Exploring how ancestral experiences affect gene expression and lifespan in worms.
Research Supplement to promote diversity for parent grant: Linking transgenerational epigenetic inheritance to gene expression and lifespan in C. elegans
This study looks at how the health and habits of worms can be shaped by their ancestors, helping us understand how changes in DNA can affect how long they live and how healthy they are, which might also give us clues about similar effects in humans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Massachusetts Lowell NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lowell, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10711195 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how experiences from previous generations can influence the health and behavior of descendants, using the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans (a type of worm). By studying the molecular changes that occur in these worms over many generations, the researchers aim to understand how specific modifications to DNA packaging (chromatin) affect gene expression and overall physiology. The study focuses on the role of histone modifications in regulating genes that may impact lifespan and health outcomes. This approach allows for a detailed examination of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the effects of genetics and environmental factors on health, particularly those with a family history of stress-related conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with no interest in genetic or epigenetic influences on health or those not affected by stress-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights into how ancestral stress impacts health across generations, potentially leading to new strategies for improving health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding transgenerational epigenetic inheritance, making this approach a valuable area of exploration.
Where this research is happening
Lowell, United States
- University of Massachusetts Lowell — Lowell, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Teresa Wei-Sy — University of Massachusetts Lowell
- Study coordinator: Lee, Teresa Wei-Sy
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.