New RNA tagging technology allows scientists to track RNA in real-time, offering insights into viral propagation and memory formation, benefiting humanity by potentially leading to better treatments and understanding of these processes.
University of California, Irvine (UCI) scientists have developed a method to tag RNA, the molecule that reads genetic information from DNA, with a bioluminescent molecule. This "RNA lantern" allows them to observe RNA's movement within the body in real-time. This breakthrough, published in Nature Communications, promises to enhance our understanding of viral infections and memory formation.
Andrej Lupták, a professor of pharmaceutical sciences at UCI, explained that RNA is fundamental to cellular processes. Previously, tracking RNA activity in living cells and organisms was challenging. This new tool enables visualization of RNA activity in real-time, even within the first seconds or minutes.
The "RNA lanterns" can be used to tag viral RNA, allowing scientists to observe how viruses spread through the body. Viruses propagate by infecting cells with their RNA. Understanding this process could lead to better antiviral strategies.
Jennifer Prescher, a UCI Professor of Chemistry, noted that RNA plays a crucial role in memory formation. The tag also allows for real-time imaging of living brains with cells carrying bioluminescent RNA. Observing RNA transport to neural synapses, where connections between neurons are made, could provide fundamental insights into the brain and memory.
The team used luciferase, the enzyme that makes fireflies glow, to tag the RNA. Previous attempts to use luciferase were unsuccessful because the light emitted was too dim for detection. The UCI team overcame this challenge, enabling them to track RNA effectively.
This interdisciplinary research, supported by a grant from the W. M. Keck Foundation, highlights the value of collaborative science. The ability to visualize RNA in real-time offers unprecedented opportunities to study fundamental biological processes and develop new therapies.