Ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs) are the catalytic and structural components of a functional ribosome. The rate of rRNA synthesis determines the growth and proliferative capacities of a cell. Controlled rRNA production is fundamental for cell survival and homeostasis; however, deranged rRNA synthesis causes catastrophic effects on normal cellular physiology. Elevated rRNA synthesis is tightly linked to cancer aetiology and hypertrophy related diseases.
Non-coding RNAs are master regulators of gene expression circuits and are involved in a diverse range of biological mechanisms that are fundamental for cell survival. Aberrant expression of ncRNAs, particularly micro RNAs (miRNAs) and long ncRNAs (lnc RNAs) has been attributed to severe pathological consequences, particularly to cancer, in humans. Importantly, ectopic modulation of ncRNAs has been demonstrated as a promising strategy for cancer therapy.
The non-coding RNAs lab investigates the role of ncRNAs in the regulation of rRNA synthesis and also explores the possibility of targeting rRNA synthesis machinery using ncRNAs as therapeutics in the context of cancer treatment.
Dr. Srivatsava Naidu
Assistant Professor
Professional Training
Ph.D: Justus-Liebig University,
Giessen, Germany
Postdoctoral research:
Dr. Joost Zomerdijk Lab, Centre for Gene Regulation and Expression, University of Dundee, U.K.
Cancer Research UK- Manchester, U.K.