Unnatural nucleosides and nucleotides are used in molecular therapies, vaccines, and diagnostics, for the development of high-throughput enzyme screening systems, and to expand the genetic alphabet. Despite the increasing demand for modified nucleotides, the synthesis of such compounds encounters several challenges, including complex chemical synthesis methods and insufficient regio- or enantioselectivity. To address these issues, various enzymes active towards nucleosides or nucleotides (deaminases, nucleoside phosphorylases, kinases, etc.) have been identified; however, numerous known natural enzymes do not recognize modified nucleosides or nucleotides.
This PhD research project aims to develop novel high-throughput screening and selection methodologies for the identification of unnatural nucleotides or nucleoside-modifying deaminases and phosphorylases. The identified enzymes will subsequently be characterized and utilized for target compound synthesis in vivo and/or in vitro. PhD student will have the opportunity to acquire proficiency in a diverse range of molecular biology, microbiology, and biochemistry techniques, including microfluidic technology, analytical methods for organic compounds, and complex data analysis.
Mokslinis vadovas / Supervisor: Dr. Nina Urbelienė
Kontaktai / Contacts:
tel. / phone: +370-615-17529
Programme: Biochemistry N 004