Translation of polyA into poly-lysine in Plasmodium
Our goal is to elucidate the sequence of cellular events that govern microRNA (miRNA)- or RBP- mediated gene regulation using biochemical and biophysical assays, high throughput methods, genome-wide analyses and rigorous kinetic and biochemical assays of protein expression and targeted mRNA degradation.
We use similar methods to assess other cellular processes governed by mRNA or protein sequence motifs that are thought to affect RNA metabolism. These include sequences that cause ribosome stalling during translation elongation, components of mRNA surveillance mechanisms, sequences that modify translational efficiency during early translation elongation (translational ramp), among others.
We are also interested in exploring specific sequence motifs, in both mRNAs and nascent polypeptide chains that control output of protein synthesis in 2% of human genes and that are highly enriched in the pathogenic Plasmodium falciparum parasites.
In addition to gaining insight into RNA metabolism and gene regulation pathways, our lab is interested in the development of experimental and biotechnological tools as well as potential therapeutics that target specific mRNAs or ribosomes.
