Understanding how cells recognize and degrade faulty mRNAs

Mechanisms of Translational Surveillance

NIH-funded research University of California Santa Cruz · NIH-10897040

This study is looking at how our cells find and get rid of faulty messages that can cause inherited diseases, and it's for anyone interested in understanding more about the genetic issues behind these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Santa Cruz NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Santa Cruz, United States)
Project IDNIH-10897040 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which cells identify and eliminate mRNAs that contain early stop codons, which can lead to inherited diseases. The project aims to dissect the biochemical processes involved in Nonsense-Mediated mRNA Decay (NMD), focusing on how specific proteins and ribosomes interact to trigger the decay of these faulty mRNAs. By using advanced techniques, including CRISPR, the researchers will explore the roles of various factors in this critical cellular process, which could enhance our understanding of genetic diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic conditions linked to mutations that introduce early stop codons.

Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are not related to mRNA decay or early stop codon mutations may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating genetic disorders caused by premature stop codons.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mRNA decay mechanisms, but this specific approach using CRISPR is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Santa Cruz, 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.
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.