Kathy Liu Lab

• Ongoing Projects
• Decoding the Precise Roles of rRNA-modifying Enzymes in rRNA Alterations, Ribosome Biogenesis, and Genome Organization

Decoding the Precise Roles of rRNA-modifying Enzymes in rRNA Alterations, Ribosome Biogenesis, and Genome Organization

We are interested in the multifaceted roles of rRNA-modifying enzymes, from their well-established catalytic functions in rRNA modification to their broader involvement in ribosome assembly and genome organization. By integrating studies of both enzymatic and non-enzymatic activities, we are uncovering how these enzymes modulate rRNA to shape translational output and influence higher-order genome architecture. Through this holistic perspective on ribosome biogenesis, translation, and genome organization, our work aims to reveal fundamental biological mechanisms and identify critical regulatory nodes that could be leveraged as therapeutic vulnerabilities in diseases marked by ribosome dysfunction, such as cancer.

Key Highlights:

• Unique approach investigating both the mechanisms of rRNA modifications and their impact on ribosome biogenesis.
• Comprehensive understanding of the enzymes involved and the functional consequences of rRNA modifications.
• Identifying key regulatory points in ribosome biogenesis.
• Exploring the role of dysregulated rRNA modification and ribosome biogenesis in disease.
• Potential for identifying novel therapeutic targets in ribosome-related diseases