Targeting and Changing Specific Cell Types with RNA
RNA-programmable cell-type targeting, editing, and therapy
This project aims to create a new way to precisely control and change specific types of cells in the body, which could help us understand and treat many health conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11117065 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project is developing a groundbreaking technology to precisely target and modify specific cell types using RNA. The goal is to overcome current challenges in understanding how different cells contribute to health and disease. By creating a method that is specific, easy to use, affordable, and works across different organs and species, researchers hope to gain better control over cell functions. This new approach could offer a more ethical and efficient way to manipulate cells compared to existing methods.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational technology development is not directly recruiting patients at this stage, but future applications could benefit patients with various diseases where specific cell types play a role.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention will not benefit from this early-stage technology development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this technology could provide a powerful new tool for understanding and potentially treating a wide range of diseases by allowing precise manipulation of specific cell types.
How similar studies have performed: This project proposes a novel, paradigm-shifting technology, akin to the impact of CRISPR for gene editing, suggesting it is largely untested in its proposed form.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huang, Z Josh — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Huang, Z Josh
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.