Understanding how certain RNA structures help start protein production
Official title: IRES-mediated translation: mechanisms and applications in mRNA therapeutics
Funded at Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-11128537 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain RNA structures help start the process of making proteins, which is important for understanding how we can improve treatments for cancer, so patients might get better therapies in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project start | July 5, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $418,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM155169-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11128537 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cancers that may be treated with innovative mRNA therapeutics.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to mRNA therapeutics or those not eligible for experimental treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which specific RNA structures, known as internal ribosome entry sites (IRES), initiate protein synthesis. By using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy, the team aims to uncover how these structures change during the translation process and how mutations in these RNA sequences can affect their function. The goal is to enhance our understanding of RNA dynamics, which could lead to improved mRNA therapeutics, particularly in cancer treatment. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective anti-cancer therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective mRNA-based therapies for cancer and other diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using RNA structures for therapeutic applications, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
Worcester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Li — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Li, Li
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Understanding HIV-1 Env shapes to boost immune attack against infected cells
Aimed at helping people living with HIV, this project explores how specific HIV-1 envelope structures attract or resist immune attack so future therapies could better help the body clear hidden virus.
-
Reprogramming metabolism to power alternative fat-burning modes
A new project will explore how fat cells burn calories in different ways to help combat obesity.
-
Silencing an Extra Chromosome to Help Down Syndrome and Related Conditions
A patient-friendly plan to use a gene-based approach to quiet an extra chromosome in cells and a mouse model to reduce disease-related effects in Down syndrome and other chromosomal imbalance disorders.
-
Gut microbes and brain function in autism
Researchers are exploring how gut bacteria may influence brain signals and behavior in autism, using worm models to uncover possible links that could someday inform human therapies.
-
Chlamydia and gonorrhea interaction: how host interferons influence co-infection
A human-health focused project looks at how the body’s interferon signals during chlamydia infection affect the way gonorrhea behaves, with potential implications for people vulnerable to both infections.
-
Conquering High Blood Pressure in Vietnamese Cities
A program to adapt and test a proven plan for lowering high blood pressure in urban Vietnam using a mobile health platform and integrated care approach.
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.