How telomeres and a specific protein complex interact in human cells

The interplay of the CST complex and telomerase at human telomeres

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · ROCKEFELLER UNIVERSITY · NIH-10977201

This study is looking at how certain parts of our cells, called telomeres, can affect cancer and other diseases, and it aims to find new ways to help people with conditions like dyskeratosis congenita by understanding how a specific protein complex helps keep these telomeres healthy.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorROCKEFELLER UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10977201 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of telomeres, which are protective caps on the ends of chromosomes, in the development of cancer and other diseases. It focuses on a protein complex called CST that helps maintain telomeres and regulates telomerase, an enzyme that can contribute to cancer when telomeres are excessively long. By understanding how these components interact, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better treatments for conditions associated with telomere dysfunction, such as dyskeratosis congenita and various cancers. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting telomere maintenance.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with conditions like dyskeratosis congenita or Coats plus syndrome, as well as those at risk for cancers associated with telomere length abnormalities.

Not a fit: Patients without any genetic predisposition to telomere-related diseases or cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for cancers and genetic disorders related to telomere dysfunction.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding telomere biology and its implications for cancer, indicating that this area of study is both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancers, Coats plus disease, Coats plus syndrome, Cole syndrome, Cole-Rauschkolb-Toomey syndrome

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.