RNA Biology and Therapy

In the program we work cooperatively to address different aspects related to RNA biology:

1. Identification and functional analysis of non-coding RNAs involved in senescence, tumorigenesis and tumor proliferation. We study RNAs that function in key pathways such as senescence, replication, and DNA damage repair, among other. In addition, we study RNA modifications and their functional relevance. The aim is to understand complex mechanisms and apply our knowledge to the clinic (PIs: Maite Huarte, Puri Fortes and Marta Montes)
2. Biotechnological development based on RNAs. The use of self-replicating RNAs is being investigated to express factors that stimulate the immune system against tumors. These RNAs have great applications in the field of cancer vaccination, following strategies similar to those of the RNA-based COVID-19 vaccine. We also generate synthetic non-coding RNAs with therapeutic functions, such as, for example, the regulation of gene expression (PIs: Cristian Smerdou and Puri Fortes)
3. Response to stress. Cellular stress has a huge impact on RNA transcription and translation and the development of cancer and response to immunotherapy. We study the mechanisms and consequences of cellular stress and the impact of their modulation as therapeutic strategies. Within this topic, we study non-canonical microproteins, those that are produced from RNA regions considered non-coding and that are modulated by cellular stress. We believe that these microproteins can be ideal candidates to develop vaccines against cancer (PIs: Josepmaria Argemí and Puri Fortes).
4. Technological implementation. The studies carried out in the department are complex and require technological implementation based on massive studies that require complicated protocols for performance and analysis of the results. Several laboratories of the department are especially involved in this technological implementation (PIs: Maite Huarte and Josepmaria Argemí)
5. Clinical perspective. The studies carried out in the department are aimed at understanding complex biological methods and developing new therapeutic strategies. For this reason, we have developed animal models of the diseases that we study in the program. In addition, the clinical work of Dr. Josepmaria Argemí provides us with direct contact with oncologists and neurologists at the University Hospitals of Navarra (PIs: Josepmaria Argemí, Marta Montes and Cristian Smerdou).