Understanding how certain proteins open up DNA for gene activation
Dissecting the Mechanisms of Pioneer Factor Facilitated Chromatin Opening
This study is looking at how certain special proteins help open up DNA to turn on genes, which could help us understand how problems with this process might be connected to diseases like cancer and neurological disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10879153 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how pioneer factors, which are special proteins, interact with DNA wrapped around nucleosomes to facilitate gene expression. By using advanced techniques like nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and chemical probing assays, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms by which these proteins loosen chromatin structure, allowing other regulatory proteins to bind and activate genes. This could provide insights into how changes in these processes are linked to conditions such as cancer and neurological disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with cancers or neurological disorders linked to mutations in pioneer factors like Sox2 and Oct4.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to chromatin regulation or those not affected by the specific pioneer factors studied may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating cancers and neurological disorders by targeting the mechanisms of gene regulation.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the role of pioneer factors in gene regulation can lead to significant advancements in cancer treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nikolova, Evgenia Nikolaevna — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Nikolova, Evgenia Nikolaevna
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.