NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding how gene regulation affects stem cell development

Official title: Epigenetic gene regulation for stem cell fates

Funded at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital · NIH-11091071 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain changes in our genes affect stem cells, which are special cells that can turn into different types of cells in the body, and it aims to help us understand how these changes might lead to better treatments for developmental disorders and cancers.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSt. Jude Children's Research Hospital
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Memphis, United States)
Project startJune 5, 2025
Project endMarch 31, 2030
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$508,750
NIH project number1R35GM158393-01
Project IDNIH-11091071 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with pediatric or adult cancers, particularly those associated with dysregulation of stem cell processes.

Less likely to help

Patients with conditions unrelated to stem cell regulation or those outside the age range of 21 years and older may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex interactions between gene regulation and stem cell fate, focusing on how epigenetic modifiers influence processes like self-renewal, differentiation, and cell death. By examining the role of specific histone modifications, particularly H3K27, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that guide stem cell behavior during embryonic development. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze how these modifications respond to various internal and external signals, which could lead to significant insights into developmental disorders and cancers. Patients may benefit from a deeper understanding of these processes, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in treating developmental disorders and certain cancers by targeting the underlying mechanisms of stem cell regulation.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding gene regulation in stem cells, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
    Memphis, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Peng, Jamy C. — St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
  • Study coordinator: Peng, Jamy C.

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About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.