How nitric oxide affects gene regulation by changing DNA and RNA
Nitric oxide inhibits Iron(II)2-Oxogluterate dependent demethylases to regulate DNA and mRNA methylation
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO · NIH-11159792
This research explores how a molecule called nitric oxide changes the way our genes are turned on or off by affecting certain proteins that modify DNA and RNA.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11159792 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our bodies use nitric oxide for many important functions, but too much of it can contribute to disease. We are learning how high levels of nitric oxide might cause harmful changes in gene activity. This happens because nitric oxide can stop specific proteins, called demethylases, from doing their job of removing chemical tags from DNA and RNA. When these tags are not removed properly, it can alter how genes are expressed, potentially leading to health problems. We aim to understand these detailed molecular steps to uncover new ways that nitric oxide influences disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation at this stage, but future studies building on this work may seek patients with conditions linked to nitric oxide dysregulation or altered gene methylation.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options would not directly benefit from this basic science investigation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding how nitric oxide affects gene regulation could lead to new ways to treat diseases where gene expression is altered.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of nitric oxide and epigenetic modifications in disease is known, this specific mechanism of nitric oxide directly inhibiting demethylases via a dinitrosyl iron complex is a novel and less explored area.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO — Chicago, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: THOMAS, DOUGLAS D. — UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO
- Study coordinator: THOMAS, DOUGLAS D.
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.