Understanding how certain proteins help cells change their function
Official title: Role of nucleosome architecture in cellular reprogramming
Funded at University of North Dakota · NIH-10907409 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help change the way DNA works in our cells, which could help us understand how to reprogram cells and find better treatments for diseases like cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Dakota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Grand Forks, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $296,100 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM148729-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10907409 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to misregulation of pioneer factors, such as certain types of cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to cellular reprogramming or pioneer factor misregulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific proteins, known as pioneer factors, interact with the structure of DNA to enable cells to change their function. By examining how these proteins can modify the physical barriers of DNA, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that allow for effective gene activation. The research employs advanced techniques, including CRISPR, to manipulate and observe these interactions in a controlled environment. This could provide insights into how cells can be reprogrammed, which is crucial for understanding various diseases, including cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating diseases by improving our ability to reprogram cells.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding the role of pioneer factors in cellular reprogramming, indicating that this approach has potential for significant breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Takaku, Motoki — University of North Dakota
- Study coordinator: Takaku, Motoki
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Lung-brain signals in Alzheimer's disease
Researchers are exploring how lung inflammation, like from asthma, might influence brain changes in people with Alzheimer's disease.
-
Health Research Core for Translational Research in North Dakota
A program to help clinicians in North Dakota turn patient needs into translational ideas and pilot projects that could improve community health.
-
Design, Compliance & Data Management Core for TRANSCEND research
A dedicated core helps TRANSCEND researchers manage data, stay compliant, and use statistics so they can turn findings into real-world improvements.
-
Community Engagement and Outreach Core for North Dakota health improvements
A community-focused project in North Dakota aims to work with people and communities to develop and share practical ways to prevent and manage common health problems like cancer, diabetes, dementia, depression, and suicide.
-
Administrative Core supports translational colorectal cancer and degenerative neurologic disorders research
This grant funds an Administrative Core to organize and oversee a translational research program focused on colorectal cancer and degenerative neurologic disorders.
-
TRANSCEND: Translational science to improve North Dakota health
A program to build and speed patient-centered translational research in North Dakota, focusing on the health problems most common in the state including neurodegenerative diseases and cancer.
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.