Kieft RNA Lab
Exploring how RNA structures give rise to biological function
Overview
The RNA-centered research group led by Dr. Kieft seeks to understand how RNA’s remarkable ability to form complex and specifically folded 3-D structures, use conformational dynamics within those structures, and interact with other molecules gives rise to biological function. RNAs of viral origin are of particular interest. These are often exquisitely evolved to interact directly with the host cell’s machinery, then co-opt, alter, or manipulate it to favor or support viral infection. The group also focuses on developing novel techniques to study RNA structure—including cryoEM—and ways to harness RNA for biotechnology tools.
Specific RNA types the group examines include viral internal ribosome entry sites; exo- and endo-ribonuclease resistant and inhibiting RNAs; and tRNA mimics. Integrating structural biology, biochemistry, bioinformatics, and virology advances a deep mechanistic understanding of how these RNAs function. The group’s ultimate goal is to link atomic resolution structure to biological and disease outcomes.
Methods and Capabilities
The RNA group uses several structural biology methods at NYSBC, including cryoEM, NMR, and X-ray crystallography. They combine these with biochemical and biophysical assays, as well as bioinformatic analyses. The lab’s “wet bench space” is located at the CUNY Advanced Science Research Center, just a one-minute walk from NYSBC.
“RNA is the most versatile molecule in biology. DNA stores information and proteins carry out functions. RNA does both, because it folds into complex three-dimensional shapes. What those shapes are, what they interact with in the cell, and how that creates function is what we set out to understand, especially for the RNAs of viruses and what they mean for human health.”
Publications
Enterovirus RNase L inhibiting RNAs are highly conserved with limited phylogenetic distribution
RNA
A structural bridge between dengue virus tandem xrRNAs facilitates coordination of exonuclease resistance
mBio, Vol. 17, Issue 9
Assembly and priming of the VPS4B AAA+ ATPase of the human ESCRT system
Enterovirus RNase L inhibiting RNAs are highly conserved with limited phylogenetic distribution
Distribution and structural diversity of Type IV internal ribosome entry sites
RNA
Decoding the lncRNA World: Comprehensive Approaches to lncRNA Structure and Interactome Studies
Cells, Vol. 15, Issue 2, Pages 105
Distribution and structural diversity of Type IV internal ribosome entry sites
RNA
A bicistronic viral genome uses a compact type IV IRES near its 3' end to express a transmembrane protein
Cell Rep
Regional and National Shared Research Resources: Challenges and Opportunities
Journal of Biomolecular Techniques, Vol. 36, Issue 4
LncRNA SChLAP1 Promotes Cancer Cell Proliferation and Invasion Via Its Distinct Structural Domains and Conserved Regions
Journal of Molecular Biology, Vol. 437, Issue 19, Pages 169350
A conserved viral RNA fold enables nuclease resistance across kingdoms of life
Nucleic Acids Research, Vol. 53, Issue 16
Structural and functional dissection of the oncogenic lncRNA SChLAP1