Creating better models for nucleic acid therapies to improve disease treatment
Official title: Developing a nucleic acid force field with direct chemical perception for computational modeling of nucleic acid therapeutics
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10954247 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to make gene therapies better and safer for patients by using computer models to see how changes to these treatments can help them work more effectively and with fewer side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | September 14, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $74,284 |
| NIH project number | 5F32GM150240-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10954247 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with diseases that are currently treated with nucleic acid therapies, such as those involving gene silencing.
✕Less likely to help
Patients whose conditions do not involve nucleic acid therapies or those who are not candidates for such treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the understanding and effectiveness of nucleic acid therapies, which are innovative treatments for diseases that traditional drugs cannot effectively target. By developing advanced computational models, the project aims to simulate how modifications to nucleic acids can improve their delivery and reduce side effects. The research employs physics-based simulations to analyze the interactions and behaviors of these modified nucleic acids, which could lead to more precise and effective therapies. Patients may benefit from improved nucleic acid treatments that are safer and more targeted.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective and safer nucleic acid therapies for various diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using computational models to enhance nucleic acid therapies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cavender, Chapin E — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Cavender, Chapin E
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.