Developing a new method to determine the 3D structures of RNA molecules
Official title: A universal approach for determining three-dimensional RNA structures
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10910171 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is all about finding better ways to look at the shapes of RNA molecules, which are important for how our cells work and can help in developing new medicines, so we're creating a new method to prepare RNA samples that makes it easier to study them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $169,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21GM151508-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10910171 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with diseases linked to RNA functions, particularly those associated with 'undruggable' proteins.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions that do not involve RNA-related mechanisms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the three-dimensional structures of RNA molecules, which play crucial roles in cellular processes and are important drug targets for various diseases. The team aims to create a novel method for preparing RNA samples that overcomes current limitations in traditional techniques, allowing for easier and more efficient analysis using cryogenic electron microscopy. By combining biochemical approaches with computational modeling, the research seeks to enhance our understanding of RNA functions and accelerate drug discovery efforts.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new drug targets for diseases that currently have no effective treatments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using cryo-electron microscopy for structural biology, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Serganov, Alexander — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Serganov, Alexander
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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.