Investigating how a specific RNA affects gene regulation in breast cancer

Characterization of nuclear-retained RNA-mediated gene regulatory mechanisms

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-10655466

This study is looking at a special molecule called MALAT1 that affects how breast cancer grows and spreads, especially when there's not enough oxygen, to help us understand how cancer cells change their genes to survive in tough conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Champaign, United States)
Project IDNIH-10655466 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on a long non-coding RNA called MALAT1, which plays a crucial role in breast cancer progression and metastasis, particularly under low oxygen conditions (hypoxia). The study aims to understand how MALAT1 influences the alternative splicing of pre-mRNA, which is essential for the proper expression of genes involved in the body's response to hypoxia. By examining the interactions between MALAT1 and splicing factors, the research seeks to uncover the molecular mechanisms that regulate gene expression in cancer cells. This could provide insights into how tumors adapt to their environment and progress.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with breast cancer, particularly those experiencing hypoxic conditions within their tumors.

Not a fit: Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those not diagnosed with breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting MALAT1 to inhibit breast cancer progression.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting non-coding RNAs like MALAT1 can influence cancer progression, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Champaign, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Breast Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.