Understanding how nuclear speckles influence gene expression in cancer
Official title: Uncovering the Molecular Principles for Microphase Separation by Nuclear Speckle Proteins and RNA Transcripts
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10984809 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny structures in our cells called nuclear speckles to understand how they help control gene activity, which could give us new ideas for treating cancer and other diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $125,000 |
| NIH project number | 1K99GM152778-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10984809 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with various types of cancer where gene expression plays a critical role in disease progression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose diseases are not related to gene expression regulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of nuclear speckles, which are important structures in cells that help regulate gene expression. By examining the molecular components that make up these speckles, particularly RNA and RNA binding proteins, the research aims to uncover how their arrangement affects gene activity. The approach combines computational analysis with laboratory experiments to explore the mechanisms behind nuclear speckle formation and function. This could lead to new insights into how gene expression is controlled in cancer and other diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating cancers by targeting the mechanisms of gene expression regulation.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of biomolecular condensates in cellular processes, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shinn, Min Kyung — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Shinn, Min Kyung
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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.