How cells spread epigenetic marks along the genome
Tracking how molecular machines propagate epigenetic information in time and space
Researchers are figuring out how cellular machinery spreads chemical tags on DNA that turn genes off or on, which could help people with cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11172423 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
I would learn that scientists are watching how proteins and enzymes move chemical marks (like methyl groups) along DNA to create regions of silent genes called heterochromatin. The team uses single-cell sensors, biochemical tests, and advanced imaging to see this spreading happen in real time in cells. They compare different DNA sequences and chromatin states to understand why spreading stops or keeps going. Results from these lab experiments aim to reveal basic rules that could later guide therapies for cancer or tissue repair.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancers or other conditions where abnormal gene silencing is suspected would be the eventual patient group likely to benefit from applications of these findings.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatments for advanced disease are unlikely to see direct benefit in the short term because this is foundational lab research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal ways to control gene silencing and guide new epigenetic therapies for cancers or regenerative medicine.
How similar studies have performed: Related single-cell and biochemical studies have mapped aspects of chromatin behavior, but applying these mechanistic insights to clinical treatments remains largely new.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Al-Sady, Bassem — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Al-Sady, Bassem
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.