Understanding how DNA changes affect adult stem cells and their functions
Official title: Dissecting the role of DNA methylation in controlling retrotransposons and governing adult stem cell fates
Funded at University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-11143161 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in DNA can affect adult stem cells and their ability to handle stress, which might help us understand more about aging and cancer, so it’s for anyone interested in how our bodies stay healthy as we get older.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $408,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM155107-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11143161 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing age-related health issues or conditions related to stem cell dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to DNA methylation or stem cell function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of DNA methylation, a chemical modification of DNA, in regulating adult stem cells and their responses to stress. It focuses on how changes in DNA methylation patterns can influence the behavior of retrotransposons, which are repetitive elements in our genome that can affect gene regulation. By studying these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover how DNA methylation abnormalities contribute to aging and cancer, potentially leading to new insights into stem cell function and health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving stem cell therapies and understanding age-related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of DNA methylation in various diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ge, Yejing — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Ge, Yejing
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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.