Understanding how a toxic chemical affects gene regulation in the body
Integrative transcriptional and epigenomic modeling of xenobiotic-activated gene regulatory networks
This study is looking at how a harmful chemical called TCDD affects the way genes work, especially in pregnant women and breastfeeding babies, to better understand the health risks linked to this exposure.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10889108 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of the environmental contaminant 2,3,7,8-Tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) on gene regulation and expression. It focuses on how TCDD interacts with the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) to influence various biological processes, particularly in sensitive populations such as pregnant women and breastfed infants. By utilizing advanced techniques like ATAC sequencing, the study aims to uncover the complex gene regulatory networks activated by TCDD exposure. The findings could help clarify the risks associated with dioxin exposure and improve our understanding of its health impacts.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include pregnant women, breastfed infants, and individuals consuming locally caught fish and wildlife.
Not a fit: Patients who are not exposed to dioxins or who do not belong to sensitive populations may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better risk assessments and protective measures for populations exposed to dioxins, ultimately improving public health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding gene regulatory networks can lead to significant insights into the effects of environmental toxins, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
East Lansing, United States
- Michigan State University — East Lansing, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bhattacharya, Sudin — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Bhattacharya, Sudin
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.