Understanding how cells use alternative methods to start protein production

Non-canonical mechanisms of translation initiation and regulation

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10914982

This study is looking at how cells start making proteins in unusual ways, which can sometimes lead to harmful proteins linked to different health issues, and it aims to help us understand how these processes work so we can better address related conditions.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorOHIO STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10914982 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which cells initiate protein production using non-canonical start codons, which can lead to the expression of neurotoxic proteins associated with various human disorders. The study aims to uncover how alternative initiation factors and different aminoacyl tRNAs contribute to this process, as well as how unconventional regulatory mechanisms, like ribosome queuing, influence cellular responses such as apoptosis. By exploring these complex translation processes, the research seeks to enhance our understanding of how cells adapt their protein synthesis in response to specific conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic mutations that may affect protein synthesis and are associated with neurotoxic disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to protein synthesis or those without genetic mutations affecting translation initiation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the causes of neurotoxic disorders and potential therapeutic targets for treatment.

How similar studies have performed: While the exploration of non-canonical translation mechanisms is a relatively novel area, previous studies have shown promising results in understanding alternative protein synthesis pathways.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Disease, Disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.