The importance of being (slightly) modified: The role of rRNA editing on gene expression control and its connections with cancer

- rRNA is modified at specific sites in functionally important ribosomal areas
- rRNA modifications are crucial for ribosome assembly and structure
- Altered rRNA modification can affect ribosomal function and gene expression control
- Changes in rRNA modification are reported in different conditions, including cancer
- Newly developed methods will likely boost studies in the field in the near future

In human ribosomal RNAs, over 200 residues are modified by specific, RNA-driven enzymatic complexes or stand-alone, RNA-independent enzymes. In most cases, modification sites are placed in specific positions within important functional areas of the ribosome. Some evidence indicates that the altered control in ribosomal RNA modifications may affect ribosomal function during mRNA translation. Here we provide an overview of the connections linking ribosomal RNA modifications to ribosome function, and suggest how aberrant modifications may affect the control of the expression of key cancer genes, thus contributing to tumor development. In addition, the future perspectives in this field are discussed.