Organisation:
University of EdinburghSpecialism:
RNA-binding proteins and cardiac gene therapyDr Abdelaziz (Appie) Beqqali is the REACT Chancellor's Fellow at the University of Edinburgh.
Appie's research focuses on how RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) and alternative splicing regulate heart function and contribute to the development of heart failure. Building on previous discoveries of the cardiac splicing regulator RBM20, his group aims to map the complete RBP landscape of the human heart and develop RNA-based therapeutic strategies to restore normal gene regulation in disease.
Appie is driven by the goal of transforming our understanding of cardiac RNA biology into tangible treatments that can prevent or reverse heart failure. The REACT mission aligns closely with this vision, particularly through its focus on advancing RNA and gene therapies for cardiac repair.
Within REACT, he aims to contribute expertise in RNA biology, splicing regulation, and therapeutic gene modulation, while collaborating with our REACT partners to translate mechanistic insights into regenerative therapies. Together, we can bridge fundamental RNA biology and clinical translation to achieve lasting impact in cardiac medicine.