Understanding how epigenetic switches work in human cells
Official title: DMS/NIGMS 2: The mathematics of epigenetic regulation in human cells
Funded at University of Texas Dallas · NIH-11389284 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A mathematical and computational study in human cells aims to map how epigenetic changes control gene activity, using CRISPR-based tools to build and study programmable regulatory circuits.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Dallas NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richardson, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $274,153 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM157608-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11389284 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are adults whose cells can be studied in a research setting and who consent to participation in epigenetic research involving cell models and potential genetic tools.
✕Less likely to help
Patients whose conditions are not linked to epigenetic regulation or who are not involved in studies using engineered cell systems may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
This project combines theory, computer simulations, and lab experiments to model how epigenetic marks influence gene expression in single human cells. Researchers will create and stably integrate libraries of CRISPR-based epigenetic regulators into human cells to generate diverse regulatory circuits. They will use these engineered systems as ground truth to develop and test mathematical models that describe the dynamics and stability of epigenetic regulation. Iterative cycles of modeling and experimentation will help reveal general principles that govern how epigenetic mechanisms shape cell behavior.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could deepen our understanding of how gene regulation is controlled in human cells and guide the design of precise, programmable gene therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous efforts combining mathematical modeling with experimental data have shown promise in capturing epigenetic dynamics, but this project aims to extend those insights to single-cell level and programmable regulators.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Dallas
Richardson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bleris, Leonidas — University of Texas Dallas
- Study coordinator: Bleris, Leonidas
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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.