In recent years it has become ever clearer that in our DNA there are also numerous segments expressed and transcribed into RNA molecules which do not contain a blueprint for proteins. Which tasks do these generally short RNAs have in the cells?

Scientists of the National Genome Research Network (NGFN) are seeking to solve these enigmas. Using special methods, Professor Jürgen Brosius’ research team is creating gene libraries in which the short RNAs (500-600 base pairs) are enriched. The scientists then check where the RNAs are localized in the cell and whether they interact with proteins.

The findings could provide important insights for disease research, since this kind of RNA probably also plays a role in genetic diseases. For instance, the genes for three brain-specific non-coding RNAs are located on chromosome 15q11-13, i.e. on the locus which is associated with the Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS). These non-coding RNAs are missing in some PWS patients.

^{Website of scientists involved in this NGFN project}