3'-5' RNA helicase that plays a key role in the male and female germline by promoting transition from mitotic to meiotic divisions in stem cells (PubMed:28380054, PubMed:28809393, PubMed:29033321, PubMed:29087293, PubMed:29360036, PubMed:32470506). Specifically recognizes and binds N6-methyladenosine (m6A)-containing RNAs, a modification present at internal sites of mRNAs and some non- coding RNAs that plays a role in the efficiency of RNA processing and stability (PubMed:29360036). Essential for ensuring a successful progression of the meiotic program in the germline by regulating the level of m6A-containing RNAs (PubMed:29033321). Acts by binding and promoting degradation of m6A-containing mRNAs: the 3'-5' RNA helicase activity is required for this process and RNA degradation may be mediated by XRN1 exoribonuclease (PubMed:29033321). Required for both spermatogenesis and oogenesis (PubMed:28809393, PubMed:29033321). {Experimental EvidencePubMed:28380054, Experimental EvidencePubMed:28809393, Experimental EvidencePubMed:29033321, Experimental EvidencePubMed:29087293, Experimental EvidencePubMed:29360036, Experimental EvidencePubMed:32470506}.
National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
Department of Biology
Biophysics & Bioinformatics Laboratory