Overview
The recent discovery of RNA caps, such as NAD and CoA, has prompted a reassessment of RNA structure across all types of cells. In our search for novel RNA modifications, we have identified an entirely new class of 5′ caps—dinucleoside polyphosphates (NpnN)—present in both bacteria and eukaryotes.
This project aims to develop a robust LC-MS sequencing method using various selective RNases. The technique will be applied to investigate the properties of the 5′ ends of various non-coding RNAs, such as snRNA and snoRNA, and to determine the capping status of natural mRNA, distinguishing between cap1 and cap2 structures. Furthermore, this method will serve as a valuable tool for assessing and ensuring the quality of mRNA used in biotechnology applications.
University:
Faculty of Science, Charles University
Group:
Hana Cahová Group, Chemical Biology of Nucleic Acids
Tutor:
Ing. Hana Macicková Cahová, Ph.D.
Field of study:
Cell biology
References:
Hudeček, O., et al. Dinucleoside polyphosphates act as 5’-RNA caps in bacteria Nature Communications, 11, 1052 (2020).
Potužník, J.F.; Nešuta, O. et al. Diadenosine Tetraphosphate (Ap4A) Serves as a 5′ RNA Cap in Mammalian Cells, Angewandte Chemie, 63, e202314951, (2023)
Benoni B., Potužník, J.F., Škríba A., Benoni R., Trylcova J., Tulpa, M., Spustová K., Grab K., Pačes J., Weber J., Staněk S., Kowalska J., Bednarova L., Keckesova Z., Vopalensky P., Gahurova L. Cahová H. HIV-1 infection affects NAD capping of host cell snRNA and snoRNA. ACS Chem. Biol., 19, 1243-1249 (2024)
How to apply:
At the Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the CAS / IOCB Prague, we are looking for talented, independent, and highly motivated PhD students with an MSc. degree or equivalent in life sciences or related fields. We offer exciting new projects in organic and medicinal chemistry, biochemistry, cell biology, molecular and structural biology, and analytical and physical chemistry.
- Online registration deadline: 3 March 2025
- Interview Day: 20 March 2025
Learn more and apply at www.uochb.cz/en/call-for-phd-applications.
