Centre for Research on Biomolecular Interactions presents Prof. Amy Pasquinelli, Molecular Section of the Division of Biology at the University of California, San Diego, USA

Talk Title: "Elucidating the Dark Side of the MicroRNA"

Abstract: The discovery that regulatory RNAs control almost every biological pathway has revolutionized our understanding of gene expression. At the forefront, microRNAs (miRNAs) have proven to be an abundant and essential class of RNA molecules in plants and animals. The numerous examples of defects in specific miRNA pathways contributing to complex diseases, including cancer, heart ailments and neuronal pathologies highlights the importance of these regulatory RNAs in human biology. My lab primarily uses Caenorhabditis elegans worms as a model animal system to investigate the molecular mechanisms that orchestrate the production and function of miRNAs in the context of an intact animal. Our recent studies have provided new insights into miRNA targeting that point to an unexpected role for the 3’ end of the miRNA in determining specific target interactions.  Additionally, I will present surprising findings that point to opposing longevity roles for specific miRNA complexes in aging worms.

Please join us,

Refreshments will be served.