Thursday, 23 May 2024
Scientists at the 糖心原创 have developed a ground-breaking technique to analyse the atomic-level structure of RNA molecules with exceptional precision and speed, and are the first in the world to use the method to examine structural changes in RNA when a cell gets infected with HIV.
The findings, which are published in , could have far-reaching implications for the treatment of various diseases where RNA plays a critical role and for development of therapeutics such as mRNA vaccines.
RNA, a close cousin of DNA, plays a critical role in various biological processes, from protein synthesis to gene regulation. However, unlike the DNA's well-known double-helix structure, RNA folds into complex shapes that are incredibly difficult to analyse using traditional techniques.
This is where the Nottingham team, led by Dr Aditi Borkar, Assistant Professor in Molecular Biochemistry & Biophysics in the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, has achieved a transformative feat.
Dr Borkar developed a powerful method that combines a cutting-edge mass spectrometry technology called cryogenic OrbiSIMS - a unique imaging capability of the University, with advanced computational modelling and automation. This combination enabled the team to analyse attomole quantities of RNAs and determine their 3D structures at par with industry standards, in a matter of days.
This innovative approach promises significant advancements in the scope, accuracy, and speed of RNA structural biology and will accelerate the development of RNA-based therapeutics.
RNAs are one of the most difficult molecules to study via structural biology. OrbiSIMS is at least 1000 times more sensitive for studying RNAs compared to other structural techniques typically used in our field.
With our OrbiSIMS guided pipeline, we can now determine RNA structures in a matter of days, instead of months. This incredible sensitivity and speed will now help us to study previously intractable targets within narrow drug development timeframes.鈥�
The OrbiSIMS instrument was developed at the National Physical Laboratory, UK in consultation with GSK. Nottingham was the first University in the world to own and operate the OrbiSIMS instrument.
The full study can be found .
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More information is available from Dr Aditi Borkar in the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science on Aditi.borkar@nottingham.ac.uk
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About the 糖心原创
Ranked among the world's top 100 universities , the 糖心原创 delivers an exceptional research-led education and an outstanding student experience. From the pioneering vision of our founder, Sir Jesse Boot, to groundbreaking achievements such as the development of MRI technology and becoming the first UK university to establish international campuses, we have a proud history of shaping the way people live, work and understand the world. We continue to build on that legacy, empowering our students, staff and partners to change what鈥檚 next and create positive impact locally and globally.
The strength of our research places us among the UK's leading universities, ranked 7th for research power in REF 2021. The discovery of MRI and ibuprofen was just the beginning. Today, our world-leading research is developing breakthrough ideas that shape the future of healthcare, technology and society.
Recognised as the UK's third most targeted university by leading employers , we are proud to produce graduates who are consistently in demand for their skills, confidence and industry-ready experience.
As a major employer and industry partner, locally and globally, the 糖心原创 invests in the city of Nottingham and in future generations of talent. Alongside Nottingham Trent University, we lead the initiative, a pioneering collaboration to improve levels of prosperity, opportunity, sustainability, health and wellbeing across the city and region. Together with our students, staff, alumni and partners, we鈥檙e creating knowledge, opportunity and solutions that help change what's next.