PROY_B08_24: Integrating DARK genome and nucleic acid Nanotechnology into advanced therapies for Atrial Fibrillation (DARKNAF)

Start date

2024

End date

2026

Coordinator

Laura Ordovás

Funding agency

DGA

DARKNAF aims at identifying novel therapeutic targets for atrial fibrillation (AF) by exploring the functional potential of the dark genome, particularly the non-coding RNA.

The project leverages bioinformatics and meta-analysis of full-transcriptome sequencing datasets to pinpoint key non-coding RNA regulatory networks (such as long non-coding RNAs and microRNAs) that contribute to cardiac remodeling and disease progression. The resulting bioinformatic insights are presented as novel therapeutic target candidates to modulate the pathological remodeling in AF. Capitalizing on breakthroughs in nucleic acid nanotechnology, DARKNAF designs bio-inspired, non-viral nanocarriers functionalized for cardiac-specific delivery and assess their efficacy in human-based in vitro systems.