Understanding how ADAR1 protein interacts with Z-RNA in cells

Molecular recognition by ADAR1 of Z-RNA within transcriptomes

NIH-funded research University of Houston · NIH-11100723

This study is looking at how a protein called ADAR1 interacts with special RNA shapes called Z-RNA, which could help us understand how changes in RNA might play a role in diseases like Aicardi-Goutières syndrome, potentially offering new insights for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Houston NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11100723 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the ADAR1 protein in recognizing Z-RNA structures within cellular RNA. It aims to understand how Z-RNA is formed, its prevalence in different RNA sequences, and how ADAR1 binds to these structures. By exploring these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover the implications of RNA editing in diseases, particularly neurological disorders like Aicardi-Goutières syndrome. Patients may benefit from insights into how misediting of RNA contributes to disease processes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological disorders, particularly those affected by Aicardi-Goutières syndrome or other autoimmune diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to RNA editing or those not experiencing neurological symptoms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating neurological diseases linked to RNA misediting.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on Z-RNA and ADAR1 is relatively novel, previous research has shown that understanding RNA editing mechanisms can lead to significant advancements in treating related diseases.

Where this research is happening

Houston, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Aicardi Goutieres syndromeAutoimmune Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.