Control and effects of hidden (cryptic) RNA splicing
Regulation and consequences of cryptic splicing
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE · NIH-11311897
This work looks at why cells sometimes use wrong RNA cutting sites (cryptic splicing) and how that can damage cells and contribute to cancers and nerve diseases.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11311897 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are mapping where proteins bind inside long human gene regions and identifying factors, like hnRNPM, that normally stop cryptic splicing. They combine computer analysis of sequencing data with lab experiments that reduce specific proteins in cells to see which wrong splice events appear. The team studies how those cryptic splice events change gene messages and cell function and links those changes to cancer and neurodegeneration models. By using both bioinformatics and molecular biology, they aim to find molecular steps that could become targets for future diagnostics or treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with cancers or neurodegenerative disorders known or suspected to involve splicing defects, or people willing to donate tissue or biospecimens for research, would be most relevant.
Not a fit: People with conditions that do not involve RNA splicing problems or those seeking immediate treatment benefits are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this basic research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new diagnostic markers or drug targets to prevent or correct harmful cryptic splicing in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory and animal studies have linked cryptic splicing and splicing-factor changes to disease and shown that modifying splicing can alter cell outcomes, but direct patient therapies based on these findings remain limited.
Where this research is happening
HOUSTON, UNITED STATES
- BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE — HOUSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CHENG, CHONGHUI — BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE
- Study coordinator: CHENG, CHONGHUI
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.