How ribosomes control cell growth
Ribosomes and growth regulation
Researchers are learning how faults in ribosomes can cause early-onset anemia and raise the risk of cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11171767 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses fruit flies as a model to mimic genetic defects that make ribosomes work poorly and to see how cells respond. The team applies ribosome profiling to map which proteins are made differently and uses gene-editing to test the roles of specific protein pieces. The research focuses on conditions such as Diamond-Blackfan anemia and molecular changes that could promote cancer. Results are intended to highlight the key steps that might be targeted by future treatments or diagnostics.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Diamond-Blackfan anemia, other inherited ribosome disorders, or a family history of related cancers would be most directly interested in these findings.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to ribosome defects (for example most heart or joint diseases) are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify molecular targets or biomarkers that lead to new treatments or tests for Diamond-Blackfan anemia and related cancers.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has connected ribosomal protein mutations to anemia and cancer and model-organism studies have provided important clues, but translating those insights into human therapies is still at an early stage.
Where this research is happening
Irvine, United States
- University of California-Irvine — Irvine, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Baker, Nicholas E — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Baker, Nicholas E
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.