Mapping how the human genome folds in 3D
Structural Annotation of the Human Genome
This project maps how chromosomes fold inside human cells to learn how folding errors can lead to cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11311352 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are charting the three-dimensional folding patterns of the human genome across different cell cycle stages using laboratory experiments and computer modeling. They focus on molecular machines like cohesin and condensin that shape chromosomes, combining sequencing-based contact maps, microscopy, and biochemical approaches. By linking folding changes to gene misactivation and genome instability, the team hopes to identify folding defects that can contribute to cancer. Results may point to new markers or targets for future cancer diagnostics and therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with cancer, individuals at high risk for cancer, or those willing to donate tumor or blood samples for research would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to cancer or genome regulation are unlikely to directly benefit from this specific project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new biomarkers or molecular targets that help detect or treat cancers caused by genome folding errors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has mapped genome folding and shown links to gene regulation, but applying those findings to explain or treat cancer remains an emerging area.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dekker, Job — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Dekker, Job
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.