Alasdair C. Ivens

A Genome-Wide Genetic Screen Identifies a Novel kDNA Replication Protein in Trypanosomes

This study uses a genetic screen in Trypanosoma brucei to identify novel kDNA maintenance factors, validates one as a novel replication factor, and provides a prioritized list of candidates.

Control of retrotransposon-driven activation of the interferon response by the double-stranded RNA binding protein DGCR8

This study shows DGCR8 suppresses endogenous dsRNA from TEs to prevent IFN response activation, with implications for 22qDS.

HpBoRB, a helminth-derived CCP domain protein which binds RELMβ

The paper identifies a helminth-derived CCP domain protein, HpBoRB, that binds RELMβ, a host protein with anti-helminth properties, suggesting a mechanism of immune evasion.

DGCR8 haploinsufficiency leads to primate-specific RNA dysregulation and pluripotency defects

This study shows that DGCR8 haploinsufficiency in human pluripotent cells causes RNA dysregulation and pluripotency defects, with rescue by primate-specific miRNAs.

Double stranded RNA sensing drives interferon silencing in early development

The paper shows that pluripotent mouse embryonic stem cells silence MDA5 to avoid endogenous dsRNA recognition, preventing IFN activation and ensuring normal development.

KREH2 helicase represses ND7 mRNA editing in procyclic-stage Trypanosoma brucei by opposite modulation of canonical and moonlighting gRNA utilization creating a proposed mRNA structure

The paper identifies KREH2 helicase as a repressor of ND7 mRNA editing in T. brucei by modulating canonical and moonlighting gRNA utilization, revealing its dual role in developmental editing control.

Identification of a functional small non-coding RNA encoded by African swine fever virus

This study identifies a functional small non-coding RNA encoded by African swine fever virus that reduces viral replication.