Functional RNAomics laboratory

Research focus

By determining how RNA regulation is orchestrated in different cell types, we aim to crack the cellular RNA code and gain critical insights into how aberrations in the RNA machinery result in genetic disorders and cancer.

RNA is emerging as a powerful and easily adaptable therapeutic molecule as exemplified by the rapid development of effective mRNA vaccines but a detailed knowledge of RNA regulation in cells is a prerequisite to realise the full potential of RNA-based therapeutic and diagnostic development. We integrate cell biology approaches with mechanistic studies, global mapping of RNA repertoires, RNA binding protein interactions and proteomics profiles to reveal the functional role of RNA-protein complexes in different cell lineages and in disease. One of our current research focuses is the role of dysregulated RNA processing in colorectal cancers currently incurable. The ultimate goal of the team is to improve human health through innovative applications of RNA biology.

Orcid: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0446-3566

Group members

Professor in Cell Biology Minna-Liisa Änkö | Åbo Akademi

Åbo Akademi University: postdoc Antto Norppa

Tampere University: postdoc Marika Oksanen, postdoc Mohamed Bahrudeen, postdoc Mauro Scaravilli, PhD student Jenni Rapakko (iCandoc), PhD student Timo Ahola, MSc student Annastiina Niskanen, MSc student Inka Virkkunen

Research funding