DrMahdi Zeraati

1) Role of DNA and RNA Secondary Structures in Cancer and Neurodegenerative Diseases

This research program investigates the biological roles of non-canonical DNA and RNA secondary structures in human disease. The work focuses on understanding how structures such as i-Motifs, G-quadruplexes, and repeat-associated conformations regulate gene expression, genome stability, and cellular function.

Current projects examine the contribution of these structures to cancer progression, oncogene regulation, and repeat expansion disorders associated with neurodegenerative diseases. The program integrates molecular biology, genomics, structural biology, and sequencing technologies to identify disease-associated nucleic acid structures and investigate their functional significance.

2) Generation of Antibodies Targeting DNA and RNA Secondary Structures

This research program focuses on developing antibodies and engineered biologics that selectively recognise DNA and RNA secondary structures. Using advanced phage display and antibody engineering technologies, the work aims to generate novel tools for studying nucleic acid biology and developing targeted diagnostic and therapeutic applications.

Projects include the development of structure-specific antibodies for imaging and functional studies, as well as therapeutic intrabodies and mRNA-enabled biologics targeting disease-associated nucleic acid conformations in cancer and other diseases. The program also explores translational and commercial applications of these technologies.