Understanding How Cells Read Genetic Instructions
Molecular Recognition During Pre-mRNA Splicing
This work aims to uncover the basic steps cells take to correctly read our genetic code, which is often faulty in human diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11075855 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our cells rely on a process called splicing to correctly assemble proteins from our DNA instructions. This project focuses on the very first steps of splicing, specifically how certain helper proteins, like U2AF, SF1, and SF3B1, recognize the right places on a genetic message. We use advanced techniques, including X-ray crystallography and single-molecule imaging, to see these proteins in action. By understanding these fundamental steps, we can learn why errors happen and how they contribute to illnesses.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve patient participation, but future studies building on this knowledge may benefit individuals with diseases linked to splicing errors, such as certain cancers.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of how genetic errors contribute to diseases, potentially opening doors for new ways to correct these errors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team has successfully shown how cancer-related mutations disrupt RNA binding and splicing, providing a strong foundation for this continued investigation.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- University of Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kielkopf, Clara — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Kielkopf, Clara
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.