Understanding gene expression in baboons to improve human health insights
Official title: The Baboon Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) Project
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11045930 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how similar baboons and humans are by examining their genes and how they work in different body tissues, which could help us learn more about human health and diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | January 3, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $699,380 |
| NIH project number | 1R01HG013486-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11045930 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals interested in genetic studies related to health and disease, particularly those with conditions that may have genetic components.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no interest in genetic research or those not affected by conditions studied in this project may not receive direct benefits.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic and physiological similarities between baboons and humans by analyzing gene expression across various tissues in baboons. Utilizing a unique collection of baboon tissue samples, the project aims to generate a comprehensive catalog of gene expression data, which will be obtained through advanced RNA sequencing technologies. By studying these genetic patterns, researchers hope to uncover insights that could inform our understanding of human health, behavior, and disease risk. The findings may also enhance the use of baboons as a model for studying complex biological processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to significant advancements in understanding human health and disease mechanisms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success with similar genomic approaches in other species, indicating potential for valuable insights in this novel baboon study.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gilad, Yoav — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Gilad, Yoav
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.