RNA Through Time: From the Origin of Life to Therapeutic Frontiers in Transcriptomics and Epitranscriptional Medicine.

This review examines the evolutionary trajectory and functional versatility of RNA, beginning with its proposed involvement in the origin of life and culminating in its current application in therapeutic strategies. We explored the complexity of the transcriptome, splicing mechanisms, and the regulatory functions of non-coding RNAs, especially microRNAs. The processes underlying microRNA biogenesis and activity are discussed in the context of their potential as therapeutic tools. Advances in RNA-based technologies have been further illustrated by the development of mRNA vaccines, representing a significant breakthrough in biomedical innovation. Additionally, we explored the growing field of epitranscriptomics-chemical modifications to RNA that modulate its stability, translation, and function-by analyzing the roles of modification enzymes known as writers, erasers, and readers. Focus is given to how these alterations influence immune reactions and guide the strategic development of future modified mRNA vaccines. Collectively, these advances underscore RNA's multifaceted roles and its transformative potential in the biological and medical sciences.