Shenglong Zhang

RNAs perform a wide range of biological functions through not only their four canonical nucleosides (A, C, G, and U) but also through hundreds of structural modifications. Many of these RNA modifications are directly or indirectly associated with human diseases, including cancer, neurological disorders, and autoimmune diseases. Given their critical role in human biology, we are committed to exploring the structural diversity of RNA modifications and the mechanisms underlying modification-driven regulation and function. Our research seeks to address key questions:

1. How do RNA modifications interact to deliver complex biological functions and regulation?

2. How do RNA modification levels change in response to cellular and environmental stress?

Our pursuit of new RNA structures and functions will offer fresh insights into RNA epigenetic regulation, while also aiding in the discovery of new RNA biomarkers and drug targets for personalized identification and medicine.

Recent Projects/Research:

• Development of direct RNA sequencing and quantitative profiling of RNA modifications in diseases.

• Creation of robust methods for synthesizing non-canonical ribonucleosides and incorporating them into RNA.

• Investigation of RNA modifications’ regulatory roles in gene expression and their potential as diagnostic biomarkers.

• Systems-level mapping of RNA modifications and their interactions with other cellular components within a comprehensive regulatory network.