Exploring the RNA world, discovering new modes of regulation and how they are used throughout biology from yeast to stem cells.

Research

Click on the panels below to learn more about each of our main topics of research.

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New methods: new horizons

We develop new approaches that enable studies of the RNA world and its broad, fundamental roles throughout biology. These have illuminated RNA-protein interactions, their functions, and novel explorations of RNA control in living cells.

Integrated control

RNA binding proteins control every step in the life of mRNAs, from their formation their destruction. They must find the right RNAs, trigger a response, and do so at the right time and place.

Regulatory networks

Single protein bind 100’s of RNA, forming regulatory networks. How are these formed and integrated, and how do they evolve?

Protein partnerships

RNA regulation hinges on collaborations among families of proteins conserved from yeast to humans. How do these interact with one another and the RNA, and how does that trigger control from worms to humans?

Poly(UG) addition, genome integrity and RNA silencing

We discovered a new form of RNA regulation that relies on the addition of alternating UG tracts to specific RNAs, effecting the heritable silencing of gene expression. The challenge now is to understand how this works at the biochemical level, is controlled, and promotes gene silencing.

Roles throughout biology

The roles of RNA regulation in biology are broad and diverse, from single-celled organisms to the germ line to the nervous system. How do they contribute to control of development? What new roles await us?