Novel function of MeCP2 in mRNA regulation and implication in Rett Syndrome

Dr. Paul's project is aimed at testing a novel hypothesis related to the function of MeCP2. The investigator's preliminary data presents an entirely new facet of MeCP2 function which is that MeCP2 can function by binding directly to messenger RNA (mRNA) and potentially regulates the synthesis of downstream proteins. The project may provide new insights into the role of MeCP2 and mRNA is an ideal target for drug discovery because it is a key regulatory molecule in the cell.