RNA sensors: novel regulators of gene expression

RNA molecules are employed by diverse mechanisms in the cell. In recent years, researches have demonstrated that RNAs are important as regulators of gene expression. These include antisense RNAs, micro RNAs, siRNAs, ribozymes and riboswitches. Riboswitches are segments of the 5’-untranslated region of some RNAs. These elements act as sensors of signals through mechanisms of molecular recognition. The plasticity of RNA in molecular recognition show high potential of this molecule to act as suitable regulator. According to this ability, researchers attempt to engine riboregulator systems and in last years several riboregulator systems have been engineered. Engineered RNAs could be employed as sensors of intracellular and environmental stimuli to explore the behavior of biological networks and engineered cellular control systems, as antibacterial and as biosensor to detect pathogens. In this review we will focus on some engineered riboregulators and riboswitches as RNA sensors.