Understanding how DNA changes in individual cells affects their identity
Decoding Single-cell DNA Methylomes for Epigenetic Cell Identity
This study is looking at how tiny changes in DNA can help us understand individual cells better, which could lead to new ways to diagnose diseases using simple blood tests, making it easier for patients to get the information they need about their health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hosp of Philadelphia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10911312 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on analyzing the DNA methylation patterns in single cells to better understand their unique identities and functions. By developing advanced computational tools, the project aims to provide insights into how these epigenetic modifications can reveal information about cell lineage, disease origins, and potential diagnostic applications. Patients may benefit from improved diagnostic techniques that utilize liquid biopsies to detect diseases based on their cellular makeup. The approach emphasizes the importance of single-cell analysis over traditional bulk tissue methods, which can obscure critical information.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that involve significant cellular heterogeneity, such as cancer or other complex diseases.
Not a fit: Patients with stable, well-defined conditions that do not involve cellular changes or epigenetic modifications may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate disease diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies based on individual cell characteristics.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using single-cell DNA methylation analysis for understanding cellular identities, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Children's Hosp of Philadelphia — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Wanding — Children's Hosp of Philadelphia
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Wanding
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.