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DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20241021T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20241021T170000
DTSTAMP:20260404T073856
CREATED:20241009T165925Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241015T191145Z
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SUMMARY:RNA Innovation Seminar: Laura Scott\, Ph.D.\, University of Michigan School of Public Health
DESCRIPTION:“Regulation of RNA levels in muscle and adipose tissues by sex and genetic variants”\nLaura Scott\, Ph.D.\nResearch Professor\, Biostatistics\nUniversity of Michigan School of Public Health \nResearch interests:\nDr. Scott uses a combination of bulk and single nucleus omic data – RNA expression\, chromatin accessibility\, metabolites and DNA methylation – to understand the cellular genetic regulatory landscape and to infer biological connections between genetic variation and disease risk. \nClick here to read more about Dr. Scott and her work in a 2020 Faculty Spotlight article. \nIn-person: BSRB\, Kahn Auditorium / hybrid link\n \nAbstract:\nGene expression is regulated by multiple factors including genetic variation\, sex\, and cell type. I will describe differences by sex in human skeletal muscle cell type composition\, cell type-level gene expression and chromatin accessibility\, and bulk miRNA expression in 287 people. I will describe regulation of subcutaneous adipose gene expression by genetic variants in a meta-analysis of >2\,200 people. These studies help to better understand transcription and post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression by sex  and genetic regulation of gene expression.
URL:https://rna.umich.edu/events/rna-innovation-seminar-laura-scott-ph-d-university-of-michigan-school-of-public-health/
LOCATION:BSRB – Kahn Auditorium
CATEGORIES:Seminar
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20241104T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20241104T170000
DTSTAMP:20260404T073856
CREATED:20241024T154516Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241025T152756Z
UID:15638-1730736000-1730739600@rna.umich.edu
SUMMARY:RNA Innovation Seminar: Nils G. Walter\, Ph.D.\, Co-Director\, U-M Center for RNA Biomedicine
DESCRIPTION:“Single molecules come into focus: From bacterial riboswitches to mammalian cellular phase separation”\nNils G. Walter\, Ph.D.\nCo-Director\,\nU-M Center for RNA Biomedicine\nFrancis S Collins Collegiate Professor of Chemistry\, Biophysics\, and Biological Chemistry\,\nU-M LSA \n  \n  \nAbstract:\nAt least 75% of the 3 billion base pairs of the human genome are transcribed into RNA\, but the vast majority of these transcripts do not code for proteins but rather for “non-coding” RNAs (ncRNAs)\, many of which remain uncharacterized in terms of their structure and function. Currently\, more than 80\,000 unique ncRNAs have been identified in human cells alone\, suggesting that for a long time we have underestimated the intricacies involved in human genome maintenance\, processing\, and regulation by neglecting this far-reaching “RNA World.” Nature and modern nanotechnology likewise employ nanoscale RNA machines that self-assemble into structures of complex architecture and functionality. Fluorescence microscopy offers a non-invasive tool to probe\, dissect and ultimately control these nanoassemblies in real-time. In particular\, single molecule fluorescence resonance energy transfer (smFRET) allows us to measure distances at the 2-8 nm scale\, whereas complementary super-resolution localization techniques based on Gaussian fitting of imaged point spread functions (PSFs) measure distances in the 10 nm and longer range. Encapsulating the power of these recent technical advances\, we have combined single-molecule and biochemical approaches to show that a central\, adaptable RNA helix in the widespread manganese-sensing riboswitch functions analogous to a molecular fulcrum to integrate disparate signals for finely balanced bacterial gene expression control. We posit that many more examples of such intimate structural and kinetic coupling between RNA folding and gene expression remain to be discovered\, leading to the exquisite regulatory control and kinetic proofreading enabling all life processes. On the more applied side\, we are developing tools to study the liquid-liquid phase separation of RNA-protein granules involved in human pathologies. \nBiography:\nNils G. Walter (photo by Michigan Photography) is currently the Francis S. Collins Collegiate Professor of Chemistry\, Biophysics\, and Biological Chemistry in the College of Literature\, Science and the Arts of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor\, Michigan. He cofounded and currently co-directs the Center for RNA Biomedicine at Michigan\, now developing a thrust in RNA Therapeutics. His research interests focus on gene regulation by noncoding RNAs through the lens of single molecule techniques and applications in drug discovery. \nIn-person: BSRB\, Kahn Auditorium / hybrid link\n \nLinks to learn more about Nils Walter and his work:\nNils Walter’s Faculty Page\nNils Walter’s Lab Page\nNils Walter’s Wikipedia Page \n 
URL:https://rna.umich.edu/events/rna-innovation-seminar-nils-g-walter-ph-d-co-director-u-m-center-for-rna-biomedicine/
LOCATION:BSRB – Kahn Auditorium
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20241118T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20241118T170000
DTSTAMP:20260404T073856
CREATED:20241101T180543Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241111T164056Z
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SUMMARY:RNA Innovation Seminar: Jennifer E. Phillips-Cremins\, Ph.D.\, Associate Professor and Dean's Faculty Fellow\, Biomedical Engineering and Human Genetics\, Penn Epigenetic Institute
DESCRIPTION:“The Science of Connections: Bridging chromatin folding\, synaptic plasticity\, and neurophysiology”\nJennifer E. Phillips-Cremins\, Ph.D.\nAssociate Professor and Dean’s Faculty Fellow\,\nBioengineering and Genetics\,\nPenn Epigenetics — University of Pennsylvania \nIn-person: Kahn Auditorium\, BSRB | Hybrid link \nAbstract:\nThe Cremins Laboratory works at the spatial biology-technology interface to investigate the structure-function relationship of connections in the brain across the scales of chromatin\, synapses\, and circuits in normal neurophysiology and in neurological disorders. We have thus far focused in the nucleus on creating kilobase-resolution maps of higher-order folding of the chromatin fiber and understanding how classic epigenetic modifications work through long-range connections to govern genome function in neurodevelopment. We have developed and applied new molecular and computational technologies to elucidate chromatin folding patterns at kilobase-resolution genome-wide\, thus discovering that long-range looping interactions in cis and inter-chromosomal interactions in trans change substantially during neural lineage commitment\, somatic cell reprogramming\, activation of post-mitotic neural circuits\, and in neurological disorders. We have demonstrated that cohesin-mediated loops are necessary for the establishment of new gene expression programs in post-mitotic neurons\, including the upregulation of genes encoding axon guidance\, dendritic spine morphology\, and synaptic plasticity during neuron maturation in vivo as well as activity-dependent transcription during neural stimulation in vitro. We have also identified cohesin-mediated loops anchored by divergently-oriented CTCF binding sites that are necessary and sufficient for the firing efficiency and localization of human replication origins during S phase re-entry after mitosis. Using fragile X syndrome as a natural perturbation\, we have uncovered BREACHes (Beacons of Repeat Expansion Anchored by Contacting Heterochromatin) – rare inter-chromosomal interactions connecting heterochromatinized synaptic genes susceptible to repeat instability\, thus providing early insight into the genome’s structure-function relationship. Here\, I will present new unpublished data describing 3D genome miswiring in a human neuron model with rare familial Alzheimer’s mutations as well as the functional link among loops and activity-dependent gene expression during neural circuit activation in vitro and in vivo. The long-term goal of the Cremins lab is to elucidate how the genome’s structure-function relationship influences synaptic plasticity and neurophysiology during memory encoding and consolidation and how this goes awry in intractable neurological disorders. \nBio:\nJennifer Phillips-Cremins\, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor and Deans’ Faculty Fellow in Engineering and Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania with primary appointments in the Departments of Genetics and Bioengineering. Dr. Cremins obtained her Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology in the laboratory of Andres Garcia. She conducted a multi-disciplinary postdoc in the laboratories of Job Dekker and Victor Corces. Dr. Cremins runs the Laboratory of Chromatin and Spatial Neurobiology at UPenn. Her primary research interests lie in understanding the long-range chromatin architecture mechanisms that govern neural specification and synaptic plasticity in healthy neurons and how chromatin-synapse communication is dysregulated in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases. She has been selected as a 2014 New York Stem Cell Foundation Robertson Investigator\, a 2015 Albert P. Sloan Foundation Fellow\, a 2016 and 2018 Kavli Frontiers of Science Fellow\, 2015 NIH Director’s New Innovator Awardee\, 2020 NSF CAREER Awardee\, a 2020 CZI Neurodegenerative Disease Pairs Awardee\, the 2022 ISSCR Susan B. Lim Outstanding New Investigator Award\, and as a recipient of the 2021 NIH Pioneer Award.
URL:https://rna.umich.edu/events/rna-innovation-seminar-jennifer-e-phillips-cremins-ph-d-associate-professor-and-deans-faculty-fellow-biomedical-engineering-and-human-genetics-penn-epigenetic-institute/
LOCATION:BSRB – Kahn Auditorium
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250217T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250217T160000
DTSTAMP:20260404T073856
CREATED:20241223T181800Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250206T140005Z
UID:15974-1739808000-1739808000@rna.umich.edu
SUMMARY:RNA Innovation Seminar: Sundeep Kalantry\, Ph.D.\, Professor of Human Genetics\, U-M Medical School
DESCRIPTION:“Evolution of Mammalian Dosage Compensation”\nSundeep Kalantry\, Ph.D.\nProfessor\,\nHuman Genetics\,\nUniversity of Michigan Medical School \n  \n  \nIn-person: Kahn Auditorium\, BSRB | Hybrid link \nAbstract:\nThe sex chromosomes pose an inequality between XX females and XY males. In therian mammals\, the Y chromosome contains few unique genes\, whereas the X chromosome harbors ~1000 protein-coding genes and many more noncoding loci. Excessive expression of X-linked genes in females can cause abnormal development and lethality. To equalize X-linked gene expression to that of males\, females evolved X-chromosome inactivation as a dosage compensation mechanism. X-inactivation results in the silencing of most genes on one of the two Xs in females. In eutherian (‘placental’) mammals\, X-inactivation requires the Xist long noncoding RNA that is expressed from and accumulates on the inactive X chromosome. Xist RNA recruits proteins that silence genes on the inactive-X. That dosage compensation requires X-inactivation and that X-inactivation requires the Xist RNA are tenets of mammalian sex chromosome biology. \nDespite much work\, however\, whether dosage compensation requires Xist RNA and X-inactivation remains unclear. Dosage compensation is believed to have originated in therian mammals when the Y chromosome differentiated from the X chromosome. To prevent loss of genes that favored male sexual differentiation\, discrete segments of the Y chromosome are thought to have undergone a series of inversions to suppress recombination with the X chromosome. Suppression of recombination is believed to have led to degeneration of genes on the Y chromosome. Due to the loss of Y-linked genes in males\, females are believed to have ultimately evolved X-inactivation as a dosage compensation mechanism. Since the Y chromosome lost its gene content gradually\, the need to dosage compensate X-linked genes is likely to also have arisen in a piecemeal manner. The step-wise differentiation of the X and Y chromosomes\, therefore\, is incompatible with chromosome-wide dosage compensation by Xist RNA and X-inactivation. \nHow dosage compensation can occur in the absence of Xist and X-inactivation is not known. The first Y chromosome segment to undergo differentiation from the X chromosome preceded the divergence of eutherian from metatherian mammals. Yet\, Xist evolved later and only in eutherians and not in metatherians. Dosage compensation of genes in this ancestral segment of the X chromosome\, therefore\, is likely to have occurred prior to the advent of Xist. The ancestral form of dosage compensation is unknown but we hypothesize is still functional. We further hypothesize that this ancestral mechanism of dosage compensation was subsequently co-opted to regulate Xist when Xist arose for chromosome-wide dosage compensation through X-inactivation. \nIn testing the above hypotheses\, we find that dosage compensation can occur in the absence of Xist and X- inactivation. We further identify an ancestral X-linked gene in the Xist- and X inactivation-independent dosage compensation mechanism. Together\, our data provide insights into the origins of sex differences\, mechanistically define the evolution of mammalian dosage compensation\, and broadly inform how cells balance gene expression despite changes in chromosome copy number.\n \nBio:\nOur long-standing focus is to understand mechanisms that underlie mammalian X chromosome dosage compensation\, including X chromosome inactivation. X-inactivation ensures similar levels of X-linked gene expression between female and male mammals by silencing genes on one of the two X chromosomes in females. Notably\, X-inactivation is also a model of sexually dimorphic epigenetic regulation\, since two identical X chromosomes in female cells become transcriptionally divergent.  The study of dosage compensation promises to elucidate the origins of sex differences and inform how cells balance gene expression despite changes in chromosome copy number \nLinks:\nKalantry Lab
URL:https://rna.umich.edu/events/rna-innovation-seminar-sundeep-kalantry-ph-d-professor-of-human-genetics-u-m-medical-school/
CATEGORIES:Seminar
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250306T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250308T130000
DTSTAMP:20260404T073856
CREATED:20250116T134725Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250116T134725Z
UID:16087-1741258800-1741438800@rna.umich.edu
SUMMARY:2025 RNA Symposium
DESCRIPTION:The Center for RNA Biomedicine at the University of Michigan\, in partnership with the Society for RNA Therapeutics\, proudly invites you to the 2025 RNA Symposium. Taking place from Thursday\, March 6 to Saturday\, March 8\, 2025\, this premier event will convene thought leaders and pioneering researchers in the field of RNA science and biomedicine. \nScheduled Speakers: \nJeff Coller\,\nJohns Hopkins Medicine \nBeverly L. Davidson\, University of Pennsylvania \nAdrian R. Krainer\,\nCold Springs Harbor Laboratory \nMats Ljungman\,\nUniversity of Michigan Center for RNA Biomedicine \nMuthiah Manoharan\, Alnylam Pharmaceuticals \nAnna Marie Pyle\,\nYale School of Medicine \n\nDates: March 6 – 8\, 2025\nLocation: University of Michigan Ann Arbor Campus \nIMPORTANT DEADLINES! \nJanuary 26\, 2025 – final date to submit an abstract\nFebruary 27\, 2025 – final date to register
URL:https://rna.umich.edu/events/2025-rna-symposium/
LOCATION:BSRB – Kahn Auditorium
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250409T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250409T170000
DTSTAMP:20260404T073856
CREATED:20250403T182211Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250407T192033Z
UID:16808-1744214400-1744218000@rna.umich.edu
SUMMARY:RNA Collaborative Seminar Series
DESCRIPTION:The next RNA Collaborative Seminar will be held virtually on Wednesday\, April 9th at 4 pm ET (Eastern\, US/Canada)\, hosted by the University of Rochester Center for RNA Biology & University of Michigan Center for RNA Biomedicine. Please see below for more details and the Zoom webinar registration link\, and share widely with your communities and networks. \nWednesday\, April 9th at 4 pm ET \nHosted by: University of Rochester Center for RNA Biology & University of Michigan Center for RNA Biomedicine\nZoom Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_QYg_EA_uSkK2CB987gltVA \n“Discovery and Therapeutic Applications of RNA ‘Stitching’” \nDoug Anderson\, PhD \nAssistant Professor of Medicine\, Cardiovascular Research Institute (CVRI)\nMember\, University of Rochester Center for RNA Biology: From Genome to Therapeutics \n“High-Throughput Identification of Small Molecule Inhibitors Targeting OncoMiR-181a for Cancer Therapy” \nGrace McIntyre\, PhD Student \nPhD Candidate\, Department of Pathology\, University of Michigan \n “Real-time Monitoring of Ligand Recognition by a Riboswitch during Transcription” \nAdrien Chauvier\, PhD. Research Lab Specialist \nNils Walter Laboratory – Department of Chemistry\, University of Michigan\nRNA Center for Biomedicine \nModerators: \nEric J. Wagner\, Ph.D.\nProfessor\, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics\nAssociate Director\, Center for RNA Biology\nWilmot Cancer Institute\nUniversity of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry \nand \nNils G. Walter\, Ph.D.\nDirector\, Center for RNA Biomedicine; Francis S. Collins Collegiate Professor of Chemistry\, Biophysics\, and Biological Chemistry\, University of Michigan \nRNA Collaborative Seminars are sponsored by the RNA Society (@RNASociety) \nFor more information on the RNA CSS\, please visit: https://www.rnasociety.org/rna-collaborative-seminar-series \nRNA Collaborative YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7QawzQsUqhgIqjKGTny41A
URL:https://rna.umich.edu/events/rna-collaborative-seminar-series/
LOCATION:Virtual
CATEGORIES:Seminar
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://rna.umich.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RNA-Collaborative-Seminar.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250428T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250428T170000
DTSTAMP:20260404T073856
CREATED:20250409T131839Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250410T182227Z
UID:16843-1745856000-1745859600@rna.umich.edu
SUMMARY:RNA Innovation Seminar: Connie Wu\, Ph.D.\, Research Assistant Professor\, Life Sciences Institute; Assistant Professor\, Biomedical Engineering and Pharmaceutical Sciences\, University of Michigan
DESCRIPTION:“Programming and probing the body: from RNA therapeutics to single-molecule detection”\nConnie Wu\, Ph.D.\nResearch Assistant Professor\,\nLife Sciences Institute\,\nAssistant Professor\,\nBiomedical Engineering and Pharmaceutical Sciences\,\nUniversity of Michigan\, U-M Medical School \nIn-person: ABC Seminar Rooms\, BSRB | Hybrid link \nAbstract:\nOur lab integrates biomolecular engineering and bioanalytical chemistry approaches to develop next-generation diagnostic and therapeutic platforms. I will first discuss our work in developing multifunctional RNA systems for cancer immunotherapy applications. Leveraging RNA as a programmable scaffold\, we engineer RNA nanostructures to activate multiple innate immune pathways and present additional immunomodulators. In parallel\, we develop ultrasensitive single-molecule detection platforms for diagnostic applications. While ultrasensitive digital ELISA methods have unlocked a broader spectrum of disease biomarkers\, achieving attomolar (10 -18 M) detection limits\, the simultaneous detection of many proteins and biomolecule types with high analytical sensitivities and throughput remains a critical challenge in biomarker signature discovery. Our ongoing efforts aim to expand the ultrasensitive single-molecule detection toolkit to enable accurate high-order multiplexing and multiparametric profiling of diverse biomarker types. \nBio:\nConnie Wu obtained her B.S. in chemical engineering from Yale University\, where she worked with Paul Van Tassel\, Ph.D.\, in designing porous layer-by-layer polymer films for tissue engineering applications. She pursued her Ph.D. in chemical engineering at MIT in the lab of Paula Hammond\, Ph.D.\, where she engineered a highly potent small interfering RNA (siRNA) nanoparticle delivery system via nucleic acid engineering and polymer chemistry approaches. \nFollowing her graduate studies\, Wu transitioned to the diagnostics field for her postdoctoral research in the lab of David Walt\, Ph.D.\, at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the Wyss Institute at Harvard University\, where she pioneered ultrasensitive single-molecule detection methods that can measure attomolar protein concentrations with versatile multiplexing capabilities. In parallel\, she developed ultrasensitive digital assays for detecting the long interspersed element-1 (LINE-1) retrotransposon-encoded protein ORF1p in blood as a highly specific multi-cancer biomarker. \nWu was the recipient of multiple fellowships during her graduate and postdoctoral training\, including a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship\, MIT Presidential Fellowship and NIH Ruth L. Kirschstein F32 Postdoctoral Fellowship. \nAs part of the U-M Life Sciences Institute and the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Michigan\, Wu’s lab develops technologies for biomarker signature discovery and RNA therapeutic delivery\, with applications across cancer and other diseases. \nLinks:\nConnie Wu Lab – Life Sciences Institute\nBiomedical Engineering\nCollege of Pharmacy\nUniversity of Michigan Medical School\n\nRNA Translated 2025 Feature Article
URL:https://rna.umich.edu/events/rna-innovation-seminar-connie-wu-ph-d-research-assistant-professor-life-sciences-institute-and-assistant-professor-departments-of-biomedical-engineering-and-pharmaceutical-sciences-university-o/
LOCATION:BSRB – ABC Seminar rooms\, 109 Zina Pitcher Pl\, Ann Arbor\, MI\, 48109\, United States
CATEGORIES:Seminar
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250519T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250519T170000
DTSTAMP:20260404T073856
CREATED:20250507T145740Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250513T144940Z
UID:17151-1747670400-1747674000@rna.umich.edu
SUMMARY:RNA Innovation Seminar: Lydia Freddolino\, Ph.D.\, Associate Professor of Biological Chemistry\, Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics\, U-M Medical School
DESCRIPTION:“Transcriptional control by heterochromatin-like regions is a conserved feature across the bacterial kingdom”\nLydia Freddolino\, Ph.D.\nAssociate Professor\nBiological Chemistry\nComputational Medicine and Bioinformatics\nUniversity of Michigan Medical School\n  \n  \nIn-person: Kahn Auditorium\, BSRB | Hybrid link \nAbstract:\nDespite decades of dogma indicating that bacterial chromosomes are universally accessible to transcription\, more recent evidence has emerged indicating that bacteria in fact contain densely protein occupied\, transcriptionally silent regions in their genomes. We have observed such silent regions across every bacterial species so far tested using appropriate methods\, despite substantial differences in the molecular implementation in each case. Furthermore\, these regions can be partitioned roughly into constitutive and condition-dependent regions of silencing\, drawing clear functional analogies to constitutive vs. facultative heterochromatin in eukaryotes. I will present an overview of recent findings on the molecular architecture and functional roles played by bacterial heterochromatin-like regions\, along with an outlook of how these regions may interact with epigenetic phenomena and evolution. \nBiography:\nLydia Freddolino obtained her B.S. with Honors in Biology at the California Institute of Technology\, followed by Ph.D. work in the laboratory of Prof. Klaus Schulten at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign\, focusing on large-scale molecular dynamics simulations of protein folding and assembly. She then pivoted to pursue postdoctoral training in bacterial systems biology under the guidance of Prof. Saeed Tavazoie\, first at Princeton University and later at Columbia University. Since joining the faculty at the University of Michigan in 2015\, Lydia has built her research program around two main pillars\, one centered on the transcriptional regulatory roles of bacterial chromatin\, and one focused on developing and applying new computational methods for predicting protein structure and function. \n  \nLinks:\nFreddolino Lab
URL:https://rna.umich.edu/events/rna-innovation-seminar-lydia-freddolino-ph-d-associate-professor-of-biological-chemistry-computational-medicine-and-bioinformatics-u-m-medical-school/
LOCATION:BSRB – Kahn Auditorium
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250616T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250616T170000
DTSTAMP:20260404T073856
CREATED:20250528T181844Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250613T171953Z
UID:17290-1750089600-1750093200@rna.umich.edu
SUMMARY:RNA Innovation Seminar: John Lueck\, Ph.D.\, Associate Professor\, Pharmacology and Physiology; Neurology\, University of Rochester Medical Center
DESCRIPTION:“Development of ACE-tRNAs as a platform therapeutic for nonsense-associated diseases”\nJohn D. Lueck\, Ph.D.\nAssociate Professor\nPharmacology and Physiology\nNeurology\nUniversity of Rochester Medical Center\n  \nIn-person: ABC Seminar Rooms\, BSRB | Hybrid link \nCo-hosted by the Cystic Fibrosis at UM Initiative \n\nAbstract:\nWe have generated a library of AntiCodon Edited (ACE) -tRNAs that are capable of suppressing disease-causing nonsense mutations and rescuing WT protein function. However\, to advance ACE-tRNAs as a therapeutic\, we set out to determine how well they function as a platform therapeutic\, where one ACE-tRNA sequence encoding one amino acid can be used to restore significant function of the target protein with nonsense to missense mutations. This maneuver would significantly reduce the burden of advancing several ACE-tRNA sequences through clinical trials and FDA approval. Further\, we are working to determine modalities for viral and non-viral delivery of ACE-tRNAs to different tissues. In doing so\, we have taken advantage of the diminutive size of the ACE-tRNA expression cassette to generate small DNA vectors for efficient cell delivery and nuclear targeting. \nBiography:\nThe focus of my research is to evaluate the therapeutic promise of suppressor tRNA for treatment of cystic fibrosis. In my graduate training I studied myotonia in myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) in Dr. Robert Dirksen’s laboratory and in collaboration with Dr. Charles Thornton. I used both molecular biology/genetics and electrophysiology approaches to determine how the DM1-associated problems with alternative splicing affect function of ClC-1 chloride channel and muscle excitability. I showed that chloride conductance is rapidly rescued if ClC-1 splicing is corrected or if sequestration of splicing factors is released. I also investigated the effects of splicing misregulation on function of RyR1. These studies resulted in 10 publications and cemented my interest in doing translational research. Following my graduate work\, I joined Dr. Kevin Campbell’s laboratory. There I learned membrane protein biochemistry\, antibody generation and testing mouse skeletal muscle physiology testing and gene therapy approaches\, in studies focused on muscular dystrophy. This experience makes me well suited to conduct independent research using a breadth of techniques focused disease pathogenesis. My research took a turn as I became interested in the field of genetic code expansion and its use as a therapeutic for cystic fibrosis (CF) that result from nonsense mutations. I quickly published 5 studies in 3 years with Dr. Chris Ahern that propelled me to my current independent position\, where I have been able to extend my research in determining the therapeutic promise of our suppressor tRNA technologies for CF. In my next steps\, I will use my extensive training in mouse genetics\, molecular biology\, membrane biophysics and protein biochemistry to investigate the impact on cellular and tissue processes following stop codon suppression in vivo and generate new CF therapeutic deliverables that can be translated into other nonsense associated diseases. More broadly\, I’m interested in applying membrane biophysics and molecular and cellular biology approaches to elucidate the molecular underpinning of genetic diseases\, and then using mechanistic insights to develop new treatments. \nResearch interests:\nMy research focuses on the molecular genetics and experimental treatment of diseases resulting from nonsense mutations. I am investigating the use of engineered tRNAs for suppression of nonsense mutations in cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) transcripts as therapeutic intervention for cystic fibrosis. Additionally\, I am interested in the molecular genetics and experimental treatment of the trinucleotide repeat disorder myotonic dystrophy (DM1). Moving forward\, I intend to study pre-mRNA splicing defects in DM1 to determine the causes of muscle weakness and wasting\, and develop and test new therapeutic strategies to target the genetic misstep and reverse symptoms. More broadly\, I’m interested in applying membrane biophysics\, molecular and cellular biology approaches to understand the molecular underpinning of genetic diseases and develop therapeutic interventions. \nLinks:\nJohn D. Lueck\, Ph.D. | University of Rochester Medical Center Faculty Page\nLueck Lab\nJohn D. Lueck | Google Scholar
URL:https://rna.umich.edu/events/rna-innovation-seminar-john-lueck-ph-d-associate-professor-pharmacology-and-physiology-neurology-university-of-rochester-medical-center/
LOCATION:BSRB – ABC Seminar rooms\, 109 Zina Pitcher Pl\, Ann Arbor\, MI\, 48109\, United States
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20251023T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20251023T213000
DTSTAMP:20260404T073856
CREATED:20250911T191442Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251017T184609Z
UID:17585-1761246000-1761255000@rna.umich.edu
SUMMARY:Cracking the Code: Phil Sharp and the Biotech Revolution - Film Screening and Post-Film Panel Discussion
DESCRIPTION: \n\nThursday\, October 23 at 7:00 PM\nMichigan Theater\n603 E Liberty St\nAnn Arbor\, MI 48104. \nTo purchase tickets\, please visit the Marquee Arts Website\nSpecial offer for current U-M students!\nUse the promo code UMRNA to unlock the Complimentary Ticket option. Good for one ticket\, while supplies last. Must show current U-M Student ID for entry.\n  \nFilm | Documentary | NR | 1h 36m | 2025 \n\nCracking the Code\, narrated by Mark Ruffalo\, is an inspiring story of vision\, perseverance\, and the power of science to change the world. Phil Sharp’s journey from a Kentucky farm boy to Nobel laureate embodies the American Dream and the triumph of entrepreneurial spirit. His 1977 groundbreaking discovery of RNA splicing rewrote the rules of molecular biology and ignited a life-saving scientific revolution\, laying the foundation for an industry that has become a cornerstone of global innovation and economic growth – and transformed the health of billions of patients worldwide. \n\nFeaturing a post-film Q&A with a panel co-presented by the University of Michigan Center for RNA Biomedicine and U-M Innovation Partnerships. Panelists include (subject to change): \nDr. Amanda Garner – Charles Walgreen Jr Professor\, Professor of Medicinal Chemistry and Director\, Interdepartmental Program in Medicinal Chemistry\, College of Pharmacy \nDr. Muneesh Tewari – Ray and Ruth Anderson-Laurence M Sprague Memorial Research Professor\, Professor of Internal Medicine\, Associate Division Chief\, Basic Research\, Medical School and Professor of Biomedical Engineering\, Medical School and College of Engineering \nDr. Nils Walter – Director\, U-M Center for RNA Biomedicine\, Francis S Collins Collegiate Professor of Chemistry\, Biophysics and Biological Chemistry\, Professor of Chemistry\, Professor of Biophysics\, College of Literature\, Science\, and the Arts\, Program Associate\, Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies and Professor of Biological Chemistry\, Medical School \nKate Remus\, Senior Associate Director & Business Development Group Lead\, University of Michigan Innovation Partnerships \nAdditional panelists TBD \n  \n\n \nDownload the official flyer HERE. \nTo purchase tickets\, please visit the Marquee Arts Website \nSpecial offer for current U-M students! Use the promo code UMRNA to unlock the Complimentary Ticket option. Good for one ticket\, while supplies last. Must show current U-M Student ID for entry.
URL:https://rna.umich.edu/events/cracking-the-code-phil-sharp-and-the-biotech-revolution-film-screening-and-panel-discussion/
LOCATION:Michigan Theater\, 603 E Liberty St\, Ann Arbor\, MI\, 48104\, United States
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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260306
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260308
DTSTAMP:20260404T073856
CREATED:20250715T195922Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251104T220320Z
UID:17393-1772755200-1772927999@rna.umich.edu
SUMMARY:2026 RNA Symposium
DESCRIPTION:RNA Frontiers: From Mechanisms to Medicine\nThis year’s symposium explores the dynamic world of RNA\, highlighting how fundamental mechanisms and molecular machines are shaping both our understanding of cellular processes and the development of next-generation medical innovations. Through cutting-edge scientific talks and a patient advocacy panel discussion\, we will explore a wide range of topics spanning epigenetics\, genome editing\, RNA structure\, and translational research\, and discover together how RNA is propelling biological discovery from molecular intricacy to real-world impact in medicine and beyond. \n\n\n\n\nEarly bird registration is now open!\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nClick here to register!\n\n\n\n\n\nThe Center for RNA Biomedicine at the University of Michigan proudly invites you to the 2026 RNA Symposium. Taking place from Friday\, March 6 to Saturday\, March 7\, 2026\, this premier event will convene thought leaders and pioneering researchers in the field of RNA science and biomedicine. \nScheduled Speakers: \nShelley Berger\, Ph.D.\nUniversity of Pennsylvania \nKarla Neugebauer\, Ph.D.\nYale School of Medicine \nMadeleine Oudin\, Ph.D.\nTufts University \nErik Sontheimer\, Ph.D.\nUMass Chan Medical School \nNils Walter\, Ph.D.\nUniversity of Michigan \nSarah Woodson\, Ph.D.\nJohns Hopkins University \n  \nDates: March 6 – 7\, 2026 \nKahn Auditorium\nBIOMEDICAL SCIENCE RESEARCH BUILDING\n109 ZINA PITCHER PLACE\nANN ARBOR\, MICHIGAN 48109\nUniversity of Michigan Ann Arbor Campus
URL:https://rna.umich.edu/events/2026-rna-symposium/
LOCATION:BSRB – Kahn Auditorium
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