Investigating gene regulation in fetal hemoglobin production
Official title: The dissection of non-canonical cis-regulatory elements downstream of beta-globin locus in the fetal hemoglobin gene regulation
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10913609 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain parts of our DNA can help control the production of fetal hemoglobin, which could lead to new treatments for conditions like β-thalassemia, and it uses cutting-edge techniques to explore this in detail.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $446,729 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL170115-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10913609 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with β-thalassemia or other hemoglobinopathies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with unrelated blood disorders or those not affected by hemoglobinopathies may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how non-canonical cis-regulatory elements (CREs) influence the regulation of the fetal hemoglobin gene. By utilizing advanced genome editing techniques like CRISPR, the study aims to explore the complex 3D structure of the β-globin gene cluster and its regulatory landscape. This could lead to new insights into how fetal hemoglobin production can be manipulated, which is particularly relevant for conditions like β-thalassemia. Patients may benefit from potential gene therapy advancements that arise from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative gene therapies for hemoglobin disorders, improving treatment options for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using CRISPR and similar approaches to manipulate gene expression, indicating potential for success in this novel area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Xiaotian — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Xiaotian
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.