Understanding how the RAG endonuclease works and its origins
Function and Evolutionary Origins of the RAG Endonuclease
This study is looking at a special protein called RAG that helps keep our immune system healthy by making sure our DNA stays safe from mistakes, and it's for anyone interested in how our bodies fight off illness and stay strong.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10932979 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the RAG recombinase, a protein that plays a crucial role in the immune system by initiating the process of V(D)J recombination. The team combines evolutionary biology, biochemistry, and structural biology to explore how RAG protects the genome from harmful activity. By studying ancestral RAG-like transposases, they aim to uncover the mechanisms that ensure RAG targets the correct DNA sequences and prevents dangerous mutations. This research could lead to a better understanding of immune system function and genome stability.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with immune system disorders or cancers related to genomic instability.
Not a fit: Patients with unrelated health conditions or those not affected by immune system disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of immune system disorders and lead to improved therapies for related conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding similar mechanisms in immune system function, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schatz, David G. — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Schatz, David G.
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 below.