NIH-funded research Career grant

Understanding how a protein complex affects gene regulation and cell signaling

Official title: Regulation of exon junction complex composition and assembly

Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-10992605 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a protein called AKT affects a group of molecules that help control gene activity, which could give us new ideas for treating diabetes and some genetic disorders.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Rochester
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project startDecember 1, 2023
Project endNovember 30, 2025
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$125,000
NIH project number5K99GM152790-02
Project IDNIH-10992605 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, as well as those affected by Fragile X syndrome.

Less likely to help

Patients with conditions unrelated to gene regulation or the specific pathways being studied may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the exon junction complex (EJC), which plays a crucial role in gene expression by regulating mRNA decay. It focuses on how the AKT protein, a key player in cell signaling, influences the composition of the EJC and its impact on conditions like diabetes and certain genetic disorders. By exploring the mechanisms of EJC formation and its regulation by insulin, the research aims to uncover new insights into cellular processes that could lead to better understanding and treatment of related diseases.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for diabetes and genetic disorders by targeting the mechanisms of gene regulation.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of cell signaling in gene regulation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Rochester
    Rochester, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Abshire, Elizabeth Tenley — University of Rochester
  • Study coordinator: Abshire, Elizabeth Tenley

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.