Understanding how DNA's 3D shape controls genes in conditions like cancer
Genetic and Epigenetic Controls of Enhancer-Promoter Interactions
This work explores how the way our DNA folds up inside cells helps turn genes on and off, and how problems with this process can lead to diseases like cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11181306 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our genes are controlled by special regions of DNA called enhancers, which can be very far away from the genes they affect. This project aims to discover how these distant enhancers communicate with their target genes, a process that relies on the 3D folding of our DNA. When these connections go wrong, it can contribute to serious health issues, including various cancers. By understanding the specific DNA features and structures that organize these interactions, we hope to uncover new fundamental insights into how our bodies work and what happens when they don't.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This basic science work is relevant to patients with various types of cancer, as it explores fundamental mechanisms that may contribute to disease development.
Not a fit: Patients will not receive direct, immediate benefit from participating in this foundational laboratory research, as it is not a clinical trial.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this foundational understanding could open new avenues for developing treatments that target the faulty gene control mechanisms in cancers and other diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While the general concept of 3D genome organization is known to be important, the specific elements and features that regulate these interactions within smaller DNA domains are largely unexplored.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- University of Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Spitz, Francois — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Spitz, Francois
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.