Investigating how small protein-coding regions in mRNA affect gene translation in vertebrates

Small translated ORFs in the 3'UTR enhance translation in vertebrates

['FUNDING_R01'] · STOWERS INSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL RESEARCH · NIH-10978210

This study is looking at tiny pieces of genetic code in our cells that might help control how genes work and could be connected to diseases like cancer, and it's for anyone interested in understanding more about how our bodies function at a molecular level.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTOWERS INSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL RESEARCH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (KANSAS CITY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10978210 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the role of small translated open reading frames (ORFs) found in the untranslated regions of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in vertebrates. By examining these small ORFs, particularly in the 3' untranslated region (3'UTR), the study aims to uncover their impact on gene regulation and their potential links to diseases such as cancer. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques like ribosome and proteomic profiling to analyze how these small ORFs influence translation and gene expression. Understanding these mechanisms could provide insights into fundamental biological processes and disease states.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic conditions or cancers that may be influenced by gene regulation mechanisms.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to gene regulation or those not affected by the mechanisms studied may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases linked to gene regulation, particularly cancers.

How similar studies have performed: While the investigation of small ORFs in the 5'UTR has shown success, the study of 3'UTR small ORFs is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

KANSAS CITY, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.