Investigating the structure and function of a key RNA enzyme involved in cancer and developmental disorders

Structural and functional studies of RNase MRP RNP

NIH-funded research Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-10439791

This study is looking at a key enzyme called Ribonuclease MRP, which helps with RNA processing, to better understand how it works and how problems with it might be connected to developmental disorders and cancer, so that patients can gain insights into their conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (University Park, United States)
Project IDNIH-10439791 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the structure and function of Ribonuclease MRP, an important enzyme that plays a role in RNA metabolism. By using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy, the researchers aim to uncover how this enzyme interacts with various RNA substrates and its specific cellular functions. The study seeks to clarify the mechanisms behind altered RNase MRP activity, which is linked to developmental disorders and cancer predisposition. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how this enzyme's dysfunction contributes to disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with developmental disorders associated with altered RNase MRP activity or those with a predisposition to certain cancers.

Not a fit: Patients with unrelated health conditions or those not affected by developmental disorders or cancer may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms behind certain cancers and developmental disorders, potentially guiding new treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on RNase MRP is relatively novel, similar structural studies of RNA enzymes have shown promising results in understanding their roles in various diseases.

Where this research is happening

University Park, 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 Cancersneoplasm/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.