A research team led by Rice University's Yang Gao has uncovered new insights into the molecular mechanisms of ADAR1, a protein that regulates ribonucleic acid (RNA) induced immune responses. Their findings, published in Molecular Cell March 17, could open new pathways for treating autoimmune diseases and enhancing cancer immunotherapy.

RNA-based therapeutics

Understanding the structural and biochemical properties of ADAR1 could also aid in designing drugs that fine-tune RNA editing for specific therapeutic goals with potential applications in gene therapy and precision medicine.

Additionally, the study’s findings may broadly influence drug discovery efforts targeting RNA-binding proteins.