Understanding how a protein complex affects mRNA decay in cancer cells
Official title: Investigating the role of the Ccr4-Not complex in regulating codon optimality-mediated mRNA decay
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10899510 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special protein complex that helps control how quickly certain messages in our cells break down, which is important for making proteins, and it hopes to find new ways to help treat conditions like acute T-cell leukemia by understanding how this process works.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31GM151817-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10899510 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with acute T-cell leukemia or related hematological malignancies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with solid tumors or those not diagnosed with acute T-cell leukemia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the Ccr4-Not complex, which plays a crucial role in regulating the decay of messenger RNA (mRNA) that is linked to the translation of proteins. By examining how this complex interacts with ribosomes during protein synthesis, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to disruptions in mRNA decay, potentially contributing to conditions like acute T-cell leukemia. The research employs advanced techniques to dissect the interactions and functions of this complex, which may reveal new therapeutic targets for cancer treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating acute T-cell leukemia and other related cancers by targeting the mRNA decay process.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting mRNA decay mechanisms can be effective in treating certain cancers, suggesting that this approach may hold promise.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Christensen, Lana Nicole — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Christensen, Lana Nicole
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Targeting hidden brain injuries in iTTP to improve long-term brain health
A researcher aims to find out how silent brain injuries in people with immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) happen, how they affect thinking and stroke risk, and how to prevent them.
-
Accelerated flap coverage for severe leg injuries: earlier reconstruction vs standard timing
This study tests whether doing early flap coverage after a severe leg injury lowers infection risk and improves healing for patients with open wounds and bone injury.
-
Placebo-controlled shunting for iNPH: does the surgery help with walking and balance?
A doctor-led trial at Johns Hopkins will test whether a shunt surgery improves walking and balance in older adults with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus.
-
Omalizumab for COPD patients with allergen sensitization and exposure
A multicenter trial will test whether adding omalizumab helps people with COPD who are allergic to common indoor allergens and are exposed to them.
-
Johns Hopkins Total Worker Health Center focusing on mental health
A nationwide center at Johns Hopkins is working to improve mental health and well-being among workers by studying workplace health strategies and translating findings into practical tools.
-
Role of fat droplets in liver fat and inflammatory signals in NAFLD
A study at Johns Hopkins will explore how fat droplets in the liver influence molecules that drive inflammation and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adults.
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.