Mapping how proteins control genes in cells
EPIGENOMIC REGULATION OF GENOMES
Researchers are mapping where proteins and other molecules bind DNA in yeast and human cells to learn how gene control works and help guide better diagnostics and treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cornell University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ithaca, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11176075 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work begins in simpler yeast cells to uncover basic rules of gene control and then applies those lessons to human cells so findings are relevant to people. Scientists use an ultra-high-resolution method called ChIP-exo to map protein–DNA interactions at nearly single base-pair precision. They will also remove, mutate, or rapidly deplete specific proteins to see how those changes alter gene activity. The goal is to link molecular interactions to how genes turn on and off, which could point to new diagnostic markers or treatment targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants would be people willing to donate cells or tissue samples, including patients with genetic or gene-regulation disorders who can provide specimens for lab study.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate personal medical benefit are unlikely to gain direct clinical benefit from this laboratory-focused research in the short term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could identify new molecular markers and targets that lead to improved diagnostics and treatments for diseases influenced by gene regulation.
How similar studies have performed: High-resolution mapping methods have successfully charted protein–DNA interactions in yeast and early human cell studies, but turning those maps into therapies remains an early-stage effort.
Where this research is happening
Ithaca, United States
- Cornell University — Ithaca, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pugh, B Franklin — Cornell University
- Study coordinator: Pugh, B Franklin
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.