The Action aimed to lay the foundations for understanding the long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) sequence-function code by generating a high-quality, functional map of Repeat Insertion Domains of LncRNAs (RIDLs) across metazoan genomes. This Objective was divided into three Aims, which were successfully achieved during the grant period:
1. Comprehensively map RIDLs across model metazoan genomes: The project utilized state-of-the-art computational algorithms and experimental techniques to systematically identify and annotate RIDLs across the human genome. The results yielded a comprehensive map of RIDLs, providing valuable insights into their distribution, conservation, and potential functional roles.
2. Generate a functional map of functional RIDLs, with a focus on localization and disease: Building upon the RIDL map, the project further characterized the functional attributes of RIDLs, with a specific emphasis on their subcellular localization and association with diseases. Through extensive experimentation and bioinformatics analysis, the project identified functional RIDLs that play critical roles in cellular localization processes.
3. Create an open resource for dissemination and exploiting of the results: As a key deliverable of the project, an open-access database and web-based resource were established to disseminate the project's results to the wider scientific community. This resource includes the comprehensive RIDL maps, functional annotations, and associated data, providing a valuable tool for researchers to further explore the functional roles and mechanisms of lncRNA-mediated regulation.
Exploitable Results:
The results generated from the Action hold significant exploitable potential in advancing the field of lncRNA research and beyond, being useful to many researchers around the world of RNA biology. Some of the key exploitable results include:
• Comprehensive RIDL maps: The comprehensive RIDL maps generated by the project can serve as a valuable resource for researchers in the field of RNA biology, providing a foundation for further investigations into the functional roles of lncRNAs and their interactions with other molecules.
• Functional annotations: The functional annotations of RIDLs, including their subcellular localization, can be exploited to develop new hypotheses and testable predictions regarding the roles of lncRNAs in cellular processes and disease mechanisms. This knowledge can potentially lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies targeting lncRNAs for various diseases.
• Open-access database and web-based resource: The open-access database and web-based resource
https://elementaldb.crg.eu/(si apre in una nuova finestra) established by the project can be further developed and expanded to include additional data and functionalities, creating a platform for collaboration, data sharing, and further research in the field of lncRNAs. This resource can also be utilized by the scientific community for data mining, analysis, and integration with other datasets to facilitate new discoveries.
