How C. elegans cells take in double-stranded RNA and cholesterol
Official title: Import of double-stranded RNA and cholesterol into cells in C. elegans
Funded at Univ of Maryland, College Park · NIH-10996829 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny worms called C. elegans move important molecules like double-stranded RNA and cholesterol into their cells, which could help us find better ways to deliver treatments for heart-related issues and conditions linked to cholesterol.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Maryland, College Park NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Park, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $42,547 |
| NIH project number | 1F31HL176186-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10996829 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cardiovascular diseases or conditions related to cholesterol metabolism.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cardiovascular conditions or those not affected by cholesterol metabolism issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the nematode C. elegans transports double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) and cholesterol into its cells, which is crucial for gene silencing and maintaining cholesterol balance. The study focuses on a specific protein, SID-1, that facilitates the movement of dsRNA between cells and explores its interaction with a newly identified cholesterol transporter. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to improve the delivery of RNA-based therapies for cardiovascular diseases. The findings could lead to advancements in how we treat conditions related to cholesterol metabolism and gene expression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the effectiveness of RNA-based therapies for cardiovascular diseases by improving how these therapies are delivered into cells.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using RNA interference for gene silencing, but the specific mechanisms of dsRNA transport in C. elegans are less explored, making this a novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Maryland, College Park
College Park, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lowers, Victoria — Univ of Maryland, College Park
- Study coordinator: Lowers, Victoria
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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.