Understanding how disordered regions in genes affect their expression
Official title: Uncovering the regulatory logic of gene expression encoded by disordered regions
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10687601 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain parts of proteins that control gene activity can go wrong and lead to diseases like cancer and brain disorders, helping us understand how our cells work and what happens when things don’t go as they should.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1,399,500 |
| NIH project number | 1DP2CA290639-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10687601 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by cancers or neurodegenerative diseases linked to gene expression abnormalities.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to gene expression dysregulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex mechanisms that regulate gene expression, particularly focusing on disordered regions of transcription factors that influence how genes are activated or suppressed. By examining these regions, the study aims to uncover how dysregulation can lead to diseases such as cancer and neurodegeneration. The approach involves advanced molecular techniques to analyze the interactions between transcription factors and DNA, providing insights into the fundamental processes that govern cellular function and identity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating diseases caused by gene expression dysregulation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding gene regulation, but this specific focus on disordered regions is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Holehouse, Alex S — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Holehouse, Alex S
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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.