How common gene differences change reactions to chemical and biological toxins
CRISPR screens of population relevant genes governing toxicant resilience
This project uses gene-editing screens to find common DNA differences that change how people's cells respond to chemical and biological toxins.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11471388 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will use CRISPR-based gene screens in lab-grown human cell models to test about 1,490 human genes (the ToxVar set) that carry relatively common loss-of-function variants. They will expose these engineered cells to specific chemical and biological toxicants and track which gene differences change cell survival or function. The team aims to map gene-by-environment links that help explain why some people or groups are more vulnerable to particular toxins. Results are meant to guide future efforts to identify at-risk individuals and improve prevention strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with known or suspected exposure to environmental chemical or biological toxicants, or those interested in genetic studies of toxin sensitivity, would be the most relevant group for follow-up studies.
Not a fit: People whose health concerns are unrelated to environmental or toxicant exposure are unlikely to get direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal genetic markers that predict who is more vulnerable to certain toxic exposures, helping target prevention and monitoring.
How similar studies have performed: CRISPR screening in cells has successfully found genes that change drug and toxin responses, but applying a large population-relevant 'ToxVar' gene set to multiple toxicants is a newer, less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vulpe, Christopher D — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Vulpe, Christopher D
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.