Understanding small nucleolar RNAs and their partners in human cells
Targets and functions of the mammalian snoRNAome
This project maps how tiny RNA molecules called snoRNAs bind to other RNAs in human cells to see how they help control protein production and cell function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11163453 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will use new sequencing tools to capture where snoRNAs bind across the human transcriptome and to map the chemical modifications those RNAs direct. They will apply an advanced Kethoxal-assisted RNA-RNA interaction sequencing (KARR-seq) approach and transcriptome-wide modification sequencing to identify snoRNA interaction partners and the rules that guide targeting. The team will study how these snoRNA interactions influence gene expression and ribosome behavior across different cell types. Ultimately, the work aims to link snoRNA activity to cellular processes that may be altered in human disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with conditions tied to ribosome dysfunction or RNA-processing disorders, or those willing to donate blood or tissue samples for molecular research, would be most relevant.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or enrollment in a clinical therapy are unlikely to receive direct medical benefit from this laboratory-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new molecular mechanisms behind some genetic or ribosome-related diseases and point to diagnostic markers or future therapeutic targets.
How similar studies have performed: Previous RNA interaction and modification mapping methods have identified some snoRNA roles, but many snoRNAs remain uncharacterized so this project builds on partial successes and extends into new territory.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- University of Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pan, Tao — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Pan, Tao
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.