Developing a new enzyme for better RNA analysis and sequencing.
Official title: Develop, Optimize and Commercialize UltraMarathonRT: A new enzyme for unbiased transcriptomic and epitranscriptomic characterization of RNAs regardless of length or composition.
Funded at Rnaconnect INC · NIH-11081017 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new tool called ultraMarathonRT that helps scientists better detect and analyze RNA, including important viruses like the coronavirus, making it easier to use in labs and clinics, especially in places that might not have a lot of resources.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rnaconnect INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Branford, United States) |
| Project start | May 6, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $944,054 |
| NIH project number | 5R44GM153078-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11081017 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by diseases that involve RNA, such as viral infections or certain genetic disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to RNA analysis or those who do not require RNA-based diagnostics may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating and optimizing a new enzyme called ultraMarathonRT, which significantly improves the detection and sequencing of RNA molecules. By utilizing this enzyme, researchers aim to enhance the ability to analyze RNA, including long RNA sequences like the coronavirus genome, without the limitations of current methods. The enzyme is designed to work effectively at ambient temperatures, making it more practical for various applications, including those in remote or resource-limited settings. The ultimate goal is to commercialize this enzyme for widespread use in laboratories and clinical settings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate and efficient RNA analysis, benefiting diagnostics and treatment strategies for diseases like COVID-19.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success with similar enzyme development approaches, indicating a promising path for this novel enzyme.
Where this research is happening
-
Rnaconnect INC
Branford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guo, Li-Tao — Rnaconnect INC
- Study coordinator: Guo, Li-Tao
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.