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In-cell analysis and elaboration of RNA-targeting fragment ligands

NIGMS - National Institute of General Medical Sciences

open
OpenLast verified: 2026-06-18

About This Grant

Project Summary The function and regulation of both coding and non-coding RNAs depend on their structures. A subset of RNAs contain pockets capable of binding ligands, and targeting RNA with small molecules can potentially modulate gene expression and cell state. To date, identifying and progressing these ligands within cells has posed a formidable challenge. I have developed a technology for transcript-specific detection of ligand binding in cells that is scalable for high throughput screens. This method simplifies the complex RNA ligand measurement into a manageable and efficient PCR-based strategy, which I used to discover a first-site fragment ligand that binds the 5’-UTR of MYC, a conventionally difficult-to-ligand target. In Aim 1, I propose to use my in-cell screening platform to discover molecules that exhibit enhanced binding to MYC mRNA when bound by the first-site ligand. Potential hits will be chemically linked to create ligands with substantially higher affinity than either ligand alone. My current first-site binder reduces c-MYC protein levels without affecting mRNA levels, suggesting translational regulation. In Aim 2, I will use functional studies to address a critical gap in our understanding of how small- molecule ligands can target RNA, to produce meaningful biological effects, focusing on how RNA structure affects ribosome recruitment to the mRNA. This project is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of ligand-RNA interactions in cells, informing the development of RNA-targeted tool compounds and, ultimately, therapeutics. The overarching vision of this research and training program integrates RNA screening technologies, bioinformatics and cheminformatics, mechanistic studies, and mentoring opportunities. Through this program, I will gain a strong foundation for a career as an independent researcher and leader in RNA chemical biology and therapeutics.

Grant Summary

In-cell analysis and elaboration of RNA-targeting fragment ligands is a NIGMS - National Institute of General Medical Sciences grant providing up to $75K for university, nonprofit, healthcare org. Applications are due 2028-12-31 (open). Check eligibility and apply with FindGrants.

Focus Areas

health research

Eligibility

universitynonprofithealthcare org

How to Apply

Funding Range

Up to $75K

Deadline

2028-12-31

Complexity
Medium
  1. 1Confirm your organization is eligible for In-cell analysis and elaboration of RNA-targeting fragment ligands from NIGMS - National Institute of General Medical Sciences, checking organization type, location, and any population or project requirements.
  2. 2Gather the required documents and information, including your organization details, project plan, and budget figures.
  3. 3Draft your application narrative and budget addressing the funder's priorities and review criteria. FindGrants can draft each section for you to review and edit.
  4. 4Review every section against the requirements checklist, then export a submission-ready application pack and submit it to NIGMS - National Institute of General Medical Sciences before the deadline.
This record is a past award, contract, or funder profile — useful for research, but not an open grant application. Check the original source for current opportunities from this funder.

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In-cell analysis and elaboration of RNA-targeting fragment ligands: Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for the In-cell analysis and elaboration of RNA-targeting fragment ligands?

In-cell analysis and elaboration of RNA-targeting fragment ligands is offered by NIGMS - National Institute of General Medical Sciences and is generally open to university, nonprofit, healthcare org. It is open to organizations nationwide unless the funder specifies otherwise. Review the specific eligibility terms before applying, since funders set their own requirements around organization type, location, and the population or project being served.

How much funding does the In-cell analysis and elaboration of RNA-targeting fragment ligands provide?

In-cell analysis and elaboration of RNA-targeting fragment ligands provides up to $75K per award from NIGMS - National Institute of General Medical Sciences. Actual award sizes depend on the scope of your project, available program funds, and the number of applicants, so build a budget that reflects realistic, allowable costs rather than the maximum figure.

When is the In-cell analysis and elaboration of RNA-targeting fragment ligands deadline?

Applications for In-cell analysis and elaboration of RNA-targeting fragment ligands are due 2028-12-31 (open). Because deadlines can change, verify the date with the funder, NIGMS - National Institute of General Medical Sciences, and give yourself enough time to prepare a complete, competitive application before the close date.

How do you apply for the In-cell analysis and elaboration of RNA-targeting fragment ligands?

To apply for In-cell analysis and elaboration of RNA-targeting fragment ligands, confirm your eligibility, gather the required documents, and prepare a narrative and budget that address the funder's priorities. FindGrants guides you step by step and can draft each section, then exports a submission-ready application pack for this grant from NIGMS - National Institute of General Medical Sciences.

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