Understanding how chemical modifications in DNA affect cell behavior and cancer.
Official title: Mechanisms of epigenetic memory in human cells
Funded at University of California Berkeley · NIH-11128721 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in DNA can affect gene behavior in our cells, especially in relation to cancer, and it hopes to find new ways to treat the disease by understanding these changes better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $401,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM155044-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11128721 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with cancer or those at high risk for developing cancer due to genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those without any genetic predisposition to cancer may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of DNA methylation, a key epigenetic modification, in determining how genes are expressed in human cells. By exploring the genetic pathways that influence DNA methylation, the study aims to uncover how abnormalities in these pathways contribute to diseases like cancer. The research employs advanced techniques such as genome-wide genetic screens and CRISPR technology to manipulate DNA methylation patterns, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies. Patients may benefit from insights gained about cancer cell behavior and the development of targeted treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve cancer treatment by targeting the mechanisms of DNA methylation.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in manipulating DNA methylation for therapeutic purposes, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nunez, James Karlo — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Nunez, James Karlo
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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.