In this series of lectures, Dr. Robert Singer explains how it is possible to follow a single mRNA molecule from its birth to its death. Singer begins by explaining that cell cultures are heterogeneous and analyzing single cells provides spatial and temporal information not available from bulk analysis. He outlines how his lab developed techniques such as fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) that have allowed them to measure gene expression in single cells. Using these techniques, they discovered that some RNAs localize to specific areas in the cell and RNA localization is linked to its regulation and function. For example, ß-actin mRNA localization to the leading edge of fibroblasts aids in cell motility. Singer’s lab identified “zip code” regions in mRNAs that are responsible for regulating mRNA localization.
View the full talk with additional resources on our website
RNA Localization: Following Single mRNAs from Birth to Death in Living Cells
Robert Singer’s lab has developed specialized techniques that allow them to visualize RNA localization of a single mRNA molecule from birth to death in living cells. (Talk recorded in February 2018)
- Part 1: Seeing is Believing: Imaging the Expression of Genes within Single CellsAudience:
- Student
- Researcher
- Educators of H. School / Intro Undergrad
- Educators of Adv. Undergrad / Grad
Duration: 34.49 - Part 2: RNA Localization: Following Single mRNAs from Birth to Death in Living CellsAudience:
- Educators of H. School / Intro Undergrad
- Educators of Adv. Undergrad / Grad
Duration: 40:59 - Part 3: Imaging Translation and Degradation of Single mRNAs in Living CellsAudience:
- Educators of H. School / Intro Undergrad
- Educators of Adv. Undergrad / Grad
Duration: 26:36