Understanding how chromatin affects gene activity and cell processes
Official title: Structural and Functional Studies of Chromatin
Funded at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital · NIH-11090867 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the structure of chromatin, which helps control important processes in our cells, affects how genes are turned on and off, and it aims to help us understand how this knowledge could be useful for people with cancer and other diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | St. Jude Children's Research Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Memphis, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $667,480 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM158165-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11090867 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals with cancers that may be influenced by chromatin modifications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous conditions or those whose diseases are unrelated to chromatin dynamics may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the dynamics of chromatin, which is essential for various cellular functions such as gene expression, DNA replication, and cell division. By utilizing techniques from structural biology, biochemistry, and molecular biology, the team aims to uncover how changes in chromatin structure influence the binding of transcription factors and the accessibility of DNA. The study also explores how cells distinguish their own DNA from foreign DNA, which is crucial for maintaining genomic integrity. Patients may benefit from insights gained into chromatin's role in cancer and other diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for cancer treatment by targeting chromatin dynamics.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding chromatin dynamics and its implications for cancer therapy, indicating that this approach is building on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Memphis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Halic, Mario — St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
- Study coordinator: Halic, Mario
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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.