Investigating how certain RNA sequences control heart-related gene expression
uORF-mediated Translational Control of Cardiac Transcription Factor Expression
This study is looking at tiny RNA sequences that help control how proteins important for heart health are made, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how these processes might lead to new treatments for heart problems like thickening of the heart muscle.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11059921 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how short RNA sequences, known as upstream open reading frames (uORFs), influence the production of proteins that are crucial for heart function. By analyzing data from human and mouse studies, the researchers aim to uncover how these uORFs can regulate the expression of important cardiac transcription factors, such as GATA4. The study employs advanced techniques like CRISPR-Cas9 to modify genes in human stem cells and mouse models, allowing for a detailed examination of how these mechanisms contribute to heart conditions like hypertrophy. The ultimate goal is to develop new therapeutic strategies using antisense oligonucleotides to target these regulatory pathways.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cardiac hypertrophy or other related cardiac disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cardiac conditions or those without any heart-related issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for cardiac diseases by targeting the molecular mechanisms that regulate heart function.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar molecular mechanisms in other conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- University of Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yao, Peng — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Yao, Peng
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.