FASEB's "The RNA Associated Mechanisms Conference: In Immunity and Disease"

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Project summary Although only a small portion of the mammalian genome encodes protein coding messenger RNA, the mechanism of regulation of mRNA has been the primary focus of interest for most biologists. However, it is becoming increasingly evident that the majority of the mammalian genome that does not express mRNAs has the potential to express non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). The functionality and mechanism(s) of regulation of these ncRNAs are just beginning to be explored. Although we are now aware of some of the fundamental aspects of long non-codingRNA (lncRNA) biogenesis, the physiological role of most lncRNAs remains a black box. Rapid progress has been made in the understanding the various mechanisms that control immune system development, but all questions have not been answered. Now, researchers are interested in understanding the role of the noncoding genome (and ensuing lncRNA transcripts) in immune system development and various immune system related patho-physiologies. Indeed, if ncRNAs are robust drivers of the immune system development and function, the question arises how are these ncRNAs regulated. A very recent set of discoveries has now demonstrated that mRNAs and lncRNAs undergo various modifications (m6A, m5C, RNA editing, pseudouridylation, etc). These modifications have dedicated writers and erasers. It is likely that some of these modifications control RNA function, akin to the way phosphorylation and ubiquitination control protein function. The role of RNA modification in immune system regulation is already supported by some very exciting evidence. For example, m6A RNA modification has been shown to determine hematopoietic cell differentiation, T cell homeostasis and regulatory T cell (Treg) function. The role of these RNA modifications--individually or in aggregate--in controlling the development of the immune system during homeostasis or its response during infection demands a focused discussion. Based on the two emerging and exciting topics mentioned above, e.g. noncoding RNA biology and epitranscriptomics of the immune system, we have planned a FASEB scientific conference from July 12-17, 2020 at Malahide Grand Hotel, Dublin, Ireland. The major purposes of the meeting are: (a) To provide a robust and unbiased scientific forum for the discussion of the current status of RNA biology research in the context of the immune system, (b) To provide an opportunity for trainees (students and post-doctoral researchers) to present their research and be introduced to career development opportunities and, (c) To provide an environment conducive to the initiation of collaborative research.