Moira Hagen

Title: Moira Hagen: Innovator in Nucleic Acid Oligomers

Introduction

Moira Hagen is a distinguished inventor based in Cranbury, NJ (US). She has made significant contributions to the field of molecular biology, particularly in the development of capped nucleic acid oligomers. Her innovative work has implications for the treatment of influenza infections.

Latest Patents

Moira Hagen holds a patent for "Capped nucleic acid oligomers that inhibit cap-dependent transcription." This patent describes novel capped oligonucleotides that are useful in treating influenza infections. The invention involves a synthetically derived 67-nucleotide RNA substrate, which was utilized to analyze the parameters of influenza virus endonuclease activity. The substrate was specifically cleaved by the influenza virus polymerase, yielding a single capped 11-nucleotide fragment capable of directly priming transcription.

An analysis of systematic truncations of this RNA substrate in cleavage, elongation, and binding reactions demonstrated that the minimum chain length required for cleavage was one nucleotide past the cleavage site. In contrast, the minimum chain length required for priming activity was found to be 9 nucleotides, while a chain length of at least 4 nucleotides was required for efficient binding. Based on these chain length requirements, the present inventors show that a pool of capped oligonucleotides—too short to prime transcription but long enough to bind with high affinity to the viral polymerase—are potent inhibitors of cap-dependent in vitro transcription.

Career Highlights

Moira Hagen is currently associated with Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, where she continues to advance her research in the field of molecular biology. Her work has garnered attention for its potential applications in therapeutic interventions against viral infections.

Collaborations

Throughout her career, Moira has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Thomas D. Chung and Christopher W. Cianci. These collaborations have contributed to the advancement of her research and the development of innovative solutions in her field.

Conclusion

Moira Hagen's contributions to the field of nucleic acid research highlight her role as an innovator in the fight against influenza infections. Her patented work on capped nucleic acid oligomers showcases the potential for new therapeutic strategies.