RNA processing and degradation

RNA metabolism lies at the heart of the information processing systems that fundamentally distinguish living organisms from sets of biochemical reactions. Alterations in RNA-protein and RNA-interaction are crucial during changes in cell state, but are complex and difficult to map systematically. Many genetic diseases are caused by specific defects in RNA metabolism, which is changed in disease, reprogrammed following stress and during development, and can be manipulated by pathogens. Understanding the molecular mechanisms is essential for future exploitation in therapy. To help achieve this, we have developed, and will further refine, a set of tools to follow complex changes in RNA interactions. These will be applied to identify key interactions that drive alterations in gene expression occur over time courses as cells respond to environmental stress, infection and development. This work will identify key features of RNA metabolism during transitions between cellular states in health and disease.