Understanding how human PUMILIO proteins manage genetic information
Translational Control by Human Pumilio Proteins
This project aims to understand how specific human proteins, PUM1 and PUM2, control how our genes make proteins, which is important for many health conditions like cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11124747 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies rely on special proteins, PUM1 and PUM2, to guide how genetic instructions turn into proteins, a process called translational control. When these proteins don't work correctly, it can lead to various health issues, including developmental problems, nerve disorders, infertility, and cancers. This work explores how PUM1 and PUM2 interact with thousands of genetic messages (mRNAs) in our cells. We want to uncover the full range of genes they influence and how they might stop some genes from making proteins, rather than just breaking down the genetic messages.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but future studies stemming from this work could benefit individuals with conditions linked to PUM1 and PUM2 dysfunction, such as certain cancers or neurological disorders.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical intervention will not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding how PUM1 and PUM2 work could lead to new ways to treat diseases like cancer and neurological disorders by targeting these protein pathways.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that PUM1 and PUM2 degrade some genetic messages, but this project explores a new mechanism of translational inhibition, which is less understood.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Goldstrohm, Aaron Charles — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Goldstrohm, Aaron Charles
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.