Understanding how gene silencing can be passed down through generations
Transgenerational gene silencing
This study is looking at how some changes in how genes work can be passed down through generations without changing the actual DNA, using tiny worms called C. elegans, and it hopes to help us understand how this might happen in humans, especially when facing environmental challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Maryland, College Park NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Park, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11099290 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain changes in gene expression can be inherited across generations without altering the DNA sequence itself. By studying the nematode C. elegans, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind these heritable epigenetic changes, particularly focusing on RNA-mediated regulation. The approach involves analyzing the interactions within regulatory architectures that sustain gene silencing over many generations. This could provide valuable insights into how similar processes might occur in humans, especially in response to environmental stressors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with a family history of hereditary diseases or those interested in the effects of environmental stress on genetic expression.
Not a fit: Patients with no known hereditary conditions or those not affected by environmental stressors may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of hereditary diseases and how environmental factors influence gene expression across generations.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of transgenerational epigenetic changes has been explored, this specific approach focusing on regulatory architectures in C. elegans is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
College Park, United States
- Univ of Maryland, College Park — College Park, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jose, Antony Merlin — Univ of Maryland, College Park
- Study coordinator: Jose, Antony Merlin
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.