WATERTOWN, Mass. - Aug. 27, 2020 - Addgene, the global nonprofit plasmid repository, announces a new collaboration with the Rett Syndrome Research Trust (RSRT) to advance new and ongoing research with MECP2. The collaboration focuses on the creation of a centralized collection of molecular biology tools to help both veteran and new Rett researchers alike find reagents and resources.
"Addgene is a well-known and well-utilized resource by scientists all over the world and supports scientific advancement by providing high-quality plasmids, AAV preparations, and educational materials. With the help of Rett researchers, we are excited to partner with Addgene to consolidate and centralize MECP2 and other key resources to facilitate research and foster collaborations," said Jana von Hehn, PhD, Sr. Director of Research and Clinical Strategy at RSRT.
The MECP2 Plasmid Collection and Resource Center for Rett syndrome will continue to expand as Rett researchers deposit plasmids to the Addgene repository and contribute additional resources. Additional plasmid tools to facilitate MECP2 curative strategies, such as CRISPR and RNA editing or the induction of iPSCs, are also available in the Resource Center. Researchers can also find links to cell line repositories including patient-derived iPSCs, MECP2 animal models, tissue banks, Rett databases, and other helpful tools. To access the Resource Center for Rett Syndrome, visit https://www.addgene.org/collections/rett-syndrome/.
RSRT's research consortia are advancing strategies that directly target MECP2 at the molecular level that include gene replacement therapy, gene editing, RNA editing and trans-splicing approaches, X reactivation, and MECP2 protein replacement. Several of RSRT-funded technologies are now in clinical development. "We are excited to work with RSRT to further their mission. It is our hope that growing this resource in collaboration with Rett researchers will help expedite research and curative therapies for Rett syndrome," said Angela Holmes, PhD, Scientific Curator at Addgene.
About Addgene
Addgene (Watertown, MA) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to facilitating scientific discoveries by operating a plasmid library for researchers. Addgene's collection contains over 90,000 plasmids contributed by 4,300 research labs worldwide. Addgene also provides more than 450 ready-to-use AAV and lentivirus preparations of plasmids as a service to scientists - saving them time and providing thorough quality control. Over 1.3 million plasmids have been distributed to 100 countries by Addgene. By authenticating, storing, and distributing plasmids, virus, and their associated data, Addgene is creating a lasting resource for research and discovery scientists around the world.
About Rett Syndrome Research Trust
RSRT (Trumbull, CT) was launched in 2008 with a singular goal: to drive the development of treatments and cures for Rett Syndrome and related MECP2 disorders. To date, RSRT has funded over $66 million in academic and industry research. Recent industry partnerships focus on the development of therapeutics targeting the underlying cause of Rett Syndrome, the MECP2 gene.
