Understanding how SUMO affects gene silencing in the germline of C. elegans
Official title: Investigating the role of Sumo in piRNA-mediated germline heterochromatin maintenance in C.elegans
Funded at Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-10983741 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a tiny protein called SUMO helps keep the genetic material stable in roundworms, which is important for their reproduction and longevity, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how genes are protected and passed on in living things.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project start | July 7, 2023 |
| Project end | July 6, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $33,780 |
| NIH project number | 5F31HD113307-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10983741 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals interested in the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying fertility and reproductive health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to germline biology or those not affected by fertility issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a small protein called SUMO in the maintenance of germline heterochromatin in the roundworm C. elegans. It focuses on how small RNA molecules, known as piRNAs, interact with proteins to silence foreign genetic sequences and ensure the stability of the genome. By studying the assembly of specific protein complexes that are essential for this silencing process, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that promote germline immortality and fertility. The approach involves genetic manipulation and biochemical assays to analyze the effects of SUMOylation on these processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of fertility and genome stability, potentially leading to new strategies for addressing reproductive issues.
How similar studies have gone: While this research explores novel mechanisms, similar studies have shown success in understanding small RNA pathways and their roles in genome stability.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
Worcester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Girgenrath, Johan — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Girgenrath, Johan
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.