Understanding how RNA polymerase recognizes unnatural genetic material
Official title: Recognition of Synthetic Unnatural Base Pairs by RNA Polymerase
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11012420 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how an important enzyme called RNA polymerase works with special synthetic building blocks in DNA, which could help us learn more about genetics and create new tools for biotechnology.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | March 15, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $363,427 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM148476-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012420 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals interested in cutting-edge genetic therapies or those with conditions that could be addressed through synthetic biology.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to genetic manipulation or those not interested in experimental therapies may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how RNA polymerase, an essential enzyme in the process of transcription, recognizes and processes unnatural base pairs (UBPs) in genetic material. By studying the interactions between these synthetic bases and the enzyme, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that allow for the incorporation of UBPs into genetic sequences. The project will involve kinetic studies and structural analysis using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy to visualize these interactions. This work could pave the way for new biotechnological applications and enhance our understanding of genetic information storage.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to advancements in synthetic biology, potentially enabling the development of new therapies and biotechnological innovations.
How similar studies have gone: While the exploration of unnatural base pairs is a relatively novel area, previous research has shown promising results in synthetic biology, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Dong — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Wang, Dong
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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.