Understanding how enzymes control DNA, RNA, and fight viruses
Mechanistic studies of nucleic acid enzymes involved in DNA replication, transcription, and innate immunity
This research helps us learn how important enzymes in our bodies work to copy DNA, make RNA, and fight off viruses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11082453 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the fundamental ways certain enzymes, called helicases and polymerases, operate within our cells. These enzymes are crucial for essential processes like copying our DNA, creating RNA, and recognizing viral infections to trigger an immune response. We are using advanced laboratory techniques, including detailed biochemical tests and imaging, to precisely map out how these enzymes function. A key part of this work focuses on understanding how our immune system detects viral RNA and how our cells manage mitochondrial DNA.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation at this stage, but its findings could inform future clinical studies for various conditions.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: A deeper understanding of these fundamental processes could lead to new ways to treat viral infections, improve cancer therapies, or address other diseases related to DNA and RNA function.
How similar studies have performed: This work builds upon existing knowledge of enzyme function and cellular processes, using established biochemical and biophysical methods to gain deeper insights.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Patel, Smita S — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Patel, Smita S
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.