Finding hidden DNA changes that affect gene control in multiple myeloma
Identifying and characterizing functional noncoding mutations in multiple myeloma
Researchers are looking for DNA changes outside of genes that may change how genes are turned on or off in people with multiple myeloma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Hackensack University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hackensack, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11306573 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project compares whole-genome DNA and DNA methylation from myeloma tumor cells to the patient’s normal B cells to spot differences linked to noncoding mutations. The team will map regions where methylation differs between the two cell types and where one DNA copy shows different methylation (allele-specific methylation). Candidate noncoding mutations that alter transcription factor or insulator binding will be tested in lab assays to see if they change gene activity. The goal is to pinpoint noncoding changes that could drive myeloma and suggest new targets for future treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with a diagnosis of multiple myeloma who can provide tumor samples (bone marrow/plasma cells) and a blood sample, especially from the common molecular subtypes being studied, would be ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People without multiple myeloma or patients expecting immediate changes to their clinical treatment are unlikely to receive direct benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new molecular causes of myeloma and point to novel targets for diagnosis or treatment.
How similar studies have performed: Genome-wide sequencing and methylation mapping have uncovered functional noncoding mutations in some cancers, but applying combined WGS and methyl-seq specifically to multiple myeloma is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Hackensack, United States
- Hackensack University Medical Center — Hackensack, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tycko, Benjamin — Hackensack University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Tycko, Benjamin
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.