Understanding how long noncoding RNAs regulate gene activity
Official title: Mechanisms of gene regulation by long noncoding RNAs
Funded at Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11064068 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain molecules in our genes, called long noncoding RNAs, can turn off other genes, which is important for understanding conditions like Angelman Syndrome and some cancers, and it hopes to find new ways to help patients by figuring out how these molecules work.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $624,197 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM153293-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11064068 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit include individuals with genetic disorders such as Angelman Syndrome, as well as those affected by autoimmune diseases or certain cancers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to gene regulation or those not affected by genetic disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the roles of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in regulating gene expression, particularly focusing on how they can repress transcription. The team will explore the mechanisms by which lncRNAs, such as Xist, silence genes, which is crucial for understanding genetic disorders and diseases like Angelman Syndrome and various cancers. By analyzing the sequences of these lncRNAs, the research aims to identify which ones are responsible for gene repression and how they function, potentially leading to new therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the genetic causes of their conditions and the development of targeted treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for genetic disorders and cancers linked to abnormal gene regulation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the roles of noncoding RNAs in gene regulation, indicating that this area of study has potential for significant breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Calabrese, Joseph Mauro — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Calabrese, Joseph Mauro
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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.