How the UTX protein’s condensates control gene activity
Role of UTX condensation in chromatin regulation
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA · NIH-11237151
This project looks at whether tiny clumps formed by the UTX protein help control genes linked to some cancers and developmental disorders like Kabuki syndrome.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHARLOTTESVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11237151 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying how the UTX protein forms tiny liquid-like clusters (condensates) that help turn genes on or off. They will use cells grown in the lab, mouse embryonic stem cells, and genetic tools such as CRISPR to change UTX and observe effects on chromatin and gene activity. The team will compare UTX with its Y-chromosome relative UTY and examine how differences in condensate behavior relate to tumor suppression and stem cell differentiation. Lab measurements of histone marks, enhancer activity, and gene expression will show whether altering condensate properties changes pathways linked to cancer or neurodevelopmental disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancers or with Kabuki syndrome whose tumors or blood show mutations in the UTX/KDM6A gene and who are willing to provide tissue or genetic samples would be the most relevant participants for related sample collection or translational follow-up.
Not a fit: Patients without UTX/KDM6A-related mutations or those seeking immediate clinical treatments are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal how UTX malfunctions drive cancer or Kabuki syndrome and point to new molecular targets for future therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have shown UTX can form condensates and influence gene regulation, but translating that insight into treatments is still a new and developing area.
Where this research is happening
CHARLOTTESVILLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA — CHARLOTTESVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: STUKENBERG, P. TODD — UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA
- Study coordinator: STUKENBERG, P. TODD
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.