Understanding how cell junctions help control mobile DNA elements in the gut
Official title: Cadherin complexes recruit PIWIL2 to suppress transposons and maintain the normal epithelial phenotype
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-11019693 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help keep our gut cells healthy by controlling tiny bits of DNA that can cause problems, which could lead to new treatments for conditions like Crohn's disease and cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $25,238 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DK138780-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11019693 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with gastrointestinal diseases such as Crohn's disease, colitis, or colon cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without gastrointestinal diseases or those not affected by transposon-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of cadherin complexes in regulating transposons, which are mobile DNA elements that can disrupt normal cell function. The study focuses on how these complexes interact with a protein called PIWIL2 to suppress transposon activity, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract where such activity is linked to diseases like Crohn's and cancer. By examining the relationship between cell adhesion and transposon regulation, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that maintain healthy epithelial cells. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for gastrointestinal diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing gastrointestinal diseases associated with transposon activation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of transposons in various diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Risner, Alyssa — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Risner, Alyssa
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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.