Researchers from the A*STAR Genome Institute of Singapore (A*STAR GIS) have unveiled a new method that reads full-length RNA molecules one at a time, allowing scientists to observe how RNA folds and behaves. This technique offers new clues for disease research and drug discovery, according to a press release dated May 15, 2026.
The method, which has not been named in the source, was developed by a team led by Dr. Wan Yue, a senior research scientist at A*STAR GIS. The approach uses nanopore sequencing technology to analyze individual RNA molecules, providing a detailed view of their structure and dynamics.
RNA folding is critical for understanding cellular processes, as misfolded RNA can lead to diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. The new method could accelerate the development of targeted therapies by identifying structural changes in RNA associated with specific conditions.
Dr. Wan stated, 'This breakthrough allows us to see RNA in its natural state, which was previously impossible with traditional methods.' The research was published in the journal Nature Communications on May 14, 2026.
