NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Exploring how RNA interference affects gene regulation in worms

Official title: Investigation of RNA interference and related gene regulatory mechanisms

Funded at Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-10842794 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how tiny molecules in worms help control genes and protect against harmful information, which could help us learn more about genetic diseases and treatments that might benefit patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Worcester, United States)
Project startAugust 1, 2024
Project endJuly 31, 2029
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$115,156
NIH project number1R35GM153442-01
Project IDNIH-10842794 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with genetic disorders or those interested in the mechanisms of gene regulation.

Less likely to help

Patients with conditions unrelated to genetic regulation or those not affected by genetic disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms of RNA interference and gene regulation using the model organism C. elegans, a type of worm. By examining how cells differentiate between safe and potentially harmful genetic information, the study aims to uncover the roles of various proteins and small RNA molecules in gene expression. The research will utilize advanced genetic techniques to analyze how these processes are inherited across generations, potentially revealing insights into fundamental biological functions. Patients may benefit from understanding these mechanisms as they relate to genetic diseases and therapies.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating genetic disorders by enhancing our understanding of gene regulation.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding RNA interference and gene regulation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
    Worcester, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Mello, Craig C — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
  • Study coordinator: Mello, Craig C

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

  • Understanding HIV-1 Env shapes to boost immune attack against infected cells

    Aimed at helping people living with HIV, this project explores how specific HIV-1 envelope structures attract or resist immune attack so future therapies could better help the body clear hidden virus.

    NIH research Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · Worcester, United States · NIH-11620068

  • Reprogramming metabolism to power alternative fat-burning modes

    A new project will explore how fat cells burn calories in different ways to help combat obesity.

    NIH research Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · Worcester, United States · NIH-11607804

  • Silencing an Extra Chromosome to Help Down Syndrome and Related Conditions

    A patient-friendly plan to use a gene-based approach to quiet an extra chromosome in cells and a mouse model to reduce disease-related effects in Down syndrome and other chromosomal imbalance disorders.

    NIH research Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · Worcester, United States · NIH-11600903

  • Gut microbes and brain function in autism

    Researchers are exploring how gut bacteria may influence brain signals and behavior in autism, using worm models to uncover possible links that could someday inform human therapies.

    NIH research Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · Worcester, United States · NIH-11594150

  • Chlamydia and gonorrhea interaction: how host interferons influence co-infection

    A human-health focused project looks at how the body’s interferon signals during chlamydia infection affect the way gonorrhea behaves, with potential implications for people vulnerable to both infections.

    NIH research Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · Worcester, United States · NIH-11572329

  • Conquering High Blood Pressure in Vietnamese Cities

    A program to adapt and test a proven plan for lowering high blood pressure in urban Vietnam using a mobile health platform and integrated care approach.

    NIH research Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · Worcester, United States · NIH-11565070

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.