How RNA and DNA change shape inside cells
Exploring the Dynamic Structures of Nucleic Acids
Researchers are mapping the different shapes of RNA and DNA to help design better cancer treatments and stronger RNA-based medicines for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cornell University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ithaca, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11372239 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Scientists in the lab use a mix of experiments and computer modeling to capture the many shapes that RNA and DNA can adopt, with special focus on single‑stranded regions that control gene activity. They combine solution-based measurements with atomic-level interpretation to see how ions, small molecules, or nearby RNA pieces cause those regions to fold or unfold. By moving from simple RNA pieces to larger functional elements, the team aims to reveal precise structural features that drug designers could target or that could improve the stability of RNA therapeutics and vaccines.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not enroll patients; its findings would most directly benefit people with cancers or those who might receive RNA-based therapies in the future.
Not a fit: People with conditions unrelated to gene-expression or RNA-targetable mechanisms are unlikely to see direct benefits from this basic molecular research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could enable new ways to target genes in cancer and improve the design and stability of RNA-based drugs and vaccines.
How similar studies have performed: Related studies combining experiments and computation have revealed important RNA structures and supported RNA-targeting therapies, though targeting flexible single-stranded motifs remains technically challenging and more novel.
Where this research is happening
Ithaca, United States
- Cornell University — Ithaca, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pollack, Lois — Cornell University
- Study coordinator: Pollack, Lois
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.