Understanding how genes are active in different parts of cells and tissues

Computational methods for delineating subcellular and cellular spatial transcriptional heterogeneity along developmental trajectories

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11146411

This project creates computer tools to help us understand how gene activity varies within and between cells, which can change in healthy and diseased bodies.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorJOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11146411 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Our bodies are made of many different cells, and how genes are turned on or off in these cells helps them do their jobs. Sometimes, in diseases, genes don't work quite right, leading to changes in how proteins are made or where they are located within a cell. This project develops advanced computer methods to carefully look at these subtle changes in gene activity, including how genes are 'edited' (alternative splicing) and where their instructions are found inside cells. By understanding these tiny differences, we hope to learn more about what causes diseases and how they progress. This knowledge could eventually lead to new ways to diagnose or treat various conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation but aims to benefit future patients by improving our understanding of disease.

Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical intervention will not find direct benefit from this computational methods development.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide a deeper understanding of disease origins and progression, potentially leading to new targets for diagnosis and treatment.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific computational methods are novel, the underlying biological concepts of gene expression and cellular heterogeneity are well-established areas of ongoing research.

Where this research is happening

BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.