What Are lncRNAs?

lncRNAs are RNA transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides that do not code for proteins. Despite their non-coding nature, they play diverse roles in gene regulation, including chromatin remodeling, transcriptional control, and post-transcriptional processing. Unlike messenger RNAs (mRNAs), lncRNAs often function as scaffolds, decoys, or guides in cellular machinery, influencing biological processes such as cell differentiation, immune response, and even cancer metastasis.

Challenges in lncRNA Research

Identifying and understanding lncRNAs pose unique challenges:

1. High Sequence Variability: Unlike protein-coding genes, lncRNAs exhibit low sequence conservation across species, making functional predictions difficult.
2. Low Expression Levels: lncRNAs are often expressed at low levels, complicating their detection in transcriptomic data.
3. Diverse Functions: The multifunctional nature of lncRNAs requires advanced computational tools to decipher their roles in complex networks.

Bioinformatics: A Crucial Ally in lncRNA Research

Bioinformatics bridges the gap between raw biological data and meaningful insights, making it indispensable in lncRNA research. Here’s how:

1. Identification and Annotation

High-throughput sequencing technologies like RNA-seq generate vast amounts of data. Bioinformatics tools such as StringTie, Cufflinks, and HISAT2 help assemble and annotate lncRNAs from this data. Additionally, databases like NONCODE, LNCipedia, and Ensembl provide curated repositories of lncRNA sequences and annotations.

2. Functional Prediction

Bioinformatics algorithms predict the potential functions of lncRNAs by analyzing their interactions with DNA, RNA, and proteins. Tools like LncRNA2Function and RIblast utilize sequence motifs and secondary structure predictions to hypothesize about the roles of specific lncRNAs.

3. Network Construction

lncRNAs often act as regulatory hubs. Bioinformatics platforms such as Cytoscape enable the visualization of lncRNA-mediated networks, elucidating their roles in pathways like cell cycle regulation and apoptosis.

4. Epigenetic Studies

lncRNAs are known to interact with chromatin-modifying complexes, influencing gene expression epigenetically. Tools like ChIP-seq and ATAC-seq, combined with computational pipelines, identify these interactions and map them to the genome.

5. Clinical Applications

Bioinformatics aids in the discovery of lncRNA biomarkers for diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. Machine learning models analyze differential expression profiles, helping prioritize lncRNAs with therapeutic potential.

Case Study: lncRNAs in Cancer Research

lncRNAs such as HOTAIR and MALAT1 have been implicated in cancer progression. Bioinformatics analyses have revealed their roles in promoting metastasis and altering the tumor microenvironment. For example, transcriptome analysis in cancer patients identifies lncRNA expression signatures, enabling precision medicine approaches.

Future Directions

The fusion of bioinformatics with experimental biology is unlocking the secrets of lncRNAs. Advances in artificial intelligence, single-cell sequencing, and structural modeling promise to overcome current limitations. Here are some promising directions:

• Integrative Analysis: Combining multi-omics data to understand the interplay of lncRNAs with other biomolecules.
• CRISPR Screens: Leveraging bioinformatics to design CRISPR-based functional screens for lncRNAs.
• Therapeutic Development: Using bioinformatics to design lncRNA-based therapeutics, including antisense oligonucleotides and RNA interference tools.

Conclusion

lncRNAs are the hidden gems of the genome, and bioinformatics is the key to unearthing their full potential. As research progresses, lncRNAs could pave the way for novel diagnostics, targeted therapies, and personalized medicine, revolutionizing our approach to complex diseases.

The journey into the world of lncRNAs is only beginning, and bioinformatics will continue to play a pivotal role in decoding these molecular mysteries. Whether you’re a researcher, clinician, or bioinformatics enthusiast, the study of lncRNAs offers a fascinating frontier of discovery.

Dated : 22 Nov 2013 -23 Nov 2013

http://www.ngsasia-congress.com/

The symposium will focus on topics in the below mentioned areas.

Topics: Algorithms for biomolecular sequences / structures Bioinformatics databases and tools Protein function Structure based drug design Machine learning Deep learning Large scale data analysis Big Data NGS Analysis Protein interactions/network Molecular modelling/docking/screening Biomolecular structure and function More

Info: https://web.iitm.ac.in/bioinfo2/symposium2020/home

Applications on plain paper along with details of CV (relevant photocopies of their
qualifications/experience and reprints of published work to be attached) are invited from qualified candidates for Research Fellowship in CSIR- sponsored research project.

JRF/SRF/RA (one vacancy)

CSIR sponsored “In silico design, identification and in vitro validation of lead molecule inhibitors to Bcr-Abl kinase”

JRF: M.Sc in Chemistry/ Bioinformatics/ Biotechnology with I division and NET or GATE qualified

SRF: M.Sc in chemistry/ Bioinformatics/ Biotechnology with at least two years of post- M.Sc research experience as evidenced from published papers in standard refereed journals in relevant area

RA: PhD in chemistry/ Bioinformatics/ Biotechnology with research experience in
relevant area.

As per CSIR guidelines

Notes:
1) You may visit the University of Hyderabad website www.uohyd.ernet.in to learn more about the University of Hyderabad.
2) Applicants should note that the appointment to be made is purely temporary and there is no right for claiming for any regular appointment in the University.
3) No TA/DA will be paid for attending the interview or at the time of joining the post, if selected.
4) The application should be submitted by post/courier/in-person to the address given below on or before November 1st 2013.

Prof. Lalitha Guruprasad
W-103, Gurbakhsh Singh Building
School of Chemistry
University of Hyderabad
Hyderabad- 500 046
5) Short-listed candidates will be called for interview at a short notice.

Advertisement: http://www.uohyd.ac.in/images/recruitment/chemisry_advt_101013.pdf

Available immediately until 30th November 2015, to work on the development of bioinformatics approaches to aid analysis of data derived from the metabolomic profiling of biological matrices. The successful applicant will lead research activities on an FP7 funded EU-wide collaborative project aimed at establishing biomarker-based strategies for high throughput diagnostic screening. Key tasks will involve multivariate analysis of large datasets, bioinformatic-based selection and validation of identified markers, construction of metabolomic spectral profile databases and development of machine learning/database searching approaches amenable to analytical screening techniques. This position will offer the opportunity to travel and undertake work with project collaborators based in the Republic of Ireland and Europe.

Informal enquiries may be directed to Dr Terry McGrath, email: terry.mcgrath@qub.ac.uk.

Anticipated interview date: Thursday 31st October 2013
Salary scale: £30,424 – £39,649 per annum (including contribution points)
Closing date: Monday 21st October 2013

Telephone (028) 90973044 FAX: (028) 90971040 or e-mail on personnel@qub.ac.uk

The University is committed to equality of opportunity and to selection on merit. It therefore welcomes applications from all sections of society and particularly welcomes applications from people with a disability.

Fixed term contract posts are available for the stated period in the first instance but in particular circumstances may be renewed or made permanent subject to availability of funding.

More @ https://hrwebapp.qub.ac.uk/tlive_webrecruitment/wrd/run/ETREC107GF.open?VACANCY_ID=5616943npO&WVID=6273090Lgx&LANG=USA

http://precode-project.eu/jobs-board/#1572451761376-39d75f63-c6fb

(INDIAN COUNCIL OF MEDICAL RESEARCH)

P.O BOX 101,
Dr. M. Miyazaki Marg,
Tajganj, Agra - 282001

Applications are invited for a walk-in interview to be held in the Seminar Hall of the on 15th November, 2013, 9:30 am for temporary positions of JRF, Lab Technician and Field attendant in a ICMR funded project entitled "Elucidating the strain differentiation and transmission dynamics of M. leprae through simple sequence repeats ISSR-PCR marker"

1. JRF (one Post)

Essential qualification: Candidates with M.Sc/IVI.Tech or equivalent degree in any life science related subjects with UGC-CSIR/ICMR/DBT-Net qualified

Desirable qualification: Experience in Molecular Biology/Computational Biology will be preferred.

Age. Maximum 28 years as on 11.11.2013. Age relaxation as per GOI rules.

Emoluments: Rs. 6,000 + 20% HRA per Month

2. Lab Technician (One Post)

Essential Qualification: 12th with DMLT/B.SCA4.SC in Life sciences

Desirable qualification: Experience in Molecular Biology/Computational Biology will be preferred.

Age: Maximum 30 years as on 11.11.2013. Age relaxation as per GOI rules.

Emoluments: Rs13,760/ Per Month

3. Field Attendant (One Post)

Essential Qualification: 10th Pass

Desirable Qualification: Experience in field work

Age: Maximum 28 years as on 11.11.2013. Age relaxation as per GOI rules.

Emoluments: Rsl2,040l Per Month

Terms: posts are purely temporary. Appointment will be initially made for a period of one (01) year and may be extended further based on the performance of the candidate up to completion of the project.

Application & Selection procedure: candidates have to appear in the walk-in-interview in person along with an application/CV on plain paper giving details of at educational qualificationq experience and submit photocopies of relevant documents at the time of interview. Selection will be based on the performance of the candidate in the interview' Candidates will not be sent any interview call letter separately. No TA/DA will be paid to the candidate for appearing in the interview. selection is not possible without appearing in the interview. All candidates must report by 9:00am on the date of interview. Advance copy of CV may be sent to m.sarathipartha@gmail.com

Advertisement: http://www.jalma-icmr.org.in/P_S_M_advertisment.pdf

More at https://rgcb.res.in/jobs.php

Deadline for applications : January 15, 2014.

Description :

We seek a talented and motivated post-doc to develop computational methods for inferring the molecular basis of genetic diseases by integration of personal omics data. Research topics include: identifying causal mutations of rare disease patients by meta-analysis; inferring disease-causing molecular pathways from genotype, human phenotypes, and omics profile of patient-derived cell lines; and causal inference from longitudinal omics studies of patients. The developed methods will be applied to analyze data from our medical collaborators.

Candidates must either hold a PhD in computational biology or bioinformatics, or hold a PhD in physics, statistics, or applied mathematics with practical experience with high-dimensional data analysis. Experience in quantitative genetics is a plus. Applicants must have a proven publication record and an interest for translational research.

The Gagneur lab is a young, lively and multidisciplinary group with a research focus on systems genetics and gene regulation. It is located at the Gene Center of the LMU (University of Munich), an interdisciplinary institution whose 16 independent research groups investigate the regulation of gene expression at all levels - from the underlying molecular mechanisms to the biological system. The institute is located on the biomedical research campus Munich-Grosshadern, offering a dynamic, interactive and internationally oriented research environment. The dynamism of Munich and the proximity of the Alps provide an excellent quality of life.

The salary is according to the TV-L (German academic salary scale).
Applications including a cover letter, CV, and references must be sent by January 15th 2014 to Julien Gagneur (gagneur@genzentrum.lmu.de)

About the lab: http://www.gagneur.genzentrum.lmu.de