ADAR1 and RNA Editing: How the immune system is guided by RNA changes
Official title: Molecular Mechanisms of ADAR1-Driven RNA Editing in Immune Modulation
Funded at Rice University · NIH-11342801 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how ADAR1 edits RNA to keep the immune system from overreacting, with the goal of better understanding autoimmune diseases like Aicardi–Goutières Syndrome and improving cancer therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rice University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | July 8, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $2,538,587 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI198602-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11342801 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates include patients with Aicardi Goutières Syndrome or related autoimmune conditions where ADAR1 pathways may be relevant, or individuals who might benefit from future RNA-editing therapies.
✕Less likely to help
People without autoimmune diseases or cancer-related contexts may not directly benefit from the current molecular study.
What this research studies
This project focuses on how ADAR1 recognizes and edits RNA molecules that could otherwise stimulate the immune system. By mapping which RNA sequences and structures are targeted, scientists aim to uncover the rules behind ADAR1’s editing and its impact on immune signaling. The work combines biochemical assays, binding studies, and cellular analyses to link molecular activity with immune outcomes. If successful, findings could inform new approaches to treat autoimmune diseases and enhance anti-tumor immunity, while also supporting the development of precision RNA editing tools.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Better understanding of immune regulation at the RNA level could lead to new therapies for autoimmune diseases and improved cancer treatments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work shows ADAR1-related pathways influence immunity, but the precise substrate recognition mechanisms remain to be clarified, making this investigation both grounded and novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Rice University
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gao, Yang — Rice University
- Study coordinator: Gao, Yang
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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.