How tiny regulatory RNAs (microRNAs) are made and work
Biogenesis and Function of Regulatory RNAs
This research looks at how tiny RNAs called microRNAs are produced and how they control genes, with relevance to diseases like cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11316985 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From my point of view, researchers use tiny roundworms (C. elegans) as a living system and a mix of sensitive biochemistry, special worm strains, genomic data, and computer analysis to map when and where microRNAs are made and where they bind. They will compare normal conditions and stress (like heat shock) to find microRNAs and other noncoding RNAs that change. The team aims to identify the exact RNA targets bound inside cells and to figure out what features decide how those targets are regulated. These findings are meant to improve understanding of how microRNA defects can contribute to human diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This is basic lab research linked to cancer and other diseases, so patients with cancers interested in the biology of microRNAs may find the results relevant in the future.
Not a fit: Because the project is laboratory work in worms rather than a clinical trial, patients should not expect direct treatments or immediate personal benefit from participating.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new molecular steps behind microRNA-related problems and point to future targets for diagnostics or therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies using cell and animal models have successfully mapped many microRNA roles, but turning those basic findings into human treatments is still in early stages.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pasquinelli, Amy E. — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Pasquinelli, Amy 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.