Unexpected function of small nucleolar RNAs explains cause of some diseases

Scientists have discovered unexpected functions of small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) that explain the cause of some diseases. They found that snoRNAs not only modify ribosomes, but can also regulate alternative splicing. Through this second function, they regulate protein function and inhibit the generation of wrong protein variants. Thus, upon the loss of snoRNAs the formation of wrong protein variants can no longer be prevented, leading to diseases like Prader-Willi syndrome and several cancers, report scientists.