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Function of small RNAs across kingdoms

Objetivo

In December 2002,Science magazine selected small Ranks with regulatory function as the scientific breakthrough of the year. Small Ranks play a hitherto unrecognized critical regulatory role in controlling gene expression at different levels in a variety of organisms across kingdoms. The number of small non-coding RNAs discovered in recent years is in a range of one thousand. In a fundamental genomics approach this consortium aims to-wards advancement of knowledge on how regulatory RNAs are integrated into the general network of gene expression. Evolutionary aspects will be addressed to obtain a broad and integrated understanding of riboregulators. Thus, organisms from different kingdoms (eubacteria, protists, plants and animals) will be investigated, along with various classes of regulatory RNAs (microRNAs, snoRNAs, bacterial small RNAs). Molecular targets will be identified and characterised and the expression patterns of target and regulatory RNA monitored under various environmental or developmental conditions. We will develop bioinformatic tools by designing new algorithms for the in silico prediction of RNA targets. A special focus will be directed towards small RNAs from pathogenic bacteria and on human small RNAs that are implicated in human diseases, including common forms of cancer. Research on both these topics should generate vital knowledge applicable for future therapeutic intervention. Multi-protein complexes and other protein components will be studied that are required for the generation or function of small RNAs and that are of potential biotechnological interest. Finally, we will study structural and functional aspects of small RNAs to elucidate mechanisms of interaction with the targets. The experimental strategies will pursue multidisciplinary approaches (gene expression, proteomics, bioinformatics) and make use of sophisticated instrumentation, such as scanning force microscopy, surface plasma resonance, and microcalorimetry.

Convocatoria de propuestas

FP6-2003-LIFESCIHEALTH-I
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Coordinador

UPPSALA UNIVERSITY
Aportación de la UE
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Dirección
Sankt Olofsgatan 10B
UPPSALA
Suecia

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Enlaces
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Participantes (9)