Human Ribonucleases involved in host defence
Contact Information
PI: Prof. Ester Boix E-mail: ester.boix@uab.cat Web: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ester_Boix2
RESEARCH PROJECTS
- Analysis of small RNA cleavage pattern by extracellular RNases and identification of signalling eRNAs
- Search for structural recognition patterns for host/pathogen RNA targeting.
- Structure-based drug design of novel antibiotics to fight antimicrobial resistance.
SUMMARY:
Our lab is working on the development of novel drug based on the structure-functional knowledge of a vertebrate specific family of antimicrobial proteins: human secretory RNases. Host defence RNases show an unusual rapid evolution rate, a trait characteristic of innate immunity, providing adaptation to an ever-changing pathogen exposed environment. Human RNases are key players of the host immunity and contribute to maintain the body fluids’ sterility. They are activated upon cellular stress and mediate signaling processes. Extracellular RNases can shape the non-coding RNA population and participate in intercellular communication.
We are currently exploring both the immuno-modulation and inti-infective activities of human RNases. Structural- functional analysis is applied in the design and engineering of new scaffolds to develop alternative antibacterial and antiviral agents to current antibiotics.
Networks:
We are organizing the regional Catalonia RNA & RNase Salon, sponsored by the RNA Society and Lexogen.
Main event of Cat RNA & RNase Salon in 2025: The 1st International Meeting on RNA & RNase was celebrated at UAB in July 2025
Global challenges research fund (GCRF) to promote an International Network on Antimicrobial Resistance. Birbeck- University of London (UCL).
Red Temática para el desarrollo de péptidos antivirales y antimicrobianos para cepas multiresistentes- 219 RT0573. RED BUDE Pav-am https://www.fis.unam.mx/~cgaray/Red/miembros_asociados.html
Transfer of Technology:
We are developing a novel anti-infective therapy to target antimicrobial resistance. AMRNase works by a novel strategy and combines high catalytic and antimicrobial activities. The construct has been successfully tested to inhibit bacterial resistance to colistin in Acinetobacter baumannii. The study has been co-financed by the European FEDER funds and the Secretaria d’Universitats i Recerca del Departament d’Empresa i Coneixement de la Generalitat de Catalunya (2016 PROD 00060; 2019 LLAV 00002; 2021 PROD 00025).