RNA binding proteins can have 100s to 1000s of target mRNAs thanks to flexibility in recognizing their binding sites. These sites can incorporate both sequence and structural elements and show tremendous variation when binding motifs of different RBPs are compared, even among members of the same RBP family. Until early 2000s, characterization of binding sites was mostly restricted to individual studies involving a particular RBP and a target gene/binding motif. Only in the last decade, en masse identification of in vivo binding motifs became possible;first with the RIP-chip approach and then with CLIP and RIP-seq. These last two methods incorporate the power of deep sequencing, allowing us not only to identify more binding sites but also to conduct a more refined mapping. One area that urges attention is the development of computational methods to perform comprehensive analyses of datasets generated by these techniques. In this project we will profile targets for five RBPs with RIP-seq in two colon cancer cell lines. We will design and implement a framework for characterizing the binding specificity of RNA binding proteins. We will evaluate and refine methodology for RBP target identification from such data. Finally, we will develop a database of information about RNA-binding proteins, their target genes, binding sites and binding specificities.

Public Health Relevance

The identification of sequence encoded factors that influence human gene expression is central to our understanding of how gene expression is regulated. Analytical methodology developed in this project will enable researchers to leverage the full potential of cutting-edge and emerging experimental technologies for profiling regulatory activities of RNA binding proteins. Understanding the regulatory functions of RNA binding proteins has implications for our understanding of several diseases, including cancers and developmental diseases.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01HG006015-02
Application #
8331494
Study Section
Biodata Management and Analysis Study Section (BDMA)
Program Officer
Feingold, Elise A
Project Start
2011-09-13
Project End
2014-06-30
Budget Start
2012-07-01
Budget End
2013-06-30
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2012
Total Cost
$383,663
Indirect Cost
$72,000
Name
University of Southern California
Department
Biology
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
072933393
City
Los Angeles
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
90089
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