Non-coding RNA: evolutions „dark matter“?

Prof. Dr. Norbert Polacek | University of Bern – DCBP, Bern, Switzerland

Description

From a perspective of evolutionary biology, RNA was most likely the first „molecule of life.“ Growing evidence suggests that life on Earth originated in the so-called „RNA world.“ In these early living systems, RNA played a central role not only in storing genetic information but also in carrying out enzymatic processes. Even after DNA- and protein-based functions evolved, RNA-mediated activities remained crucial for life, particularly in complex multicellular organisms. The importance of RNA in modern biology – for instance, as regulatory non-coding RNAs that control gene expression – is also reflected in the fact that errors in RNA metabolism are causally linked to various diseases. In my presentation, I will discuss both current fundamental RNA research and the potential of RNA-based therapies.