Causes and consequences of intra-genomic coevolution
Funded at Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. · NIH-11517199 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Scientists are studying how repetitive DNA in human cells interacts with proteins to impact genome health, fertility, and cellular functions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Piscataway, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $247,059 |
| NIH project number | 4R00GM149943-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11517199 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with cancers, birth defects, or chromosomal abnormalities may benefit from advances in understanding genome stability and chromosome transmission.
✕Less likely to help
This basic science project does not involve direct patient enrollment or immediate therapeutic interventions.
What this research studies
This project looks at satellite DNA, a highly repetitive part of our genome, and how it and the proteins that bind it influence genome stability and chromosome transmission. The work proposes a model where internal genetic conflicts drive rapid changes in essential cellular processes. By identifying the partners on both sides of this molecular arms race, researchers hope to understand how satellites can be kept in check by coevolved proteins. The goal is to reveal mechanisms that could affect diseases linked to chromosome abnormalities and birth defects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding these interactions could lead to new insights into why some genomic regions behave abnormally and how this affects health and fertility.
How similar studies have gone: There is growing evidence that satellite DNA turnover affects genome integrity, with functional partnerships between satellites and binding proteins identified in some systems.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
Piscataway, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brand, Cara — Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
- Study coordinator: Brand, Cara
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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.