Understanding how 3D structures of DNA affect cell behavior
Official title: Mechanisms and functions of three-dimensional chromatin structures in quiescent cells
Funded at Colorado State University · NIH-10939836 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the way DNA is organized in cells affects important processes like gene regulation and DNA repair, using yeast as a model, to help us understand better how these mechanisms work in resting cells, which is important for things like stem cell health and cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Collins, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $275,581 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM154898-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10939836 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to stem cell function or cancer recurrence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute conditions unrelated to chromatin structure or cell cycle regulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the three-dimensional organization of chromatin, which is crucial for regulating DNA processes in cells. By focusing on a model organism, budding yeast, the study aims to uncover how chromatin structures, specifically topologically associated domains (TADs), influence gene regulation, DNA replication, and repair. The researchers will employ advanced techniques such as high-resolution genomics and microscopy to explore these mechanisms in quiescent cells, which are in a resting state important for stem cell maintenance and cancer recurrence. The findings could provide insights into the fundamental processes that govern cell behavior and health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for targeting cancer and improving stem cell therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding chromatin structures, but this specific approach focusing on quiescent cells is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Swygert, Sarah Grace — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Swygert, Sarah Grace
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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.