TRR440 - specific mRNA tARgeTing

Who we are and what we do

smART is a DFG funded TRR (Transregio), carried out jointly by Goethe University Frankfurt, University of Marburg, University of Giessen, Technical University of Darmstadt, University of Freiburg, the MPI for Biophysics Frankfurt, and the MPI for Terrestrial Microbiology Marburg. 

We aim to unlock the potential of mRNA as a target for precise control of cellular function. By exploiting the structural plasticity of mRNA, we seek to understand and manipulate how RNA structure determines gene expression and ultimately protein production.

Bringing together expertise in chemistry and biology, our interdisciplinary consortium investigates three key regulatory processes in the mRNA life cycle: splicing, translation and stability. We combine innovative RNA-targeting molecules, structural and functional RNA research, and novel delivery technologies to develop strategies for precise mRNA manipulation.

Our shared vision is to establish universal approaches for understanding and controlling mRNA function, paving the way for new RNA-based therapeutic strategies.