Understanding how RNA functions on cell surfaces
Official title: Functional characterization of cell surface RNA biology
Funded at Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-10917771 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain molecules on the surface of our cells help them communicate and interact with their surroundings, which could lead to new treatments for diseases like cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 3, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $864,515 |
| NIH project number | 1R01ES037423-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10917771 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to cellular communication and signaling, particularly cancers.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cellular communication or those who do not have cancer may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of RNA and RNA-binding proteins on the surfaces of cells, which are crucial for cell communication and interaction with their environment. The study aims to uncover how these molecules are organized and function at the cell surface, focusing on specific proteins that are known to be involved in these processes. By exploring the molecular and biochemical activities of these RNA-binding proteins, the research seeks to fill a significant gap in our understanding of cellular biology. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases involving cell communication, such as cancers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance cell communication and potentially improve outcomes for patients with various diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on glycosylated RNAs at the cell surface is relatively novel, similar approaches in studying cell surface proteins have shown promising results in understanding cell interactions.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston Children's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Flynn, Ryan Alexander — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Flynn, Ryan Alexander
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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.