NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Exploring RNA-guided enzymes for cancer treatment and immune response

Official title: Mechanisms and Applications of RNA-mediated Enzymes in Translation and Immunity

Funded at Van Andel Research Institute · NIH-11031950 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is exploring special enzymes that use RNA to help with important biological processes, aiming to find new ways to treat cancer and boost the immune system, which could lead to better therapies for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVan Andel Research Institute
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Grand Rapids, United States)
Project startFebruary 12, 2024
Project endJanuary 31, 2029
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$563,163
NIH project number5R35GM152081-03
Project IDNIH-11031950 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with cancer or those interested in advanced therapeutic options involving RNA technology.

Less likely to help

Patients with conditions unrelated to cancer or immune system disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates RNA-guided enzymes, which are unique molecules that utilize RNA to direct chemical reactions in various biological processes. By employing advanced techniques in structural biology, the research aims to understand how these enzymes function and how they can be harnessed for innovative therapies and diagnostics, particularly in cancer treatment and immune response. The focus is on understanding the mechanisms behind these enzymes, including CRISPR technology, to develop new tools for gene regulation and manipulation. Patients may benefit from advancements in targeted therapies that could improve treatment outcomes.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to groundbreaking therapies that enhance cancer treatment and immune responses.

How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results using RNA-guided enzymes in therapeutic applications, indicating a strong potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

  • Van Andel Research Institute
    Grand Rapids, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Li, Hong — Van Andel Research Institute
  • Study coordinator: Li, Hong

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.