Exploring the role of triple-stranded RNA in cancer biology

Characterization of a Model System to Advance Triple-Stranded RNA Biology

NIH-funded research University of Notre Dame · NIH-10669618

This study is looking at a special type of RNA called MALAT1 and how it works with a protein named METTL16, which could help us learn more about important processes in our cells and potentially lead to new ways to understand and treat cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Notre Dame NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Notre Dame, United States)
Project IDNIH-10669618 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the biological functions of triple-stranded RNA, particularly focusing on a specific RNA structure known as MALAT1 and its interaction with a protein called METTL16. By using advanced techniques like X-ray crystallography and biochemical methods, the researchers aim to uncover how these molecules interact and their roles in critical processes such as telomere synthesis and RNA splicing. This foundational knowledge could lead to the development of new tools for discovering additional RNA triple helices and understanding their significance in cancer biology.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Patients with malignancies or cancers that may be influenced by RNA biology, particularly those related to the MALAT1 RNA structure.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to RNA biology or those not affected by malignancies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and therapeutic strategies for treating cancers associated with RNA biology.

How similar studies have performed: While the exploration of RNA triple helices is a relatively novel area, preliminary findings suggest potential for significant breakthroughs in understanding RNA biology.

Where this research is happening

Notre Dame, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Cancersneoplasm/cancerDiseaseDisorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.