The vital role of RNA structure and conformational dynamics for its biological functionality is increasingly recognized. Therefore we develop systems and methodologies to obtain a time- and site-resolved picture of the functional dynamics of various regulatory RNAs. Specific spectroscopic labels allow to monitor folding and hybridization dynamics. Photoswitchable RNA-ligand-systems based on azobenzene or spiropyran units or photocaged circularized RNAs provide the necessary spatial and temporal resolution to trigger and observe these processes and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
DFG Programme
Collaborative Research Centres
