How repeated DNA elements change our genomes
Repetitive sequences drive genome variation and plasticity
This project looks at how repeating bits of DNA can reshuffle the genome in ways that may contribute to cancer and other diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Farmington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11258011 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The research team maps repeated DNA sequences across human and mouse genomes using high-resolution sequencing and laboratory experiments. They combine molecular genomics with computational biology to find where repeats move, cause structural changes, or alter gene control. Laboratory models and computer analyses are used to identify the cellular factors that normally keep repeats stable and what happens when those controls fail. Findings aim to link specific repeat-driven changes to disease processes like cancer so follow-up work can target those mechanisms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancers, unexplained structural genetic changes, or a strong family history of genomic disorders might be most relevant to follow or contribute samples to this research.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment changes should not expect direct clinical benefits from this basic genomics project in the short term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new genetic markers for cancer risk and new targets for therapies that prevent harmful genome rearrangements.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown repeats can drive structural variation, but applying that knowledge to human disease mechanisms and clinical tools remains relatively new and evolving.
Where this research is happening
Farmington, United States
- University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt — Farmington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Beck, Christine R — University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
- Study coordinator: Beck, Christine R
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.