Understanding how chromatin structures affect gene expression based on parental origin

Role of Chromatin Structures in Genomic Imprinting

NIH-funded research Harvard University · NIH-10996265

This study is looking at how certain genes behave differently depending on whether they come from your mom or dad, especially in the brain, to help us understand how these differences might affect development and lead to disorders, which could eventually help patients with related conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionHarvard University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cambridge, United States)
Project IDNIH-10996265 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates genomic imprinting, a process where genes are expressed differently depending on whether they are inherited from the mother or father. It focuses on the role of chromatin structures in regulating these imprinted genes, particularly in the brain, where they are crucial for development and function. By examining the Mest-Copg2 imprinted domain, the study aims to uncover how differences in chromatin structure between parental alleles influence gene expression and contribute to developmental disorders. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the mechanisms of gene regulation and their implications for diseases linked to imprinting.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic disorders associated with genomic imprinting or those interested in the genetic basis of neurodevelopmental conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to genomic imprinting or chromatin structure may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of genetic disorders related to imprinting, potentially informing new therapeutic strategies.

How similar studies have performed: While the exploration of chromatin structures in genomic imprinting is still emerging, previous studies have shown promising results in understanding gene regulation through similar methodologies.

Where this research is happening

Cambridge, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.