Mapping Tiny Genetic Differences in Human Organs
Single Cell Mosaic Mutation Atlas of Human Organ
This project aims to create a detailed map of small genetic differences within individual cells of human organs, which can help us understand how diseases like autism and cancer develop.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11089467 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies are made of many cells, and sometimes these cells have small genetic differences, called mosaic mutations, that can contribute to conditions like autism, heart problems, and cancer. Currently, it's hard to find all these tiny differences, but new technologies allow us to look at individual cells more closely. This project uses advanced tools and develops new computer methods to build a comprehensive map of these genetic variations across different human organs. By doing so, we hope to better understand how these differences affect our health and lead to disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient recruitment but uses existing human tissue data to understand genetic variations related to human diseases.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This work could lead to a deeper understanding of how diseases like autism, cardiac disorders, and cancers begin, potentially paving the way for earlier detection or new treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While single-cell sequencing is an established technology, this project focuses on developing novel computational tools to specifically map rare mosaic mutations from existing human cell atlas data, addressing a current gap in knowledge.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gao, Ruli — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Gao, Ruli
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.