How tiny microRNAs shape animal development
Roles of microRNAs in animal development
This work looks at how tiny RNA molecules called microRNAs control cell growth and organ formation, which can help explain some human developmental and genetic disorders.
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-11323053 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers use the harmless roundworm C. elegans as a model to trace microRNAs during development. They combine genetics, molecular biology, imaging, and RNA profiling to find which genes microRNAs regulate and when. By mapping these interactions, the team aims to explain why changes in microRNA machinery cause developmental problems in animals and humans. The experiments are laboratory-based and do not directly treat patients, but the results may point to mechanisms underlying human developmental conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not enroll people; its findings would be most relevant to patients and families affected by inherited developmental disorders or genetic forms of deafness.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate treatment or those without genetic or developmental conditions are unlikely to benefit directly from this laboratory-focused work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could clarify mechanisms behind some congenital and genetic disorders and guide future diagnostics or therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Prior basic-science studies have connected specific microRNAs to human disease and used model organisms effectively, but many conserved microRNA targets remain uncharacterized.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cochella, Luisa — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Cochella, Luisa
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.