Structural characterization of U11 snRNP complex

Minor spliceosome is responsible for removal of a rare class of introns that are present in many essential genes. Despite its fundamental importance, much information remains elusive for a comprehensive understanding of minor spliceosome assembly and molecular basis of the diseases associated with its malfunctions in human. My project focuses on the study of U11/U12 di-snRNP. Our goal is to solve its structure and to investigate how minor introns are recognized. By applying single particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and proteomics, we will reveal the spatial organization and composition of the U11/U12 di-snRNP. These results will help us to understand how major and minor introns are distinguished by different machinery inside human.