Understanding how chromatin features influence cell development and cancer

Function of Chromatin Features in Cellular Programming

NIH-funded research University of Rochester · NIH-11011631

This study is looking at how a special protein called H2A.Z helps cells change and develop, using mouse cells, human cancer cells, and zebrafish embryos, to better understand its impact on gene activity and its connection to diseases like cancer and developmental issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11011631 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a specific histone variant, H2A.Z, in regulating how cells differentiate and reprogram. By studying cultured mouse cells, human cancer cells, and developing zebrafish embryos, the researchers aim to uncover how H2A.Z patterns affect gene transcription and cellular behavior. The approach includes advanced genome-wide sequencing techniques to analyze the effects of H2A.Z on cellular programming and its implications for diseases like cancer and developmental disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with developmental disorders or cancers linked to dysregulated cellular programming.

Not a fit: Patients with stable, non-progressive conditions unrelated to cellular differentiation or cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into cancer treatment and developmental disease prevention by targeting cellular reprogramming mechanisms.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding chromatin's role in cellular processes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions cancer cellCancer InductionCancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.