Understanding the role of specific proteins in a severe neurological disorder
Official title: Structural and Functional Characterization of Pontocerebellar Hypoplasia Associated Nucleases
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-10982460 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in specific proteins that help process RNA might cause pontocerebellar hypoplasia (PCH), a serious brain condition, to better understand how these proteins work together and what goes wrong in the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | December 12, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $224,099 |
| NIH project number | 5R00GM143534-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10982460 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with pontocerebellar hypoplasia or those with genetic mutations linked to this condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurological disorders unrelated to RNA processing or those without genetic mutations associated with PCH may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how mutations in certain proteins involved in RNA processing contribute to pontocerebellar hypoplasia (PCH), a serious neurological condition. The study focuses on the tRNA Splicing Endonuclease (TSEN) complex and its accessory protein CLP1, as well as another nuclease called TOE1. By examining how these proteins function and interact within cells, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to PCH. This could involve analyzing how these proteins process RNA and how their dysfunction may result in the disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of PCH, potentially informing new therapeutic strategies for affected patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on these proteins in relation to PCH is novel, previous research has shown that understanding RNA processing can lead to significant insights into various neurological disorders.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hayne, Cassandra K — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Hayne, Cassandra K
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.