Learning how cells edit their genes to understand diseases like cancer.
Understanding Complex Genome Editing and RNA Biology in Oxytricha
This project looks at how a tiny organism naturally rearranges its genetic material to better understand similar processes that go wrong in human diseases, particularly cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11109533 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies' cells sometimes rearrange their genetic instructions, and when this goes wrong, it can lead to serious conditions like cancer. This project uses a unique single-celled organism called Oxytricha because it naturally performs very complex genetic rearrangements as part of its normal life. By studying how Oxytricha precisely edits its own genome and how RNA molecules guide this process, we hope to uncover fundamental rules. This knowledge could help us understand why these rearrangements happen incorrectly in human diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patients but aims to benefit those affected by diseases linked to genetic rearrangements, such as cancer.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical participation will not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide foundational insights into how genetic rearrangements occur, potentially leading to new ways to prevent or treat diseases like cancer.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific model organism Oxytricha offers unique insights, the broader field of genome editing and RNA biology is well-established, with ongoing successes in understanding fundamental biological processes.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Landweber, Laura F — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Landweber, Laura F
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.