RNA Genomics Laboratory

mRNA stability and translation regulation directly shape cellular protein levels and cellular function. At the RNA Genomics Lab, we seek to understand the molecular mechanisms that govern mRNA and circular RNA regulation. Our research spans a range of mRNA regulatory processes, including translation-dependent quality control, cellular stimuli response, RNA modifications, and subcellular localization. We also investigate the molecular roles and regulatory mechanisms of circular RNAs. Recently, we are developing therapeutic mRNA technologies designed to enhance mRNA stability and higher protein yield. The pioneer round of translation is the initial round of protein synthesis that newly exported mRNAs undergo in the cytoplasm. Unlike steady-state translation driven by eIF4F complex, the pioneer round of translation is closely linked to mRNA surveillance pathways, such as nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD). During this process, the mRNA is still bound by the nuclear cap-binding complex (CBC) and associated exon-junction complexes (EJCs), which help the cell detect abnormal transcripts. The pioneer round of translation plays a critical role in ensuring the quality and integrity of gene expression. Our laboratory has continued to explore the molecular mechanisms that regulate the pioneer round of translation. Specifically, we have discovered the mechanism on NMD regulation, cap-binding complex replacement, initiation regulation, and spatiotemporal dynamics governing this early phase of protein synthesis. Currently, we are focusing on understanding how the pioneer round of translation contributes to cellular stress responses, embryonic stem cell development, and the coordination of subcellular organelles. Chemical modifications of RNA, collectively referred to as epitranscript