Using Light to Build and Break RNA-Protein Bonds to Control RNA Base Editing

Two distinct fusion proteins were recruited to a target RNA inside living cells using engineered self-labeling enzymes.

• Combining two orthogonal self-labeling enzymes allowed for concurrent assembly and disassembly of guide RNA-protein conjugates.
• The approach enables control of RNA-targeting through light activation.
• A photo-induced swap of two distinct RNA editing events was achieved.
• This work highlights potential innovations in tool development, RNA imaging, and transcript engineering.

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