RNAmed welcomes Prof. Matthew D. Disney
Insights into targeting RNA structures with small molecules
On October 14, 2025, a group from the graduate program RNAmed welcomed the internationally renowned Chemist Prof. Matthew D. Disney from the Scripps Research Institute (Florida, USA) to Würzburg. Matthew Disney has a central role in the RNA-targeting drug discovery. His research focuses on developing small molecules that specifically bind to RNA structures and influence their function. This approach holds great promise for developing new therapies for difficult-to-treat diseases.
Before his public talk, Disney spent an hour discussing his research and experiences in depth with doctoral students from RNAmed. The discussion focused on current challenges and prospects in RNA drug discovery. Dissertations and highly cited articles demonstrate that the scientific community values Disney's descriptions of how his team uses structure-based approaches and chemical creativity to develop small molecules that bind precisely to disease-relevant RNA motifs. Insights into his experiences with start-ups enriched the discussion. Equally exciting was his assessment of how artificial intelligence could predict complex interactions between RNA and molecules in the future.
Afterwards, Disney gave a well-received talk titled “How we think about targeting and modulating human RNAs with small molecules”. This seminar was jointly organized by RNAmed and the Würzburg Life Science Seminar series. Around 80 people of the scientific community and students listened to the presentation, demonstrating a keen interest.
The event concluded with a reception providing Franconian wine and snacks. This was a good opportunity for further discussions in a relaxed atmosphere. Attendees exchanged new ideas and potential collaborations, bringing an inspiring afternoon of science to a successful close.
Vincent Lau – PhD student in the group of Prof. Jörg Vogel (Institute for Molecular Infection Biology, University of Würzburg)
