Understanding how DNA moves inside cells
Monitoring the three-dimensional motion of chromatin at single molecule resolution
This project aims to understand how DNA moves within our cells and how this movement affects our genes, especially in conditions like DNA injury.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Purdue University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Lafayette, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11144407 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our DNA is not still inside our cells; it constantly moves in tiny ways. This movement might change how DNA interacts with important molecules, influencing how our genes work. This project uses advanced imaging and computer software to precisely map these DNA movements in 3D. By doing so, we hope to learn if these movements cause changes in gene activity, particularly in relation to DNA damage and how our genes are regulated.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to understand basic biological processes relevant to anyone affected by DNA injury or genetic regulation issues.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide a fundamental understanding of how DNA movement contributes to conditions like DNA injury, potentially leading to new ways to address these issues in the future.
How similar studies have performed: While the idea of DNA motion is known, its precise role in gene function and DNA damage is not fully understood, making this a novel and exploratory approach.
Where this research is happening
West Lafayette, United States
- Purdue University — West Lafayette, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Jing — Purdue University
- Study coordinator: Liu, Jing
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.