A common RNA-binding protein that helps nerve cells develop
A Conserved RNA Binding Protein Required for Control of Key Developmental Pathways
['FUNDING_R01'] · EMORY UNIVERSITY · NIH-11290332
This project studies how a widely present RNA-binding protein controls nerve cell development to better understand an inherited neurodevelopmental condition linked to that protein.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | EMORY UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ATLANTA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11290332 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are using genetic and molecular experiments to find which RNAs are controlled by the protein ZC3H14 (and its fly counterpart Nab2) and how that control affects brain wiring and behavior. Much of the work uses a fruit fly model where the human protein can replace the fly version, letting scientists link specific RNA targets to outcomes like axon guidance, movement, and memory. The team will combine genetics, biochemical binding studies, and analyses of brain structure and function to reveal mechanisms that make neurons especially dependent on this protein. These findings aim to connect molecular changes to the neurodevelopmental symptoms seen when ZC3H14 is lost.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with confirmed mutations in the ZC3H14 gene or unexplained early-onset neurodevelopmental symptoms that might be linked to RNA-binding protein dysfunction would be most relevant to this research.
Not a fit: Patients with unrelated neurological conditions or disorders caused by different genes are unlikely to directly benefit from this specific project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal biological targets and mechanisms that point toward future diagnostics or treatments for people with ZC3H14-related neurodevelopmental disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Related studies of other RNA-binding proteins have linked them to neurological disease and fly models have successfully helped identify disease mechanisms, but mapping ZC3H14's specific RNA targets is a newer effort.
Where this research is happening
ATLANTA, UNITED STATES
- EMORY UNIVERSITY — ATLANTA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MOBERG, KENNETH H — EMORY UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: MOBERG, KENNETH H
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.