How cells coordinate making and processing messenger RNA
Coupling of transcription elongation and termination with pre-mRNA processing
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER · NIH-11266184
Researchers are looking at how cells control the speed and completion of making messenger RNA to better understand problems that can lead to cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11266184 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project looks at how RNA polymerase II—the enzyme that copies DNA into messenger RNA—works together with RNA-processing proteins to shape mature mRNA. Scientists will study how the speed of polymerase movement, RNA folding, and the binding of processing factors affect splicing and 3′ end formation, using molecular and cell-based experiments. Work will use biochemical assays, cell models (including cancer cell lines), and analysis of RNA and protein interactions to map the molecular 'mRNA factory.' The goal is to pinpoint steps that break down in cancer so future diagnostic or therapeutic approaches can target them.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancer who can donate tumor tissue or blood samples, or who are interested in participating in molecular research at the University of Colorado Denver, would be the best candidates to contribute.
Not a fit: People without cancer or whose tumors do not involve mRNA processing abnormalities are unlikely to see direct benefits from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal molecular weak points in cancer cells that lead to better diagnostics or new treatment targets for cancers driven by mRNA processing errors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has linked mRNA processing errors to cancer, but directly manipulating polymerase speed and the coupling of processing steps is a developing area without established clinical therapies yet.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER — Aurora, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BENTLEY, DAVID L — UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER
- Study coordinator: BENTLEY, DAVID L
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.