Understanding how gene silencing is controlled during development
Official title: Developmental control of gene silencing
Funded at Montana State University - Bozeman · NIH-10933415 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins help turn off genes in cells, which is important for cells to become specialized, and it's designed for anyone interested in understanding how these processes might relate to developmental disorders and cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Montana State University - Bozeman NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bozeman, United States) |
| Project start | September 22, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $362,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM151262-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10933415 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by developmental disorders or cancers linked to gene regulation issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to gene silencing or those not affected by developmental disorders or cancers may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Polycomb-group proteins in gene silencing, which is crucial for cell specialization. By using a model system involving Drosophila nurse cell differentiation, the study aims to uncover how these proteins regulate the initiation, maintenance, and reversal of gene silencing during development. The researchers will employ advanced genetic and genomic engineering tools, including a novel method called UAS-gene swap, to explore the interactions between these proteins and their target genes. This approach allows for a detailed examination of gene expression changes that could lead to developmental disorders and cancers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the mechanisms of gene regulation, potentially informing treatments for developmental disorders and certain cancers.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using Drosophila for this type of gene silencing research is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in understanding gene regulation mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
-
Montana State University - Bozeman
Bozeman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Deluca, Steven — Montana State University - Bozeman
- Study coordinator: Deluca, Steven
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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.