Next-generation models to understand RNA shapes, how they bind partners, and catalyze reactions
Official title: Next-generation biophysical models for RNA dynamics, ligand binding, and catalysis
Funded at University of Nebraska Lincoln · NIH-11372186 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A funded project at theUniversity of Nebraska–Lincoln aims to build better computer and experimental models of RNA to predict its 3D shape, how it binds molecules, and how it helps chemical reactions, with the goal of creating new RNA-based tools and therapies.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nebraska Lincoln NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lincoln, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $375,466 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM147706-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11372186 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Candidates with diseases or conditions where RNA biology is a factor or those who could contribute samples or participate in future RNA-based trials may be appropriate.
✕Less likely to help
People not connected to RNA-related disease areas or without access to specific RNA-based diagnostics or therapies may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project focuses on improving biophysical models of RNA to predict how its 3D structure changes and how it recognizes small molecules. Researchers will combine advanced design methods with high-throughput biochemical assays to map RNA dynamics, ligand binding, and catalysis. The work relies on real RNA sequences and may involve experimental techniques like NMR and cryo-EM to validate predictions. Over five years, the team will refine predictive models to enable the design of RNA-based sensors and therapeutics that could target diseases. The effort includes computational design, experimental testing, and analysis to connect structure with function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients could benefit from new RNA-based diagnostics and therapies that respond to specific molecules.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work has shown progress in RNA 3D design and RNA-ligand modeling, with promising early results for RNA-based devices.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Nebraska Lincoln
Lincoln, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yesselman, Joseph — University of Nebraska Lincoln
- Study coordinator: Yesselman, Joseph
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.