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Obstacles on the racetrack of life

Researchers discovered that the protein SPT6 is essential for the arrival of RNA polymerase at the end of a gene, producing functional mRNA. Without it, the polymerase destroys obstacles, making it impossible for functional RNA polymerases to find their way.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalMolecular Cell·DateJul 14, 2021

Super-resolution RNA imaging in live cells

Researchers at Heidelberg University developed a novel fluorescence marker called RhoBAST to enable super-resolution RNA imaging in live cells. The method reveals details of subcellular structures and molecular interactions involving RNA, improving image resolution.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateFeb 25, 2021

Unlocking the secret of cell regulation

Scientists at the University of Bonn have developed a new method to study the structure of long ribonucleic acids, which are crucial for cellular regulation. The technique involves marking specific locations on the RNA with artificial flags and measuring their distances using a molecular ruler.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 4, 2020

Encrypted messages in biological processes

A study by a Danish-German research team reveals that modified RNA bases play a crucial role in controlling gene expression from DNA to functional RNA. The researchers used a newly developed technique to label newly made RNA with the m6A modification, demonstrating its impact on RNA maturation and splicing efficiency.

SourceAarhus University·JournalCell Reports·DateJun 20, 2018

Watching RNA fold

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a technology platform that provides high-resolution representation of RNA folding during synthesis. This breakthrough allows for the study of RNA folding in unprecedented detail, potentially leading to discoveries in basic biology, gene expression, and disease.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Structural & Molecular Biology·DateOct 31, 2016

CRISPR-based method tracks RNA

Researchers have developed a CRISPR-Cas9 based method to track the movement of RNA in living cells. This approach enables the study of disease-related RNA processes and may support therapeutic approaches to correct disease-causing RNA behaviors.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell·DateMar 17, 2016

Seeing DROSHA for the first time

Scientists at IBS Center for RNA Research have elucidated the three-dimensional image of DROSHA, one part of the Microprocessor complex. This discovery confirms previous findings and reveals unique physical characteristics of DROSHA, including a 'bump' that may act as a measuring guide for cleaving pri-miRNA.

The spliceosome: More than meets the eye

Researchers from Brandeis University and UMMS discovered that the spliceosome's major components can attach in any order, eliminating the need for precise communication. This breakthrough sheds light on the process of RNA splicing, a crucial step in protein synthesis, and holds promise for understanding diseases like cystic fibrosis.

SourceBrandeis University·JournalCell·DateSep 26, 2013