DNA and RNA: Chemistry, Mechanistic Biology, Cellular Processing Machinery, and Applications

The Nucleic Acids GRC has a long and distinguished history as an incubator for groundbreaking discoveries that have revolutionized molecular biology and medical research—including recombinant DNA technologies such as restriction endonucleases and CRISPR, and worldwide transformative therapies such as mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccines. The 2025 Nucleic Acids GRC will continue this tradition by focusing on the latest and most exciting discoveries related to the molecular mechanisms underlying all aspects of nucleic acid biology, including maintenance and decoding of genetic information and the distinct functions of RNA and DNA in cellular metabolism. Thematic oral and poster sessions will feature work on the structure, function, modification, and regulation of DNA and RNA, with an emphasis on the macromolecular enzyme complexes that carry out critical nucleic acid transactions, including DNA replication, repair, recombination, transcription, translation, and trafficking. Chemical, structural, and biophysical methodologies at both molecular and cellular scales will feature prominently throughout the conference. In addition, recent advances in new therapeutic technologies have revolutionized how we study and apply our knowledge of nucleic acid processes to solve the world’s greatest challenges. Attendees will engage in discussions about how these tools are being deployed to understand the dynamic nature of the genome and transcriptome and how cells respond to DNA and RNA based stresses during infection and disease.

The GRC will feature presentations by a diverse collection of the leading established and early-career scientists, and thus submission of abstracts for consideration for highlight talks is highly encouraged. As an added attraction for young scientists, this meeting will feature an associated 2025 Nucleic Acids Gordon Research Seminar (GRS), held on June 21-22, just before the main GRC. The GRS is a valuable forum for students and postdocs to present their research, broaden their scientific networks, and explore new directions in science and professional development.