How tiny RNA pieces affect protein making in ALS
tRNA-derived stress-induced RNAs and translational control
This project explores how small RNA fragments, called tiRNAs, control protein production in cells, which could be important for understanding diseases like Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11098648 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies rely on tiny molecules called tRNAs to build proteins, but we've learned they also create smaller pieces called tRFs. These tRFs seem to have important jobs in our cells, especially when cells are under stress. This work focuses on a specific type of tRF, called tiRNAs, which are made when cells are stressed and can affect how proteins are made. We want to discover new ways these tiRNAs control protein production, beyond what we already know.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research aims to benefit patients with conditions like Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis by deepening our understanding of disease mechanisms.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical interventions or direct treatment options would not directly benefit from this early-stage basic science.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could uncover new ways that cells respond to stress and lead to new targets for treatments for conditions like Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
How similar studies have performed: While the general concept of tRFs is emerging, this project explores novel tiRNA functions and mechanisms of translation control that are relatively unexplored.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ivanov, Pavel — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Ivanov, Pavel
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.