Understanding how genes are copied and used in bacteria and human cells
Mechanism of transcription and related gene expression processes in bacteria and human mitochondria
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11106012
This project looks at how our cells make important genetic messages, called RNA, and how these messages fold into their correct shapes, especially in human mitochondria and bacteria.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11106012 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our cells constantly make RNA copies from our DNA, a process called transcription, and these RNA molecules must fold correctly to work properly. This project explores the exact steps of RNA creation, including moments when the process pauses, which are crucial for the RNA to fold into its functional 3D shape. We aim to develop new ways to see how RNA folds as it's being made and understand how factors like acidity affect this process. We will apply these new tools to compare how RNA folds in healthy human mitochondria versus in mitochondria with genetic mutations, which can cause disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation, but future clinical applications may benefit individuals with mitochondrial diseases caused by genetic mutations affecting RNA.
Not a fit: Patients without mitochondrial conditions or those seeking immediate treatment options would not directly benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide a deeper understanding of how mitochondrial diseases develop due to faulty RNA folding, potentially leading to new diagnostic methods or treatment strategies in the future.
How similar studies have performed: This project aims to develop novel tools for visualizing RNA folding, building upon existing knowledge of transcription mechanisms but pushing into new methodological territory.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MISHANINA, TATIANA VLADIMIROVNA — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: MISHANINA, TATIANA VLADIMIROVNA
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.