Understanding how cells survive in a dormant state
Dynamics in Eukaryotic Dormancy: Gene Expression and Aging
This study looks at how cells, like yeast spores, take a break from being active and what happens to their genes and aging during that time, helping us understand how they survive tough conditions, which could also apply to human cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10888353 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the state of dormancy in cells, particularly focusing on how gene expression and aging are regulated when cells are inactive. Using dormant yeast spores as a model, the research aims to uncover which cellular processes continue during dormancy and how these processes contribute to survival. The approach combines quantitative measurements at the single-cell level with mathematical modeling to analyze gene regulation dynamics. This work is relevant not only to yeast but also to various organisms, including human cells, which may enter a dormant state under stress.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals interested in the biological mechanisms of aging and those affected by conditions related to dormant microbial infections.
Not a fit: Patients with acute infections or conditions unrelated to dormancy or aging may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating infections caused by dormant microbial spores and improving our understanding of aging processes in human cells.
How similar studies have performed: While the study of dormancy is a well-established field, the specific focus on gene expression dynamics in dormant eukaryotic cells is relatively novel and underexplored.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Youk, Hyun — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Youk, Hyun
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.