The mission of the Center for RNA Biology is to develop and foster research activities in the broad area of RNA biology.   The center brings together experts in many aspects of RNA biology including RNA-based therapies, post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression, non-coding RNAs and RNA interference (RNAi), ribozyme function, and RNA viruses.   Twenty six laboratories from the Medical Center, the Institute of Genome Science and Policy, the University, and the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences participate in the Center for RNA Biology.   Professor Mariano A. Garcia-Blanco, MD, PhD, of the Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, directs the Center.

Among the goals of the Center are to understand the role of RNA as a mediator of gene expression, as a catalytic molecule (ribozyme) and as a structural entity in cells and viruses. Several members of the Center have expertise in RNA-protein interactions, including the role of RNA-binding proteins in the organization and dynamics of messenger RNA, including RNA splicing and translational control. Center members also focus on important regulatory non-coding RNAs (e.g., microRNAs).   Laboratories in the Center use in vitro biochemical methods, in vivo cell-based assays, as well as genetic approaches to study the role of RNA molecules in cell growth and development. In addition, the center's interests include biotechnological applications of RNA technologies, including genomics and therapeutic approaches. These pursuits involve the use of genome-wide technologies, in vitro RNA selection methodologies, the development of novel gene delivery vectors, and the use of trans-splicing technologies, and RNA interference.  

The Center, in collaboration with the Institute of Genome Science and Policy, the Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center, and the School of Medicine, has established the Duke RNAi facility to provide the Duke community with materials, methods and expertise in RNA interference and allied RNA-based technologies.