Understanding DNA Changes in the Brain and Disease
Dynamic DNA Modifications in Brain and Diseases
This project explores how tiny changes to our DNA, called epigenetics, affect brain development and may contribute to conditions like Alzheimer's or depression.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11159740 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brains are incredibly complex, and this project looks at how subtle changes to DNA, without altering the genetic code itself, can influence how our brain develops and functions. These "epigenetic" changes act like switches, turning genes on or off, which can impact learning and memory. We are learning that problems with these switches might play a role in various brain conditions, including those affecting development, memory, and mental health. This work aims to uncover how these DNA modifications work and how they might go wrong in disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patients but aims to benefit individuals with neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, or psychiatric disorders in the future.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct participation in a clinical trial would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to understand, diagnose, or even treat neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, and psychiatric disorders by targeting these DNA modifications.
How similar studies have performed: Research into epigenetic modifications in brain health and disease is an active and promising field, with other studies showing the importance of these mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jin, Peng — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Jin, Peng
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.