How the 3D folding of DNA changes in aging cells
Single-cell analysis of 3D genome organization in senescent cells
This project looks at how the three-dimensional folding of DNA inside cells changes as cells age and stop dividing, which may be linked to age-related inflammation and tissue decline.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11263740 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will use single-cell techniques to map how the genome is arranged in three dimensions in cells that have entered senescence. They will combine advanced imaging with single-cell genomics to track chromatin positioning, including lamina-associated domains, and to see whether changes occur uniformly or differ between individual cells. The team will test whether shifts in genome organization happen before cells become senescent or arise afterward. Results aim to clarify molecular steps that lead to harmful inflammatory signals in aging tissues.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants would be people willing to provide tissue or blood samples (for example skin biopsies or blood donations) or older adults with age-related conditions if the project collects human-derived cells.
Not a fit: People seeking immediate treatment or symptom relief should not expect direct clinical benefit from this laboratory-focused project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify early molecular changes to target that might reduce inflammation and tissue damage linked to aging.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have linked senescence to disrupted genome organization, but applying single-cell 3D genome mapping to clarify timing and cell-to-cell differences is a relatively new approach.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jain, Rajan — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Jain, Rajan
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.