Why the study?
An improved understanding of the role of RNA structure in the evolution, adaptation, pathogenesis, and transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 and other human coronaviruses is needed.
Understanding the RNA structure of SARS-CoV-2 is critical for elucidating viral replication mechanisms and identifying potential therapeutic targets such as small molecule inhibitors or antisense oligonucleotides.
Coronavirus RNA structures may shape pathogenesis and transmissibility; leaves open targeted interventions pending experimental validation.
, known for relatively extensive (~30-kb) RNA genomes that not only encode for numerous proteins but are also capable of forming elaborate structures. As highlighted in this review, these structures perform critical functions in various steps of the viral life cycle, ultimately impacting pathogenesis and transmissibility. We examine these elements in the context of coronavirus evolutionary history and future directions for curbing the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and other potential human coronaviruses. While we focus on structures supported by a variety of biochemical, biophysical, and/or computational methods, we also touch here on recent evidence for novel structures in both protein-coding and noncoding regions of the genome, including an assessment of the potential role for RNA structure in the controversial finding of SARS-CoV-2 integration in "long COVID" patients. This review aims to serve as a consolidation of previous works on coronavirus and more recent investigation of SARS-CoV-2, emphasizing the need for improved understanding of the role of RNA structure in the evolution and adaptation of these human viruses.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Bassett et al. (2022) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: