How prion proteins influence RNA-modifying enzymes

Prion-based regulation of RNA-modifying enzyme activities

NIH-funded research University of Oregon · NIH-11084482

This study is looking at how certain proteins that can cause brain diseases might help control enzymes that change RNA, which could lead to better ways for cells to grow and handle stress, and the findings could help improve our understanding and treatment of conditions related to aging and cell growth.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Oregon NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Eugene, United States)
Project IDNIH-11084482 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of prion proteins, which are known for causing brain diseases, in regulating RNA-modifying enzymes. The study aims to understand how these enzymes, when adopting prion-like forms, can alter their activities on RNA, impacting gene expression and leading to beneficial traits such as resistance to environmental stress. By exploring the biochemical processes involved, the research seeks to uncover new insights into cellular functions and growth phenotypes. Patients may benefit from the findings as they could lead to advancements in understanding and treating conditions related to cellular growth and aging.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with conditions related to brain diseases or those interested in the biological mechanisms of aging and cellular function.

Not a fit: Patients with acute, non-chronic conditions unrelated to cellular growth or RNA modifications may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new insights into cellular processes that may lead to innovative treatments for brain diseases and other conditions related to cellular growth and aging.

How similar studies have performed: While prion proteins are typically associated with disease, this research explores their potential beneficial roles, which is a novel approach in the field.

Where this research is happening

Eugene, 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.
Conditions Brain DiseasesBrain Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.