Investigating how a specific RNA affects appetite control in the brain
Official title: Non-coding RNA regulation of neuronal protein translation and appetite control
Funded at Harvard Medical School · NIH-10916282 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a tiny piece of RNA called Snord116 affects the brain's appetite control, especially in people with Prader-Willi Syndrome, to help us understand why they often feel very hungry and find new ways to manage that.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | September 29, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $36,918 |
| NIH project number | 5F31HD113399-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10916282 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Prader-Willi Syndrome, particularly those experiencing appetite regulation issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Prader-Willi Syndrome or those not experiencing appetite control problems may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a specific small nucleolar RNA, Snord116, in the brain regions that regulate appetite. It aims to explore how the loss of Snord116 affects neuronal protein translation and the activity of appetite-regulating neurons, particularly in individuals with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS). By examining these molecular and cellular functions, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind the insatiable appetite seen in PWS. This could lead to new insights into appetite control and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for appetite regulation in individuals with Prader-Willi Syndrome and similar conditions.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific role of Snord116 in appetite regulation is being investigated for the first time, similar research on RNA functions in neuronal processes has shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard Medical School
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Whilden, Courtney Michelle — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Whilden, Courtney Michelle
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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.