Washington University in St Louis · BiochemistryViral Genome Packaging Lab
Andrea Soranno · Saint Louis, Missouri
Research Focus
Professor Andrea Soranno's lab at Washington University focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2, specifically how its nucleocapsid protein packages the viral genome. By employing techniques like single-molecule fluorescence and force spectroscopy, the lab aims to reveal the biophysical interactions that drive genome compaction, which is crucial for the virus's life cycle. Their work not only seeks to explain how coronaviruses function but also to identify potential therapeutic agents that could disrupt these processes.
SARS-CoV-2nucleocapsid proteingenome packagingmolecular biophysicsviral life cyclesingle-molecule fluorescenceforce spectroscopyRNA bindingtherapeutic interventionbiophysical interactions
Research Aims
5AIM 01Explore the molecular mechanisms of the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein in genome packaging.
AIM 02Investigate how protein multivalency affects RNA compaction and specificity.
AIM 03Identify small molecules that can disrupt the process of viral genome packaging.
AIM 04Utilize advanced biophysical methods to uncover the role of disordered protein regions in RNA interactions.
AIM 05Develop insights that can be applied to other coronaviruses to aid public health efforts.
Skills the Lab Values
single-molecule fluorescenceforce spectroscopyRNA extraction and analysismolecular modelingbiophysical assayscell culture techniquesprotein purificationliquid droplet formationhigh-resolution microscopycomputational simulation
Output against the department
Publications102bottom 26% of dept.299th of 402
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations7.3kbottom 40% of dept.243rd of 402
this lab
most citedleast cited
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