The Palestinian RNA Group at Al-Quds University hosted its annual scientific event, titled RNA Therapeutics: Messaging Secrets for Protein Synthesis, in a virtual format. The keynote speaker, Dr. Daniel Kiss from the Houston Methodist Research Institute, USA delivered a lecture on the latest advancements in RNA research.
In a show of support for the Palestinian RNA Group, the event began with an opening address by Dr. Fatima Gebauer Hernandez, President of the International RNA Society. She provided an overview of the society’s history, mission, and key initiatives, pointing out its global impact in the field of RNA science. Additionally, Dr. Elham Kateeb, Dean of Scientific Research at Al-Quds University, delivered opening remarks in which she expressed her support for the initiative of the Palestinian RNA group and emphasized the important role of education in the face of the significant challenges confronting Palestinian students.
Dr. Daniel’s presentation showed cutting-edge research in RNA therapeutics, with a focus on codon optimality and its role in RNA stability and translation efficiency. He also discussed promising RNA-based treatments for Batten disease, a rare hereditary neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the accumulation of abnormal fatty substances inside brain cells, leading to neuronal damage and loss of function. Dr. Daniel expressed that, so far, there is no cure for this disease. He highlighted the unique advantages of circular RNA technologies in addressing such rare diseases, which may help improve the condition or slow disease progression.
The event attracted significant participation from students across universities in the West Bank. A lively Q&A session followed, moderated by two undergraduate students (Hadeel Hamdan and Fatima Alzagh) from the Faculty of Medicine. Attendees engaged in discussions on RNA sequence optimization, therapeutic challenges, and delivery strategies particularly those targeting the brain. Dr. Fatima Hernandez also actively participated in the Q&A. This emphasize the importance of such initiatives in fostering global connections between scientists and the Palestinian students. Her involvement highlighted the event’s role in bridging scientific communities worldwide.
Background on the Palestinian RNA Group
Established in 2022 at Al-Quds University by Dr. Mai Baker; ( a current assistant professor at the Biochemistry and Molecular department /Faculty of Medicine), under the sponsorship of the International RNA Society. The group aims to educate Palestinian scientists and students about RNA science and facilitate connecting with international researchers. Since its founding, the group has hosted many scientists from abroad virtually, providing opportunities for knowledge exchange and global engagement in learning RNA research.
