Exploring how certain enzymes affect gene regulation in human cells
Official title: Understanding Catalytic Mechanisms of Human Non-Heme Fe(II) and 2-Oxoglutarate-Dependent Histone Demethylases
Funded at Michigan Technological University · NIH-10974583 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain enzymes that help control gene activity work with different types of proteins, which could help us understand their role in diseases like cancer and lead to better treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan Technological University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houghton, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2021 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $403,453 |
| NIH project number | 2R15GM139118-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10974583 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals with cancers or genetic disorders associated with epigenetic dysregulation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to epigenetic mechanisms or those not affected by histone modifications may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the catalytic mechanisms of specific enzymes known as histone demethylases, which play a crucial role in regulating gene expression by modifying histone proteins. The study focuses on understanding how these enzymes interact with different types of histone substrates, particularly those with larger alkyl groups, which have not been thoroughly explored. By employing biochemical techniques and computer models, the research aims to uncover the detailed processes by which these enzymes operate, potentially revealing new insights into their roles in various diseases, including cancers. This work could lead to advancements in drug design and therapeutic strategies targeting epigenetic modifications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of gene regulation and lead to novel treatments for diseases linked to epigenetic changes.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific mechanisms of KDMs with large alkyl groups are largely unexplored, previous studies on histone demethylases have shown promising results in understanding their roles in epigenetic regulation.
Where this research is happening
-
Michigan Technological University
Houghton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Christov, Christo Zhivkov — Michigan Technological University
- Study coordinator: Christov, Christo Zhivkov
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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.