How B cells use mRNA end signals to control antibody production
mRNA alternative polyadenylation in B cell development
Researchers are looking at how B cells change the way mRNA messages end to control whether they make membrane or secreted antibodies, which is important for autoimmune diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11333331 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project studies alternative polyadenylation, a way cells change the ends of mRNA messages, during B cell activation and development to see how it controls antibody production. The team will use molecular biology and sequencing approaches in cell and model systems and may analyze human-derived samples to map mRNA isoforms and their regulation. They plan to focus on known examples like the IgM heavy chain and expand to other genes that influence antibody secretion. The goal is to clarify post-transcriptional switches that go wrong in autoimmune conditions so future treatments can target them.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: If human sampling is included, ideal candidates would be people with autoimmune diseases driven by abnormal antibody production (for example, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis) or healthy donors for comparison.
Not a fit: People whose conditions are unrelated to B cell or antibody dysfunction or those seeking immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this laboratory-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal molecular switches that help reduce harmful antibody production and point to new treatments for autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Prior landmark findings (such as IgM isoform switching) show mRNA end choice can change antibody form, but detailed mechanisms across B cell development remain largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
Irvine, United States
- University of California-Irvine — Irvine, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shi, Yongsheng — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Shi, Yongsheng
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 below.