MSL2 ensures biallelic gene expression in mammals.

In diploid organisms, biallelic gene expression enables the production of adequate levels of mRNA. This is essential for haploinsufficient genes, which require biallelic expression for optimal function to prevent the onset of developmental disorders. Whether and how a biallelic or monoallelic state is determined in a cell-type-specific manner at individual loci remains unclear.

Identification of regulatory links between transcription and RNA processing with long-read sequencing.

We present a detailed protocol for sequencing full-length mRNA isoforms using the Oxford nanopore long-read sequencing technology. We describe steps for poly(A) RNA isolation, library preparation, and cDNA size selection. We then detail procedures for sequencing and processing and a computational framework to identify exon couplings and assign mRNA 5' ends and 3' ends to each other.

Sites of transcription initiation drive mRNA isoform selection.

The generation of distinct messenger RNA isoforms through alternative RNA processing modulates the expression and function of genes, often in a cell-type-specific manner. Here, we assess the regulatory relationships between transcription initiation, alternative splicing, and 3' end site selection. Applying long-read sequencing to accurately represent even the longest transcripts from end to end, we quantify mRNA isoforms in Drosophila tissues, including the transcriptionally complex nervous system.

A Webinar to Improve Parental COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy.

Introduction: COVID-19 is a deadly worldwide pandemic and has led to rapid vaccine development. Vaccinating children is a key step to ending the pandemic.

Method: This project used a pretest-posttest design to determine if a 1-hr webinar improved parental COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy.