Understanding how telomerase RNA affects blood cell development
Official title: Uncovering Novel Regulatory Pathways and Functions of the Telomerase RNA Component in the Hematopoietic System
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11043900 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific part of telomerase, called TERC, helps make and work with blood cells, which could help us understand blood disorders like dyskeratosis congenita and find new treatments for people with bone marrow failure.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $623,874 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HL172961-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11043900 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include patients with dyskeratosis congenita and other telomere biology disorders that result in bone marrow failure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with blood disorders not related to telomerase mutations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the RNA component of telomerase, known as TERC, in the formation and function of blood cells. By using advanced laboratory techniques, including in vitro and in vivo models, the study aims to uncover the molecular pathways that regulate TERC during the development of various blood cell types. This could lead to a better understanding of blood disorders caused by mutations in telomerase, particularly in patients with conditions like dyskeratosis congenita. The research seeks to provide insights that could eventually lead to new treatment options for patients suffering from bone marrow failure.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapies for patients with blood disorders caused by telomerase mutations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding telomerase biology, but this specific approach to studying TERC in hematopoietic cells is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Batista, Luis Francisco Zirnberger — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Batista, Luis Francisco Zirnberger
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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.