The Function of Regulatory RNAs in Bacterial Pathogens
A special issue of Genes (ISSN 2073-4425). This special issue belongs to the section "Microbial Genetics and Genomics".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 August 2025 | Viewed by 51
Special Issue Editor
2. Department of Chemistry, University of Manitoba, 144 Dysart Road, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada
Interests: regulatory small RNA; pathogenic bacteria; virulence; RNA regulation; host–pathogen interaction; stress response
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Bacterial pathogens pose a significant threat to human health, with their ability to rapidly adapt to environmental changes and host defenses. A crucial aspect of this adaptability is gene regulation, which occurs not only at the transcriptional level but also post-transcriptionally through regulatory small RNAs (sRNAs). These sRNAs play a central role in fine-tuning gene expression by interacting with target mRNAs, other sRNAs, and protein factors. The function of sRNAs is also often mediated through interactions with ribonucleases (RNases) and RNA-binding proteins, which influence RNA stability and translation. The intricate regulatory networks formed by these elements enable bacterial pathogens to respond effectively to stress conditions, immune defenses, and antibiotic treatment. Various approaches, including transcriptomics, proteomics, and biochemical assays, have been utilized to identify and characterize sRNAs and their interacting partners in bacterial pathogens. Investigating these regulatory molecules is crucial in unraveling the mechanisms behind bacterial virulence, antibiotic resistance, and environmental adaptation. This knowledge could also inform the development of novel antimicrobial strategies.
This Special Issue will showcase recent research on the roles of sRNAs in bacterial pathogens. By highlighting advances in this field, we hope to contribute to a deeper understanding of sRNA biology and its potential applications in antimicrobial development.
Dr. Runhua Han
Guest Editor
Manuscript Submission Information
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Keywords
- regulatory small RNA
- pathogenic bacteria
- virulence
- RNA regulation
- host–pathogen interaction
- stress response
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