Rdcina

Rdcina is an acronym used in some discussions of RNA biology to denote a proposed class of RNA-derived circular intergenic nucleic acids. In this usage, rdcina refers to small circular RNA molecules that originate from transcripts in intergenic regions rather than from exonic sequences of protein-coding genes.

Typical features assigned to rdcina include covalently closed, single-stranded circular RNA molecules often described as ranging from roughly 100 to 1000 nucleotides. Biogenesis is hypothesized to involve back-splicing of precursor RNAs or ribozyme-mediated circularization, but the exact pathways remain uncertain. rdcina are generally considered non-coding and lacking long open reading frames, though exceptions are possible. Their detection relies on methods such as divergent RT-PCR, RNase R treatment, and high-throughput sequencing; distinguishing them from linear transcripts and DNA contaminants is a methodological challenge.

Proposed functions for rdcina include roles in post-transcriptional regulation, potentially acting as microRNA decoys or as mobile regulatory signals within tissues. However, evidence is sparse, and some scientists view rdcina as a subset of the broader circular RNA (circRNA) class rather than a distinct category. The concept remains debated, and rdcina has not achieved broad consensus or standard definition in the research community. Further studies are needed to establish prevalence, biogenesis, and biological roles.

Related topics include circular RNAs (circRNAs), back-splicing, and RNA circularization mechanisms.