Understanding how genes affect human skin color diversity
Official title: Epigenetic and transcriptional mechanisms driving human pigmentation diversity
Funded at University of Oklahoma · NIH-10911959 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how our genes affect skin color by exploring how melanin is produced, and it's for anyone curious about why we have different skin tones and how that might relate to health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Norman, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $373,297 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM151086-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10911959 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with varying skin pigmentation or those affected by pigmentation disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to pigmentation or those who do not have variations in skin color may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic and molecular mechanisms that determine human skin pigmentation, focusing on how variations in melanin production contribute to differences in skin color. By utilizing advanced techniques like genome-wide CRISPR screens, the researchers aim to identify new genes involved in pigmentation and understand their roles in both normal skin color variation and related disorders. The study will analyze the expression of specific transcription factors in melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, to uncover how these factors influence pigmentation. This research could provide insights into the biological basis of skin color and its implications for health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment of pigmentation disorders and enhance knowledge about human diversity.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has successfully identified genetic factors influencing pigmentation, but this study aims to explore novel mechanisms that have not been fully understood.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma
Norman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bajpai, Vivek Kumar — University of Oklahoma
- Study coordinator: Bajpai, Vivek Kumar
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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.