Improving how we map genetic instructions in our cells
Novel approaches to improve comprehensive profiling of the epigenome and epitranscriptome
This project aims to create better tools for understanding how our genes are turned on and off and how genetic messages are processed, especially when these processes go wrong in diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Santa Cruz NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Santa Cruz, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11091015 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our cells have complex ways of controlling which genes are active and how the messages from these genes are handled, and these processes can be disrupted in many diseases. This research focuses on developing advanced methods, including a computational tool called FLAIR, to get a complete picture of these genetic control mechanisms. We are working to improve how we study these processes even with very small tissue samples. The goal is to precisely identify changes in genetic messages and how they are modified, which could help us understand disease better.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation but aims to benefit patients with diseases linked to how genes are regulated and expressed.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical interventions would not find direct benefit from this early-stage method development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide researchers with more accurate and detailed ways to understand the genetic changes that contribute to various diseases, potentially leading to new diagnostic tools or treatment targets.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon significant prior advancements by the research group in developing long-read sequencing methods for epigenome and epitranscriptome profiling.
Where this research is happening
Santa Cruz, United States
- University of California Santa Cruz — Santa Cruz, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brooks, Angela Norie — University of California Santa Cruz
- Study coordinator: Brooks, Angela Norie
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.