Understanding how ribosomes control gene expression and stress responses

Translational Control: Discovery and Mechanisms

NIH-funded research Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-11035138

This study is looking at how tiny structures in our cells called ribosomes help control gene activity, especially when bacteria are under stress, and it aims to uncover how this knowledge could help us understand and potentially improve treatments for neurological disorders like ALS.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Worcester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11035138 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of ribosomes in controlling gene expression, particularly how they respond to stress in bacteria and their implications for human neurodevelopment and neurological disorders. By using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy, the research aims to characterize ribosome dynamics and interactions in both laboratory settings and complex cellular environments. The study will explore how ribosomes sense and respond to dysfunctional mRNAs, which is crucial for understanding diseases linked to translation dysregulation. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the mechanisms of diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and other neurological conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with neurological disorders, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or those affected by bacterial infections.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to ribosomal function or those not experiencing neurological or bacterial issues may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating neurological disorders and bacterial infections.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding ribosomal functions and their implications in various diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

Worcester, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Motor Neuron Diseasebacteria infectionbacterial diseaseBacterial Infections
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.