We are seeking to understand how the protein ADAR1 functions. When it is mutated, ADAR1 can cause a range of diseases, most notably in a subset of Aicardi-Goutieres syndrome (AGS) patients, an autoimmune disorder affecting the brain, immune system, and skin. We have identified how we think that changes in ADAR1 activity may ultimately cause disease. This application will allow us to test this mechanism experimentally.
Molecular Insights Into Long Noncoding RNA-protein Complexes: Important Gene Regulators In Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$388,927.00
Summary
Cancer cells turn good genes off and bad ones on: but how do they do this? Recent breakthroughs suggest that noncoding RNA, produced from so-called ‘junk’ DNA, is important. One such noncoding RNA forms paraspeckles, a novel component of the cell machinery. Here, we will pick apart the way paraspeckles are organised and function, to develop them as a prototype for designing anti-cancer treatments against noncoding RNAs.
Nuclear Retention-and-release Of RNA: A Naturally-occurring Mechanism For Controlling Gene Expression
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$428,753.00
Summary
The deliberate retention of messenger RNA in the nucleus is a newly-discovered biological mechanism used by cells to control which genes are made into proteins, and when. This is a fundamental process in health and disease. The project will employ cutting edge molecular and cellular techniques to discover the principles underpinning nuclear retention. These insights will allow the development of new methods to spatially and temporally control gene expression in diverse gene therapy applications.