Team RNA/P – IMoPA

RNA, RNP

Managers: Bruno CHARPENTIER and Xavier MANIVAL

Welcome to the dedicated page for our molecular biology and RNA research team. Our scientific activity focuses on the fundamental molecular mechanisms underlying cellular biology, with a particular emphasis on RNA components. With several decades of experience, our team is recognized for its significant contributions in areas such as RNA maturation, post-transcriptional modification of RNA, and the biogenesis of RNA-protein complexes, also known as Ribonucleoproteins (RNPs).

Distinctiveness of Our Work: Multidisciplinary Approach and Clinical Implications

The distinctiveness of our work lies in our multidisciplinary approach. We employ a range of techniques, including genetic screening and linkage analyses, transcriptomics, proteomics, molecular genetics, cellular and molecular biology, biochemistry, and atomic-scale structural studies. Recently, we have expanded our activities to include clinical studies, collaborating with local health projects such as RHU FIGHT-HF and LUE IMPACT Geenage. We have also invested in the valorization of our fundamental research data, leading to pre-maturation projects in collaboration with SATT SAYENS, some of which have resulted in patents or are in the process of being patented.

Affiliations and Scientific Networks

Our team is a member of the thematic group sifrARN (Structure, Integration, Function, and Reactivity of RNA) within the French Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (SFBBM) and is a participant in the GDR RNA (Research Group 2083) ‘RNA as a tool and a target for medicinal chemistry and chemical biology.’ Additionally, we are an integral part of the ProteinLorraine network, bringing together a dozen laboratories affiliated with six scientific poles at the University of Lorraine.

Current Research Themes

Currently, our team’s research themes revolve around the biogenesis of Ribonucleoproteins (RNPs) and their involvement in normal conditions, adaptation to stress situations, as well as their role in pathologies. This research is particularly linked to local programs in clinical and translational research (IHU, FHU, LUE iSITE).

Boites de culture cellulaire vues de l'intérieur d'un incubateur

Key Research Projects

The project focuses on the biology of non-coding RNA and the assembly of ribonucleoprotein complexes in both physiological and pathological contexts, such as cellular stress, cancer, cardiovascular disease and rare diseases.

This illustration presents different families of RNP complexes formed with non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and their roles in the cell.
UsnRNP: involved in the splicing of pre-messenger RNAs.
snoRNP/scaRNP: responsible for post-transcriptional modifications of target RNAs.
miRNP: regulate the translation of messenger RNAs.
SRP: directs protein translocation to the endoplasmic reticulum.
lncRNP ANRIL: modulates gene expression.

Assembly of RNA-Protein Macrocomplexes

Assembly of snoRNP C/D: In-depth exploration of the assembly pathway of snoRNP C/D with a focus on characterizing the components of the assembly machinery, including the R2TP co-chaperone protein complex. (hal-00280860; hal-01455098 ; hal-01452718 ; hal-01453204 ; hal-02279890 ; hal-01636562 ; hal-02343521 ; hal-01451914 ; hal-02087019 ; hal-03070334 ; hal-03583324 ; hal-04020084 ; hal-03843986 ; hal-03181046).

Assembly of the SRP particle: Elucidation of the biogenesis mechanism of the SRP particle essential for membrane protein targeting. (hal-01064047)

Identification of the Function of Orphan snoRNAs

Study of Snord116: In-depth characterization of orphan snoRNAs from the Snord116 family, with a focus on their role in Prader-Willi Syndrome and the development of potential therapies.. (hal-03481280).

Connections between Assembly Machineries

snoRNP/miRNP Connection: Investigation of links between snoRNP and miRNP biogenesis, especially the formation of RPAP3/TRBP complexes. (hal-03583324).

Ribosomes and SRP: Exploration of the coordination between ribosome and SRP biogenesis to understand the connections between these two essential cellular nanomachines.

RNP Biogenesis and Nuclear Condensates

Nucleolus: Study of the impact of the functional state of nucleoli on SRP biogenesis and vice versa.

Cajal Bodies (CB): Characterization of the effects of oxidative stress on the composition and function of CB.

Action of miRNA in a Heterologous Context

Interaction of fecal miRNA with the microbiota: Collaboration with external teams to study the mode of action of fecal miRNA in a heterologous biological context, particularly their impact on microbiota composition.

Functional Dissection of the lncRNA ANRIL

Modulation of histone marks, nuclear topology, and alternative splicing: Functional characterization of ANRIL and the development of potential therapeutic molecules.(hal-01715217 ; hal-03202552).

Functional Study of the lncTNA LEF-AS1

Associations with heart failure, aging, and cholesterol metabolism: Characterization of the molecular mechanisms linking LEF1-AS1 to these phenomena and identification of involved domains.

Transciptome Adaptation in Response to Stress

Regulation of alternative splicing (AS): Study of mechanisms regulating AS in response to thermal or oxidative stress, with a focus on modulating AS of transcripts from the gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT-1) gene.

Our team continues cutting-edge research in these areas, thereby contributing to the advancement of fundamental scientific knowledge and opening new perspectives for clinical applications. For any collaboration, questions, or additional information, please feel free to contact us.