How RNA and proteins team up to control genes
Assembly Mechanisms of RNA-Protein Complexes for Genetic Control
Researchers are learning how small RNAs and proteins form molecular machines that control gene activity, to help people with genetic disorders, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11325315 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This Johns Hopkins project watches how non-coding RNAs and their protein partners fold and bind to form cellular machines that control genes. The team uses bacteria and yeast as model systems and new single-molecule fluorescence microscopy in live cells and reconstituted mixtures to see these interactions in real time. By mapping the dynamic competition among RNAs and proteins, investigators aim to predict how large RNA-protein complexes form and how small RNAs find their targets. The work is basic laboratory research designed to reveal physical rules that could guide future RNA-based therapies and diagnostics.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with genetic disorders, certain cancers, or neurodegenerative conditions who are interested in supporting basic research or in donating samples to related translational studies would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate changes in their care or symptom relief should not expect direct benefits because this is fundamental laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could reveal new targets and design rules for RNA-based treatments and improve understanding of diseases linked to RNA-protein assembly errors.
How similar studies have performed: Related single-molecule and model-organism work has clarified aspects of RNA and ribosome assembly, but applying these methods to predict regulatory RNA interactions for therapy is still an emerging area.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Woodson, Sarah a. — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Woodson, Sarah a.
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.