How Genes Are Turned On and Off During Cell Development
Understanding CTCF Boundaries Controlling Hox Gene Expression
This work explores how our cells precisely control which genes are active or inactive as they develop into different types, like those in your neck or spine.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11144604 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies are made of many different cell types, each with a unique job, and this project looks at how cells achieve their specific identities. We are learning how special proteins, like CTCF and cohesin, help organize the cell's genetic material into distinct sections. This organization ensures that genes needed for one cell type are active, while genes that should be off remain silent. Understanding this process is key to knowing how cells develop correctly and what happens when things go wrong.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not recruiting patients but aims to advance our general understanding of human cell development and gene control.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or clinical interventions would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help us understand the root causes of developmental disorders and certain cancers that arise from errors in gene regulation.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon existing knowledge about key proteins like CTCF and cohesin, which are recognized for their roles in organizing genetic material.
Where this research is happening
Coral Gables, United States
- University of Miami School of Medicine — Coral Gables, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reinberg, Danny — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Reinberg, Danny
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.