A role for circular RNA in behaviour

New publication by our colleagues at Helmholtz Munich in collaboration with the (IBioBA)–CONICET

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a large class of noncoding RNAs, with unexplored biological significance. By generating a loss-of-function animal model that reduced circTulp4 (an abundant circRNA derived from the Tulp4 gene), this study established a proof of principle for the regulatory role of circRNAs in neural processes. Importantly, linear mRNA or protein levels were not affected. By conducting a comprehensive phenotypic analysis in the German Mouse Clinic and reproducing essential results at the Partner Institute of the Max Planck Society in Buenos Aires, functional evidence could be obtained for a biologically relevant role of circRNAs on brain and behaviour. The results demonstrate that circTulp4 is critical in regulating neurotransmission, with modulatory effects on multiple levels of the phenotype.

Original publication:
Giusti S, Pino N, Pannunzio C et al. A brain-enriched circular RNA controls excitatory neurotransmission and restricts sensitivity to aversive stimuli. Science Advances (2024). DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj8769