How enzymes help build ribosomes in human cells
Official title: Molecular mechanisms of ribosome biogenesis by force-producing enzymes
Funded at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11018213 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our cells make ribosomes, which are important for building proteins, and it’s for anyone interested in finding new treatments for diseases like cancer that happen when ribosomes don’t work properly.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $392,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM157075-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11018213 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with ribosomopathies or specific types of cancer that are associated with dysregulated ribosome production.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to ribosome biogenesis or those not affected by cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms involved in the production of ribosomes, which are essential for protein synthesis in human cells. By focusing on ATP-driven enzymes, the study aims to understand how these enzymes facilitate the conversion of ribosomal precursors into mature ribosomes. The research employs advanced techniques, including single-molecule optical tweezers, to observe the actions of these enzymes in real-time. Ultimately, the goal is to develop new treatments for diseases related to ribosome dysfunction, such as certain cancers and ribosomopathies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies for cancers and genetic disorders linked to ribosome biogenesis.
How similar studies have gone: While the study of ribosome biogenesis is well-established, the specific focus on human systems and the use of advanced techniques represents a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
Newark, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mickolajczyk, Keith Joseph — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Mickolajczyk, Keith Joseph
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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.