How cells control mRNA messages

Regulation of mRNA Fate

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA CRUZ · NIH-11137699

Researchers are looking at how proteins that bind mRNA change which protein versions cells make, which could matter for people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and some cancers.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA CRUZ (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SANTA CRUZ, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11137699 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This project uses human cells and special cell lines that combine human and chimpanzee chromosomes to find single-letter genetic changes that alter mRNA processing. Scientists use genomics, molecular biology, and biochemistry to discover RNA elements and mRNA-binding proteins that act like switches for alternative splicing and translation. They will examine how different mRNA isoforms associate with ribosomes and how that affects protein production and mRNA stability. Understanding these mechanisms could point to targets for future tests or therapies for conditions such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy and certain cancers.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: People with Duchenne muscular dystrophy or patients with cancers who are willing to provide tissue or cell samples would be the most relevant candidates for future related studies.

Not a fit: Patients seeking an immediate new treatment or those without relevant genetic or cancer-related conditions are unlikely to benefit directly from this lab-based research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could uncover molecular switches that lead to new tests or therapy strategies for Duchenne muscular dystrophy and certain cancers.

How similar studies have performed: Related genomic and biochemical studies have previously identified RNA regulatory elements, but turning those findings into clinical treatments is still an emerging area.

Where this research is happening

SANTA CRUZ, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Aran-Duchenne disease, Cancers

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.