “skip” some exons, creating an exon-containing lariat—a lasso-shaped structure that introns frequently form during standard splicing. This lariat can be excised and formed into a circle while the leftover RNA forms a linear transcript that lacks the skipped exons.

PROTEIN FACTOR–MEDIATED CIRCULARIZATION

RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) such as Quaking bind to sequences on either side of exons and pull these sequences into proximity with each other, forming circles even in transcripts that are normally spliced in a linear fashion.

THE SCIENTIST STAFF

Read the full story.

Interested in reading more?

The Scientist ARCHIVES

Become a Member of

Receive full access to more than 35 years of archives, as well as TS Digest, digital editions of The Scientist, feature stories, and much more!
Already a member?