How cells build the machines that control protein production
Biogenesis of macromolecular machines for post-transcriptional regulation of translation
This project looks at how small RNAs and their protein partners assemble the cell’s protein-making machinery, which can be disrupted in cancers and brain diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11091039 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
I want to understand how tiny RNAs called snoRNAs and their partner proteins help form ribosomes and other RNA-protein complexes that control which proteins cells make. The team uses yeast genetics, biochemistry, high-throughput sequencing, and mass spectrometry to trace where snoRNAs act and how rRNA modifications are added. By identifying which individual rRNA modification sites change protein synthesis, they aim to link specific molecular changes to the faulty protein production seen in cancer and neurodegeneration. This is laboratory-based basic research that could inform future diagnostic tools or therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancers or neurodegenerative diseases are the most relevant patient groups whose biology might be informed by these findings.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to gene expression or protein synthesis are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic lab research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new molecular targets or biomarkers to guide treatments for cancers and neurological disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier studies have linked snoRNAs and rRNA modifications to disease, but defining the functional importance of individual modification sites and their effects on translation is still largely new.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ghalei, Homa — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Ghalei, Homa
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.