How unusual RNA-driven protein production may cause nerve and brain disorders
Mechanistic Basis for Non-Canonical Translation in Neurological Disease
Researchers are looking at how certain RNAs can make unexpected proteins that may contribute to diseases caused by CAG repeat expansions, like Huntington’s and some ataxias.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Albany NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albany, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11179351 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project examines how RNA structure lets cells start making proteins in the wrong reading frame, a process called RAN translation, which is linked to CAG repeat neurological diseases. The team uses a structure-focused screening approach in lab-grown cells and molecular assays to find RNAs that support multi-frame protein production without normal start signals. They will map the RNA shapes, the proteins that interact with those RNAs, and genetic modifiers that change this abnormal translation. The goal is to pinpoint molecular features that could be targeted to prevent toxic protein production.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with CAG repeat expansion conditions (for example Huntington’s disease or certain spinocerebellar ataxias) are the patient group most directly relevant to this work.
Not a fit: Patients with neurological conditions unrelated to CAG repeat expansions or RAN translation are unlikely to see direct benefit from this specific project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets to block harmful protein production in CAG repeat disorders and guide future therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Prior research has shown RAN translation occurs and identified a few influencing factors, but a structure-forward mapping of RNAs and interacting proteins is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Albany, United States
- State University of New York at Albany — Albany, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shorrock, Hannah — State University of New York at Albany
- Study coordinator: Shorrock, Hannah
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.