A current model proposes that the small RNA 5’ monophosphate group (5’P) allosterically activates the global endoribonuclease RNase E to cleave the base-paired target RNA, but in vivo evidence is lacking. Using the sRNA-binding protein RapZ and the small RNA GlmZ from E. coli as modules, we engineered a system suitable to generate 5’ monophosphorylated RNAs of choice in the cell. Using this tool, we could not detect any impact of the small RNAs 5’ phosphorylation state on target decay, but observe a role for small RNA stability.

Schilder and Görke, 2023, Role of the 5' end phosphorylation state for small RNA stability and target RNA regulation in bacteria. Nucleic Acids Res. 51(10):5125-5143, DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkad226, PMID: 36987877


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