How human telomerase is controlled
Regulation of human telomerase
Researchers are looking at how cells turn the telomerase gene on and off to better understand cancer and aging-related conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11313814 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work focuses on the TERT gene, which makes the telomerase enzyme that helps maintain chromosome ends. The team maps DNA control regions and chromatin structure and uses advanced genetic tools (like BAC targeting and CRISPR) to alter regulatory sequences in laboratory cell models. They compare telomerase activity in stem cells, differentiated cells, and cancer cells to learn why the gene is active in some cells but repressed in others. Findings aim to explain mechanisms behind telomerase activation in cancer and its repression during normal development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancers known to involve telomerase activation or those willing to provide tissue or blood samples for molecular studies would be most relevant for participation.
Not a fit: Patients seeking an immediate new treatment are unlikely to benefit directly because this is laboratory-focused, mechanism-driven research rather than a clinical trial.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could reveal new molecular targets for cancer therapies and inform approaches to address age-related tissue decline.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies have identified TERT activation in many cancers and some regulatory features, but the detailed mechanisms of repression during normal cell differentiation remain incompletely understood.
Where this research is happening
Pullman, United States
- Washington State University — Pullman, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhu, Jiyue — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Zhu, Jiyue
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.