Federal Project Grant Award Summary

William Marsh Rice University received a $2,538,587 Project Grant from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) under the Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research program (CFDA 93.855), awarded July 8, 2026, with a completion date of June 30, 2030. The award funds fundamental research to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which ADAR1 (adenosine deaminase acting on RNA) regulates immune responses through RNA editing. The research addresses a critical gap in understanding how ADAR1 recognizes and edits diverse immunostimulatory RNAs to suppress erroneous immune activation, with applications to autoimmune diseases, cancer immunotherapy, and precision RNA editing technologies.

The project deliverables span three integrated research aims: (1) characterization of ADAR1 engagement and editing of diverse immunostimulatory RNAs using biochemical assays, single-molecule imaging, and structural visualization; (2) delineation of mechanisms by which ADAR1 suppresses immune activation through RNA sensors MDA5 and ZBP1, including clarification of whether suppression requires editing, binding, or both; and (3) identification and functional characterization of additional ADAR1 regulatory mechanisms and substrates. The research will generate foundational knowledge advancing understanding of innate immunity regulation and supporting development of ADAR1-targeted therapeutics for cancer and autoimmune disease treatment.