How 'jumping genes' change 3D DNA folding in people
Mobile element derived chromatin looping variability in human populations
This project looks at how mobile bits of DNA, sometimes called 'jumping genes,' change the way DNA folds in people and how that can alter gene activity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11160467 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will study DNA from many people to map where mobile element insertions occur across human genomes. They will use advanced sequencing, lab tests that read 3D DNA interactions (like 4C-type methods), and targeted experiments using gene-editing tools to see how these insertions change DNA folding and gene control. The team will combine lab results with computer methods to build more complete maps of these mobile elements and their effects. Their work also aims to overcome limits of standard short-read sequencing so future studies can find these elements more reliably.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants would be people willing to provide a DNA sample or share existing genomic data, with diverse backgrounds helping the study capture more variation.
Not a fit: People looking for immediate treatment or direct clinical benefit are unlikely to benefit right away, since this is foundational research about DNA regulation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new ways that mobile DNA causes changes in gene activity and point to better genetic diagnoses or future treatment targets.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that mobile elements can affect gene regulation and 3D genome structure, but comprehensive mapping across many human genomes and methods to fix short-read blind spots remain novel.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Boyle, Alan P — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Boyle, Alan P
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.