How mobile DNA elements affect gene activity in humans and chimpanzees
Official title: Dynamic regulatory impact of human transposable elements on gene expression
Funded at University of Texas Med Br Galveston · NIH-11080301 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain parts of our DNA, called transposable elements, can affect how our genes work, especially in humans and chimpanzees, to see how they help us adapt to our environment or contribute to diseases like cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project start | August 4, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $387,465 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150459-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080301 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic conditions or diseases influenced by gene regulation, particularly those related to cancer or cardiovascular issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to gene regulation or those not affected by transposable elements may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of transposable elements (TEs), which make up a significant portion of primate genomes, in regulating gene expression. By using cell culture models derived from both humans and chimpanzees, the study aims to understand how these elements can influence gene activity in response to different environmental conditions. The researchers will explore mechanisms such as chromatin modifications and DNA methylation to determine how TEs contribute to both beneficial adaptations and disease processes, including cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into gene regulation that may improve our understanding of diseases like cancer and cardiovascular disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that transposable elements can significantly impact gene regulation, indicating that this approach has potential for meaningful discoveries.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Med Br Galveston
Galveston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ward, Michelle Claire — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Ward, Michelle Claire
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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.