Symposium Report: 5th Arizona RNA Symposium

Date: March 14, 2025 (9AM-4PM)
Location: Biodesign Auditorium, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ
Organizers: Dr. Shalini Sharma (University of Arizona) and Dr. Marco Mangone (Arizona State University)
Website: https://arizonarnasalon.org

The 5th Arizona RNA Symposium brought together a vibrant community of RNA researchers from across Arizona and beyond for a full day of cutting-edge science, networking, and collaboration. With over 70 participants representing a mix of faculty, postdocs, graduate, and undergraduate students, the symposium showcased the diversity and depth of RNA research in the region.

The event featured two outstanding keynote speakers. Dr. Lynne Maquat (University of Rochester) opened the morning with a talk on Nonsense-mediated mRNA decay and human disease, highlighting her pioneering work on RNA surveillance mechanisms. In the afternoon, Dr. Anita Hopper (Ohio State University) presented her research on tRNA introns as regulators of gene expression, underscoring novel aspects of tRNA processing and trafficking.

Four oral presentations from trainees across Arizona institutions kicked off the scientific program, covering topics ranging from spliceosome dynamics and TDP-43 export to telomerase evolution. Lexogen, a symposium sponsor, gave a brief technology spotlight.

A lively poster session followed the lunch break, featuring 19 posters spanning RNA biology, neurodegeneration, RNA nanotechnology, alternative splicing, and computational modeling. The event concluded with a mentoring session, where keynote speakers engaged directly with trainees, followed by awards and closing remarks.

This year’s symposium was supported by the RNA Society and Lexogen. Thanks to their generous sponsorship, the event remained free and accessible to all participants. The organizers emphasized inclusivity and scientific exchange, reflecting the diverse research community in Arizona.