Understanding how DNA works using advanced language models
Official title: Exploration of DNA functionality using language models
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-10909623 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how DNA works, especially the parts that don’t code for proteins, by using computer techniques similar to those used in language processing, to help us better understand genetic disorders and improve personalized medicine for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,312,212 |
| NIH project number | 1DP2LM014811-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10909623 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic disorders or those seeking genetic counseling related to non-coding DNA variations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to genetic factors or those not affected by non-coding DNA variations may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the functionality of DNA, particularly focusing on non-coding DNA, by applying advanced computational techniques inspired by natural language processing. The project aims to develop a sophisticated DNA language model that can decode the complex instructions carried by DNA sequences. By treating DNA as a form of biological language, the research seeks to uncover the fundamental mechanisms of DNA regulation and its various functions. This innovative approach could lead to significant advancements in understanding genetic disorders and personalized medicine.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of genetic functions and lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for various diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using computational models for biological data, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fan, Xiao — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Fan, Xiao
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Mitochondrial pores and muscle loss in cancer cachexia
A small US-based study will explore how changes in mitochondria contribute to muscle wasting in people with cancer cachexia and how this may be slowed.
-
Photobiomodulation for jaw pain from TMD
A clinician-scientist at the University of Florida is testing a light-based therapy to help adults with temporomandibular disorder pain feel better and jaw function improve.
-
How the brain controls swallowing and airway protection
A research team at the University of Florida is studying how brain networks control swallowing to reduce risk of choking and lung infections in people with neuromuscular diseases.
-
Donor-driven 3D organoid platform to study pancreatic cancer drug response
A pilot project to create patient-derived, 3D organoid models of pancreatic cancer to measure how tumors from different people respond to chemotherapy.
-
RAAS inhibitors and pancreatic cancer risk in diverse adults
A Florida-based study will look at whether commonly used blood pressure medicines (RAAS inhibitors) are linked to new cases of pancreatic cancer, especially among Black and Hispanic adults.
-
Pilot project exploring new cancer drugs for pancreatic cancer in African American patients
A small, early-stage project tests new drug-derived compounds to treat pancreatic cancer, focusing on African American patients who are disproportionately affected.
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.