Long noncoding RNAs that help B cells make antibodies and protect DNA
Long noncoding RNA expressing genomic elements that control antibody diversification and chromosomal integrity in B cells
Researchers are learning how special noncoding RNAs help B cells create diverse antibodies and keep chromosome structure intact.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11242028 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses genetically modified mice and laboratory B cell lines to find long noncoding RNAs located near antibody genes and to track when and where they are made. Scientists remove or alter these RNAs and then monitor effects on antibody-changing processes like class switch recombination and somatic hypermutation, as well as on 3‑D genome folding around the antibody loci. The team applies genomic sequencing, 3‑D chromosome mapping, and molecular assays to define how these RNAs act in cis and trans to shape DNA topology. The goal is to map the molecular steps by which specific lncRNAs organize antibody gene regions and help preserve chromosomal integrity in B cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with B‑cell related problems such as antibody deficiencies, unexplained poor vaccine responses, or certain B‑cell lymphomas would be most likely to benefit from future applications of this work.
Not a fit: Individuals without B‑cell or antibody-related conditions and those seeking immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to get direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal targets to improve antibody responses or to prevent B‑cell genome damage that contributes to some immune deficiencies and blood cancers.
How similar studies have performed: Prior mouse and cell‑based studies, including the investigators' published and preliminary data, have shown these lncRNAs can influence class switch recombination, but translation to human treatments remains early.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Basu, Uttiya — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Basu, Uttiya
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.