How chromatin structure changes affect cancer biology
Official title: Mechanisms and functions of three-dimensional chromatin structures in quiescent cells
Funded at Colorado State University · NIH-11392321 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Scientists are studying how the 3D organization of DNA inside cancer-related cells affects how genes turn on and off.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Collins, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $380,431 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM154898-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11392321 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with cancers where chromatin architecture plays a role or patients participating in future translational studies linked to chromatin biology.
✕Less likely to help
Patients whose cancers are not influenced by chromatin folding mechanisms may experience limited direct benefit.
What this research studies
This project uses advanced lab methods to look at how DNA is folded in quiescent (non-dividing) cells of budding yeast, which helps us understand similar processes in human cancers. The team combines high-resolution genomics, advanced imaging, and biochemistry to map chromatin fibers and loop structures like TADs and condensin-generated domains. By studying these mechanisms in a reversible quiescent state, researchers aim to learn how chromatin packaging influences gene regulation, replication, and repair in cancer biology. The work could reveal new targets or concepts for preventing cancer recurrence linked to stalled cell states.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could deepen our understanding of chromatin architecture in cancer and identify new angles for therapies that limit cancer cell survival.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that chromatin structure affects gene regulation and DNA processes, but much remains to be learned about 3D folding in cancer-relevant cells.
Where this research is happening
-
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Swygert, Sarah Grace — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Swygert, Sarah Grace
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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.