How cell membranes and long RNAs shape tiny cellular droplets
Cellular Surfaces as Regulators of Biomolecular Condensate Assembly
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY · NIH-11308416
This project looks at how cell membranes and long RNA molecules change tiny protein–RNA droplets inside cells to help people with ALS.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11308416 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will study two types of cellular surfaces — flat lipid membranes and long noncoding RNA polymers — to see how they influence the makeup and layering of biomolecular condensates, which are tiny compartments inside cells. The team will examine how these surfaces change RNA structure and how that affects mRNA handling in the cytoplasm and nucleus. Experiments will be done in laboratory cell models using biochemical methods and microscopy to track condensate composition and function. The goal is to build a detailed, mechanistic picture of how cells organize mRNA-related compartments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with ALS who are interested in research or future opportunities to provide samples for studies of RNA and protein aggregation could be relevant to follow this work.
Not a fit: Individuals without ALS or whose conditions do not involve RNA/protein condensate dysfunction are unlikely to see direct benefits from this basic lab research in the short term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new mechanisms behind RNA mis-management in neurons and point to targets for therapies for ALS.
How similar studies have performed: Research on biomolecular condensates has progressed recently, but applying membrane and long noncoding RNA surfaces to explain condensate layering is a relatively new and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
CHICAGO, UNITED STATES
- NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY — CHICAGO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SNEAD, WILTON THOMAS — NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: SNEAD, WILTON THOMAS
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.
Conditions: Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Motor Neuron Disease