Understanding how ribosomes regulate gene expression in cells
Official title: Mechanism for post-transcriptional gene regulation by Ribothrypsis
Funded at Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-11053546 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way that our cells break down messenger RNA, which is important for making proteins, to help us understand how this process works and why it matters for keeping our cells healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Thomas Jefferson University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $327,600 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM149825-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11053546 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to gene expression dysregulation, such as certain genetic disorders or cancers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to gene expression or those who do not have a genetic component to their illness may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a newly discovered mechanism called ribothrypsis, which plays a crucial role in the decay of messenger RNA (mRNA) during protein synthesis. By using advanced sequencing methods, the researchers aim to uncover how ribosomes can influence the stability and degradation of mRNA, challenging the traditional understanding of gene regulation. The study focuses on both ends of mRNA molecules to gain insights into this process, which is essential for maintaining normal cellular function. The findings could provide new perspectives on gene expression regulation in various organisms, including humans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for manipulating gene expression, which may have implications for treating various diseases.
How similar studies have gone: This research builds on existing knowledge of mRNA decay mechanisms, but the specific approach of studying ribothrypsis is novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Where this research is happening
-
Thomas Jefferson University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ibrahim, Fadia Fayez — Thomas Jefferson University
- Study coordinator: Ibrahim, Fadia Fayez
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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.