How DNA changes over time alter gene control and health
The Evolution of Gene Regulation and Human Disease
Researchers use DNA, ancient genomes, and advanced computer models to learn how genetic differences change gene activity and affect people's health.
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-11332690 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
My team combines large human genetic datasets, experimental functional genomics, and machine-learning computer models to predict how differences in DNA change gene regulation. We compare modern human genomes with ancient genomes like Neanderthals to understand how past events shaped disease risk today. Predicted regulatory changes are connected to traits and diseases across diverse populations to find signals that matter for health. Most work is computational and lab-based validation rather than clinical testing.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with genetic test results, those willing to donate DNA or linked medical records, and individuals from diverse ancestral backgrounds would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: Patients seeking an immediate therapy or who cannot or will not share genetic information are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could help explain why some people have higher genetic risk for certain diseases and point to new targets for future tests or treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Similar computational genomics and ancient-DNA studies have produced important discoveries, but turning those findings into clinical care remains at an early stage.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Capra, John Anthony — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Capra, John Anthony
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.