Chung-Ang University Overcomes Challenges in RNA Therapeutics... Increased Potential for Cancer and Various Disease Treatments

Professor Kangseok Lee and Professor Jihyun Bae Joint Research
Published in Nature Communications

The research team at Chung-Ang University announced on the 4th that they have succeeded in elucidating the generation and physiological functions of transfer RNA (tRNA) fragments, which have been considered a key challenge in RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) therapeutics.

Professor Kangseok Lee and Professor Jihyun Bae's research team. Provided by Chung-Ang University

Professor Kangseok Lee from the Department of Life Sciences and Professor Jihyun Bae from the College of Pharmacy, along with the NES Biotechnology research team, Daegu Catholic University College of Medicine, and Yanbian University College of Pharmacy in China, conducted a collaborative study to identify the generation and physiological mechanisms of RNA fragments derived from tRNA that regulate cancer cell proliferation. This discovery is expected not only to enhance the practical application potential of RNA therapeutics but also to significantly aid in establishing effective treatment strategies for various diseases, including cancer.

RNA is a macromolecule essential for gene regulation and expression. Although structurally similar to DNA, RNA undergoes chemical reactions more readily, making it useful in cancer treatment drugs and preventive vaccines. Among RNAs, small RNA fragments derived from transfer RNA (tRNA) perform various functions such as transcription and expression regulation. These small RNA fragments can act as key regulators in various cancers and neurological disorders and have high potential to be used as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Schematic diagram of tRNA fragment generation and physiological activity regulation mechanism. Provided by Chung-Ang University

Until now, the molecular mechanisms regarding which degradation factors generate specific RNA fragments derived from tRNA, their functions within cells, and the necessary factors involved had not been clarified. Through this collaborative research, the team identified a new mechanism for tRNA fragment generation and revealed that tRNA fragments play a central role in regulating cancer cell proliferation.

Professor Lee stated, “The significant difference from previous studies is that we demonstrated tRNA is not merely a simple degradation product but a functional RNA that plays a crucial role in organismal adaptation and gene regulation. By utilizing our self-developed nucleic acid delivery platform technology, we overcame issues related to the stability of RNA therapeutics and their delivery vehicles. We expect that this research achievement, which further enhances the practical application potential of RNA-based therapeutics, will contribute to establishing treatment strategies for various diseases, including cancer.”