Recent investigation into non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have revealed a wide range of key functions in both cellular and organismal processes. These molecules come in different sizes and shapes, ranging from small to large, linear to circular, and basic nucleotides to heavily modified structures. Some ncRNAs are known to regulate gene expression at both transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels by facilitating or disrupting interactions between RNA-RNA, protein-RNA or DNA-RNA complexes. However, while the field has focused on identification of ncRNAs and molecular mechanisms, their diverse in vivo functions and activities are only beginning to emerge.

In this meeting, we aim to reveal these essential functions of ncRNAs to fill this knowledge gap.. The sessions are organized to promote cross-talk and synergy between researchers working on different types of RNAs, to elucidate common mechanisms of action or impacts on common cellular processes and outcomes. The goal is to unite different sub-fields of ncRNA research, by bringing together scientists studying different systems, approaches and types of ncRNAs, as well as mRNAs with non-coding functions, to collectively address key roles in cellular and organismal biology.

The conference will be held jointly with the Keystone Symposium on RNA Mediated Regulation of Immunity: Mechanism, Disease and Therapeutics to enable cross-disciplinary insights and collaborations towards mechanisms and impacts of ncRNA on immune system function.