Understanding how a protein called SRSF1 helps our genes make different proteins
The central roles of SRSF1 in early-stage spliceosome assembly
This work aims to understand how a key protein helps our bodies create different versions of proteins from the same gene, which is important because errors in this process can lead to diseases like cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11131104 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies use a process called alternative splicing to make many different proteins from a single gene, which is crucial for our health. When this process goes wrong, it can lead to incorrect proteins being made, contributing to various human diseases, including cancers. This project focuses on a specific protein, SRSF1, which plays a central role in the early steps of this protein-making process. By understanding how SRSF1 works and how its activity is controlled, we hope to uncover the basic mechanisms behind these errors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to patients with diseases, such as cancers, that are linked to errors in how genes make proteins.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options will not directly benefit from this basic science research, as it focuses on understanding disease mechanisms rather than direct patient care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide fundamental knowledge about how diseases like cancer develop, potentially leading to new ways to design therapies that correct faulty protein production.
How similar studies have performed: While cellular studies have shown SRSF1's importance, the detailed mechanisms of how it regulates protein production are still not fully understood, making this a novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Jun — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Jun
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.