NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Improving DNA and RNA analysis using advanced sequencing technology.

Official title: Expanding the capabilities of third-generation sequencing for multi-dimensional genome and transcriptome analysis.

Funded at Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-10910566 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is working on improving a special DNA reading technique to help scientists better understand how our genes work and how changes in them can relate to diseases like cancer, making it easier to spot important details in our genetic makeup.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Worcester, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2024
Project endAugust 31, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$1,507,500
NIH project number1DP2GM159179-01
Project IDNIH-10910566 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cancers or genetic conditions that may benefit from advanced genomic analysis.

Less likely to help

Patients with conditions unrelated to genetic mutations or those not requiring genomic analysis may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing third-generation sequencing techniques to better analyze the genome and transcriptome of cells. By utilizing nanopore sequencing, the project aims to detect not only the standard base pairings in DNA but also various modifications and damages that can affect cellular function. The approach involves creating training libraries that include both modified and unmodified bases to improve the accuracy of sequencing results. This could lead to a deeper understanding of genetic information and its implications for diseases like cancer.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnostics and treatments for cancer and other genetic disorders.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using nanopore sequencing for detecting DNA modifications, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
    Worcester, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Flavahan, William Alexander — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
  • Study coordinator: Flavahan, William Alexander

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About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.