RNA Damage and Repair

Ribonucleic acid (RNA) is a macromolecule that plays a central role in  cell physiology: RNA molecules act as intermediates between the  deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), where genetic information is stored, and  proteins, which perform the necessary functions within the cell.  Traditionally, the structural and functional properties of RNA are  closely linked to gene expression. However, RNA-based enzymes, called  ribozymes, are also involved in catalysis and small RNAs regulate key  cellular processes, such as cell growth, division, differentiation,  aging and death. RNA is a sensitive macromolecule that can be easily  damaged by environmental conditions (ultraviolet radiation, oxidative  stress) and biological factors (ribonucleases, ribotoxins, CRISPR-Cas  systems). Therefore, cells have developed mechanisms to protect and/or  repair RNA molecules. This book presents an overview of the biology of  RNA damage, protection and repair in prokaryotes and eukaryotes.  Individual chapters cover the expression regulation, enzymology and  physiological role of such systems, and link them to important human  diseases such as cancer and degenerative diseases