Understanding how evolution influences mutation patterns in cells
Official title: The evolutionary and genomic drivers of mutation spectra
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10938177 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at why different types of yeast have different mutation rates, focusing on how things like evolution and cell type affect these changes, to help us understand more about genetic variation in living organisms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $375,430 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM154954-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10938177 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with genetic conditions or cancers that are influenced by mutation rates.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to genetic mutations or those not affected by evolutionary factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the factors that drive variations in mutation rates among different species, particularly focusing on yeast. By examining how evolutionary processes like selection and genetic drift affect these mutation patterns, the study aims to connect these biological phenomena with molecular mechanisms. The researchers will explore how the type of cell (haploid or diploid) influences mutation rates, testing their predictions across various yeast species. This approach could provide insights into the fundamental processes that govern genetic variation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of mutation rates, potentially leading to improved strategies for cancer treatment and genetic disease management.
How similar studies have gone: While the exploration of mutation rates in relation to evolutionary processes is a well-studied area, this specific approach using yeast species is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sharp, Nathaniel — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Sharp, Nathaniel
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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.