Understanding How DNA is Packaged and Used in Cells
Chromatin Domain Structure and Function
This research aims to uncover how our genetic material, DNA, is organized within cells and how this organization affects its functions, like making proteins.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11063231 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our cells contain DNA that is carefully folded into structures called chromatin. This project seeks to understand how these DNA structures are formed and how they move within the cell's nucleus. We want to learn what these movements mean for important DNA activities, such as gene activation and DNA copying. By studying how genes are positioned near specific cell structures, we hope to discover new ways that gene activity is controlled, which could impact thousands of genes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation, but its findings could eventually benefit anyone with conditions related to gene regulation or DNA function.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical trials or direct therapeutic interventions would not find direct benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide a deeper understanding of fundamental cellular processes, which is essential for developing new treatments for diseases linked to DNA function.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds on strong preliminary work by the research team, including discoveries about how gene expression is amplified when DNA contacts specific nuclear structures.
Where this research is happening
Champaign, United States
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign — Champaign, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Belmont, Andrew Steven — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Belmont, Andrew Steven
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.