Welcome

Research

RNA functions in sequence space

Sequence space is defined by all the possible sequences of a given length. This space is extremely high dimensional. For example, an RNA molecule of length 25 has over 1015 unique sequences that make up the sequence space. If each sequence is assigned a relative activity, or "fitness", one can construct a Fitness Landscape, which are conceptual tools used to understand and predict the course of evolution. We are constructing real fitness landscapes for functional RNA molecules, using ribozymes as a model system. In order to determine the fitness of a very large number of sequences, we use next-generation seqeuncing technologies as an ultra-high throughput biochemical assay. Activites in the lab include assay development, library design, sequence analysis, data visualization and modeling.

Live-cell microscopy of mammalian synthetic regulatory elements

A collaboration with Ferguson Lab at Boise State

Synthetic regulatory elements can be fabricated using RNA aptamers, which are short RNA sequences that bind specific molecular ligands. The logic of these systems is that binding of ligand by the RNA aptamer changes the structure of the RNA molecule in a way that alters gene expression. There are numerous challenges faced when applying these synthetic regulatory elements to mammalian systems. In collaboration with Dr. Ferguson, we are developing methods to watch these synthetic elements at work inside of living cells. This approach will provide data at new temporal and spatial scales that will be used to guide future designs.

Telomere length estimates for conservation biology

A collaboration with Heath Lab at Boise State

Telomeres are repetitive sequences at the end of Eukaryotic chromosomes. They protect chromosomes from shortening at each cell division. Telomeres nevertheless shorten over time with age, and do so faster under stress. As such, they provide a unique non-invasive method for estimating the age and stress levels of individuals within a population. We are adapting protocols for non-model organisms, such as the Kestral, which is a small raptor studied in the Heath Lab.

People

Dr. Eric Hayden

Professor, Dad, Bike Commuter, Baker (not always in that order)


Jessica Roberts

Biomolecular Sciences PhD Candidate

Focus:

  • Live-cell RNA dynamics of synthetic riboswitches
  • Fluorescence Cross-Correlation Spectroscopy
  • RNA Fitness Landscapes

Sarah Kobernat

Biomolecular Sciences PhD Candidate

Focus:

  • RNA aptamer-based biosensors
  • DNA origami for data storage


Gianluca Peri

Biomolecular Sciences PhD Candidate

Focus:

  • RNA Fitness Landscapes




Alumni


Clémentine Gibard Bohachek

Co-Founder, Facible BioDiagnostics

Steven Burden

Co-Founder, Facible BioDiagnostics


Stephanie Hudon

Postdoctoral Researcher, Prof. Jennifer Forbey

Publications

Contact

Address:

1910 University Drive
Science Building Room 201
Boise, ID 83725

E-mail:

erichayden@boisestate.edu