Understanding how microRNAs control animal development
Official title: Roles of microRNAs in animal development
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11010250 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how tiny molecules called microRNAs help control gene activity as cells grow into complex organisms, using a small worm as a model, and it aims to understand how changes in these molecules might be connected to certain human diseases, including some that cause hearing loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $387,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM156243-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11010250 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic disorders related to microRNA mutations, particularly those experiencing developmental issues or hearing loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to microRNA function or those not experiencing developmental or genetic disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of microRNAs in regulating gene expression during the development of multicellular organisms from a single cell. By studying the mechanisms of post-transcriptional repression, the research aims to uncover how these small RNA molecules influence protein production at different stages of development. The approach involves using model organisms like C. elegans to explore the effects of microRNA mutations and their links to human diseases, including syndromic conditions and progressive deafness. The findings could provide insights into fundamental biological processes and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of developmental disorders and new strategies for treating genetic diseases linked to microRNA dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding the roles of microRNAs in development and disease, indicating that this approach is grounded in established scientific principles.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cochella, Luisa — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Cochella, Luisa
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Targeting hidden brain injuries in iTTP to improve long-term brain health
A researcher aims to find out how silent brain injuries in people with immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) happen, how they affect thinking and stroke risk, and how to prevent them.
-
Accelerated flap coverage for severe leg injuries: earlier reconstruction vs standard timing
This study tests whether doing early flap coverage after a severe leg injury lowers infection risk and improves healing for patients with open wounds and bone injury.
-
Placebo-controlled shunting for iNPH: does the surgery help with walking and balance?
A doctor-led trial at Johns Hopkins will test whether a shunt surgery improves walking and balance in older adults with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus.
-
Omalizumab for COPD patients with allergen sensitization and exposure
A multicenter trial will test whether adding omalizumab helps people with COPD who are allergic to common indoor allergens and are exposed to them.
-
Johns Hopkins Total Worker Health Center focusing on mental health
A nationwide center at Johns Hopkins is working to improve mental health and well-being among workers by studying workplace health strategies and translating findings into practical tools.
-
Role of fat droplets in liver fat and inflammatory signals in NAFLD
A study at Johns Hopkins will explore how fat droplets in the liver influence molecules that drive inflammation and progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in adults.
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.