How cells modify and protect the RNAs that help build proteins
tRNA Processing
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER · NIH-11286842
The team is learning how missing chemical tags on transfer RNAs cause them to fall apart, a process linked to some genetic brain disorders.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11286842 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research uses baker's and fission yeast to model how chemical modifications help transfer RNAs (tRNAs) stay stable and work in protein production. Scientists use genetics, whole-genome sequencing, and biochemical tests to find which enzymes and decay pathways target altered tRNAs. They focus on a rapid tRNA decay pathway and the exonucleases that chew up unstable tRNAs, and on factors that can block that decay. Findings in yeast are compared to what is known about human tRNA modification-related neurologic conditions to guide future studies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with genetic neurological disorders already linked to defects in tRNA modification or unexplained neurodevelopmental conditions may be most relevant to follow these findings.
Not a fit: Patients whose illnesses have no known connection to tRNA modification biology are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this laboratory-focused work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could clarify mechanisms behind tRNA-related neurological disorders and point to new targets for diagnosis or therapy.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies in yeast have shown that lack of certain tRNA modifications causes growth defects and have begun to link tRNA defects to human neurological disease, but translating these findings into treatments remains early-stage.
Where this research is happening
ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER — ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PHIZICKY, ERIC M. — UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER
- Study coordinator: PHIZICKY, ERIC M.
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.