Investigating how human cells recognize double-stranded RNA
Official title: Understanding double-stranded RNA recognition in human cells
Funded at Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-11088863 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in our cells recognize double-stranded RNA, which is important for fighting viruses and controlling gene activity, to help us understand more about how these processes work and how they might relate to diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project start | August 4, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $418,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150953-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11088863 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with autoimmune conditions or those affected by viral infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to dsRNA recognition or those not experiencing autoimmune or viral diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is recognized by specific proteins in human cells, which is crucial for various biological processes including antiviral responses and the regulation of gene expression. The research employs biochemical, structural, and single-molecule techniques to explore how these proteins interact with complex dsRNA structures found in cells. By examining the role of dsRNA in microRNA biogenesis and innate immune sensing, the study aims to connect laboratory findings with cellular mechanisms, potentially leading to new insights into diseases linked to these processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for autoimmune diseases and enhance our understanding of antiviral responses.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding dsRNA interactions, but this specific approach to studying cellular recognition mechanisms is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
Worcester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fang, Wenwen — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Fang, Wenwen
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Understanding HIV-1 Env shapes to boost immune attack against infected cells
Aimed at helping people living with HIV, this project explores how specific HIV-1 envelope structures attract or resist immune attack so future therapies could better help the body clear hidden virus.
-
Reprogramming metabolism to power alternative fat-burning modes
A new project will explore how fat cells burn calories in different ways to help combat obesity.
-
Silencing an Extra Chromosome to Help Down Syndrome and Related Conditions
A patient-friendly plan to use a gene-based approach to quiet an extra chromosome in cells and a mouse model to reduce disease-related effects in Down syndrome and other chromosomal imbalance disorders.
-
Gut microbes and brain function in autism
Researchers are exploring how gut bacteria may influence brain signals and behavior in autism, using worm models to uncover possible links that could someday inform human therapies.
-
Chlamydia and gonorrhea interaction: how host interferons influence co-infection
A human-health focused project looks at how the body’s interferon signals during chlamydia infection affect the way gonorrhea behaves, with potential implications for people vulnerable to both infections.
-
Conquering High Blood Pressure in Vietnamese Cities
A program to adapt and test a proven plan for lowering high blood pressure in urban Vietnam using a mobile health platform and integrated care approach.
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.