Understanding how cells use genetic codes to make proteins
Regulation of Protein Synthesis by Synonymous Codon Usage
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · FRED HUTCHINSON CANCER CENTER · NIH-11086663
This research explores how cells build proteins, a process often disrupted in cancers and brain disorders, by looking closely at how genetic instructions are read.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | FRED HUTCHINSON CANCER CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11086663 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Cells rely on ribosomes to read genetic messages (mRNA) and create proteins, which are vital for all bodily functions. When this protein-making process goes wrong, it can contribute to serious conditions like cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Our work focuses on a specific part of this process, called elongation, and how subtle differences in genetic codes, known as synonymous codons, influence how quickly and accurately proteins are made. We've found that when ribosomes collide during protein production, cells have ways to recognize and fix these stalls, and that high rates of starting protein production can sometimes surprisingly reduce the amount of protein made. By understanding these complex interactions, we aim to better predict and potentially correct problems in gene expression that lead to disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals living with cancers and degenerative neurologic disorders in the future.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options will not find direct benefit from this fundamental research at its current stage.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could uncover new targets for therapies that correct protein production problems in diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team and others has already identified key roles for the elongation stage of translation and synonymous codon usage in regulating gene expression.
Where this research is happening
SEATTLE, UNITED STATES
- FRED HUTCHINSON CANCER CENTER — SEATTLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SUBRAMANIAM, ARVIND RASI — FRED HUTCHINSON CANCER CENTER
- Study coordinator: SUBRAMANIAM, ARVIND RASI
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.
Conditions: Cancers, Degenerative Neurologic Disorders, Disease, Disorder