How transcription factors reprogram cells by opening chromatin
Official title: Role of nucleosome architecture in cellular reprogramming
Funded at University of North Dakota · NIH-11390956 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how certain proteins unlock tightly packed DNA so cells can change their identity, which could help develop better ways to reprogram cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Dakota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Grand Forks, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $296,100 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM148729-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11390956 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Not a patient study; results could inform future therapies that rely on cellular reprogramming.
✕Less likely to help
No direct patient participation in this basic science project.
What this research studies
This project looks at how transcription factors, including pioneer factors, access closed chromatin to activate the right genes during cellular reprogramming. It will explore the molecular steps that allow transcription factors to bind nucleosomes and open chromatin at specific genomic locations. The study combines molecular biology with analyses of chromatin structure to understand why some factors succeed where others do not. Findings could reveal new targets to improve cell reprogramming for therapeutic purposes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Gaining insights that could lead to improved methods for reprogramming cells, potentially benefiting regenerative medicine.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work has identified pioneer factors as key players in chromatin opening during reprogramming, with ongoing advances in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Takaku, Motoki — University of North Dakota
- Study coordinator: Takaku, Motoki
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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.