Understanding how certain proteins help control cell development
Molecular impediments to fate-specifying pioneer factor activity during development
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-10991413
This study is looking at how certain proteins, called pioneer factors, help turn on important genes during the early stages of cell development, even when there are obstacles that usually keep those genes turned off, and it's designed for anyone interested in understanding how our bodies develop.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10991413 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how transcription factors, which are proteins that help regulate gene expression, can activate specific genes during cell differentiation despite the presence of nucleosomes that typically inhibit this process. The study focuses on a special class of proteins known as 'pioneer factors' that may bind to DNA and displace nucleosomes, allowing for the activation of enhancers that control developmental genes. By using advanced epigenome profiling techniques, the research aims to confirm the role of these pioneer factors in vivo and understand their importance in early development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions related to abnormal cell differentiation or developmental disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with fully developed and stable cell types or those not affected by differentiation issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into how cell differentiation is controlled, potentially impacting treatments for various developmental disorders and cancers.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of pioneer factors is a relatively novel area of investigation, preliminary studies have shown promise in understanding their function in gene regulation.
Where this research is happening
SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES
- WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY — SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MEERS, MICHAEL P — WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: MEERS, MICHAEL P
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.