CHEM 490/CHEM 684: RNA Structure & Function

This interdisciplinary course is designed for upper-level undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in chemistry, biochemistry or biology programs. It provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances and future perspectives about the marvelous world of functional RNA structures. The course discusses the fundamental aspects of RNA structures, RNA structure determination methods and strategies, functional and regulatory RNA systems and RNA-based therapeutics.

Upon successful completion of this course, students would exhibit a comprehensive understanding of the roles of RNA structures in governing fundamental biological processes, the structural basis of biochemical reactions that occur at various stages of these processes, and the cellular functions that are regulated through interactions of RNA with RNAs, proteins, small molecules and metal ions. Students should be able to implement the methods for studying RNA structures practically, analyze the roles of RNA from the origin of life and evolutionary perspective, and deploy RNA structure-based techniques for medicinal and biotechnological applications. You should also be able to evaluate published literature critically, identify current problems and develop appropriate research strategies in RNA chemistry and biochemistry.

Please get in touch with the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, your course advisor or Dr. Deepak Koirala for additional details about the course, requirements and eligibility.