Mapping how human cell gene networks work using CRISPR
Deciphering the hierarchical modularity of the mammalian cell through network integration and complex genetic perturbation strategies
This work uses large-scale CRISPR gene edits and computer analysis to find which genes and gene networks keep human cells alive and how those links change in diseases like cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11176842 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers use genome-scale CRISPR libraries to turn off genes in human and mouse cells and measure which genes are essential for cell survival. They combine results from hundreds of cell-line screens with computational network tools to map how genes work together and how mutations rewire those networks. The team searches for context-specific vulnerabilities, such as genes that cancer cells uniquely depend on, and develops software to analyze these patterns. These lab and data-driven approaches aim to point to new biological targets that could be explored for future therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancer—especially blood cancers like myeloid leukemia—or patients willing to donate tumor or blood samples for research would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatments or those with conditions unrelated to cancer are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this laboratory-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets or pathways for drugs and help explain why some cancers are vulnerable to specific treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Previous CRISPR screening efforts and the Cancer Dependency Map have already identified gene dependencies and suggested therapeutic leads, though turning those findings into approved treatments is still in progress.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hart, Traver — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Hart, Traver
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.