Understanding how circular RNAs affect brain health and disease

Regulation and function of human neural circular RNAs

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-11017046

This study is looking at special molecules called circular RNAs in the brain to understand how they help with brain development and might be linked to brain diseases, which could lead to new treatments for conditions like multiple sclerosis or other neurological disorders.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-11017046 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in the human brain, focusing on their regulation and function in both healthy and diseased states. The study aims to uncover how circRNAs contribute to brain development and their potential involvement in neurological disorders. By examining the unique circRNA profiles in different brain cell types, particularly oligodendrocytes, the research seeks to fill critical knowledge gaps regarding their biological functions and mechanisms. This could lead to new therapeutic strategies for brain diseases by targeting circRNA pathways.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurological or neuropsychiatric disorders, as well as healthy volunteers for comparative analysis.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to brain health or those who do not have access to the research facilities may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments for various brain disorders by targeting the mechanisms involving circular RNAs.

How similar studies have performed: While the study of circular RNAs is a relatively new field, preliminary research has shown promising results in understanding their roles in brain function and disease.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, 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.