Decoding the DNA 'switches' that control genes in the brain
Functional elucidation of the sequence-encoded regulatory activity of enhancers in vivo in the brain
This project maps how tiny DNA switches called enhancers control brain genes to help people affected by brain development problems and neurological disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11251620 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are decoding how specific DNA sequences called enhancers turn genes on or off in the living brain by testing sequence changes and watching the effects on gene activity and brain cells. They combine genomic sequencing, molecular assays, and experiments in brain tissue or models to link enhancer DNA to real biological outcomes. The team also looks at how chromatin structure and transcription factors influence enhancer action over time and in different cell types. Findings are meant to explain how changes in enhancer sequences can contribute to brain development differences and disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with neurodevelopmental disorders, unexplained neurological conditions, or families interested in genetic causes of brain disease may find this research relevant.
Not a fit: Patients needing immediate clinical therapies or those with brain problems clearly caused by injury or infection are unlikely to see direct benefits from this basic science work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal genetic causes of brain disorders and point to new molecular targets for future treatments or diagnostics.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have annotated enhancers and predicted their activity, but directly linking enhancer sequence to function in the living brain remains relatively new and not yet fully solved.
Where this research is happening
Davis, United States
- University of California at Davis — Davis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nord, Alexander — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Nord, Alexander
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.