Aldema Sas-Chen: RNA modifications in human disease and across evolution

You are cordially invited to a special seminar of the Department of Human molecular Genetics and Biochemistry Sackler Faculty of Medicine

Aldema Sas-Chen, Ph.D.

Department of Molecular Genetics,

Weizmann Institute of Science

RNA modifications in human disease and across evolution

Abstract: The field of epitranscriptomics defines the landscape of >150 types of RNA modifications that regulate the life cycle of RNA, and act as instrumental players in dynamically modulating cellular outputs. A pivotal milestone in elucidating the mechanisms of action of RNA modifications is the development of high-resolution maps, which chart the landscape of the different modifications across various RNA types. Here I describe a novel high-throughput method we developed for mapping RNA acetylation (N4-acetylcytidine; ac4C) at single base resolution. Using this method, we conducted a cross-evolutionary profiling of ac4C and found that it is catalyzed at a conserved sequence motif. Our studies further uncovered that RNA acetylation is dynamically regulated by environmental cues and contributes to RNA thermostabilization. In addition, I discuss the profiling of modifications in mitochondrial RNA and the identification of disease-related enzymes that catalyze them. These studies quantitatively define the landscape of various RNA modifications, providing a technical and conceptual foundation for elucidating their role in biology and disease.

The Seminar will take place on Thursday, December 3rd, 2020 at 10:00 AM

Join us on Zoom here

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89032761482

Meeting ID: 890 3276 1482