Precise control of human genes to enable new treatments
Site-specific control of human gene regulation for therapeutically applicable mechanistic insights
Researchers are building CRISPR-based tools to precisely turn human genes up or down to help create better treatments for many diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rice University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11137123 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team is creating programmable, non-cutting CRISPR tools that attach to specific spots on human DNA to change chromatin and chemical marks without altering the DNA sequence. They will test these tools in human cells to learn how to tune gene activity across wide ranges and why the same regulators act differently in different cell types. The work studies chromatin structure, histone modifications, and DNA methylation to map how regulatory forces combine to control genes. The aim is predictable, site-specific control of gene expression that could be adapted for therapeutic use.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with diseases driven by abnormal gene expression—such as certain cancers, genetic disorders, or autoimmune conditions—could eventually be candidates for treatments developed from this work.
Not a fit: Patients needing immediate clinical care or those with conditions unrelated to gene-expression changes are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this basic laboratory research right now.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could enable therapies that correct disease-causing gene activity without permanently changing a person's DNA.
How similar studies have performed: Related CRISPR-based epigenome editing approaches have shown promise in cell and animal studies, but achieving precise, predictable control across human cell types remains relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Rice University — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hilton, Isaac — Rice University
- Study coordinator: Hilton, Isaac
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.