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Full-Text Articles in Physical Sciences and Mathematics
Structural And Functional Characterization Of The Essential Rna Helicase Mtr4, Ryan N. Jackson
Structural And Functional Characterization Of The Essential Rna Helicase Mtr4, Ryan N. Jackson
All Graduate Theses and Dissertations, Spring 1920 to Summer 2023
To insure the integrity of nuclear RNA, the eukaryotic cell employs surveillance systems that identify and degrade RNAs that are detrimental or unneeded. The failure of RNA surveillance systems can lead to neurodegenerative disease states and cancer. The essential RNA helicase Mtr4 is required for the degradation and processing of several nuclear RNAs. To further the understanding of RNA surveillance and processing in eukaryotes, Ryan Jackson of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Utah State University has determined the molecular structure of Mtr4 and has used this structure to interrogate Mtr4 function biochemically. The structure revealed that Mtr4 contains …
Ultraviolet Resonance Raman Spectroscopy For Characterization Of Rna Structure And Thermodynamics, Joseph Dustin Handen
Ultraviolet Resonance Raman Spectroscopy For Characterization Of Rna Structure And Thermodynamics, Joseph Dustin Handen
Legacy Theses & Dissertations (2009 - 2024)
Raman spectroscopy is a technique well suited for the study of biological molecules such as proteins, peptides, or RNAs. By utilizing an ultraviolet resonance Raman (UVRR) instrument, we are afforded a tremendous increase in sensitivity because of resonance enhancement. Additionally, this technique does not require any labeling. Moreover, this technique is better suited for studying biological systems than infrared absorption due to reduced interference from water. In this study, we apply techniques we have developed for the study of protein and peptide fibrillation to a model RNA homodimer. We demonstrate that UVRR spectroscopy is uniquely suited to monitoring the free …
Inhibition Of Glutamate Receptors By Constructing Bipartite Rna Aptamers, Jeffrey Hebert
Inhibition Of Glutamate Receptors By Constructing Bipartite Rna Aptamers, Jeffrey Hebert
Legacy Theses & Dissertations (2009 - 2024)
The relationship of excessive activity of AMPA-type glutamate receptors, and cell death, has long provided researchers a means of investigating neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's Disease (PD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Inhibitors of AMPA receptor channels, including chemical and nucleic acid molecules such as RNA aptamers, have served as potential therapeutic agents and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. In this study, building bipartite aptamers to enhance inhibitory potency, as compared with a monomeric aptamer of AMPA receptor, is described. An enhanced potency is due, at least in part; to the proximity effect in bipartite structures or binding of a monomeric …