Understanding how small RNA fragments are made and function in cells using roundworms.
Official title: Developing C. elegans as a model to understand tRNA-fragment biogenesis and function
Funded at Children's Hosp of Philadelphia · NIH-10875671 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny RNA pieces called tRNA-fragments in roundworms to understand how they help control gene activity, which could give us important clues about health issues like cancer and brain diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $445,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM151087-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10875671 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by conditions related to gene regulation, such as cancer or neurodegenerative diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to gene regulation or those not affected by cancer or neurodegenerative diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the biogenesis and function of tRNA-fragments (tRFs), which are small RNA molecules that play a crucial role in regulating gene expression. By using the roundworm C. elegans as a model organism, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind tRF production and their effects on cellular physiology. The study employs advanced techniques such as small RNA sequencing to analyze tRFs in various tissues of the worms, providing insights that could be relevant to human health conditions like cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of gene regulation mechanisms that may inform new treatments for diseases such as cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding small RNA functions, but the specific focus on tRNA-fragments in C. elegans is a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Conine, Colin — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Conine, Colin
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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.