Understanding how enhancers control gene activity
Uncovering fundamentals of gene regulation by enhancers
This study is looking at how certain parts of our DNA, called enhancers, help control how genes work during development, and it aims to understand how changes in these enhancers might be linked to health issues like birth defects and cancer, which could ultimately help patients understand their conditions better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11056884 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of enhancers, which are crucial elements that regulate gene expression during development. By examining how these enhancers interact with genes over long distances in the genome, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to precise gene regulation. The research employs advanced genomic and computational techniques, as well as live-cell imaging, to explore how changes in enhancer sequences can contribute to diseases like congenital malformations and cancer. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how genetic variations affect health and development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital malformations or cancers that may have a genetic basis.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to genetic regulation or enhancer function may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for genetic diseases and cancers linked to enhancer dysfunction.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding enhancer functions, indicating that this approach has potential for significant discoveries.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wysocka, Joanna — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Wysocka, Joanna
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.