Chemistry for transforming RNA into artificially functionalized RNA molecules
The Yamada Lab applies chemistry to design, synthesize, and study artificially functionalized synthetic RNA molecules in order to understand their biological functions and gain structural insights into RNA-protein interactions across various contexts of biological phenomena. We also focus on RNA therapeutics. Chemistry is a CORE driving force that defines the pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of synthetic RNA molecules in vivo. While RNA-based medicines for the liver are well established as human therapies, delivering RNA therapeutics to extrahepatic tissues remains a challenge due to the lack of suitable platforms. Our group is working on chemistry-driven solutions to overcome this bottleneck, which could significantly enhance current strategies in the field.
Our group’s philosophy is that research under the right/novel hypothesis does not generate any “negative" data. Although results may sometimes be unexpected, these outcomes can often be transformed into valuable insights when approached in different research contexts—this perspctive is a hallmark of scientific progress and the “martial arts” in which creative chemists excel. Students and postdocs in our group will engage in rigorous, chemistry-driven research and receive training in the organic synthesis of nucleic acids, oligonucleotides, peptides, lipids, small molecule ligands, and various biological techniques to validate novel synthetic RNA molecules in both cells and mice. We also respectfully welcome biology experts who are interested in collaborating and together leading advanced preclinical research programs to further advance therapeutics or explore the mechanisms behind our chemistry platforms.
Our expanding collaborative network, both within the US and internationally, will provide you with the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research alongside talented collaborators and experience the exciting landscape of scientific discovery.
