Sequence and RNA structure-based predictive models for the subcellular fate of polyadenylated RNAs in degenerating and regenerating neurons

As the population ages, neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS are becoming increasingly common. It is difficult to develop treatments for these diseases because they don’t always have a clear genetic cause, which also leads to variable prognosis. Convergent evidence shows that nerve cell damage starts with problems in how RNA—the molecule that helps build proteins—is transported inside the cell.

Our project aims to develop a computational framework built on extensive and unique large-scale datasets to understand how RNA moves within nerve cells and why and this process goes wrong in disease. By studying RNA sequences, their structures, and how they interact with proteins, we will create a model that can predict RNA movement in healthy and diseased cells. This research will help us uncover new ways to protect nerve cells and support the development of future treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.