New AXA Chair in RNA Biology for Sustainable Agriculture Awarded to Federico Ariel in Argentina

When a gene is expressed, a fragment of DNA is transcribed into RNA, which will be ultimately translated into functional proteins. This is known as the Central Dogma of Biology. However, when an RNA molecule exerts functional roles instead of coding for proteins, we call them “noncoding RNAs”. Prof. Ariel’s project focuses on harnessing noncoding RNAs to unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying plant responses to environmental stress and to develop RNA-based technologies for sustainable agriculture. His research aims to enhance the stress tolerance of key crops such as tomato and wheat, which are vital to global food security.

Addressing the Challenge of Climate Change in Agriculture

The increasing frequency and intensity of heat waves pose a severe threat to global food systems. While traditional breeding and genetic approaches offer long-term solutions, Ariel’s work emphasizes the largely untapped potential of epigenetic mechanisms, particularly those mediated by RNA molecules, to provide short-term resilience in a GMO-free manner.

Using advanced sequencing and biochemical methods, Ariel’s team will identify heat-responsive noncoding RNAs in tomato and wheat. Complementary nanotechnology approaches will tackle the challenge of delivering these exogenous RNAs effectively to plants, offering practical tools to prime crops against heat stress.

“This research represents a paradigm shift in sustainable agriculture,” says Ariel. “By leveraging the universal language of life –RNA–, we can communicate with plants and help them adapt to extreme environmental conditions without altering their genetic makeup. This approach not only safeguards biodiversity but also aligns with the pressing need for eco-friendly agricultural practices.”

A Transformative Vision for Sustainable Agriculture

The project’s implications extend beyond academia. By demonstrating the viability of RNA-based solutions for heat stress resilience, it paves the way for practical applications in agriculture, benefiting farmers globally, especially in regions disproportionately affected by climate change.

The strategic focus on tomato and wheat reflects their global nutritional and economic importance. The tools developed through Ariel’s research will support sustainable yields, protect local landraces, and ensure food security under adverse conditions.

"We are committed to transforming science into technology that drives sustainability. The project led by Federico Ariel as an AXA Chair holds immense potential to advance sustainable agriculture in the face of climate change. This initiative aligns with the mission, vision, and values of our University" — Dr. Enrique Mammarella, President of the National University of Litoral, Argentina.

An Emblematic Project Showcasing AXA's Commitment to Supporting Innovative Research

Julia D’Astorg, Head of the AXA Research Fund, highlights the significance of this initiative:
“Climate change is one of the greatest challenges of our time, with profound implications for global food security. Federico Ariel’s pioneering research embodies the innovative and impactful science that the AXA Research Fund is proud to support. His work offers hope for a sustainable future, combining cutting-edge science with practical solutions for farmers worldwide.”

About Federico Ariel

Federico Ariel is an internationally recognized leader in RNA biology and biotechnology, with extensive expertise in plant stress responses and sustainable agriculture. He holds a principal investigator position at CONICET and leads research groups at the Universidad Nacional del Litoral and the Universidad de Buenos Aires. Over the past decade, his work has advanced our understanding of noncoding RNAs and their roles in plant adaptation to environmental challenges, for what he was internationally recognized.

This AXA Chair award underscores the transformative potential of Ariel’s research in addressing the urgent need for climate-resilient crops, offering a sustainable path forward in a changing world.

For more info: www.ifibyne.fcen.uba.ar/grupo-ariel; www.rnasociety.org/dr--federico-ariel  - X: @arg_epilab

About the AXA Research Fund

The AXA Research Fund is AXA’s global science philanthropy initiative created in 2008 to address the most important issues facing our society and our planet by funding transformative research, disseminating findings and promoting collaboration among relevant stakeholders. Endowed with 262 M since its inception, the AXA Research Fund has funded 752 projects in the field around risk in the areas of health, climate & environment, and socio-economy & new technologies, from 358 leading academic institutions in 39 countries.

About CONICET (Argentina’s National Scientific and Technical Research Council, or Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas)

Established in 1958, CONICET it is the best-ranked scientific institution in Latin America and consistently ranks among the top research organizations worldwide. CONICET supports a dynamic network of researchers, fellows, and technical professionals across diverse fields, fostering groundbreaking discoveries and solutions. Through its extensive network of institutes and collaborations with universities and industries, CONICET drives Argentina’s scientific advancement and contributes to global knowledge and innovation.

For more info: www.conicet.gov.ar   - X: @CONICETDialoga 

About Universidad Nacional del Litoral

UNL, founded in 1919, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Argentina. Renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and innovation, UNL stands as the national leader in patent generation, with groundbreaking contributions in biotechnology and other cutting-edge fields. Its robust research ecosystem fosters collaboration and technological advancement, driving impactful solutions that address regional and global challenges. 

For more info: www.unl.edu.ar  - X: @UNLitoral

About Universidad de Buenos Aires

UBA, established in 1821, is the highest-ranked university in Argentina and one of the most prestigious in Latin America. Renowned for its academic and research excellence, UBA boasts an illustrious history, including five Nobel laureates among its alumni. As a hub for innovation and intellectual growth, it continues to shape leaders and drive advancements across diverse fields, making a profound impact both locally and globally.

For more info: www.exactas.uba.ar   - X: @Exactas_UBA; @ifibyne; @UBAonline

February 13, 2025