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The Unrau Lab is advancing RNA science by developing powerful tools for RNA imaging, detection, and manipulation. At the core of this effort is RNA Mango—a fluorogenic aptamer technology that enables live-cell and single-molecule fluorescence imaging and RNP pulldown with unmatched sensitivity. Mango-tagged RNAs are now used globally in applications ranging from virology to synthetic biology and are helping to drive innovation across the academic and industrial sectors. Combined with point-of-care diagnostics and emerging RNA-based beacon systems, these technologies continue to expand the boundaries of what is possible with RNA.

Our central interest is to understand RNA’s role in both the evolution of life and the regulation of modern biological systems. We have made significant contributions to the RNA World hypothesis by evolving RNA polymerase ribozymes with increased polymerization ability. This has resulted in the simultaneous emergence of features that are commonly found in contemporary protein polymerases – such as promoter recognition.  This suggests an unexpected but quite natural link between replicative processivity and transcriptional regulatory processes very early in the emergence of life. This work is complemented by focussed investigations into extant RNA biology. We are actively studying RNA-dependent regulatory processes in bacterial and human systems, with a focus on infection, cancer, and disease. To support this work, we have developed advanced RNA methodologies that enable detailed analysis of such processes. Together, our fundamental research sheds light on RNA’s origins and its enduring role in shaping cellular life.

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Email: 

PETER UNRAU
punrau@sfu.ca

Lab Room:

SSB 6170

Lab Phone: 

(778) 782-4894