Background

While RNA molecules were historically considered to function as intermediaries in the flow of information between DNA and proteins, RNA is now known to play many roles. Like its sister, DNA, RNA can recognize other nucleic acid molecules in a sequence-specific manner through Watson-Crick base pairing. Because it is not normally double-stranded, however, base paring also readily occurs intramolecularly, allowing RNA to fold into a great variety of 3-dimensional shapes and to have enzymatic activity.


RNA diagram

Structure of RNA

It is now apparent that whole classes of small RNA molecules are devoted to regulating gene expression through the process of RNAi interference (RNAi). The Nobel Prize winning discoveries of RNA catalysis and RNAi have inspired all segments of the life science industry to pursue commercial applications in both diagnostics and therapeutics.

From its inception, SomaGenics has striven to deliver on the promise of RNA by helping to push the leading edge of research in RNA molecular biology and by translating its own innovations into superior products for diagnosing and treating human disease.