Novel DNA/RNA-regulated hammerhead ribozymes for biosensor applications

This research aims to develop a novel method for RNA-based regulation of gene expression, which would
provide an alternative to existing popular and patented methods. The proposed method utilizes
computationally designed trans-acting hammerhead ribozymes (taHHRzs), which would cleave a reporter
gene transcript, unless special ‘anti-cleaver’ RNAs bind to a designated part of the taHHRz. This renders
the taHHRz inactive, protecting the reporter gene transcript from cleavage, and allowing it to be translated
to a visually detectable protein. The new method can be used for the development of cell-free, paperbased
biosensors of pathogenic RNAs. This innovative translational regulation would present a
significant technical achievement, as it would open the door to applications like monitoring and regulation
of gene expression in vivo. This allows for the development by Bioboost inc. of biosensors for pathogenic
RNA (e.g., HIV and Hepatitis-C) detection in human (plasma, saliva).

Faculty Supervisor:

Nawwaf Kharma

Student:

Partner:

Bioboost

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

Concordia University

Program: