Understanding how a protein affects RNA processing in muscle cells
Official title: Mechanisms of DUX4-induced misregulation of RNA processing and quality control
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11143151 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called DUX4 affects muscle cells in people with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), to help us understand why muscle damage happens in this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $506,341 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AR083381-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11143151 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD).
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of muscular dystrophy or unrelated muscle disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the DUX4 protein in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), a severe muscle disease. It focuses on how DUX4 misregulates RNA processing and quality control in muscle cells, leading to the production of potentially harmful proteins. The researchers will employ advanced techniques such as biochemistry, genome engineering, and proteomics to explore the mechanisms behind DUX4's effects on RNA metabolism. By understanding these processes, the study aims to uncover the underlying causes of muscle toxicity in FSHD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating FSHD and improving muscle health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding RNA metabolism in muscle diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jagannathan, Sujatha — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Jagannathan, Sujatha
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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.