The localization and dynamics of RNA play a key role in directing a wide variety of cellular processes. Gaining a deeper understanding of mRNA localization patterns and the corresponding mechanisms of mRNA transport would provide a wealth of information regarding disease progression and potential therapeutic approaches.  A number of elegant RNA labeling methods have been reported that rely on binding of a fluorescent protein or fluorescently labeled oligonucleotide to the RNA of interest.  However, these methods suffer from challenges including high background fluorescence and the propensity to disrupt native RNA structure or function. Harnessing the small-molecule recognition properties of RNA has long been viewed as a promising alternative approach, and recently, cellular mRNA labeling has been reported using RNA aptamers that bind to a fluorogenic small molecule.  We hypothesize that the use of a self-alkylating ribozyme in place of an aptamer as the recognition element will increase the robustness of labeling, and enable applications that are not feasible with non-covalent approaches.  This talk will describe recent efforts aimed at the selection and characterization of fluorescently self-labeling ribozymes.<br/>

Covalent mRNA labeling using fluorescent self-alkylating ribozymes

255th National Meeting (2018)

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