Understanding How Circular RNAs Work in Our Cells
The Regulation of Circular RNA Functions
This project explores how special circular RNA molecules function within our cells and how they might be involved in various health conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11131148 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are newly discovered genetic molecules in our cells that are shaped like circles, unlike the more common linear RNAs. We want to understand how our cells tell these circular RNAs apart from their linear counterparts, even though they share similar genetic codes. We believe that specific chemical tags and associated proteins help direct circRNAs to different places in the cell, influencing their unique roles. By learning more about these "molecular signatures," we hope to uncover how circRNAs contribute to cell health and disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational biological work does not directly involve patient participation at this stage.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options would not directly benefit from this basic science investigation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding how circular RNAs work could reveal new ways to understand and potentially treat various diseases and disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While the field of circular RNA research is relatively new, other studies have begun to uncover their diverse roles in biology and disease.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Ye Grace — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Chen, Ye Grace
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.