The following links provide a brief overview of some fundamental concepts related to our research.

Our tutorials in conjunction with the glossary of terms will act as a good primer for those interested in these areas of science.

Functional Nucleic Acids is a phrase that encompasses all RNA and DNA molecules that have functions greater than simple coding of genetic information. For example, ribozymes and deoxyribozymes are classes of functional nucleic acids that catalyze chemical transformations.

RNA as a Living Molecule explores an important theory on the history of the evolution of life on earth. This theory holds that RNA, with its dual genetic and functional properties, most likely served as the basis for primitive life that preceded modern organisms over three billion years ago.

In Vitro Evolution is a powerful laboratory technique that can be used to create entirely new functional nucleic acids or to generate variants of existing molecules. Through in vitro evolution, researchers also can distill complex questions into a series of simple, testable experiments to advance basic research and practical applications.

Nucleic Acid Engineering is a general phrase that encompasses all methods and strategies that scientists use to modify or create new functional nucleic acids. We are working to create ever more sophisticated examples of RNA and DNA molecules that serve as biosensors, catalyze new reactions, or that can communicate with one another in elaborate and useful processes.