Ribozymes, which are chemically RNA or RNA fragments, serve as carriers of genetic information and biocatalysts, performing the functions of both DNA and proteins. CD Formulation specializes in offering a comprehensive solution for the development of ribozymes, encompassing the design and screening of nucleic acid sequences, optimization of the synthesis process, and quality control of production.
A ribozyme is a small RNA molecule that degrades specific mRNA sequences. It inhibits target gene expression by cleaving phosphodiester bonds in the RNA chain, effectively severing the substrate RNA. Compared to general translated RNA, ribozymes possess a more stable spatial structure and are less susceptible to degradation by RNA enzymes. Furthermore, after cleaving mRNA, ribozymes can dissociate from the hybridization chain, allowing them to re-bind and cleave additional mRNA molecules.
Natural ribozymes can be classified into four categories:
Services | Introductions | Descriptions |
---|---|---|
Hammerhead Ribozyme Customization | The hammerhead ribozyme features a distinctive three-dimensional structure that typically includes three major pairing regions and a catalytic center. It is capable of specifically cleaving RNA molecules and is commonly employed to target viral RNA. | First, a specific target RNA sequence is selected. Next, an appropriate ribozyme sequence is designed based on the target sequence to ensure optimal catalytic activity. Following this, its catalytic efficiency and specificity are enhanced through mutation and structural optimization. |
Hammerhead Ribozyme II Customization | Similar to the traditional Hammerhead ribozyme, this variant may possess minor structural modifications that enhance its activity or stability. Additionally, it has the capability to cleave RNA and may demonstrate improved activity in various biological environments. | Structural fine-tuning can be performed using existing Hammerhead ribozyme sequences. Variants exhibiting enhanced performance can subsequently be screened experimentally. |
Hairpin Ribozyme Customization | The hairpin ribozyme features a distinctive hairpin structure composed of a short double-stranded RNA region and a single-stranded loop. It can recognize and cleave specific RNA sequences, making it a valuable tool for regulating gene expression. | First, a specific target RNA sequence is selected for design. Next, the size and shape of the hairpin are optimized to enhance its catalytic activity and binding affinity. |
Ribozymes Customization in the Rod/Paperclip Shape | These ribozymes typically adopt a or multiple functional regions. They are capable of performing various biological functions, including RNA cleavage and regulation. | The enzyme is engineered with functional regions tailored to its intended purpose. Computer modeling predicts the optimal structure to maximize its effectiveness. |
Fig.1 Flow chart of Ribozyme preparation. (CD Formulation)
Target identification involves analyzing the biological function of the target to determine the characteristics of the target sequence, including its structure and potential cleavage sites.
The selection of an appropriate ribozyme type, such as Hammerhead, Hairpin, or VS Ribozyme, along with the design of the corresponding ribozyme sequence, is essential.
After designing the RNA sequence, synthesize it using either chemical or enzymatic methods.
After synthesis, bioinformatics tools are employed to predict the secondary structure of the Ribozyme, and structure optimization is conducted to enhance its stability.
Evaluate the catalytic activity and specificity of the Ribozyme in an in vitro system.
This stage involves optimizing the production process, ensuring quality control, and maintaining cost-effectiveness to facilitate a successful market launch.
Our technology platforms for Ribozyme customization typically encompass several essential technologies and tools that facilitate the design, synthesis, optimization, and testing of ribozyme.
Technology: Screening of ribozymes utilizing in vitro screening technology
Journal: Chemistry & biology
IF: 3.5
Published: 2009
Results:
The authors report the in vitro screening of an unusual ribozyme that efficiently carries out nucleotide synthesis, although it was screened for a very different kind of glycochemical reaction. This ribozyme, named pR1, produces two interconverted sulfur-containing products corresponding to Schiff bases and their amadori rearrangement products when it is derivatized at its 3' end to 5-phosphoribose (PR) and incubated with 6-thioguanine. The finding that ribozymes can spontaneously facilitate such diverse reactions suggests that RNA-mediated metabolism may have evolved important new functions early in evolution through the promiscuity of ribozymes.
Fig.2 Ribozyme-mediated nucleotide synthesis pathways. (Lau M W L, et al., 2009)
CD Formulation is dedicated to developing specialized and innovative biotechnology applications. We empower our customers with a comprehensive, intelligent drug formulation research and development technology platform that encompasses nucleic acid synthesis, formulation development, and product scale-up production. Contact us, and we will customize a professional solution tailored to your project.
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