Understanding How DNA Changes Affect Health
Computational tools and quantitative analyses of genome structure evolution
This project explores how changes in our genetic material, specifically in chromosome structure, can influence various traits and contribute to diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | North Carolina State University Raleigh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Raleigh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11126754 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project aims to understand why and how the structure of our DNA changes over time. These changes, like when a section of a chromosome flips around, are common in nature and can impact important characteristics, including our health. Researchers will develop computer programs to simulate these changes and use them to study how they affect traits in organisms like the malaria mosquito. The goal is to learn more about how these genetic shifts play a role in adaptation and the development of diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patients, but future studies building on this knowledge might seek individuals with genetic conditions linked to chromosomal structural variations.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical interventions or direct participation in a human clinical trial would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: By understanding how DNA structure changes relate to disease, this work could eventually lead to new ways to identify disease risks or develop treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific computational tools may be novel, the broader field of studying genome evolution and structural variation has a long history with many successful findings.
Where this research is happening
Raleigh, United States
- North Carolina State University Raleigh — Raleigh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guerrero, Rafael F — North Carolina State University Raleigh
- Study coordinator: Guerrero, Rafael F
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 below.