| 13 | RNA research. Her pioneering work on non-coding RNAs and small nucleolar RNAs helped unravel how RNA modifications affect ribosome function. Her recent collaboration with Ada Yonath, Nobel laureate and renowned Israeli crystallographer, led to groundbreaking discoveries about pseudouridine, an RNA modification critical for mRNA stability and functionality. “The combination of exact sciences, life sciences, and the medical need is the key to solving complex health issues” “We showed that even a single pseudouridine modification on the ribosome can alter protein synthesis patterns in the cell, allowing the parasite to adapt to different hosts,” she explains. This research has vast implications, not only for understanding trypanosomes but also for RNA biology and vaccine development, as the same modification made the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines successful. Prof. Michaeli’s work is also deeply intertwined with nanotechnology. Over the years, her lab has collaborated with the chemistry department to develop nanoparticles for drug delivery. These nanodrugs have shown promise in treating parasitic infections, like Leishmania, which is endemic in Israel and has recently impacted soldiers stationed near Gaza. She has worked on a unique nanodrug designed to burst the lysosome of Leishmania parasites, a mechanism that she describes as “an unmet need,” especially since existing treatments are limited. Her lab’s work has demonstrated the potential of these nanodrugs in preclinical trials, and she is currently seeking funding to scale up and fast-track production for clinical trials, potentially in collaboration with the IDF and Sheba Medical Center. Beyond her scientific contributions, Prof. Michaeli has significantly influenced Israel’s scientific landscape. Her role as Director of the Life Sciences and Medicine Division at the Israel Science Foundation for eight years allowed her to support high-impact research nationwide. She has been a dedicated mentor to numerous students, many from countries where trypanosome-related diseases are endemic. Despite the war, which temporarily disrupted her lab’s international team, her Indian students returned to continue their research, underscoring their dedication and Prof. Michaeli's impact as a mentor. Lest you think Prof. Michaeli is officially entering retirement, Bar-Ilan President Arie Zaban has tapped her to lead the university into a new venture. In her upcoming role, she will be part of the Health Tech Valley Project, a collaborative initiative between BarIlan University and Sheba Medical Center. Michaeli will help develop a new generation of physician-scientists by overseeing the recruitment and establishment of wet and computational labs that bring together medical and academic expertise. “Why should I slow down?” she asks enthusiastically. "The President offered me another challenge.” This project reflects her belief in interdisciplinary collaboration as a catalyst for innovation. “The combination of exact sciences, life sciences, and the medical need is the key to solving complex health issues,” she stated. As she transitions from her position as Vice President for Research, Prof. Michaeli looks forward to continuing her research and expanding her work on nanodrugs and RNA biology. Her lab will continue its work, and she remains deeply committed to guiding the next generation of scientists. Michaeli's influence will continue to resonate through her scientific contributions and the many researchers she has mentored along the way.
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