How long non-coding RNAs help activate genes
Official title: Structural and Functional Studies of lncRNAs in Gene Activation
Funded at Drexel University · NIH-11482441 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This work explores how long non-coding RNAs team up with gene-remodeling proteins to switch on genes that can be important in cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Drexel University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $62,305 |
| NIH project number | 3R01GM149780-04S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11482441 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with cancers that involve SWI/SNF complex mutations or abnormal Wnt signaling would be most relevant for follow-up studies based on these findings.
✕Less likely to help
People with diseases unrelated to chromatin remodeling or Wnt-driven cancers are unlikely to see direct benefit from this project.
What this research studies
Researchers will focus on a specific long non-coding RNA called lncTCF7 to see how it recruits the SWI/SNF chromatin‑remodeling complex to turn genes on. They will combine biochemical tests, structural mapping, and cell-based experiments to identify where the RNA binds and which RNA parts are required for activity. The project aims to link RNA structure to function so we can understand how these RNAs influence Wnt signaling and other gene programs implicated in tumors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new biomarkers or drug targets to treat cancers driven by faulty gene activation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown lncRNAs can regulate chromatin and Wnt signaling, but the specific role of lncRNAs in SWI/SNF‑based gene activation is comparatively new and less well worked out.
Where this research is happening
-
Drexel University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Somarowthu, Srinivas — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: Somarowthu, Srinivas
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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.