Dr. Tao Pan, the University of Chicago
Title: Functional genomics of tRNA and RNA modifications.
Brief summary: Over 100 types of post-transcriptional modifications have been identified in all
types of biological RNAs. Most modifications adjust the cellular function of the RNA. Cells may
maintain steady-state profiles of hypo-modification patterns for specific RNAs. Modifications
may even be reversible under stress for adaptive purposes. We are investigating the function of
RNA modification using genomic, chemical and biological approaches. tRNA charging is well
suited for responding to rapid changes in a cell’s environment. The ability of charged tRNA to
help regulate cellular stress response is largely unexplored. We are investigating changes in
tRNA charging at the genomic scale in order to understand how tRNA charging is used for
biological regulation and stress response.