Understanding how chromatin affects the shape and strength of cell nuclei
Official title: Role of chromatin mechanics in nuclear shape and integrity
Funded at University of Massachusetts Amherst · NIH-10938950 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the structure of DNA inside our cells affects the shape of the cell's nucleus, which is important for keeping our cells healthy, and it hopes to find out how changes in this structure might be linked to diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Massachusetts Amherst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hadley, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $384,365 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM154928-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10938950 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with diseases that exhibit abnormal nuclear shapes, such as certain cancers or genetic disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to nuclear shape or chromatin mechanics may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of chromatin mechanics in maintaining the shape and integrity of cell nuclei, which is crucial for proper cellular function. It focuses on how changes in chromatin structure and rigidity can lead to abnormal nuclear shapes, a marker of disease progression. By examining the relationship between chromatin compaction, transcription activity, and nuclear deformation, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that control nuclear properties. This could provide insights into cellular dysfunction associated with various diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for diagnosing and treating diseases characterized by abnormal nuclear morphology.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding chromatin mechanics can lead to significant insights into cellular function and disease, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
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University of Massachusetts Amherst
Hadley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stephens, Andrew Daniel — University of Massachusetts Amherst
- Study coordinator: Stephens, Andrew Daniel
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.