Watching how cells change their gene messages in real time
Tracking transcriptome diversity in real-time
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER · NIH-11254901
This project develops new ways to watch how cancer cells change their gene messages over time to help people with cancer.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (WORCESTER, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11254901 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From my point of view, the team is building tools that follow how individual mRNA messages are made and processed inside cells, moment by moment. They combine genetic and molecular lab work with high-resolution genomic experiments and advanced computer analysis to map steps like how RNA is copied, spliced, and finished. Most work until now looked at steady levels of messages, but this project focuses on the timing and speed of those steps to reveal hidden differences across genes. The goal is to uncover patterns that explain why some cancer-related genes behave differently.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people with cancer who can provide tumor tissue, biopsy samples, or blood specimens for genomic and molecular analysis.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment changes or those without cancer are unlikely to receive direct clinical benefit from this research right away.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new biomarkers or molecular targets that lead to better cancer diagnostics or targeted treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Related genomic and single-cell studies have provided important insights about gene expression, but tracking real-time mRNA processing kinetics is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
WORCESTER, UNITED STATES
- UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER — WORCESTER, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PAI, ATHMA A — UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER
- Study coordinator: PAI, ATHMA A
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.
Conditions: Cancers