How Our DNA's Hidden Parts Affect Health
Coevolution and Functional Interactions in the Non-Coding Genome
This project helps us understand how tiny changes in our DNA, especially the parts that don't directly make proteins, can lead to different health conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11105990 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies are built using instructions from our DNA, but only some parts of DNA directly make proteins. This project looks at the "non-coding" parts of our DNA and how they interact in 3D space within our cells. Researchers are developing computer tools to predict how variations in these non-coding regions might affect how our genes work and ultimately influence our health. By mapping these complex interactions, we hope to better understand the root causes of various diseases and link specific DNA changes to health outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation, but its findings could eventually benefit anyone with a genetic condition or those at risk for diseases influenced by genetic variations.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better ways to predict disease risk and understand how genetic variations contribute to human health problems.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds on existing knowledge of 3D genomics and computational biology, aiming to develop novel predictive methods.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Northeastern University — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Di Pierro, Michele — Northeastern University
- Study coordinator: Di Pierro, Michele
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.