Non-classical translation initiation sites are believed to
play an important role in the human genome. Studies of these, however, have been
limited by the absence of effective tools for identifying their sequences at the
DNA level. There is a pressing need then for new functional tools that can be
used to identify and map these sequences in known genomes.
Researchers at Arizona State University have applied a novel
in vitro selection scheme to survey the entire human genome for RNA elements
that are capable of initiating protein translation. This technique may solve
many interesting questions about the role of RNA and may reveal many unknown
coding regions.
This powerful new technology may be useful in identifying
RNA elements that function by a variety of other translation initiation
mechanisms. The pursuit of such sequences could lead to a more complete view of
the translational landscape of the human genome.
Potential Applications
- Research into identification of RNA elements that
function in a variety of unconventional translation mechanisms
- Discovering translation initiation elements in human and
other higher order genomes
Benefits and Advantages
- Able to locate sequences of translation initiation
elements at the DNA level
- Fewer limitations than computational
methods
Download Original PDF
For more information about the inventor(s) and their
research, please see
Dr.
Chaput's departmental webpage
Dr. Chaput's
laboratory webpage
Dr.
Kumar's departmental webpage
Dr. Kumar's
laboratory webpage
