SPP 1784: Chemical Biology of native Nucleic Acid Modifications

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The aim of this project is to unveil a hidden layer of information in the genetic code beyond the classical four-letter alphabet. While the sequence genetic code based on the four canonical Watson-Crick nucleosides has been an accepted paradigm for decades, an important aspect of it has recently been overturned. It became clear that additional nucleosides exist in DNA, which establish a second layer of information that is important e.g. to differentiation processes. Along the same line, we now start to understand that the numerous known modified RNA nucleosides are part of a similar “hidden” program that we are just beginning to understand. Indeed, deciphering the modified “genetic” code that is embodied by these modified DNA and RNA nucleosides is currently one of the hottest topics in (Chemical) Biology. In particular, the field of RNA modification is extremely visible, and even more active than at the beginning of the first grant period. This coordination proposal builds on significant achievements of the collective efforts during the first grant period. Outstanding publication records and conference activity have led to high international visibility. These aims will be further pursued during the second funding period, ensured by a bundle of measures including provisions for central network funds for analytical methods crucial to the field, in particular Deep Sequencing and LC-MS. The bundle further includes a coordination package to supply the coordinator with adequate infrastructure. A schedule for international conferences and workshops to ensure training of PhD students and co-workers will be continued. To make full use of all human resources, specific modules facilitate career starts for young scientists and young investigators and improve gender equity.