Examining chromatin changes in early cancer development

Imaging nanoscale chromatin folding in early carcinogenesis

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-11079553

This study is looking at tiny changes in the structure of DNA that might show early signs of adenocarcinoma, a type of cancer, to help doctors better understand cancer risk and find out which cases might be more serious, ultimately aiming to improve how we diagnose and treat cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Champaign, United States)
Project IDNIH-11079553 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how nanoscale changes in chromatin structure can indicate early stages of cancer development, specifically focusing on adenocarcinoma. Using advanced super-resolution microscopy techniques, the study aims to visualize these changes at a molecular level, which traditional microscopy cannot achieve. By identifying these chromatin alterations, the research seeks to improve the ability to assess cancer risk and differentiate between aggressive and less aggressive forms of cancer. This could lead to better cancer diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at high risk for developing adenocarcinoma or those with early-stage lesions.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced cancer or those not at risk for adenocarcinoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance early cancer detection and risk assessment, leading to more personalized treatment options for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques to study chromatin structure, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Champaign, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions cancer diagnosisCancer Inductioncancer riskCancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.