Understanding how RNA processing works in a parasite that affects public health in Africa
Official title: Mitochondrial RNA Uridylation in Trypanosomes
Funded at Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-11041043 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a parasite called Trypanosoma brucei, which causes health problems in Africa, processes its RNA to help it survive and avoid our immune system, and it could help us learn more about how similar cells work.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | February 21, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $677,942 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI177658-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11041043 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in Sub-Saharan Africa who are affected by Trypanosoma brucei infections.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by other pathogens or those outside the geographic focus of Sub-Saharan Africa may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms of RNA maturation and editing in the Trypanosoma brucei parasite, which causes significant health issues in Sub-Saharan Africa. By focusing on the role of specific enzymes involved in RNA processing, the study aims to uncover how these processes affect the parasite's biology and its ability to evade the immune system. The research employs advanced techniques such as molecular biology, proteomics, imaging, and cryo-electron microscopy to analyze the interactions and functions of RNA-related protein complexes. This work could provide insights into fundamental biological processes that may have broader implications for understanding eukaryotic cells.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for combating parasitic infections that significantly impact public health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding RNA processing in other organisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights, although the specific focus on Trypanosoma brucei is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University Medical Campus
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Afasizhev, Ruslan — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Afasizhev, Ruslan
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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.