Creating tools to modify small RNA molecules in the kidney
Official title: Engineering RNA editing tools for the generation of functional tRNA-derived small RNAs in the kidney
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10751516 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to use special tools to help improve kidney health by focusing on tiny RNA molecules that protect the kidneys during stress or injury, and it aims to find out how changing these molecules can help people with kidney problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2023 |
| Project end | September 19, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $331,754 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DK137432-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10751516 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with acute or chronic kidney conditions who may benefit from novel therapeutic approaches targeting RNA molecules.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with kidney diseases not related to the mechanisms of tRNA-derived small RNAs may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative tools to engineer tRNA-derived small RNAs (tDRs) that play crucial roles in kidney function and cellular responses to stress. By utilizing RNA-targeting CRISPR technology, the researchers aim to manipulate the expression of specific tDRs, particularly those that are protective during kidney injury. The study will explore how these modifications can influence kidney health and disease progression, providing insights into potential therapeutic strategies for kidney-related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect kidney function and improve outcomes for patients with kidney diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of engineering tDRs is innovative, preliminary data suggest that similar RNA-targeting strategies have shown promise in other contexts, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Das, Saumya — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Das, Saumya
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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.