Noncoding RNA and its associated proteins as regulatory elements of the immune system

Non-coding RNA accounts for a large proportion of the mammalian genome. In this Focus Review, Martin Turner and colleagues explore how these RNA species regulate gene transcription in the immune system. The rapid changes in gene expression that accompany developmental transitions, stress responses and proliferation are controlled by signal-mediated coordination of transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms. In recent years, understanding of the mechanics of these processes and the contexts in which they are employed during hematopoiesis and immune challenge has increased. An important aspect of this progress is recognition of the importance of RNA-binding proteins and noncoding RNAs. These have roles in the development and function of the immune system and in pathogen life cycles, and they represent an important aspect of intracellular immunity.