Understanding how RNA and genome organization affects cell patterns in giant single cells
Official title: RNA and genome regionalization in giant single cells: implications for cellular patterning
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11055208 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the arrangement of RNA and DNA in a special single-celled organism might affect its shape and function, which could help us understand how problems with RNA could be linked to diseases like Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | September 10, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $124,767 |
| NIH project number | 1K99GM154059-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055208 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, as well as those interested in the biological mechanisms of these conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurological conditions or those not affected by Alzheimer's disease may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the spatial organization of RNA and the genome within giant single cells influences their shape and function. By using a unique unicellular organism, Stentor coeruleus, which has a complex structure and the ability to regenerate, the study aims to explore how mislocalized RNA may contribute to diseases like Alzheimer's. The researchers will employ advanced techniques to analyze RNA and genome organization through microsurgery and sequencing, providing insights into cellular architecture. This work could enhance our understanding of cellular processes that are critical in various neurological conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the cellular mechanisms underlying Alzheimer's disease and potentially inform future therapeutic strategies.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using Stentor coeruleus is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding cellular mechanisms in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Albright, Ashley R — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Albright, Ashley R
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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.