The Nanogene Network is an initiative in the state of Minas Gerais dedicated to the development of vaccines and genetic therapies using nanotechnology. It integrates researchers from six science and technology institutions.
The main objectives of the Nanogene Network include consolidating technological platforms for the development of vaccines and genetic therapies, training highly qualified human resources, and obtaining products with high potential for application in public health.
The Nanogene Network includes the participation of Fundação Ezequiel Dias, UFMG, Unimontes, UFJF, UFOP, and UFU, each contributing with laboratory infrastructure and scientific expertise.
The siRNA Seeker is an algorithm developed in Python for selecting siRNA, based on methodologies from renowned authors such as Reynolds et al., Ui-Tei et al., and Amarzguioui et al. It aims to optimize the selection of siRNA for therapeutic and research applications.
The algorithm includes RNA sequence translation, siRNA size definition, melting temperature (Tm) and Gibbs free energy (ΔG°) calculation, and BLAST searches to verify specificity.
The algorithm's source code is available on GitHub . A webapp was developed using Django, offering a user-friendly interface for researchers to perform siRNA design analyses interactively.
The network aims not only to develop advanced products but also to strengthen the state's scientific capacity, promoting technological innovation and contributing to public health.
The products developed by the network have the potential to prevent and treat various diseases through more effective vaccines and personalized genetic therapies.
After consolidation, the Nanogene Network plans to expand its collaborations, patent developed technologies, and continue advancing in translational research.