How mRNA export affects skin cell growth and differentiation

Regulation of epidermal growth and differentiation through mRNA export

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11129628

This study is looking at how certain proteins help skin cells grow and change, which could help us understand skin conditions like basal cell carcinoma, and it involves creating 3D skin models to see how these proteins work in real life.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11129628 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of mRNA export mechanisms in regulating the growth and differentiation of skin cells. It focuses on specific RNA binding proteins, RBM15 and ZC3H18, which are crucial for the export of mRNAs that control skin cell self-renewal and differentiation. By studying these proteins in both stem/progenitor cells and differentiated cells, the research aims to uncover how mutations in these proteins can lead to skin conditions like basal cell carcinoma. The approach includes generating three-dimensional human skin models to better understand these processes in a clinically relevant context.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with skin conditions, particularly those related to epidermal growth and differentiation, such as basal cell carcinoma.

Not a fit: Patients with non-epidermal cancers or unrelated skin conditions may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for skin cancers and other conditions related to epidermal growth and differentiation.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding mRNA export mechanisms in various cellular contexts, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.