Photoregulation of gene function

ORGN 675

Douglas D. Young, ddyoung@unity.ncsu.edu and Alexander Deiters, alex_deiters@ncsu.edu. Department of Chemistry, North Carolina State University, 2620 Yarbrough Drive, Box 8204, Raleigh, NC 27695
In order to better elucidate the molecular processes of complex biological systems, an external control over the system must be established. As a result there is a constant impetus for the development of novel technologies to regulate biological functions. This research aims to integrate chemistry and biology to control biological functions using light. The approach affords spatial and temporal control over various processes, including transcription of mRNA and its translation to protein. Specifically, we are installing photolabile protecting groups on biologically active molecules which are removed upon irradiation with light of a specific wavelength, thereby restoring biological function. Initial studies involve the use of enzymes, ribozymes, DNAzymes, and RNA aptamers as photo-activatable tools for the regulation of gene expression.