How certain proteins control cell fate and gene expression
Official title: Mechanisms for DNA Recognition, Scanning and Nucleosome Mechanical Actions by Pioneer Transcription Factors and their Role in Cell Fate Decisions
Funded at University of California, Merced · NIH-11041166 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help decide what type of cells we become during development and disease, which could lead to new ways to treat conditions like cancer and improve healing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, Merced NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Merced, United States) |
| Project start | February 21, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $395,148 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM152623-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11041166 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with conditions related to dysregulated cell fate, such as certain cancers or those requiring regenerative therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable conditions that do not involve cell fate dysregulation or those not seeking regenerative treatments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how pioneer transcription factors (PTFs) influence cell fate decisions during development and disease. By examining the mechanisms through which PTFs recognize and bind to DNA, both in its free form and when wrapped around nucleosomes, the study aims to uncover the fundamental processes that regulate gene expression. The research employs high-resolution biophysical analysis to explore the interactions of PTFs with DNA, which could lead to advancements in regenerative medicine and cancer treatment. Understanding these mechanisms may provide insights into how to manipulate cell fate for therapeutic purposes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for regenerative medicine and cancer therapies by enhancing our understanding of cell fate regulation.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific mechanisms of PTFs are still being explored, similar approaches in understanding gene regulation have shown promise in other studies, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, Merced
Merced, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Munoz, Victor — University of California, Merced
- Study coordinator: Munoz, Victor
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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.