Single-cell map of human gene activity and DNA gene switches

Single-cell Mapping Center for Human Regulatory Elements and Gene Activity

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11195014

This project will create detailed single-cell maps showing which genes are active and how DNA controls them in human tissues to help researchers studying diseases like Alzheimer's.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11195014 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Researchers will use small pieces of donated human tissues and blood samples to map, cell by cell, where genes are turned on and which DNA regions control them. The team will apply advanced single-cell multi-omic methods that measure gene expression, open chromatin sites, proteins, and cell lineage in the same cells. Samples come from a large biobank of more than 500 people across many organs, ages, and immune-related conditions, and the data will be shared openly. The goal is a searchable atlas that other scientists can use to link genetic differences to disease processes including Alzheimer’s.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults (21+) who can donate blood or tissue samples or whose samples are already in biobanks, including people with Alzheimer's or other immune-related conditions.

Not a fit: People seeking immediate medical treatment should not expect direct personal health benefits from participating, since this project builds shared research resources rather than testing therapies.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this atlas could help researchers pinpoint gene-regulating DNA involved in diseases like Alzheimer's and speed the development of new diagnostics and treatments.

How similar studies have performed: Previous single-cell atlases have successfully mapped cell types and revealed disease clues, and this project extends those efforts using newer multi-omic methods at larger scale.

Where this research is happening

STANFORD, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.