Current Research
Mechanisms of RNA Biogenesis, Function, Localization, and Degradation
Roy Parker wants to understand how cells regulate the biogenesis, function, and degradation of both messenger RNAs, or mRNAs, and non-coding RNAs. One major project for Parker and his team is to understand the structure, composition, dynamics, and biological functions of ribonucleoprotein (RNP) granules – membraneless compartments that play roles in RNA localization, RNP biogenesis, and memory formation. RNP granules, when aberrant, contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. The team is also focused on a project examining the mechanisms controlling the stability of non-coding RNAs and their impact on human disease.