Understanding how RNA changes affect our cells
Molecular mechanisms of RNA methyltransferases.
This research looks at how tiny changes to RNA, a key molecule in our cells, might lead to diseases like cancer and heart conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11116957 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This grant explores specific enzymes that make tiny chemical changes to RNA, which is a vital molecule in our cells. These changes, called modifications, are like special codes that tell our cells what to do. When these codes go wrong, it can contribute to serious health problems, including various cancers and heart conditions. By understanding how these enzymes work and how their codes are regulated, we hope to uncover new ways to prevent or treat these diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but future clinical applications could benefit patients with specific cancers or cardiovascular conditions.
Not a fit: Patients not currently affected by diseases linked to RNA modifications, such as certain cancers or cardiovascular abnormalities, would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that target these RNA changes to help patients with diseases like cancer and cardiovascular issues.
How similar studies have performed: While the existence of RNA modifications has been known for decades, understanding the specific enzymes and their roles in disease is an active and evolving area of research.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University Medical Campus — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dempsey, Daniel R. — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Dempsey, Daniel R.
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 below.