Understanding genetic changes in human tissues
Official title: Tissue Procurement Center (TPC) Supporting the Somatic Mosaicism across Human Tissues (SMaHT) Network
Funded at National Disease Research Interchange · NIH-11123490 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to understand how genetic changes happen in different parts of the body by collecting and analyzing tissue samples from people at various ages, and it also aims to create new tools for this research while considering the ethical aspects of using human tissue for science.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | National Disease Research Interchange NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $2,698,123 |
| NIH project number | 5U24TR005126-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11123490 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are willing to donate tissue samples and those affected by genetic disorders related to somatic mosaicism.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by genetic disorders or those who cannot provide tissue samples may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to create a comprehensive resource that maps genetic variations caused by somatic mosaicism across different human tissues. It involves collecting high-quality tissue samples from individuals at various developmental stages and analyzing these samples to discover somatic variants. The project also focuses on developing new technologies and tools to enhance the study of these genetic changes. Additionally, it includes an Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications (ELSI) component to address the complexities surrounding human tissue donation for research purposes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to significant advancements in understanding genetic disorders and improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research initiatives focusing on somatic mosaicism have shown promise, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
National Disease Research Interchange
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bell, Thomas J — National Disease Research Interchange
- Study coordinator: Bell, Thomas J
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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.