Introduction to RNA-Based Circuits and Devices

RNA synthetic biology advances the engineering of RNA molecules for therapeutics and biotechnology. Synthetic systems, through RNA’s ability to modulate gene expression and its interaction with proteins, metabolites, and nucleic acids, offering precise and spatial control over cellular pathways. Further enhanced in capabilities, they enable methylation and base editing-type targeted modification with minimal byproducts. Importantly, N6 methyladenosine (m6A) modifications play a key role in RNA processing, influencing splicing, degradation, and translation. In addition, RNA design tools can be designed by using CRISPR-inspired designs such as CIRTS, allow for new possibilities for RNA editing that can further therapeutic routes. RNA circuits, with their modular and highly flexible nature, have been used to design and produce RNA-based logic gates, biosensors, and gene regulatory systems. These developments open avenues for programming cellular behavior, gene therapy, and biotechnology applications, propelling them from proof-of-concept to an increasingly significant role as an energetic tool in synthetic biology. Among RNA-based gene switches are the riboswitches, riboregulators, and toehold switches, which represent powerful tools for precise regulation of gene expression. The innovations show the versatility and what RNA may offer in terms of revolutionizing precision medicine and diagnostics, along with biotechnology.