Internal Initiation of translation in eukryotic mRNAs

Our main goal is to understand alternative mechanisms of translation initiation in eukaryotes. Internal Ribosome Entry Site (IRES) elements are mRNA regions that govern internal initiation of translation of selective mRNAs. To achieve its function, IRES elements assemble ribonucleoprotein complexes in which RNA structure and IRES function is tightly coupled. Key words: RNA, 5´UTR, noncoding regions, RNA-binding proteins, RNA structure, RNA virus, translation control. Master students interested in this topic please contact me by email.