Understanding how RNA modifications affect gene expression
Official title: Investigation of the essential structural and sequence features for the recognition of RNA methylations during post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression
Funded at Kent State University · NIH-10796260 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain changes in RNA, called m6A modifications, help control gene activity when the body is under stress, and it hopes to find out how this knowledge can improve understanding of conditions like viral infections, sperm health, and cancer, which could ultimately help patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kent State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kent, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $454,805 |
| NIH project number | 1R15GM152920-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10796260 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by conditions related to RNA methylation, including certain cancers and male infertility.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to RNA modifications or those not experiencing stress-related gene expression changes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of RNA modifications, specifically N6-methyladenosines (m6A), in regulating gene expression under various stress conditions. It aims to identify the structural and sequence features that allow specific proteins, known as methyl readers, to recognize these modifications. By examining how these interactions influence processes like viral infections, sperm maturation, and cancer progression, the research seeks to uncover new mechanisms of gene regulation. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how these modifications affect their conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for diseases influenced by RNA modifications, such as cancer and infertility.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding RNA modifications and their implications in various diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Kent State University
Kent, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Abeysirigunawardena, Sanjaya Chinthaka — Kent State University
- Study coordinator: Abeysirigunawardena, Sanjaya Chinthaka
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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.