Reconsidering Molecular Mechanisms and Biological Roles of mRNA Decay

mRNA decay is a critical post-transcriptional mechanism that works in synergy with several stages of gene expression such as transcription, pre-mRNA processing, and mRNA translation. The identification of various mRNA decay factors like deadenylases, endonucleases, and the exosome, has uncovered a complex landscape that influences mRNA stability and regulates mRNA half-lives. The modulation of mRNA stability involves an intricate network of mRNA-binding proteins and non-coding RNAs, including microRNAs. Variations in the expression and activity of these regulators are influenced by post-translational modifications and cellular signaling pathways. Emerging technologies such as RNA-seq and RNA mass spectrometry are challenging traditional views, offering new insights into mRNA decay dynamics.

This Research Topic aims to deepen the understanding of the molecular mechanisms and physiological implications of mRNA decay. By leveraging recent advancements in RNA-seq methods and mass spectrometry, researchers aim to reveal novel aspects of mRNA decay processes, identify new regulatory factors, and understand their roles in health and disease. Studies in mouse models and human patients are particularly focused on connecting mutations in mRNA decay factors to specific diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders and cancers, highlighting the potential for targeted therapeutic interventions.

To gather further insights in the realm of mRNA decay, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
o mRNA decay and its correlation with mRNA translation
o Roles and mechanisms of deadenylase, decapping enzymes, and the exosome in mRNA decay
o Influences and functions of RNA-binding proteins
o Regulation by non-coding RNAs, including microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs
o Implications of non-sense mediated decay in cellular processes
o Impact of ribosome stalling/collision on mRNA decay
o Relationship between tRNA abundance and mRNA stability
o Contributions of mRNA decay mechanisms to neurodegenerative diseases
o Exploring the links between mRNA decay, cancer, and metabolic syndrome

Additionally, we welcome research articles, reviews, and methodological papers that explore these facets of mRNA decay.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Systematic Review

Keywords: mRNA decay RNA-binding proteins Deadenylation Non-coding RNA Post-transcriptional regulation

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.