By Invitation Only
Date: Monday, 20 August 2018
Time: 2pm
Venue: Level 12 Conference Room, MD6

Presenter: Dr Kar Tong Tan
Title: Exploring C-to-U changes in mRNA in terms of both RNA editing and RNA modification using large-scale data

C-to-U changes in mRNA are often interpreted as C-to-U RNA editing. Like ADARs for A-to-G RNA editing, APOBEC1 is usually considered as the major factor to mediate C-to-U RNA editing. Recently, base-pair-disrupting mRNA modifications have been reported. Such modifications may also include C-to-U modifications. As uracil generated by C-to-U editing is still capable of undergoing Watson-Crick base-pairing, we need to distinguish these two C-to-U RNA change modes for better identification of their corresponding factors and cofactors. Based on the RNA modification signatures, we have developed a sophisticated statistical model which can separate C-to-U base-pair-disrupting modification from editing. Applying a large-data screening method to both RNA modification and editing sites separately, we are in a better position to identify potential factors mediating either modification or editing. The screening method involves linking of the RNA modification or editing sites with individual genes/RBPs/enzymes by site clustering, high vs low expression grouping and expression correlation.