How cells turn genes on and off
Probing transcriptional activation at the molecular level
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-11090992
Trying chemical ways to block or boost protein partnerships that switch genes on, aiming to help people with some cancers and certain intellectual disabilities.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11090992 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are mapping how two groups of proteins work together to switch genes on, then designing small chemicals that can block or strengthen those interactions. They will use lab experiments and cell models related to cancer and intellectual disability to test these chemical tools. The team will share validated inhibitors and enhancers so other scientists can use them and to point to parts of the process that might become drug targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancers driven by abnormal gene regulation or with intellectual disabilities linked to transcriptional defects could be candidates for future studies based on this work.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions caused by unrelated mechanisms or who need immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to benefit directly from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new drugs that restore proper gene control in some cancers and intellectual disabilities.
How similar studies have performed: Targeting transcription factor–coactivator interactions is a relatively new and challenging approach with some early chemical-probe successes but few proven therapies so far.
Where this research is happening
ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR — ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MAPP, ANNA K. — UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR
- Study coordinator: MAPP, ANNA K.
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.
Conditions: Cancers