Visualizing RNA Structure & Linking It to Function to More Reliably Discover Functional Binders
Time: 9:00 am
day: Pre Conference workshop day
Details:
Understanding RNA structure is essential for decoding its functional roles in disease and for identifying high-affinity, selective small molecule binders. Yet, RNA’s inherent flexibility, context-dependent conformations, and limited structural data make this a formidable challenge. This workshop explores cutting-edge experimental and computational techniques—from NMR and Cryo-EM to in silicon modeling—that are advancing our ability to visualize RNA in both isolated and cellular contexts.
Attendees will cover:
• Utilizing NMR spectroscopy to map RNA-ligand interactions, monitor conformational dynamics and screen binders, offering atomic-resolution insights for RNA-targeted drug discovery
• Advancing RNA-targeted screening by integrating AI-driven small molecule discovery, high-throughput screening, and structural data to enhance accuracy, reproducibility and structure-based docking
• Understanding structural flexibility and cellular context to distinguish biologically meaningful RNA conformations and improve binder discovery strategies
