Cells execute a complex set of genetic programs in order to adapt to a changing array of circumstances and environments. Regulated messenger RNA decay is an important component of overall gene expression. In eukaryotes, conserved RNA decay pathways operate to turnover and degrade unnecessary or undesirable (...think viruses) pools of RNAs using a set of enzymes with interesting biochemical properties. The Chapman lab is interested in RNA decay enzymes with an emphasis on understanding the role of RNA structure in their regulation.