Understanding how RNA localization affects cell movement in neural crest cells and related cancers

Regulation and function of subcellular RNA localization in neural crest cells and their derivatives

NIH-funded research University of California Riverside · NIH-11121182

This study is looking at how messenger RNA (mRNA) moves around in certain cells that are important for development and can be involved in cancer, like melanoma, to better understand how this affects cell behavior and could help improve treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Riverside NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Riverside, United States)
Project IDNIH-11121182 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind the localization of messenger RNA (mRNA) within neural crest cells, which are crucial for cell migration and development. By studying cultured melanoma cells and using mouse models, the project aims to uncover how mRNA localization influences protein function and contributes to conditions like cancer. The findings could provide insights into the physiological roles of mRNA during development and disease, particularly in aggressive cancers such as melanoma.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with melanoma or congenital abnormalities related to neural crest cell development.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to neural crest cell function or those not diagnosed with melanoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating cancers and developmental disorders linked to neural crest cells.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding RNA localization in various cellular processes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Riverside, 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 Cancers
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.