The diverse functions and mechanisms of prokaryotic Argonaute proteins

While eukaryotic Argonaute proteins (eAgos) are well known for their function in RNA silencing pathways, the function and mechanisms of the highly diversified prokaryotic Argonautes (pAgos) are understood less. In contrast to eAgos, certain pAgos utilize DNA guides and most pAgos characterized to date target DNA. As such, pAgos execute a variety of functions ranging from neutralizing invading DNA to stimulating homologous recombination. I will illustrate the diversity of pAgos and highlight recent discoveries about the function and mechanisms of so called ‘short pAgo’ systems. Furthermore, I will introduce novel insights into the evolution of DNA-targeting pAgos to RNA-targeting eAgos.