RNA (RIBONUCLEIC ACID) EDITING

RNA editing is an important biological process in which changes are made to RNA sequences.
This change can be in the form of insertion, deletion, or substitution.
With this process, cells can modify their genetic information, thereby controlling protein synthesis and gene expression.

Technique of RNA editing

Scientists have developed a technique called 'Adenosine Deaminase Acting on RNA (ADAR)' for RNA editing.
In this, editing is done with the help of guide RNA (gRNA).
ADAR enzyme: It converts Adenosine (A) to Inosine (I), causing a change in the RNA sequence.
gRNA (Guide RNA): These are small RNA molecules that bind to specific regions of mRNA and direct the editing machinery to the right place. It works like CRISPR technology but targets RNA instead of DNA.

RNA editing has many important biological and medical applications:
Treatment of diseases:
- Helps in treating genetic disorders, neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's).
- Helpful in developing RNA-based therapies for cancer and other complex diseases.
Drug development:
- Promotes the development of RNA-based drugs in medical science.
- Used in personalized medicine (precision medicine) to treat genetic disorders.
Adaptive gene expression:
- Provides the ability for cells to respond to changes in the external environment.
- Helps in preventing diseases and improving essential biological processes in the body.
Biotechnology and Gene Therapy:
- RNA editing technology can be used in combination with the CRISPR-Cas system, opening up new dimensions of genomic medicine.
This technique can prove promising in the treatment of incurable diseases.

RNA editing is opening a new door for scientists.
This technique can revolutionize gene-based medicine, cancer therapy and treatment of neurological disorders.
However, it will be necessary to resolve issues related to safety and ethics before this technique is widely adopted.
RNA editing is an emerging field, which is increasing the possibilities of development of new treatments and medicines in medical science.

Comparison between RNA and DNA editing

Form of change: DNA editing makes permanent changes while RNA editing makes temporary changes.
- Thus, RNA editing is safer and flexible compared to DNA editing which may result in irreversible errors.
Allergic and immune reactions: DNA editing has a higher risk of undesirable reactions compared to RNA editing.
- DNA editing tools use proteins from certain bacteria to perform cutting functions while RNA editing relies on ADAR enzymes, already occurring in the human body.