How long noncoding RNAs control gene activity
Mechanisms of gene regulation by long noncoding RNAs
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL · NIH-11321643
Researchers are uncovering how long noncoding RNAs switch genes on and off in ways that could help people with Angelman syndrome, Rett syndrome, some cancers, and autoimmune conditions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11321643 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project focuses on long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) that repress gene activity, especially potent examples like Xist that can silence entire chromosomes. Scientists will compare RNA sequences and structures, test which RNA parts are needed for repression, and study related intron-containing RNAs to find shared features. They will use lab models, cellular systems, and molecular assays to observe how these RNAs interact with genes and the proteins that control them. The team will connect these basic discoveries to conditions such as Angelman syndrome, Rett syndrome, cancers, and autoimmune diseases to identify lncRNAs that may be relevant to patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Angelman syndrome, Rett syndrome, certain cancers, or autoimmune conditions might be relevant for future sample donation or participation in follow-up studies informed by these findings.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to gene-regulation biology or those seeking immediate clinical treatments are unlikely to receive direct benefits from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new targets or strategies to correct harmful gene activity underlying several genetic disorders, cancers, and autoimmune diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Some lncRNAs like Xist are well studied and have shown gene-silencing roles, but many candidate lncRNAs remain untested and the detailed mechanisms of repression are still largely unresolved.
Where this research is happening
CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES
- UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL — CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CALABRESE, JOSEPH MAURO — UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL
- Study coordinator: CALABRESE, JOSEPH MAURO
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.
Conditions: Angelman Syndrome, Cancers, Disease, Disorder