Creating synthetic circuits to control cell behavior and fate
Synthetic epigenetic circuits: tunable cell fate switches controlled by dynamic and combinatorial inputs
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11057626
This study is exploring new ways to help cells make smart decisions about how they grow and act, which could lead to better treatments for conditions like cancer by programming cells to specifically target and destroy cancer cells without changing their DNA.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11057626 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing synthetic epigenetic circuits that can control how cells differentiate and behave based on various inputs. By utilizing natural epigenetic systems, the project aims to create circuits that can respond to environmental signals and make long-term decisions about cell fate without altering genetic information. Patients may benefit from advancements in cell-based therapies, particularly in areas like cancer treatment, where engineered cells can be programmed to target and kill cancer cells more effectively.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing treatments that involve adoptive T cell therapies or those with conditions that could benefit from engineered cell interventions.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have conditions requiring cell-based therapies or those who are not eligible for adoptive T cell transfer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and personalized cell therapies for patients with conditions like cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using synthetic biology approaches for cell engineering, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LIM, WENDELL A — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: LIM, WENDELL 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.