Projekt Nr. 04

IMBA - Institute of Molecular Biotechnology of the Austrian Academy of Science

Argonaute proteins participate in RNA silencing phenomena in association with small, non-coding RNAs. Some Argonautes are only expressed in testes. We will investigate the role of Argonaute-associated small, non-coding RNAs in spermatogenesis.

A second project deals with the identification and functional characterization of microRNAs involved in metastasis.

State of the art

1. The funcition of Argonaute proteins in spermatogenesis is largely unknown. We hypothesize that Argonautes exert their roles through their associated small, non-coding RNAs, so called piRNA (Piwi-RNAs).

2. Cancer is a major cause of death. While early detection is the best treatment, therapies often fail in patients suffering from metastatic tumors.

Goal

We intend to characterize the subcellular location and function of testes-specific Argonaute proteins and their associated small RNAs. The purpose of this ambitious project is to find miRNAs that show up- or down- regulation during the process of metastasis.

Solution

These studies involve the identification of novel species of small RNAs and the establishment of an in vitro system to characterize biochemically those enzymatic activities associated with Argonaute proteins and their small RNA partners.
We will first identify, through microarray technology, which microRNAs are regulated in the process of metastasis. The second phase will deal with the contribution of candidate miRNAs to a particular metastasis pathway.


Significance for the economy

Results from this project will help in the understanding of diseases related to sterility. Success in this project might result in the generation of novel biomarkers that could be eventually applied for therapeutic intervention.

For further information please contact Marius Koppler