Jessica Childs-Disney - Research Interests
RNA has many roles in biology including protein synthesis (mRNA,tRNA, and rRNA), regulation of gene expression (riboswitches, untranslated regions, and small interfering RNAs and microRNAs). Defective RNAs have also been implicated in diseases such as cystic fibrosis, cancer, and retroviral infections (HIV).
Dr. Disney’s group studies how RNA folds into interesting 3D structures and how structure determines function. This information is then used to design drugs that target RNA.
Using information about how RNA folds, we are understanding how to target different RNA secondary structures with small molecules and short oligonucleotides. This information can then be used in drug discovery efforts.
A selection method used in collaboration with Prof. Matthew Disney to identify the RNAs that bind to aminoglycoside antibiotics. These studies will aid in our understanding of RNA-small molecule interactions.