RNA Metabolism and RNA-based Therapeutics in the Bofill De Ros Group

Research focus RNA therapeutics have emerged as a new class of biopharmaceuticals with the potential to modulate disease-associated targets and restore gene function with high specificity and versatility. Despite major advances in messenger RNA and RNA interference technologies, the successful implementation of RNA-based medicines depends on a deeper understanding of how cells recognize, process and degrade therapeutic RNAs. Our research focuses on the molecular mechanisms governing small RNAs, double-stranded RNAs, and RNA metabolism pathways, with the goal of improving the efficacy, safety, and therapeutic potential of next-generation RNA medicines. To address these questions, we integrate approaches ranging from bioinformatics and functional genomics to molecular biology and animal models. “My hope is to accomplish cutting-edge research at the intersection between RNA biology and therapeutics that facilitates the adoption of RNA-based drugs for as many applications as possible” -- Xavier Bofill De Ros

Research Area #1:
Function, regulation, and therapeutic targeting of small RNAs. Special interest in DICER1 processing of small RNA precursors and regulation of the function of AGO paralogs.

Research Area #2:
Biology and surveillance of cytoplasmic double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs), including the mechanisms controlling the sensing and decay of “self” and “non-self” RNAs.

Research Area #3:
Therapeutic applications of RNA biology, with a focus on siRNAs, shRNAs, microRNA-based therapeutics, and engineered messenger RNAs. Add link to personal site: https://sites.google.com/view/bofill-de-ros-lab

Google Scholar

We thank the following foundations for their generous support of our research: Lundbeck Foundation, Human Frontiers Science Program, Danish Cancer Society, German Research Foundation, Shanghai Sci-tech Co-research Program, EU CanServ Program, EU Interreg (HALRIC),  NEYE Fonden, Riisfort Fonden, Louis Hansen Fonden, Manufacturer Einar Willumsens Mindelegat, Dagmar Marshall's Fond, Michael Hermann Nielsens Mindelegat.