Revealing Rare Genes is a blog covering topics at the intersection of rare diseases and RNA therapeutics. We feature individual diseases, highlight patient stories, and delve into the challenges of bringing these therapies to market. Sometimes science can feel disconnected from the real world and everyday people. Through this blog we aim to forge connections that drive drug development for rare diseases forward: to connect all people with stories to inspire action; scientists with research challenges to overcome; and clinicians with healthcare gaps to address. By establishing these connections, Revealing Rare Genes mirrors the aim of La Jolla Labs: to make the drug discovery process more accessible. We hope you join us for the ride.

About the Author
Melissa Keenan

Melissa Keenan earned her B.S. in Molecular Biology from UC San Diego (cum laude) and her Ph.D. in Genetics and Genomics from Duke University with certificates in Cell and Molecular Biology and College Teaching. She worked as a postdoctoral researcher at Ionis Pharmaceuticals before stepping away from the bench to support her family at home. Melissa now balances watching her kids by day and consulting as a science writer and editor by night (and sometimes naptime). An enthusiastic molecular biologist at heart, communicating science effectively is a central priority to her as a scientist and a person.