snoRNAs associate with mRNA 3′ processing complex: New wine in old bottles

Abstract

3′ end processing is required for the maturation of all eukaryotic RNAs. Current model suggests that canonical mRNA 3′ processing is carried out exclusively within a protein complex termed mRNA 3′ processing complex. In a recent study, by using RNA-biotin based pull-down assay and high-throughput sequencing, we reported that a subset of small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) were physically associated with this macromolecular machinery. Through detailed characterization of one of these snoRNAs, SNORD50A, we revealed that non-coding RNA, such as snoRNA, may play a regulatory role in mRNA 3′ processing. Our results provided novel insight into both the regulatory mechanism of mRNA 3′ processing and the non-canonical functions of snoRNAs.