Investigating how gene promoters and chromosomal environments affect gene expression in individual cells
High-throughput analysis of the effects of gene promoters and chromosomal environments on single-cell gene expression
This study is looking at how even identical cells can behave differently in the same environment, which is important for understanding things like cancer and how cells change; researchers will use new technology to see how different parts of our genes affect this behavior.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11010023 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the variability in gene expression among genetically identical cells in the same environment. By developing a high-throughput technology, the researchers will measure how different gene promoters and chromosomal locations influence this variability at the single-cell level. The study aims to integrate transgenes into various genomic locations and analyze the resulting gene expression patterns. This approach will help identify the factors that contribute to differences in gene expression, which is crucial for understanding development and disease processes, including cancer and cellular reprogramming.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cancers that exhibit chemotherapeutic resistance or those involved in cellular reprogramming therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with stable, non-cancerous conditions or those not undergoing any form of cellular therapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for cancer treatment and more effective methods for generating pure cell types for therapeutic applications.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding gene expression variability, but this specific approach using high-throughput technology is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cohen, Barak a — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Cohen, Barak a
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.