Ribonuclease L

Ribonuclease L or RNase L is ribonuclease which when activated by interferon destroys all RNA within the cell, both cellular and viral. It is a key component of the intracellular immune response to viral pathogens.

RNase L is present in small quantities during the normal cell cycle. When interferon binds to receptors on the cell membrane, it triggers the production of more RNase L along with 2'-5' Oligodenylate Synthetase (OAS). OAS converts ATP to pyrophosphate and 2'-5'linked oligoadenylates. The 2-5 A molecules bind to RNase L and activates it. The activated RNaseL destroys all cellular and viral RNA, which triggers autophagy and programmed cell death.

Research in chronic fatigue syndrome
Several abnormalities of the 2-5A/RNaseL pathways have been documented in chronic fatigue syndrome patients and have been suggested a possible biomarker. Studies of peripheral blood mononuclear cells have found that the RNase L and 2-5 A pathways are upregulated. , with abnormally high levels of the active form of 2-5 A. RNase L proteins of the molecular weights 80, 42 and 37 kDa have also been found.

RNaseL activity and concentrations of bioactive 2-5 A are correlated with physical function.