Understanding how RNA polymerase II is modified during gene transcription
Official title: Deciphering the phosphorylation pattern of RNA polymerase II for eukaryotic transcription
Funded at University of Texas at Austin · NIH-11012338 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes to a key enzyme involved in gene expression might affect cancer cell growth, specifically in glioblastoma, to help find new ways to treat this type of brain cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | February 6, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $537,773 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM148356-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012338 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glioblastoma or other cancers where transcriptional regulation plays a critical role.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those not affected by transcriptional dysregulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the phosphorylation patterns of RNA polymerase II, a key enzyme in the process of gene transcription in eukaryotic cells. By examining how specific modifications to this enzyme affect its ability to recruit necessary transcription factors, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that regulate gene expression. The research employs advanced techniques such as structural biology, biochemistry, and mass spectrometry to analyze these processes. Additionally, the project explores the potential impact of inhibiting certain phosphatases on the growth of glioblastoma cells, which could have implications for cancer treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating cancers by targeting the transcriptional processes that drive tumor growth.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding transcriptional regulation can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Yan Jessie — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Yan Jessie
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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.