Researchers get new insights on immune system

Shanghai researchers have discovered that RNA, a type of noncoding genetic material, plays a significant role in the regulation of immunity via circular RNA, and their dysfunction is closely related to autoimmune diseases.

The study was led by Chen Lingling at the Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, together with other top experts. It provided insights into new clinical therapies of such diseases as lupus, said researchers on April 25.

Circular RNAs are stable in cells and tissues under normal conditions. One of their functions in the immune system is that they regulate the activation of certain immune sensors and signal pathways downstream, the researchers found.