New ways to find changes in chromosomes that occur over time

Novel methods for detection of mosaic chromosomal alterations

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11034805

This study is looking at how tiny changes in our chromosomes, which can happen as we get older, might be connected to health issues like cancer and heart disease, and it aims to find better ways to spot these changes in different parts of the body, so patients can understand how they might affect their health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11034805 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on identifying mosaic chromosomal alterations (mCA), which are changes in chromosomes that can happen as we age and may be linked to diseases like cancer and heart disease. The researchers will develop advanced methods to detect these alterations in various tissues, including blood and kidneys, using single-cell sequencing techniques. By improving detection methods, the study aims to uncover how these chromosomal changes affect health and disease progression. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how mCA contribute to their conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with aging-related conditions, heart disease, kidney disease, or cancer.

Not a fit: Patients without any of the aforementioned conditions or those who are not experiencing age-related health issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatments for diseases associated with chromosomal alterations.

How similar studies have performed: While the detection of chromosomal alterations has been studied, the specific methods proposed in this research are novel and aim to address limitations of existing techniques.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.